Conceive Baby

Tasha Jennings - Fertility Naturopath
Conceive Baby

Whether you have just started trying, have diagnosed fertility issues or going through IVF, the Conceive Baby Podcast provides direct access to leading fertility experts to help you achieve your baby dreams

  1. NOV 5

    Understanding HCG and progesterone levels in early pregnancy…

    In this episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I speak with Dr Scott Pearce about early pregnancy and the role of HCG and progesterone. Early pregnancy can be such a wonderful yet nerve wracking time.  Waiting on that next test result, looking for symptoms and so many questions.  What exactly is HCG?  How reliable is an at home test over a blood test?  What level should it be?  What should my progesterone level be?  How do you know if it’s too low or too high and what does that mean?  What changes are normal?  How quickly should my HCG be rising?  Is it rising quickly enough?  We answer all these questions and more in this informative episode.  So if you’re currently in early pregnancy or hope to be soon, then this is for you! Key Takeaways: HCG's Role: HCG, produced by the placenta, supports early pregnancy by stimulating progesterone production. Monitoring its levels helps assess pregnancy health.Testing HCG: HCG levels can be tested as early as ten days post-conception. Home urine tests are reliable, but blood tests provide detailed quantification.Interpreting HCG Levels: Focus on the rate of increase rather than absolute values. Ideally, HCG should double every 48 hours in early pregnancy.Progesterone Importance: Progesterone supports the pregnancy by maintaining the uterine lining. Supplementation may be necessary in some cases of fertility treatment or recurrent miscarriage.When to Seek Help: Spotting can be normal, but cramping paired with heavy bleeding should prompt a medical consultation. An early ultrasound can provide vital reassurance Dr Scott Pearce is a caring, approachable, and experienced fertility specialist, gynaecologist and obstetrician who spends quality time with his patients to explain, reassure and answer questions. Scott completed advanced laparoscopic, fertility and IVF training at Monash health and The Womens’ hospital. He is a Director of Monash Endosurgery, senior trainer of gynaecological surgery at Monash Health and an accredited Australasian Gynaecological Endoscopic Surgery Society trainer for advanced laparoscopic surgery. Scott thoroughly enjoys being an obstetrician, providing immense joy helping to create families. He has delivered over 3500 babies.  How wonderful.  Welcome Scott! Mentioned in this episode: The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility If you are trying to conceive over 35 or over 40, I have something for you! One of the most common questions I get, is what are the best supplements to boost my chances of conceiving over 40? So, I’ve put together a comprehensive FREE guide for you - The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility. In this guide I deep dive into the top 5 supplements including doses, specific forms of nutrients, ideal reference ranges you should be looking for and more, that have been proven to help reverse the affect of aging on fertility and boost your chances of conceiving and carrying your healthy baby over 35 or 40. If you would like a FREE copy, head to tashajennings.com.au/fertilitysupplements to get your FREE copy now The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility If you are trying to conceive over 35 or over 40, I have something for you! One of the most common questions I get, is what are the best supplements to boost my chances of conceiving over 40? So, I’ve put together a comprehensive FREE guide for you - The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility. In this guide I deep dive into the top 5 supplements including doses, specific forms of nutrients, ideal reference ranges you...

