IVF abroad: TTC and infertility for those considering conceiving abroad

Emma Haslam

Trying to conceive (TTC) and navigating fertility testing and treatment like IVF can be a long complicated conception rollercoaster - especially when navigating infertility challenges like high BMI, Low AMH, PCOS, Endometriosis, secondary infertility,  Unexplained infertility, recurrent miscarrage, baby loss, or being part of the LGBTQI+ community. Struggling with infertility and access to fertility treatment in your home country? Feeling frustrated by the lack of options, long waiting lists, NHS/state funded constraints, BMI restrictions, not getting answers, multiple failed IVF cycles, the high cost of private fertility treatment and at best average customer service?  My friend, you're not alone.   But what if there is another way?  Welcome to IVF abroad, the podcast designed to support, inform, and empower you on your journey to parenthood - wherever that path may lead.  I'm Emma Haslam, Founder of Your IVF abroad - the UK’s only independent reproductive agency. I am a  fellow fertility warrior and now Mama of one thanks to fertility treatment abroad. With my experience of helping hundreds of people worldwide since 2019 I will help you to understand and explore fertility options abroad in mainland Europe, like IVF, IUI, egg freezing, egg donation, sperm donation and double donation - making fertility treatment abroad safe, ethical, more affordable, accessible and a stress-reduced experience. Each week, I'll share expert insights, guest interviews, personal stories, and practical tips on topics like: Pros and cons of conceiving abroad IVF and other fertility treatments - what you need to knowNavigating donor conception with confidence How to save money on fertility treatments (and beyond!) Real-life experiences from others who've successfully conceived abroadExpert tips and guidance from professionals in the industryHonest conversations about the realities of infertilityTips, guidance, and real talk about all things related to infertility and trying to conceiveConsidering having fertility treatment like IVF,  donation, or advanced testing abroad in mainland Europe?  Or are you curious about how things work abroad and want to learn more? Either way, if you're looking for options on your fertility journey that are faster, more affordable, accessible and on your terms and timescales, then you are in the right place.  Here you will get honest advice from someone who TRULY gets it and learn how to get over the obstacles you are currently facing such as overwhelming high costs, the pressure of the ticking clock and being stuck in limbo. You want options, answers and you know that you deserve better. Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode and I'll show everything I know about making your dream of parenthood a reality -  without the barriers and on your terms, timescales and without regrets! Love Emma x Emma Haslam is a fertility warrior, speaker, writer, campaigner, and resident fertility treatment abroad expert who has been featured in books, fertility apps, the press, radio, and podcasts. Her mission? To make fertility treatment more affordable, accessible, transparent, and supported for everyone. For more free resources, expert guidance and ways to work with Emma be sure to check out the show notes!

  1. 1D AGO

    What lots of people feel about fertility treatment abroad (but don't say out loud)

    I ran a live workshop this week and what really stood out wasn’t just the questions people asked… it was what people weren’t asking, but were clearly feeling. Because even in a small group, the same patterns showed up again and again: Feeling stuck. Feeling overwhelmed. Second-guessing every decision. And this is something I see all the time. Not because people are doing anything wrong - but because they haven’t been given the clarity, or structure to actually move forward in a way that works for them. In this episode, I talk about: • Why feeling stuck is often about not knowing what your next step should be • How too much information can create overwhelm instead of clarity • The fear of getting it wrong  -  and how that keeps people in the same place • Why second-guessing yourself is so common in this process • The quiet curiosity many people have about fertility treatment abroad -  but don’t fully explore • What people really need in order to move forward with confidence If you’ve been going round in circles, unsure what to do next, or feeling overwhelmed by all the options… this episode will help you feel seen, understood, and hopefully a little clearer. Because this is not your fault and there will be a way forwards. You’ve just not been shown how to approach this in a way that actually helps you move forward step by step in a way that works for you. 💛 Want more clarity on your next step? If this resonated with you, you can watch a recording of this workshop: The 3 Secrets to Going Abroad for Fertility Treatment That Most People Don’t Know About In this training, I walk you through: • Whether fertility treatment abroad could be right for you • The opportunities many people don’t realise exist • The highlights — and the watchouts to be aware of • What actually matters when planning your next steps • And how to approach this in a way that gives you clarity and confidence 👉 Watch the free training here: https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass Want to learn more about going abroad for fertility treatment? Watch this free masterclass: yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass FREE 15 minute video call - ready to take the next step and want to discuss the services Emma offers:  calendly.com/yourivfabroad/15min FREE Online fertility pharmacy introduction - Need an introduction to a specialist pharmacist for a no obligation quote for all your fertility medication at competitive rates and delivered globally?  yourivfabroad.co.uk/online-fertility-pharmacy-service Your IVF abroad planner/journal  - Keep everything organised and in one place and document your journey and feelings along the way. Find out more/buy one here:yourivfabroad.co.uk/shop

