Fertility Finesse Show

Show notes: Male fertility, underwear and building a brand with Micheál MonaghanSummary Helena Tubridy is joined by Micheál, the young entrepreneur and boxer behind Al'In performance underwear, about how he is turning a personal problem into a business!After discomfort and chafing during training, he developed cotton boxers with a longer leg and a seam-free back panel. We discuss why he believes male fertility deserves more attention, his views on heat and synthetic fabrics, and what it takes to build a brand from scratch.The conversation includes a fun rapid-fire quiz on everyday habits and a look at his approach to learning, content and time management.Key topicsHow boxing and chafing inspired Al'InDesigning underwear for comfort, fit and everyday wearCotton, polyester, heat - Micheál’s concerns about male fertilityBuilding a product through research, samples and trial and errorChoosing brand name, colours and pricingMale fertility awareness and habits discussed in the episodeRapid-fire questions on saunas, heated seats, cycling and moreGrowing a brand, creating content and managing a busy scheduleChapters0:14 – Introducing Micheál and the conversation about male fertility1:53 – From Mayo to Vancouver: boxing and the idea for All In2:26 – The discomfort that sparked a product idea4:20 – Finding a problem worth solving5:34 – Learning to design and manufacture through trial and error6:25 – The longer leg and seam-free back panel7:19 – Making underwear comfortable for everyday wear8:09 – Running the business from Canada9:43 – Could the brand make underwear for women?10:54 – Why the fabric needs some stretch11:29 – The story and wordplay behind “All In”14:40 – Fit, leg length and product testing16:28 – Underwear, heat and fertility concerns17:48 – Balancing comfort, fabric and the brand’s ethos20:07 – Male fertility as part of the fertility conversation22:12 – Rapid-fire: underwear, heat, saunas and sport24:06 – Sizing, washing and when to replace underwear26:33 – Micheál’s ideal underwear27:49 – Reducing everyday plastic use29:41 – Building trust and documenting the journey31:16 – Learning on the job and running the business32:44 – Why consistent content matters34:02 – Making time for priorities34:50 – Closing thoughts and sign-offNote: Micheál’s claims about fabrics, heat and fertility are presented here as his own views

Having a baby on your own? This episode is for you if you're considering solo motherhood by choice, or know someone who is. In an age where women no longer have to settle, Reema Kiran is an embodied voice in support of the growing number of career women choosing single motherhood. With her own experience through unexplained fertility and conceiving her daughter as a single mother by choice, the Choice Mom Coaching founder merged her established career as an executive coach with a management consulting company and coaching as a Professional Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation, to intentionally empower those no longer compromising on their motherhood dreams.Reema is the author of Choice Mom: An Empowering Guide to Becoming a Single Mother by Choice and a speaker on the topics of single motherhood, fertility, and women's empowerment.Knowing that many women forgo this path due to societal and familial expectations, especially as an Indian-Canadian woman, Reema harnesses her deep empathy and familiarity with diverse cultural sensitivities when working with women on this journey. It is her belief that with aligned support and an unwavering commitment to one's own personal growth, women can find the strength, resilience, and courage they need to pursue their innate purpose of becoming the mothers they've always wanted to be. Because no woman needs to go through this process alone. Discover practical insights and emotional truths about fertility, donor selection, and redefining motherhood.keywords single mother by choice, fertility journey, donor conception, fertility treatment, family planning, empowerment, cultural considerations, reproductive health, women’s health, solo parentingkey topicsFertility challenges and unexplained infertilityDeciding to become a single mother by choiceThe process of selecting a sperm donorCultural and family considerations in solo motherhoodFinancial planning for single motherhoodEmotional aspects of fertility treatmentsImpact of fertility issues on career womenThe importance of genetic and medical screeningChanging perceptions of solo motherhoodSound Bites"No longer dating with the fertility clock in mind""My child is always going to be number one""Women can be very alone even in close relationships"Chapters00:00 Introduction to Reema's Journey as a Single Mother by Choice397:13:05 Deciding to Become a Solo Mom Before Finding the Right Partner622:13:05 Experiencing Unexplained Fertility Issues874:59:47 Fertility Challenges for Busy, Successful Women1138:53:08 Navigating Clinic Experiences and Support Systems1205:33:08 Fears and Cultural Considerations in Solo Motherhood1691:39:50 Choosing a Donor and the Emotional Process2130:33:11 The Importance of Medical and Genetic Screening in Donor Selection25999:59:55 Financial Planning and Preparing for Single Motherhood31138:53:16 High Achieving Women and the Approach to Fertility and Parenthood33777:46:38 Redefining Relationships and Dating After Parenthood Decision37083:19:58 The Parameters of Relationships and Parenting Roles39388:53:18 The Freedom and Clarity of Being a Solo Mom by Choice40361:06:38 Advice for Women Considering Single Motherhood43500:00:00 Final Thoughts and Resources for Aspiring Solo Moms