    31 min
  2. Before IVF - Exploring Other Medical Fertility Treatment Options

    OCT 1

    Before IVF - Exploring Other Medical Fertility Treatment Options

    Episode Summary:When we think of medical fertility options, we often jump straight to IVF. While IVF often seems like the immediate next step if you’re facing difficulties in conceiving naturally, there are other options that may be worth considering.  In this episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I explore fertility treatments before IVF with Dr. Sascha Edelstein.  Dr. Edelstein shares his insights into less invasive options that could be suitable depending on individual circumstances. Our discussion not only navigates through these alternative treatments but also demystifies the entire treatment process, providing you with valuable insights and empowering you with a deeper understanding of fertility options. Dr. Edelstein brings his extensive knowledge and personal empathy into the conversation, discussing methods such as ovulation induction and intrauterine insemination (IUI), and explains the diagnostic steps to determine the most appropriate treatment. He talks about the importance of understanding the underlying causes of infertility, enabling couples to make informed decisions. Dr. Edelstein also emphasises the significance of overall health, diet, and lifestyle adjustments as integral parts of the fertility journey. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to explore their fertility options comprehensively before considering IVF. About the Guest(s):Dr. Sascha Edelstein is a highly skilled gynecologist with subspecialty training in reproductive medicine. With an impressive background, Dr. Edelstein has undergone training in Cape Town, South Africa, and has contributed significantly to the field of fertility. He has personal experience with IVF, having successfully conceived two children with his wife through the procedure. Dr. Edelstein launched his own fertility practice and now leads Thrive Fertility in Melbourne, aiming to make IVF more accessible and affordable. His approach emphasizes a comprehensive and patient-centered treatment methodology, leveraging state-of-the-art technology and practices. Key Takeaways: Understanding Ovulation Induction: Ovulation induction helps women who are not ovulating naturally. This involves certain medications and requires careful monitoring through blood tests and ultrasounds. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): IUI is another less invasive treatment where prepared sperm is injected into the uterus at the time of ovulation. Both fallopian tube patency and sperm quality are prerequisites. Assessing Fertility: A thorough assessment of the underlying causes of infertility is crucial before deciding on the treatment. Factors like ovulation, tubal patency, and sperm viability are key areas of focus. Holistic Treatment Approach: Emphasizing the importance of general health, diet, and lifestyle changes, Dr. Edelstein advocates for a holistic approach to improve egg and sperm quality before proceeding to more invasive treatments like IVF. Patient-Centered Care: Dr. Edelstein's practice is about providing patient-centered care, ensuring couples are fully informed and comfortable with their fertility journey, whether through less invasive methods or advanced treatments like IVF. Resources: Thrive Fertility: Thrive Fertility Clinic (Mentioned for those based in Melbourne seeking accessible fertility treatments)Medications Mentioned: Clomid (clomiphene), Femara (letrozole) for ovulation induction Mentioned in this...

    39 min
  3. Laparoscopic Surgery and its role in enhancing fertility outcomes

    SEP 4

    Laparoscopic Surgery and its role in enhancing fertility outcomes

    Episode Summary: In this latest episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I speak with Dr. Haider Najjar about advanced fertility surgical options, specifically focusing on laparoscopic surgery. Dr. Najjar is a leading expert in single incision laparoscopic surgery, and provides his insights into the reasons surgery may be recommended for certain infertility challenges and the benefits it may provide. Dr Najjar outlines the surgical process, potential benefits, recovery times, and possible complications of laparoscopic interventions, offering valuable insights for those undergoing or considering surgical fertility options. We also discuss the significant advancements in surgical techniques over the past decades and how these improvements have enhanced patient outcomes. Dr. Najjar shares his personal journey into fertility surgery, inspired by his sister's struggle with infertility, underscoring the empathy and dedication he brings to his practice. With detailed explanations and professional advice, this episode will empower you with knowledge to make informed decisions about surgical options on your fertility journey About the Guest: Dr. Haider Najjar Dr. Haider Najjar is a prominent fertility surgeon specialising in laparoscopic and single incision laparoscopic surgery. Known as a pioneer of these procedures in Australia and internationally, Dr. Najjar is esteemed for his work in improving fertility outcomes through minimal invasive surgery. With over a decade of experience as a principal fertility specialist at Melbourne IVF and co-founder of Create Fertility, Dr. Najjar focuses on tailored infertility care, particularly managing conditions such as endometriosis and fibroids. He's also a globally recognised speaker at prestigious medical conferences, including AGES Annual Scientific Meetings and AAGL Global Congress. Key Takeaways: Understanding Laparoscopy: Laparoscopy involves minimally invasive surgery through small incisions, primarily to diagnose and treat conditions like endometriosis and fibroids, essential for enhancing fertility. Advanced Techniques: Single incision laparoscopic surgery offers better cosmetic outcomes and faster recovery, allowing couples to resume fertility efforts quickly. The Importance of Teamwork: Successful fertility treatments often involve a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, anesthetists, physiotherapists, and naturopaths. Empowering Patients: Informed consent and patient empowerment are crucial, with an emphasis on understanding the purpose and benefits of any surgical intervention. Technological Advances: Recent advancements in medical technology, such as 3D imaging and robotic surgery, have significantly improved the precision and outcomes of fertility surgeries. Mentioned in this episode: The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility If you are trying to conceive over 35 or over 40, I have something for you! One of the most common questions I get, is what are the best supplements to boost my chances of conceiving over 40? So, I’ve put together a comprehensive FREE guide for you - The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility. In this guide I deep dive into the top 5 supplements including doses, specific forms of nutrients, ideal reference ranges you should be looking for and more, that have been proven to help reverse the affect of aging on fertility and boost your chances of conceiving and carrying your healthy baby over 35 or 40. If you would like a FREE copy, head to tashajennings.com.au/fertilitysupplements to get your...