    15 min
  2. APR 28

    What nobody tells you about planning fertility treatment abroad

    Thinking about fertility treatment abroad… but not sure where to start? Or maybe you’ve already decided it’s something you want to explore, but now you feel overwhelmed by all the clinics, countries, costs, and conflicting information out there. You’re not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing what nobody tells you about planning fertility treatment abroad — the things most people only realise after they’ve wasted time, felt overwhelmed, or gone round in circles trying to figure it all out themselves. Because the problem usually isn’t that you’re not capable of doing this. It’s that nobody has shown you how to approach it properly. In this episode, I cover: • Why fertility treatment abroad can sometimes feel easier than staying stuck where you are • Why “going abroad” is not one thing — and how countries differ hugely • Why researching clinics first often creates overwhelm • What to focus on before looking at clinics • How the right support can save you time, stress and money • Why this process doesn’t have to take over your life If you’ve been curious about treatment abroad, feeling stuck with your current options, or overwhelmed by researching… this episode will help you see a clearer way forward. Because you do not need to have the whole plan figured out today. You just need the next right step. 💛 Join My Free Live Masterclass + Q&A If you’d like help with that next step, I’m hosting a free live masterclass that I very rarely run live: The 3 Secrets to Going Abroad for Fertility Treatment That Most People Don’t Know About 📅 Wednesday 29th April 🕖 7pm BST This is for you if: • You’re stuck with treatment options in your home country • You’re curious whether going abroad could be right for you • You’ve decided to explore it but don’t know where to start • You’re researching but still don’t feel clear on your next step By the end of the session, you’ll leave with: • More clarity on whether treatment abroad could be right for you • The opportunities many people don’t realise exist • The highlights and the watchouts to know about • What actually matters when planning your next steps • Plus the chance to ask me your questions live in the Q&A You can join however you like — cameras on or off, in your PJs, eating your dinner — whatever feels comfortable. 👉 Save your free place here: https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/live-masterclass Want to learn more about going abroad for fertility treatment? Watch this free masterclass: yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass FREE 15 minute video call - ready to take the next step and want to discuss the services Emma offers:  calendly.com/yourivfabroad/15min FREE Online fertility pharmacy introduction - Need an introduction to a specialist pharmacist for a no obligation quote for all your fertility medication at competitive rates and delivered globally?  yourivfabroad.co.uk/online-fertility-pharmacy-service Your IVF abroad planner/journal  - Keep everything organised and in one place and document your journey and feelings along the way. Find out more/buy one here:yourivfabroad.co.uk/shop

    24 min
  3. APR 22

    Why so many people get stuck researching IVF abroad (and what you can do instead)

