What To Expect When You're Injecting by Fiercely Infertile

Meet Katie Dunn, a voice we desperately need in the fertility space. At 39, Katie made the conscious decision to step away from fertility treatment after multiple rounds of IUI and IVF across two different chapters of her life. But here's what makes Katie's story so powerful - she calls this her HAPPY ending.

Katie writes about alternative happy endings on her Substack 'Afterglow,' creating the positive, uplifting stories she was desperately searching for when she was in treatment. Stories of people who chose to step away and are building vibrant, joy-filled lives on their own terms.<...

Endometriosis affects millions of women worldwide, with many discovering its impact only when they face difficulties conceiving. In this compelling episode, Dr. Catarina Ang unpacks the complex relationship between this often-misunderstood condition and fertility challenges. At Genea Fertility Melbourne City, Dr. Ang implements innovative approaches that consider both pain management and fertility preservation, challenging outdated advice to "just get pregnant" as a treatment. She explores the latest evidence-based options including excision surgery, hormonal suppression, and specialised IVF protocols designed specifically for endometriosis patients, offering practical strategies for navigating this dual challenge of treating the disease while pursuing conception. From...

Recurrent pregnancy loss leaves couples searching for answers and hope in the face of repeated heartbreak. In this episode, Dr. Julianne Cameron explores the complex medical, genetic, and emotional factors that contribute to this devastating fertility challenge. Drawing from both her personal journey through recurrent loss and her clinical expertise, she unpacks the latest testing protocols, treatment options, and success rates that patients need to understand. At Genea Fertility Melbourne City, Dr. Cameron helps patients navigate the delicate balance between medical investigation and emotional support, addressing both the physiological and psychological aspects of pregnancy after loss. From unexplained losses...

Meet Dom and Matt, whose journey to parenthood took an unexpected turn when a routine anaesthesia check revealed a life-threatening heart condition. After devastating pregnancy losses and the crushing news that conception wasn't safe until major heart surgery, Dom faced the ultimate choice: fix her heart to save her life and future family. Through two open-heart surgeries, months of recovery, IVF challenges, and the anxiety of a high-risk pregnancy, this couple's resilience shines. Their story is a testament to the unexpected medical hurdles that can complicate fertility journeys and the incredible strength required to fight for the family you've...

This Men's Health Week, we're shining a spotlight on the crucial yet often overlooked role men play in the fertility journey. In this episode, Dr. Eashan Tambimuttu brings his specialised expertise to discuss male fertility in straightforward, practical terms. At Genea Fertility Melbourne City, he cuts through myths and misconceptions, offering clear guidance on what actually impacts male fertility and how men can become active participants rather than sideline spectators in the fertility process. Whether you're anxious about the collection room, considering sperm freezing for future family planning, or supporting a partner through IVF, this Men's Health Week episode...

When one partner is ready to end the IVF journey while the other wants to continue, couples face one of fertility treatment's most challenging emotional crossroads. In this episode, Dr. Alice Huang addresses this delicate relationship dynamic with sensitivity and clinical wisdom, exploring how couples can navigate different grief timelines, financial considerations, and future family-building alternatives. At Genea Fertility Melbourne City, she helps patients identify when treatment fatigue differs from genuine readiness to stop, offering communication strategies that honour both partner's perspectives. Dr. Huang's approach blends evidence-based medicine with a holistic understanding of each individual's journey, providing guidance for...

Meet Emily O'Donohoe, an avid listener to now a welcome guest on the show, here sharing her raw and honest journey through the complexities of secondary infertility. Emily's story is one that so many of you will relate to - from the joy of her first successful pregnancy after an ectopic, to the devastating loss of miscarriage, and now navigating the confusing world of unexplained secondary infertility. This conversation dives deep into the unique challenges of secondary infertility - the guilt, the isolation, the assumptions others make when you already have one child. We explore how different this journey...

From old wives' tales to TikTok trends, fertility advice comes from everywhere, but which claims actually stand up to scientific scrutiny? In this enlightening episode, Dr. Mathias Epee brings his 20+ years of global obstetrics and gynaecology experience to debunk common fertility misconceptions and validate surprising truths. Drawing on his diverse clinical background across Australia, Europe, and Africa, Dr. Epee offers a uniquely cross-cultural perspective on reproductive health beliefs. At Genea Fertility Perth, his evidence-based approach helps patients navigate the overwhelming sea of fertility information. This conversation cuts through internet myths, superstitions, and outdated medical advice to deliver clarity on...

