IVF abroad: TTC and infertility for those considering conceiving abroad

Emma Haslam
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  • HEALTH & FITNESS
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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. 4D AGO

    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

  2. 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

  3. MAR 10

    Why Success Rates Don’t Tell You Which IVF Clinic Is Best

    Why Success Rates Don’t Tell You Which Fertility Clinic Is Best When people start researching fertility clinics - especially when considering treatment abroad one of the first things they look at is success rates. And that makes sense. If you’re investing emotionally, physically and financially into treatment, you want the best possible chance of success. But the reality is that success rates rarely tell the full story. In this episode, I explain why comparing fertility clinics based purely on success rates can be misleading - particularly when you're looking at clinics across different countries. We explore how clinics report their results, why those numbers are often difficult to compare, and what you should really be looking at instead when choosing where to have treatment. In this episode we discuss: Why success rates are often the first thing people look at when choosing a clinicHow patient selection can dramatically influence clinic statisticsWhy success rates are reported differently across countries and clinicsThe difference between pregnancy rates, live birth rates and cumulative successHow marketing can make statistics appear more impressive than they really areWhat actually matters more than success rates when choosing a fertility clinicFertility treatment is complex, and the clinic with the highest numbers on a website is not necessarily the right clinic for your situation. The goal is not simply to find the clinic with the best statistics — but to find the clinic that is best suited to your individual circumstances. For more help please see the links below. 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

    13 min

  4. MAR 3

    Unexplained Infertility After 8 Years: Why Advanced Fertility Testing Abroad Gave Us Answers

    After eight and a half years of trying to conceive, Emma's client Zoe was told what so many people hear: “There’s nothing wrong.” But deep down, she knew that couldn’t be true and so did Emma.  In this honest and emotional conversation, Zoe shares what it felt like to be labelled with unexplained infertility, to be turned away because of BMI thresholds, and to spend years stuck in limbo with no real answers. When she finally travelled abroad using Emma's guidance, for advanced diagnostic testing at the right clinic for her and husband Ben's needs, everything changed - and she received a diagnosis that explained why pregnancy had never happened quickly, a fix and support for next steps.  This episode is for you if:  You’ve been told your infertility is 'unexplained'  You’ve never seen a positive pregnancy test and don’t know why  You’ve been sent away because of BMI restrictions  You’re considering IVF but feel unsure whether you’ve had the right testing upfront to give you the best chances of success  You have had multiple failed cycles and/or losses  You’re exhausted from trying without clarity  This is not just a conversation about going abroad. It’s about getting guidance from the right places and clinics for your needs and when you need to question things,getting proper answers and taking back some control.  Covered in the episode:  What 'unexplained infertility' really means (and why it’s often just unexplored/or not explored in the right places)  The emotional impact of BMI thresholds in UK fertility care  Why basic NHS fertility tests are only a snapshot  The difference between baseline testing and advanced diagnostics  Why IVF is not always the first or right next step  What happened when Zoe went to a BMI-inclusive clinic abroad  The diagnosis that explained 8 years of infertility and how this has positively changed things for her and husband Ben Why thorough testing can actually increase IVF success later  How clarity changes everything - even if you’re still on the journey  Unexplained infertility is not unexplained. It’s under-investigated or not investigated at the right clinics and fertility treatment is too important - emotionally, financially, physically - to get wrong - but we are mislead into thinking all fertility clinics are the same.  If you have been trying for a long time naturally or you have had multiple failed cycles of IVF or losses then before you move to IVF, (or more IVF) you need to find out why sure you find our why you cannot get pregnant, or why you have had multiple losses.  If you’re tired of being told 'there’s nothing wrong' and/or having your BMI blamed without evidence, but you’re still not pregnant…  There is always a reason. The question is whether you’ve been given the right environment to find it.  🎓 Free Training: How to Overcome Fertility Testing & Treatment Obstacles in your home country Watch here: 👉 https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass  Interested in working with Emma to explore fertility testing, or treatment abroad at the right clinic 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

    1h 10m

  5. FEB 10

    Why More Americans Are Choosing IVF in Europe (And Saving Thousands of Dollars)

    Thinking about IVF in the US but frustrated by high costs and long waits? In this episode, I break down why I'm helping more Americans that are choosing to travel to Europe for fertility treatment - and how it can save you tens of thousands of dollars, for own egg IVF and more if you're having egg donation. We talk about: The real cost differences between IVF and egg donation in the US vs EuropeOther reasons why people are choosing to travel abroad for fertility treatmentHow to access world-class clinics abroad safelyOptions to reduce time spent travellingPlanning, testing, and timelines and how this works in practiceHow to choose the right country and clinicWhether you’re looking for your first IVF cycle, donor treatment, or trying to avoid long waits and excessive costs, this episode gives you clarity and actionable next steps. 💛 Take the next step: Watch my free training to learn more about the highlights and watchouts too https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclassBook a free call if you want to know what it looks like to work with me to grow your family with guidance and support every step of the way. https://calendly.com/yourivfabroad/15min 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