    Why So Many People Get Stuck Researching IVF Abroad (And What To Do Instead) Undecided about fertility treatment abroad. Or have you decided it's for you but you are overwhelmed by all of the options and information out there? T You’re not alone. So many people know they need another option, but then get stuck in research mode - comparing clinics, reading forums, scrolling social media and AI - asking for recommendations, and still feeling no clearer on what to actually do next. And it's keeping them stuck. In this episode, I’m breaking down why so many people get stuck researching fertility treatment abroad and, more importantly, what to do instead. Because the problem usually isn’t that you’re not capable of figuring it out. It’s that nobody has shown you how to approach it properly and what your next step should be. In this episode, I cover: • Why starting with clinics instead of strategy often creates confusion • Why not every country or clinic is right for every person • How too much conflicting information can keep you stuck • Why success rates, pricing and marketing don’t tell the full story • The difference between researching endlessly and making real progress • What to focus on instead if you want clarity and momentum If you’ve been going round in circles, second-guessing yourself, or feeling overwhelmed by making this decision and all the options, this episode will help you take a breath and see a clearer way forward. Because you do not need to have the whole plan figured out today. You just need the next right step. 💛 Want help with that next step? If you’re listening before 7pm BST on Tuesday 29th April 2026: I’m hosting a free live training that I very rarely deliver live with a q&a: The 3 Secrets to Going Abroad for Fertility Treatment That Most People Don’t Know About I’ll be covering: • How to know if treatment abroad could be right for you • The highlights and opportunities many people don’t realise exist • The watchouts and mistakes to avoid • How to approach your next steps properly • Plus a live Q&A where you can ask me your questions 👉 Save your free place here: yourivfabroad.co.uk/live-masterclass You can join with cameras on or off, in your PJs, eating your dinner - whatever feels comfortable. If you’re listening after 29th April 2026: You can watch the recording of the training here: 👉 https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass Sometimes what you need isn’t more information. It’s the right information, in the right order, at the right time and from someone who has lived this and who has helped 100s of people to do this. Want to learn more about going abroad for fertility treatment? Watch this free masterclass: yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass FREE 15 minute video call - ready to take the next step and want to discuss the services Emma offers:  calendly.com/yourivfabroad/15min FREE Online fertility pharmacy introduction - Need an introduction to a specialist pharmacist for a no obligation quote for all your fertility medication at competitive rates and delivered globally?  yourivfabroad.co.uk/online-fertility-pharmacy-service Your IVF abroad planner/journal  - Keep everything organised and in one place and document your journey and feelings along the way. Find out more/buy one here:yourivfabroad.co.uk/shop

    24 min
  4. APR 14

    TTC and struggling? The Advice I’d Give You If We Were Sitting Having a Coffee

    The Advice I’d Give You If We Were Sitting Having a Coffee If we were sitting having a coffee together, and you told me how stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure you feel right now… this is what I would say to you. In this episode, I’m sharing the advice I’d give you if we were having that conversation in real life - not just as an expert and teacher, but as someone who has been there and who understands just how confusing and emotionally draining this process can feel. Because when it comes to struggling to conceive and thinking about and fertility treatment, especially if you’re navigating options, different clinics, or even considering going abroad… it’s not that you’re doing anything wrong and this is not your fault. In this episode, I talk about: • Why feeling stuck and overwhelmed makes complete sense and what you can do about it • Why you don’t need to have everything figured out right now • The difference between having more information and having the right information • Why you are not the problem • How to start thinking about your next steps differently • Why you’re allowed to explore options outside of what you’ve been told is 'normal' 💛 Want help taking your next step? If you’re listening to this before 7pm on Wednesday 29th April, I’m running a free live training and Q&A that I very rarely do. In it, I’ll walk you through: • Your options if you’re feeling stuck with fertility treatment in your home country • What going abroad can look like for advanced testing and treatment • The highlights — and the watchouts you need to be aware of • Plus a live Q&A where I will answer some of your questions You can join however you like - cameras on or off, in your PJs, eating your dinner - I really don’t mind! 👉 Save your free spot here: https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass If you’re listening after that date, you can still access a recording of the training using the same link above. Want to learn more about going abroad for fertility treatment? Watch this free masterclass: yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass FREE 15 minute video call - ready to take the next step and want to discuss the services Emma offers:  calendly.com/yourivfabroad/15min FREE Online fertility pharmacy introduction - Need an introduction to a specialist pharmacist for a no obligation quote for all your fertility medication at competitive rates and delivered globally?  yourivfabroad.co.uk/online-fertility-pharmacy-service Your IVF abroad planner/journal  - Keep everything organised and in one place and document your journey and feelings along the way. Find out more/buy one here:yourivfabroad.co.uk/shop