    44 min
  4. Exploring IVF: From Egg Collection to Embryo Transfer Insights

    JUL 31

    Exploring IVF: From Egg Collection to Embryo Transfer Insights

    Episode Summary: In this episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I am joined by Dr. Lisa Lee, Scientific Director at Thrive Fertility to discuss what happens after egg collection during an IVF cycle. I speak a lot about the importance of creating healthy eggs and sperm but today we delve into what happens after. What happens after your precious egg and sperm are collected? Dr Lee shares her experience and insights into the intricate process, explaining what happens to eggs and sperm after collection, how they are fertilized, and the factors influencing embryo viability. Dr Lee demystifies grading (AA or CC) and shares her insights into laboratory technologies enhancing fertilization. Dr Lee also emphasizes the importance of your health in the 90 days leading up to ovulation, when egg and sperm are developing, to optimise both egg and sperm quality at collection, as well as sharing her insights into the technologies and techniques used to enhance embryo development after collection. This in depth episode offers invaluable insights for anyone considering or undergoing an IVF cycle. Key Takeaways: Role of an Embryologist: Embryologists are crucial in the IVF process, from handling eggs and sperm to fertilization and embryo culture. They are often referred to as the "actual baby makers."Egg and Sperm Quality: The quality of eggs and sperm is paramount. Factors such as age and lifestyle significantly impact these gametes, influencing the success of fertilization.Embryo Grading: Embryos are graded (AA, BB, CC, etc.) based on the quality of the inner cell mass and the trophectoderm. This ranking helps embryologists choose the best embryos for transfer.Advanced Techniques: Cutting-edge techniques like ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection), laser-assisted hatching, and various sperm preparation methods are used to optimize fertilization and embryo development.Communication and Trust: Patients should actively communicate with their medical team and can trust in the regulated and high-standard processes of IVF clinics. Timestamp Summary 0:03 The Role of an Embryologist in the IVF Process 6:20 The Crucial Role of Embryologists in the IVF Process 15:07 Embryo Development Milestones and Grading for Successful Pregnancy 20:06 Understanding Embryo Grading and Its Impact on IVF Success 23:41 Advanced IVF Technologies Mimic Natural Body Processes 30:33 Navigating the IVF Journey with Trust and Proactive Questions About the Guest: Dr. Lisa Lee is the Scientific Director at Thrive Fertility, with a distinguished career spanning multiple fertility clinics across Hong Kong and Australia. Her roles have included leadership and management, as well as research and embryology positions. Dr. Lee has served as a committee member for the professional group Scientists in Reproductive Technology and has authored numerous peer-reviewed journal articles. Resources:Dr. Lisa Lee on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-lee-5140309b/ Thrive Fertility: Website - Fertility Treatment Melbourne - Thrive Fertility, Epping

    38 min
  5. Optimising Fertility – Actionable steps for women over 40 trying to conceive

    JUL 2

    Optimising Fertility – Actionable steps for women over 40 trying to conceive

    Episode Summary: In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, Functional Nutritionist Alexandria Devito joins me to  discuss the proactive measures women over 40 can take to boost their fertility wellbeing.  We discuss actionable steps you can take to increase your chances of creating your healthy pregnancy over 40, even after the challenges of failed IVF cycles, miscarriage and natural conception hurdles. Together we bust the myths around Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) and why it should not be used to dictate your fertility potential.  We talk through the various factors affecting fertility, including stress, hormones, and diet, as well as debunking myths surrounding age and conception. You’ll leave this podcast empowered with knowledge and strategies to enhance your reproductive health through targeted testing, nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and understanding the hormone symphony! About the Guest: Alexandria DeVito is a renowned functional nutritionist, author, and entrepreneur with a deep-seated passion for enhancing preconception health and fertility. She has distinguished herself as a thought leader in the reproductive wellness arena. DeVito is the creator behind the book "Nine Months Is Not Enough," which offers a comprehensive guide to building a fertile body and generational health. She's also the founder and CEO of Poplin, an innovative pre-pregnancy wellness company devoted to helping individuals optimise their fertility. Key Takeaways: AMH levels are not indicative of natural fertility; rather, they reflect ovarian reserve in the context of assisted reproductive technology cycles.Your body's biological age, influenced by lifestyle and health, can differ significantly from chronological age, impacting reproductive wellness.Hormonal balance is crucial, and factors like chronic stress and sleep quality can affect reproductive hormonesPreconception health is essential for both partners, especially during the 90 days it takes for eggs and sperm to mature.Adopting a fertility-friendly lifestyle by reducing exposure to endocrine disruptors and improving diet can enhance egg and sperm quality, regardless of age. Mentioned in this episode: The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility If you are trying to conceive over 35 or over 40, I have something for you! One of the most common questions I get, is what are the best supplements to boost my chances of conceiving over 40? So, I’ve put together a comprehensive FREE guide for you – The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility. In this guide I deep dive into the top 5 supplements including doses, specific forms of nutrients, ideal reference ranges you should be looking for and more, that have been proven to help reverse the impact of ageing to help you conceive and carry your healthy baby over 40! ACCESS HERE