    19 min

  6. FEB 3

    Unexplained Infertility and Acupuncture: What It Can (and Can’t) Do

    Unexplained Infertility and Acupuncture: What It Can (and Can’t) Do Being told your infertility is 'unexplained' can feel frustrating, confusing, and hopeless. When tests come back “normal' but pregnancy still isn’t happening, many people are left wondering what else - if anything, they can do. In this episode, I’m joined by Rachel Sheriff, fertility acupuncturist and founder of The Fertility Suite, to explore the role acupuncture can play in supporting people with unexplained infertility. This is a grounded, honest conversation about what fertility acupuncture can offer -and just as importantly, what it can’t. We talk about acupuncture as a tool alongside the right medical care and how it can help people feel supported during an often overwhelming journey. In this episode, we cover: What unexplained infertility really means and how it impacts people emotionallyWhat fertility acupuncture actually involves (and how it differs from general acupuncture) How acupuncture can support the nervous system and why this is importantHow fertility acupuncture can support if you have been told that you have unexplained infertility What acupuncture is and isn't useful for when trying to conceiveWhen acupuncture might be helpful alongside IVF or other fertility treatmentThe importance of ethics and transparency in complimentary therapies and fertility careWhether you’re trying to conceive naturally, preparing for IVF, or navigating unexplained infertility or failed cycles, this episode offers reassurance, clarity, and a balanced perspective on other options. 👤 About Rachel Sheriff Rachel Sherriff is the Founder of The Fertility Suite, following her own journey with fertility struggles that led to her wanting to understand more about what could be done to support her own fertility and IVF cycle.  The Fertility Suite is a group of 6 fertility acupuncture clinics around the UK, Rachel and her team are passionate about helping couples to either get pregnant naturally or if IVF is needed helping them to prepare for the best possible outcome. They also work online globally with couples to offer advice and guidance. Rachel has featured widely in various media publications, is passionate about fertility education and hosts The Fertility Suite podcast which aims to share knowledge from fertility experts.  🔗 Connect with Rachel Sheriff instagram.com/thefertility_suite The Fertility Suite also offer free resources to support your fertility:  Fertility Supplements Guide Free Progesterone Webinar  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

    51 min

  7. JAN 27

    Overwhelmed by Which Fertility Clinic or Country to Choose? Here’s How to Decide with Confidence

    Overwhelmed by Which Fertility Clinic or Country to Choose? Here’s How to Decide with Confidence Feeling overwhelmed by fertility clinics abroad? Not sure which country or clinic is right for you? You’re not alone. In this solo episode, I break down why so many people feel stuck when deciding where to have fertility treatment and how to start narrowing down your options without overwhelm. You’ll learn: ✨ Why too many options can actually make it harder to move forward ✨ The hidden reason most people get stuck - it’s rarely just the amount of choice, it's knowing how to assess their fit and suitability ✨ How these three steps will help to move you forwards and reduce overwhelm. ✨ How getting the right guidance and information can save you time, money, and stress If you are considering fertility testing/treatment abroad, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and actionable steps to start moving forward. 💛 Take the next step with confidence: Sign up for my free training via the link below to get a step-by-step roadmap for choosing the right country and clinic for fertility treatment abroadhttps://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass Or, if you want to find out what it’s like to work with me directly, how I can help you to choose the best fit clinics and countries for your needs, you can book a free, no-obligation 15-minute call to discuss your situation and next steps.https://calendly.com/yourivfabroad/15min 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

    12 min

  8. JAN 20

    Before You Trust Advice About Fertility Treatment Abroad you need to know this

    Before You Trust Advice About Fertility Treatment Abroad you need to know this Episode Description: Thinking about going abroad for fertility treatment? Before you make any decisions, there’s one question you need to ask - and it could completely change the way you approach your options, the experience you have and the results you get. In this episode, I break down: Why so much advice about fertility treatment abroad isn’t as neutral as it seemsHow to spot when recommendations are influenced by commission, partnerships, or hidden incentives and even by well meaning friends or a stranger on the internetThe common myths that can lead people to choose the wrong country or clinicHow to protect your time, money, and emotional energy when exploring options overseasPractical steps and questions you can ask to make confident, informed decisions for your familyGoing abroad for fertility treatment can be an incredible option for lots of people - but only when you have clear, unbiased information to make informed decisions every step of the way. This episode will give you the tools to see through the noise and avoid mistakes that cost time, money, and hope. Highlights & Watchouts Covered in This Episode: How some influencer and agency recommendations can be biasedWhy confident advice doesn’t always mean correct adviceThe hidden costs of choosing the wrong clinic or country abroadThe simple “Who Benefits?” filter to apply before acting on adviceHow myths about fertility treatment abroad misleading and used as marketingHow to work out what is education content vs marketing Free Training: If you want the full, no-nonsense truth about going abroad for fertility testing and treatment including the highlights and more importantly the watch outs, I’ve put together a free training just for you to tell you everything you need to know to make informed decisions that are right for you and to help to grow your family with confidence. Get your free copy here - https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass Or book a 30 minute Pick My Brain call to get your questions answered honestly and without bias here - https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/pick-my-brain 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
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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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