    26 min
  5. APR 7

    The dark side of IVF abroad

    The Dark Side of IVF Abroad  A recent media investigation has raised serious concerns about IVF treatment abroad — and understandably, it’s left many people asking: 👉 Is IVF abroad actually safe? 👉 Should I be worried about going overseas for treatment? In this episode, I break down what’s really going on because it does raise serious concerns, but also importantly, what the headlines are missing. Because the truth is: 👉 IVF or other fertility treatment abroad isn’t the problem. 👉 Doing it without the right knowledge, guidance, and safeguards is. In this episode, I cover: What this week’s media story reveals (and why it matters)The biggest misunderstanding about IVF abroadWhy “regulated” doesn’t mean the same thing everywhereHow rules, standards, and oversight vary between countries and clinicsThe hidden risks of choosing a country and clinic without proper guidanceWhy relying on free clinic matching tools, AI and commission-based models can lead to regretWhat actually protects you when pursuing treatment abroad⚠️ What you need to know Not all countries - or clinics operate under the same systems. There is no single international regulator for IVF. And while many destinations offer safe, high-quality care and regulation, some don't and the differences between countries, clinics, and standards matter more than most people realise. 🎯 Work with me If you’re thinking about fertility treatment abroad and want to: Understand which countries are actually safe, well regulated and right for youChoose a reputable safe clinic based on your medical needs, not marketingAvoid costly mistakes, delays, and regretAnd move forward with clarity, confidence, and the right information and support👉 You can book a call with me via the link below to discuss your situation and the options to work with me: https://calendly.com/yourivfabroad/15min 🎓 Free training If you’re earlier on in your research and want to understand: How IVF abroad worksWhat to look out forAnd the biggest mistakes to avoidAnd the best bits about going abroad👉 You can access my free training here: https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass 🔚 Final thought IVF abroad can be an incredible opportunity… 👉 But only when it’s done properly and with the right guidance. Want to learn more about going abroad for fertility treatment? Watch this free masterclass: yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass FREE 15 minute video call - ready to take the next step and want to discuss the services Emma offers:  calendly.com/yourivfabroad/15min FREE Online fertility pharmacy introduction - Need an introduction to a specialist pharmacist for a no obligation quote for all your fertility medication at competitive rates and delivered globally?  yourivfabroad.co.uk/online-fertility-pharmacy-service Your IVF abroad planner/journal  - Keep everything organised and in one place and document your journey and feelings along the way. Find out more/buy one here:yourivfabroad.co.uk/shop

    20 min
  6. MAR 31

    What I don't agree with in the fertility industry (and what you deserve instead)