Aisling Mooney spent 15 years and close to 100 treatment cycles trying to have a baby. In the end she taught herself to read the research and found a trial her doctors hadn't heard of. The protocol worked, and she had her daughter at 39. She then built Fertally, a fertility intelligence platform that connects clinical care, personal tracking data and research. Join us as we talk discuss using AI responsibly with a human in the loop, working with clinicians, going for EU medical device accreditation, and building real support for women's health.Be sure to like AND download this episode, and follow for more great guests!Key topicsLiving with a prolonged fertility journey, and how fragmented care feelsSelf-advocacy and teaching yourself to read medical researchFrom research translation tool to personalised machine learningWearable data and daily logs, including a voice agentAI with a human in the loop, and the role of regulationFilling the gaps between appointments and building trust with cliniciansClass IIa EU MDR accreditation, clinical trials and the launch timelineMentorship, community, and women's health research gapsChapters0:14 – Welcome and guest introduction2:07 – A 15-year fertility journey3:48 – Teaching herself the science and finding the trial6:16 – Fragmented care and the power imbalance7:53 – From positive test to founder: building Fertally10:40 – Machine learning and each person's own algorithm11:51 – Diagnostic support, EU MDR and the community data vision13:02 – The research gap in women's health14:27 – Using AI carefully and responsibly15:22 – Voice agent and data visualisation17:22 – Clarity without anxiety, and clinicians' response18:25 – Bridging the gaps between appointments20:51 – Individualised treatment: the protocol that worked22:00 – Juggling Fertally, Her Tally and Cúra Studio24:57 – Timeline: clinical trials and launch25:24 – What Class IIa EU MDR accreditation involves26:03 – Mentorship and a supportive founder community28:13 – Takeaways and closing

Surprising reasons oral health should be part of your preconception and pregnancy care! Your mouth is your portal to your whole body, and a microbiome feeder.Did you know dentures were a kind wedding gift for newly weds in Ireland at one time? Host Helena Tubridy and dentist Dr. Christina Taut discuss how hormones, diet, saliva changes in pregnancy, and habits affect the mouth, and why prevention matters for both parent and baby.We discuss practical steps for brushing, flossing, dental visits, nutrition, and when children should first see a dentist. Christina also explains common concerns like dental treatment during pregnancy, effects on your baby's health,amalgam fillings, fluoride, and why public health systems should integrate oral health more closely with general care.Key topicsChristina explains how pregnancy hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, can increase gum bleeding, inflammation, and pregnancy gingivitis even when oral hygiene is good.She shares that saliva changes during pregnancy, including reduced flow and altered mineral levels, can affect the oral environment and raise risk.The conversation emphasizes that dental treatment is safe during pregnancy, with the second trimester often preferred for non-urgent work, while cleaning and scale and polish can happen at any stage.Christina says oral health before conception matters for both partners because bacteria can transfer between close contacts, so fathers and partners should not be left out of fertility conversations.Nutrition comes up repeatedly, with vitamin C, vitamin D, folic acid, calcium, and omega-3 discussed as important supports during pregnancy, alongside reducing sugary drinks and snacks.The episode highlights that pregnancy diabetes can significantly increase periodontal risk, making integrated medical and dental care especially important.Helena and Christina discuss how morning sickness and mouth acidity can damage enamel and increase sensitivity, and Christina stresses that dental teams are there to help, not judge.They cover common questions about replacing amalgam fillings, with Christina explaining that current concerns are environmental rather than based on proven health risks.Fluoride is discussed in depth, including the role of fluoride toothpaste and the ongoing debate around water fluoridation and its current impact on oral health.For children, Christina stresses early dental visits, ideally when the first tooth appears and definitely before age one to two, so dental care becomes normal from the start.Timestamps00:00 - Why oral health belongs in fertility and pregnancy planning00:58 - Hormones, bleeding gums, and pregnancy gingivitis02:07 - Saliva changes, cravings, and oral microbiome shifts03:07 - Safe dental treatment during pregnancy and timing by trimester05:19 - Why a partner’s oral health matters before conception07:24 - When to return after birth or a C-section09:42 - Nutrients that support pregnancy and gum health11:11 - Pregnancy diabetes and higher periodontal risk13:48 - Morning sickness, acid wear, and enamel sensitivity16:02 - The amalgam filling debate and why replacement is not always needed18:14 - Fluoride in water and why the issue remains contentious23:59 - Christina’s PhD research and what it found about child well-being26:35 - Why oral health education needs more public awareness29:45 - When children should first see a dentist33:09 - How “Lift the Lip” helps public health nurses spot early problems35:29 - Why baby teeth matter and school checkups are not enough