    48 min
  6. Surrogacy Laws - A Positive and Achievable Path to Parenthood in Australia

    JUN 19

    Surrogacy Laws - A Positive and Achievable Path to Parenthood in Australia

    Episode Summary: In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, I welcome Surrogacy Lawyer Nicole Russell to explore the complexities and nuances of surrogacy in Australia. Nicole Russell is an accomplished surrogacy lawyer and together we delve into a subject often shrouded in mystery and misconception. Seemingly common in celebrity circles, we discuss what surrogacy looks like in the context of Australian law and culture. Nicole Russell shares her personal surrogacy experience and professional insights into the world of surrogacy, detailing the step-by-step process that intended parents must navigate to start a family via surrogacy in Australia.  Nicole highlights the importance of cultivating strong relationships, mandatory counselling sessions, and the legal frameworks that surround surrogacy. Throughout the podcast, Nicole emphasizes the attainability and positivity of surrogacy when conducted within our country's carefully regulated system. About the Guest: Nicole Russell is an accomplished surrogacy lawyer with a background as a senior commercial litigation and insolvency lawyer at some of Australia's top law firms and as legal counsel for one of the country's largest financial institutions. After a personal journey through the surrogacy process, Nicole found a new direction in her legal career. She established Russell Walker Lawyers, a firm dedicated to assisting Australians in creating their families through surrogacy arrangements. With firsthand experience as an intended parent in an Australian surrogacy arrangement, Nicole brings a unique and compassionate perspective to her practice. Key Takeaways: Surrogacy in Australia is a legally viable and positive pathway to creating a family, with structured regulations in place to ensure successful outcomes.       The foundational relationship between intended parents and the surrogate is crucial for a seamless surrogacy journey, with counselling playing a key role. Medical clearance for both intended parents and surrogates is an initial and critical step before proceeding with legal and practical arrangements.        Surrogacy laws and processes vary by state in Australia, necessitating tailored legal advice and guidance for successful parentage transfer.       Practical aspects, such as birthing plans and changing dynamics in the third trimester, can present challenges that require patience and adaptability. CONTACTS FOR NICOLE Website - https://www.russellwalkerlaw.com.au/ Email - nicole@russellwalkerlaw.com.au Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/russellwalkersurrogacy/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/russellwalkersurrogacy

    42 min
  7. Sarah’s fertility journey - From multiple miscarriages and IVF failure, to natural conception at 40

    JUN 5

    Sarah’s fertility journey - From multiple miscarriages and IVF failure, to natural conception at 40