    There are many incredible clinics, doctors, and professionals working in fertility. But there are also some patterns and people in the industry that I don’t think are serving patients in the way they should. In this episode, I’m sharing openly and honestly some of the things I don’t agree with in the fertility industry, based on what I see every day working with people navigating infertility and treatment. Not to criticise for the sake of it, but to help you understand what’s really going on behind the scenes and how it could be impacting your experience and decisions without awareness. Because when you’re going through something as emotional, complex, and important as fertility treatment, you deserve clarity, transparency, and the right guidance. In this episode, I cover: • Why success rates are often over-relied on and why they don’t tell the full story • The issue with commission-based recommendations and why transparency matters • How 'one-size-fits-all' approaches can lead to unexplained infertility and repeated cycles without answers • Why so many people are left to figure things out alone with too much conflicting information and how that creates overwhelm and confusion • The difference between having information… and having a clear, personalised plan Fertility treatment is too important to be reduced to statistics, generic advice, or decisions made under pressure. The right clinic isn’t the one with the highest numbers or the best marketing - it’s the one that’s right for your individual situation. If you’ve ever felt confused, overwhelmed, or unsure about the decisions you’re being asked to make, this episode will help you see things from a different perspective and hopefully feel more informed and empowered moving forward. Want to learn more about going abroad for fertility treatment? Watch this free masterclass: yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass FREE 15 minute video call - ready to take the next step and want to discuss the services Emma offers:  calendly.com/yourivfabroad/15min FREE Online fertility pharmacy introduction - Need an introduction to a specialist pharmacist for a no obligation quote for all your fertility medication at competitive rates and delivered globally?  yourivfabroad.co.uk/online-fertility-pharmacy-service Your IVF abroad planner/journal  - Keep everything organised and in one place and document your journey and feelings along the way. Find out more/buy one here:yourivfabroad.co.uk/shop

    20 min
  7. MAR 24

    What Can Go Wrong Without the Right Guidance When Planning Fertility Treatment Abroad

    Planning and having fertility treatment abroad can change you life - but without the right guidance, it’s also where many people start to feel overwhelmed, lose time, and make decisions that don’t actually move them forward. In this episode, I’m talking through some of the most common things I see go wrong when people try to navigate fertility treatment abroad without a clear plan. Not to scare you - but to help you avoid mistakes that can cost you time, energy, and confidence along the way. Because while there is more information available than ever before — from Google searches and online forums to AI tools - none of these take into account your individual situation, your medical history, or what’s actually going to give you the best chance of success and many are inaccurate and biased. And that’s where many people unknowingly go wrong. In this episode, I cover: • Why going into the process without the right guidance can lead to confusion and delays • The risks of choosing a clinic based on how it looks or feels, rather than whether it’s right for you • Why speaking to multiple clinics often creates more overwhelm, not clarity • The importance of choosing the right country first, before narrowing down clinics • How logistics like testing, medication, and travel can become stressful without a clear plan • The emotional impact of feeling stuck, second-guessing decisions, and losing momentum Fertility treatment abroad doesn’t have to feel complicated — but it does require a thoughtful, structured approach. When the right country, clinic, and plan are aligned with your needs, the process can feel far more manageable and supportive than many people expect. 💛 Want to understand how to approach this properly? I’ve created a free training where I walk you through exactly how to plan fertility treatment abroad step by step, including: • The key decisions you need to make first • The common mistakes to avoid • How to narrow down your options with clarity and confidence • The highlights and the watchouts to be aware of You can watch the free training here: 👉 https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass Or drop the word TRAINING into my DMs on Instagram @yourivfabroad - www.instagram.com/yourivfabroad If this episode resonated, it may be a sign that what you need next isn’t more information - but a clearer plan. Want to learn more about going abroad for fertility treatment? Watch this free masterclass: yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass FREE 15 minute video call - ready to take the next step and want to discuss the services Emma offers:  calendly.com/yourivfabroad/15min FREE Online fertility pharmacy introduction - Need an introduction to a specialist pharmacist for a no obligation quote for all your fertility medication at competitive rates and delivered globally?  yourivfabroad.co.uk/online-fertility-pharmacy-service Your IVF abroad planner/journal  - Keep everything organised and in one place and document your journey and feelings along the way. Find out more/buy one here:yourivfabroad.co.uk/shop