Sex and intimacy specialist Grace Alice O'Shea answers that question Why Is baby-making sex so different?' offering practical advice for reclaiming your pleasure in sex, managing stress, and nurturing connection during often complex fertility journeys. .In this episode we explore the complex relationship between your sex, fertility, and emotional well-being Keywordssex and fertility, intimacy, pleasure, reproductive health, emotional well-being, trauma-informed care, relationship tips, fertility treatment, body connection, sexual desireKey TopicsThe impact of fertility treatments on intimacyUnderstanding desire: spontaneous vs responsiveReconnecting with your body after traumaThe role of pleasure and play in sexStrategies to reduce pressure and anxiety in sexTakeawaysSex is more than reproduction; it’s about pleasure and connection.Taking sex off the table temporarily can reduce pressure and rebuild desire.Small daily acts of connection strengthen intimacy.Reframing sex as play helps maintain desire during fertility struggles.Self-compassion and gentle reconnecting with your body are crucial.Chapters00:00Introduction to Fertility and Intimacy01:42The Shift from Pleasure to Function in Sex03:17Reclaiming Sex as Play and Connection06:28The Importance of Daily Connection07:48Navigating Body Image and Desire10:45Mindset and the Journey of Sexual Discovery11:48Reclaiming Connection and Taking Pressure Off Sex15:23The Importance of Date Nights18:30Navigating Relationship Dynamics and Responsibilities18:37Understanding the Impact of Medical Interventions19:34Addressing Trauma and Reconnecting with the Body22:54The Mechanics of Sex and Fertility26:42Reframing Sexual Experiences During Fertility Challenges30:10Prioritizing Relationship Health Amidst Fertility Struggles31:11Embracing Worthiness and Pleasure

Keywordsfertility law, reproductive rights, surrogacy, donor conception, IVF, legal implications, same-sex couples, embryo storage, parental rights, IrelandSummaryThis conversation delves into the intricate legal landscape surrounding fertility treatments in Ireland, focusing on the implications of donor conception, surrogacy, and the evolving legislation that governs these areas. Annette Hickey, a leading reproductive lawyer, shares her insights on the importance of understanding legal rights and responsibilities for intended parents, particularly in the context of same-sex couples and the challenges they face. Our discussion also highlights the anticipated changes in legislation, including the 2024 Act, and the role of a regulatory authority in ensuring ethical practices in assisted human reproduction.TakeawaysLegal frameworks in fertility treatment are crucial for intended parents.Surrogacy is often a last resort for couples after many challenges.Consent from donors is essential to avoid legal complications.The 2024 Act is expected to bring significant changes to fertility law.Same-sex couples face unique legal challenges in parenthood.Advocacy groups like Equality for Children provide vital support.The surrogate is legally recognized as the mother until laws change.Parents should be transparent with children about donor conception.The regulatory authority aims to ensure ethical surrogacy practices.Publicly funded fertility treatments currently exclude same-sex couples.TitlesNavigating the Legal Landscape of FertilityUnderstanding Surrogacy and Donor RightsSound Bites"The couple, the baby is at the centre.""The 2024 Act has not commenced yet.""Talk to Equality for Children."Chapters00:00Navigating the Legal Landscape of Fertility Treatments03:23Understanding Donor Assisted Human Reproduction Laws06:40Legal Implications for Same-Sex Couples in Fertility10:09The Role of the 2024 Act in Reproductive Law13:08Surrogacy: Current Legal Definitions and Challenges16:23The Future of Regulatory Authority in Surrogacy20:36Impact of Regulation on Fertility Clinics and Agencies23:27Navigating Legalities in Fertility Treatments25:35The Emotional Toll of Fertility Journeys27:42Understanding Parental Rights and Legal Relationships30:16Embryo Transport and Legal Considerations31:57Public Funding and Eligibility for Fertility Treatments33:37The Importance of the Donor Conceived Person Register36:31Parental Disclosure and Child Identity38:30Changing Perceptions of Surrogacy and Fertility