To celebrate International Nurses Day, I'm sitting down with the unsung heroes of fertility treatment, the dedicated nursing team from Concept Fertility Centre who become your lifeline throughout the journey. Join me in conversation with Michaela Hegarty (Nurse Manager - Coordination), Corry Moore (Nurse and Donor Coordinator), and Chantelle Trower (Nurse Coordinator) as they share insights from the frontlines of reproductive care. These extraordinary professionals are often the first voice you hear on the phone, the steady hand holding the ultrasound wand, and the compassionate presence guiding you through medication protocols. With decades of combined experience and hearts as...

Our most requested guest returns for our milestone 100th episode! My husband is back (by popular demand) to celebrate this journey from uncertain beginnings to the thriving community we've built together. We're popping champagne and cracking beers as we look back at memorable moments, interview highlights, and yes—there's the inevitable candid conversation about sperm collection that Byron handles with his signature humour. In the second half, roles reverse as Byron takes the host chair to interview me about the podcast's evolution. Expect laughter, tears, gratitude, and the authentic conversation that made his first appearance our most downloaded episode ev...

This week, Mark and Janay share their four-year fertility journey through PCOS, azoospermia, and multiple treatment pivots. Their story is one of breathtaking resilience—holding each other through crushing disappointments only to rise again with undiminished love. Each failed procedure has tested their spirits but strengthened their bond. After watching their hopes rise and fall through a failed TESA, a briefly victorious micro-TESE, countless injections, gruelling egg retrievals, and the heartbreak of unsuccessful transfers, they've never lost hope. Their love story continues as they've completed the donor process and face 2025 with renewed courage. Their conviction remains unshaken: Mark will be...

This week, we're taking you behind the scenes of IVF laboratories with Dr. Melanie Walls, Scientific Director at Concept Fertility Centre. With over 18 years of expertise in IVF laboratories and a unique perspective as both a scientist and former IVF patient, Dr. Walls offers rare insight into one of the most crucial yet least discussed aspects of fertility treatment: identification and traceability. Dr. Walls breaks down the sophisticated systems that ensure your eggs, sperm, and embryos are protected throughout your fertility journey. She explains how electronic witnessing works, the evolution of lab safeguards, and the rigorous regulations Australian fertility...

Join us this week as we tackle one of the most challenging holidays for women on fertility journeys—Mother's Day. We're honoured to welcome renowned gynaecologist, fertility specialist and Director of Genea Fertility Melbourne City, Dr. Chandrika Parmar, who brings her expertise not just as a fertility specialist but as someone who deeply understands the emotional complexities her patients face during these celebration-focused times. Dr. Parmar shares thoughtful insights on managing grief triggers, setting healthy boundaries with family, and creating meaningful rituals that honour your journey. We discuss practical strategies for navigating social media, family gatherings, and well-meaning but pa...

This week, we're joined by Sonja Pototzki-Raymond, the formidable "Search Queen" whose journey from facing abandonment issues and a gruelling fertility battle to building a multi-million dollar digital empire will leave you inspired. Sonja opens up about how leaving Ireland for Australian shores became the catalyst for conquering her demons and founding The Search Republic, now one of Australia's most sought-after Google-accredited agencies.

We dive into how her fertility struggles forged her resilient warrior spirit and led her to become the outspoken advocate she is today. Sonja shares powerful insights from her new book, "The Search for...

In recognition of Endometriosis Awareness Month, we welcome back nutrition and lifestyle coach Sarah Hopkins to explore the complex relationship between endometriosis and fertility. Sarah shares insights from helping countless women manage this challenging condition through evidence-based nutritional and lifestyle interventions.

This episode dives into why endometriosis has become increasingly prevalent, the crucial role of inflammation in both endo symptoms and fertility outcomes, and practical strategies for creating an environment where your body can better manage this condition. Sarah breaks down the impact of environmental chemicals, explains which dietary approaches show the most promise, and addresses whether...

In honour of Neurodiversity Celebration Week, we’re joined by Liz Bancroft—Clinical and Counselling Psychologist, IVF veteran, and founder of the Hope Affirm Thrive program.

Fertility treatment is often described as a medical journey, but for neurodivergent women, it’s also a sensory, emotional, and psychological battleground—one that standard fertility care is rarely designed to accommodate. From overstimulating clinic environments to invasive procedures that trigger trauma responses, Liz unpacks the hidden stressors that make IVF uniquely challenging for differently wired minds.