    14 min
  8. MAR 17

    Thinking About IVF Abroad? Here’s What Actually Happens

    When people first start considering fertility treatment abroad, the idea can feel overwhelming. Questions about travel, choosing the right clinic, understanding timelines, and coordinating treatment from another country can make the whole process seem complicated or even risky. But the reality is that when the right country and clinic are chosen for your specific situation, and the logistics are planned properly, fertility treatment abroad can be far more structured and manageable than many people expect. In this episode, I walk you through what fertility treatment abroad actually looks like in practice, from the very first steps of choosing a country and clinic through to consultations, testing, treatment, and follow-up care. We cover: • Why choosing the right country and clinic is the most important first step • What usually happens during the initial consultation process • How testing and preparation are often done from home before you travel • What the treatment timeline typically looks like • How long you may actually need to spend abroad for treatment • Why planning and coordination make a huge difference to how smooth the process feels For many people, the biggest shift comes when they realise that fertility treatment abroad isn’t something you have to figure out alone — there is a clear process, and when it’s followed properly, it can open up options that may not have been available at home. Want to learn more about going abroad for fertility treatment? Watch this free masterclass: yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass FREE 15 minute video call - ready to take the next step and want to discuss the services Emma offers:  calendly.com/yourivfabroad/15min FREE Online fertility pharmacy introduction - Need an introduction to a specialist pharmacist for a no obligation quote for all your fertility medication at competitive rates and delivered globally?  yourivfabroad.co.uk/online-fertility-pharmacy-service Your IVF abroad planner/journal  - Keep everything organised and in one place and document your journey and feelings along the way. Find out more/buy one here:yourivfabroad.co.uk/shop

    23 min

About

Trying to conceive (TTC) and navigating fertility testing and treatment like IVF can be a long complicated conception rollercoaster - especially when navigating infertility challenges like high BMI, Low AMH, PCOS, Endometriosis, secondary infertility,  Unexplained infertility, recurrent miscarrage, baby loss, or being part of the LGBTQI+ community. Struggling with infertility and access to fertility treatment in your home country? Feeling frustrated by the lack of options, long waiting lists, NHS/state funded constraints, BMI restrictions, not getting answers, multiple failed IVF cycles, the high cost of private fertility treatment and at best average customer service?  My friend, you're not alone.   But what if there is another way?  Welcome to IVF abroad, the podcast designed to support, inform, and empower you on your journey to parenthood - wherever that path may lead.  I'm Emma Haslam, Founder of Your IVF abroad - the UK’s only independent reproductive agency. I am a  fellow fertility warrior and now Mama of one thanks to fertility treatment abroad. With my experience of helping hundreds of people worldwide since 2019 I will help you to understand and explore fertility options abroad in mainland Europe, like IVF, IUI, egg freezing, egg donation, sperm donation and double donation - making fertility treatment abroad safe, ethical, more affordable, accessible and a stress-reduced experience. Each week, I'll share expert insights, guest interviews, personal stories, and practical tips on topics like: Pros and cons of conceiving abroad IVF and other fertility treatments - what you need to knowNavigating donor conception with confidence How to save money on fertility treatments (and beyond!) Real-life experiences from others who've successfully conceived abroadExpert tips and guidance from professionals in the industryHonest conversations about the realities of infertilityTips, guidance, and real talk about all things related to infertility and trying to conceiveConsidering having fertility treatment like IVF,  donation, or advanced testing abroad in mainland Europe?  Or are you curious about how things work abroad and want to learn more? Either way, if you're looking for options on your fertility journey that are faster, more affordable, accessible and on your terms and timescales, then you are in the right place.  Here you will get honest advice from someone who TRULY gets it and learn how to get over the obstacles you are currently facing such as overwhelming high costs, the pressure of the ticking clock and being stuck in limbo. You want options, answers and you know that you deserve better. Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode and I'll show everything I know about making your dream of parenthood a reality -  without the barriers and on your terms, timescales and without regrets! Love Emma x Emma Haslam is a fertility warrior, speaker, writer, campaigner, and resident fertility treatment abroad expert who has been featured in books, fertility apps, the press, radio, and podcasts. Her mission? To make fertility treatment more affordable, accessible, transparent, and supported for everyone. For more free resources, expert guidance and ways to work with Emma be sure to check out the show notes!

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