    About the Guest(s): Sarah and her partner embarked on their journey to parenthood later in life, experiencing heartbreak of multiple miscarriages and the devastation of numerous failed IVF treatments before the wonderful natural conception of their daughter, Hattie. With a science background and a knack for research, Sarah was proactive in taking ownership over her fertility journey. As a new Mum to thriving little Hattie, Sarah is kindly sharing her story to help you overcome similar challenges to help create your healthy pregnancy and your happy, healthy baby. Episode Summary: In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, host Tasha Jennings, a fertility naturopath and nutritionist, leads a heartfelt discussion with Sarah Cumming, whose fertility journey epitomizes courage and the will to pursue every available option towards achieving parenthood. Sarah's candid recount of her experiences, from natural conception efforts to the whirlwind of IVF and nutrition strategies, provides invaluable insights for those navigating a similar path. Sarah Cumming's personal story begins with the optimism of conceiving naturally and progresses through the trials of recurrent miscarriages and IVF cycles, interlaced with a determination to leave no stone unturned. She advocates for proactivity in fertility health, especially for women over 35, and integrates scientific evidence into her approach, emphasizing the role of specific dietary modifications and supplements. Following three demanding years of hope and loss, Sarah's story of natural conception and birth of her daughter, Hattie, is a testament to perseverance and the power of hope. She hopes her story can offer hope, advice and inspiration for others on their journey to pregnancy over 35. Key Takeaways: The importance of maintaining hope despite the challenges of a fertility journey marked by miscarriages and IVF.Embracing dietary and lifestyle changes as a means to improve fertility outcomes, focusing on what can be added to the diet instead of restrictions.The effectiveness of combined medical and naturopathic approaches to fertility, acknowledging both science and nutrition.The value of being informed and proactive about fertility options, with an emphasis on evidence-based practices.Accepting and managing the emotional roller coaster of the fertility journey, including the grief and hope cycles. Mentioned in this episode: The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility If you are trying to conceive over 35 or over 40, I have something for you! One of the most common questions I get, is what are the best supplements to boost my chances of conceiving over 40? So, I’ve put together a comprehensive FREE guide for you - The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility. In this guide I deep dive into the top 5 supplements including doses, specific forms of nutrients, ideal reference ranges you should be looking for and more, that have been proven to help reverse the impact of ageing to help you conceive and carry your healthy baby over 40! ACCESS HERE

    34 min
  8. Egg Donation: International Hope for Couples Facing Fertility Challenges

    MAY 1

    Egg Donation: International Hope for Couples Facing Fertility Challenges

    Episode Summary:In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, I am joined by Dr. Uliana Dorofeyeva who provides expert insights into  the transformative advancements in reproductive medicine, particularly international egg donation. Dr. Dorofeyeva brings a wealth of knowledge, having pioneered groundbreaking work in assisted reproduction technologies. Our discussion centres around how international egg donation functions in Australia, the way donors are selected, the detailed information provided about donors, and the prospects of achieving a healthy pregnancy through egg donation. The rise of egg donation has provided hope for many couples battling insurmountable fertility barriers. Dr. Uliana explains the recruitment and ethical considerations in the process of egg donation in Australia while clarifying the misconceptions around compensation in such arrangements. As we delve deeper into the selection mechanisms, Dr. Uliana talks about the AI-driven processes that enhance the quality and potential of the donor eggs, improving the likelihood of a successful pregnancy. Key Takeaways:International egg donation is offering hope to couples facing significant fertility challenges, operating within the legal and ethical frameworks of the respective countries.Egg donors are meticulously screened and educated about the process, with their motivation being largely altruistic in nature.Advanced AI technology is employed to select high-quality eggs, considering multiple factors to increase the efficacy of egg donation treatments.Prospects for successful pregnancies using donor eggs are considerably high, especially with the advancement of AI and thorough genetic testing.It's important for the recipient mother to adopt a healthy lifestyle to create an optimal environment for embryo implantation and pregnancy progression. About the Guest(s):Dr. Uliana Dorofeyeva is an esteemed figure in the realm of assisted reproductive technology with comprehensive expertise in advanced fertility treatments. Her professional journey began with a deep-seated desire to enter the medical field, inspired by the profound impact medical professionals had on saving lives and improving quality of life. Dr. Dorofeyeva's extensive knowledge base covers a multitude of techniques including artificial insemination, ovarian stimulation, embryo transfers, and reproductive medicine. With a focus on the latest research and technologies, she specialises in intricate procedures like intracytoplasmic sperm injection, assisted hatching, and mitochondrial donations.  Currently, she is associated with Ovogene, a global European egg bank, and actively engages in assisting international patients with their fertility challenges. Contact Information: LinkedIn: Uliana Dorofeyeva https://www.linkedin.com/in/uliana-dorofeyeva?originalSubdomain=ua Instagram: @dr.uliana.dorofeyeva Ovogene: https://www.facebook.com/ovogene.bank https://www.instagram.com/ovogene.bank/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/ovogenebank/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCduzzCBc7atXckj40fvWEzg Mentioned in this episode: The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility If you are trying to conceive over 35 or over 40, I have something for...

    38 min

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Whether you have just started trying, have diagnosed fertility issues or going through IVF, the Conceive Baby Podcast provides direct access to leading fertility experts to help you achieve your baby dreams

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