But this conversation goes deeper than just managing sensory overwhelm—it’s about healin...

In this moving episode, Georgia Prentice shares her challenging fertility journey complicated by a balanced translocation diagnosis, which led her through multiple IVF cycles and clinic changes before finally achieving success with her third egg collection.

Running parallel to her fertility struggles was a heartbreaking countdown—Georgia's father had been diagnosed with terminal cancer and given just 18 months to live. As she navigated the emotional rollercoaster of failed cycles and new hope, Georgia felt the pressure of time slipping away. Though her father passed less than two weeks before her daughter was born, Georgia finds peace in kn...

In this episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes into the fascinating world of fertility science with Natalie Moska, Laboratory Manager at Genea Fertility Perth. With over 16 years of experience across WA and the UK, Natalie shares her wealth of knowledge on the cutting-edge therapies helping patients on their fertility journey.  

We break down key adjuvant treatments like:  
PICSI – what is it, and who benefits?  
Zymot– how does it work for sperm selection?  
Calcium Ionophore Activation – the role it plays in fertilisation.  

Plus, Natalie opens up about her passion for embryology, her favourite...

This week, we’re diving into all your fertility questions—yes, even the quirky or embarrassing ones! Joining us is the incredible Dr. Chandrika Parmar, a renowned gynaecologist, fertility specialist, and Director of Genea Fertility Melbourne City. With her compassionate, patient-centred approach, Dr. Parmar has helped countless families on their fertility journeys. So, whether you’re curious, confused, or just looking for a little guidance, this episode has you covered. Tune in for expert insights, a few laughs, and plenty of reassurance. 
This episode is proudly supported by Genea Fertility. 

In this episode, Anna Hitch shares her incredible fertility journey, from facing unexplained infertility and a heartbreaking miscarriage to navigating IVF and welcoming her miracle baby, River. Along the way, Anna and her husband battled more than fertility challenges, with his testicular cancer diagnosis during her pregnancy adding another layer of resilience to their story. Anna opens up about what she’s learned, the gratitude she feels for her little boy, and what’s next for their family as they prepare for future IVF.

This week’s episode with Gemma Clark, shines a light on CAPA-IVM (in-vitro maturation), an emerging technology in fertility treatment that offers hope to patients with PCOS and other conditions. A classic PCOS case with no ovulation, Gemma’s fertility journey has been anything but typical. From discovering she has two uteruses, two cervixes, and a tiny second vagina during pre-treatment screening, to a miraculous natural conception of her first child, her story is a testament to resilience. Now, Gemma is embarking on CAPA-IVM with PGT testing. This innovative approach matures eggs outside the body, offering a lower-stimulation alternative to t...

In this episode, we’re taking a closer look at two critical advancements in fertility treatment—Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) and Carrier Screening. These tools are transforming the IVF journey, giving hopeful families more control and confidence when it comes to their future children’s health. I’m joined by two Genea Fertility Melbourne City experts, Sandra Holden, a highly skilled Clinical Embryologist and Lab Manager with over 30 years of experience, and Claire Trumble, an Associate Genetic Counsellor who specialises in reproductive genetics. Together, Sandra and Claire break down the importance of PGT and Carrier Screening, discussing how these powerful...

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with the incredibly brave Lisa Choney, who opens up about her journey through unimaginable challenges and triumphs. After battling an eating disorder herself, Lisa faced another unexpected hurdle — her husband's diagnosis of azoospermia, or male infertility. With their dreams of having a biological child hanging in the balance, they embarked on an emotional path through ICSI, three egg retrievals, a TESA procedure, a TESE surgery, multiple specialists, and four transfers. Their resilience was rewarded with the arrival of their miracle daughter. Lisa's story is not just one of perseverance through infertility but al...

In this episode, we dive deep into a topic that affects many women but isn’t often talked about—vaginismus. This debilitating condition can cause intense discomfort, making intimacy and everyday life challenging. Joining us is Dr. Chandrika Parmar, a renowned gynaecologist, fertility specialist and Director of Genea Fertility Melbourne City. Dr. Parmar’s compassionate, patient-centred approach has helped countless women navigate their reproductive health, and today she brings her expertise to this important conversation. Together, we explore the causes, symptoms, and treatments for vaginismus, offering hope and support to those affected.

This episode is proudly suppor...