Senator Nicole Ryan shares her personal journey through pregnancy loss, and her advocacy for legislative change to recognize miscarriage with a certificate, better bereavement leave after pregnancy loss,and more understanding care for affected women. We discuss the emotional, legal, and societal aspects of pregnancy loss, and the importance of proper acknowledgment and support.Keywordspregnancy loss, miscarriage, legislation, mental health, advocacy, Ireland, pregnancy loss leave, certificates of loss, societal support, mental health supportKey TopicsLegislation for pregnancy loss recognitionPersonal journey through miscarriageMental health impact of pregnancy lossAdvocacy and policy change in IrelandSocietal attitudes towards miscarriageTakeawaysRecognition of pregnancy loss through certificates can validate grief and aid mental health.Legislation for pregnancy loss leave is crucial for supporting women emotionally and physically.Society needs to move beyond silence and stigma around miscarriage to foster understanding.Employer support and workplace policies are vital in the healing process.Personal stories like Nicole Ryan's can inspire legislative and societal change.Nicole RyanKey FrameworksLegislative advocacyMental health support after pregnancy lossAction ItemsWrite to your local TD about pregnancy loss recognitionDownload and share the Pregnancy Loss ToolkitSupport legislation for pregnancy loss leave and certificatesChapters00:00Introduction to Fertility and Loss01:37Nicole Ryan's Advocacy Journey08:24Understanding the Trauma of Miscarriage14:55Legislative Changes for Pregnancy Loss18:39The Importance of Recognition and Support23:27Practical Steps for Support and AdvocacyResourcesPregnancy Loss Research Group ToolkitSenator Nicole Ryan's SocialsIreland's Department of Health

Behind the Hatch: An Inside Look at IVF with Mandy LeslieDiscover the fascinating world of embryology and IVF from a leading expert. Mandy Leslie shares her insights on lab procedures, embryo development, the role of sperm, advances in technology, and practical advice for those navigating fertility treatment.In this episode:The journey of egg retrieval and fertilization explainedHow embryos are monitored using time-lapse technology and AIThe importance of lab environment – air quality, perfume restrictions, and meticulous proceduresDetails on pre-implantation genetic testing and mosaic embryosSuccess rates by age and the impact of single vs. double embryo transferInsights into egg freezing, storage challenges, and fertility preservation for cancer patientsThe evolving landscape of family configurations, including solo and same-sex parenthoodMandy’s advice for managing stress, communication, and myths about IVFTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome to Fertility Finesse: Inside the IVF lab00:29 - Mandy Leslie’s background and experience in embryology02:08 - What brings Mandy from Australia to Ireland and her cultural insights05:39 - Egg retrieval and what happens behind the scenes in the lab06:25 - Preparation of sperm samples and fertilization methods (IVF vs. ICSI)07:52 - How fertilization is checked via pronuclei and embryo development stages08:49 - Monitoring embryos from day 3 to blastocyst on day 509:46 - Features of a successful blastocyst (expansion, inner cell mass, trifecta germ)12:12 - Use of time-lapse photography and AI in embryo assessment14:22 - The high-tech, 24/7 monitored IVF lab environment15:23 - The critical role of sperm quality and its influence17:03 - Lab environment factors: air quality, avoidance of perfume, and contamination prevention18:26 - The non-disturbing, continuous culture systems (embryoscope)19:09 - Embryo security: double witnessing and electronic monitoring systems22:34 - The emotional and scientific privilege of working with new life23:38 - The new era of family building: genetic testing, solo parents, and LGBTQ+ families25:05 - Understanding pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) and mosaic embryos27:57 - Egg freezing: realities versus marketing promises29:55 - How vitrification (liquid glass) protects eggs during freezing and thawing31:14 - Storage challenges, consent, and handling surplus embryos35:18 - Success rates by age, particularly for women over 35, and realistic expectations40:46 - The impact of aging on fertility and the importance of egg quality42:35 - Sperm’s capacity to adapt and correct issues; the importance of young eggs43:14 - Common myths and light-hearted advice on fertility superstition45:07 - Practical tips for starting IVF journey — take it one step at a time46:03 - The value of communication and support systems in fertility success46:50 - Wrapping up: Mandy’s message of hope, the advances in success rates, and the importance of empowerment