Don't Tell Me To RELAX- Your Fertility Podcast

This is the last in the Series- as I take a little break for the summer- we will be back in September! But before I go we have this lovely episode to end with.
I am back with Carly to discuss practical ways to support loved ones trying to conceive. We share insights on emotional support, important dates, and practical ways to help- all offered from our lovely listeners and community.

We discuss:

The emotional impact of fertility issues: anxiety, grief, and isolation
How to check in without overstepping: balance and boundaries
Remembering important dates: significance and sensitivity
Offering practical acts of kindness: gifts, support, and reducing the burden
The importance of listening without fixing or giving unsolicited advice
Consistently showing up: invitations, invitations refusal, and ongoing support
Protecting emotional well-being: respecting boundaries and space
The power of community, shared experiences, and collective support

For more Fertility Support & Care:

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In this episode I am with, Alison Hall, a nutritional therapist specializing in fertility. Alison discusses the complex relationship between genetics, epigenetics, and fertility. She explains how understanding genetic variants like MTHFR and supporting epigenetic health through nutrition and lifestyle can improve reproductive outcomes.
Main Topics:
The difference between genetics and epigenetics and their roles in fertility
How MTHFR gene variants affect folate metabolism and fertility outcomes
The significance of methylation pathways and supportive nutrients like B12, zinc, and choline
The value of genetic testing and how to select trustworthy providers
Lifestyle factors influencing epigenetic expression, including sleep, stress, and meditation
The relationship between digestion, gut health, and nutrient absorption in fertility
The impact of DNA fragmentation on sperm quality and overall reproductive success
The role of immune health and key nutrients like vitamin D and vitamin A
Practical approaches: dietary focus, supplement considerations, and personalized plans

You'll find Alison on Instagram

For more Fertility Support & Care:

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I am joined by fertility coach Carly to unpack the emotional toll, misconceptions, and support needs of women experiencing infertility.

Whether you're going through it yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers insights and practical advice for understanding and compassion.

We hope this will be a helpful episode to send onto your family and friends- if you don’t want to go into the detail yourself but would like them to have a better understanding 💛

We discuss
​The emotional and mental impact of infertility, including feelings of exhaustion, grief, and isolation
​Why family and friends often struggle to provide the right support and how to approach these conversations
​The importance of validation over problem-solving and the harmful effects of platitudes like "just relax"
​How misconceptions and lack of education around fertility contribute to misunderstanding
​The long-lasting trauma of IVF and miscarriage, and how it persists beyond pregnancy
​Challenges of participating in family gatherings, social events, and managing others' reactions
​The unique struggles of secondary infertility and societal expectations
​How to be a supportive ally: listening, validating emotions, and avoiding unsolicited advice
For more Fertility Support & Care:

💛 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our Don't Tell Me To RELAX!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠fertility online community with the monthly drop in support group
​
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​
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I am with Laura Wilkes, a yoga and TRE teacher, women's health coach and soon to be acupuncturists. Laura shares her journey with TRE (Trauma Release Exercises) and how this powerful somatic practice can support stress release, emotional healing, and improve fertility outcomes.
We discuss
What is TRE and its origins
The science behind neurogenic tremors and their role in releasing stress and trauma
How TRE helps regulate the nervous system, especially in fertility journeys
The connection between emotional suppression, physical symptoms, and TRE
Why TRE is a feminine, passive practice that promotes surrender and healing
Practical guidance on practicing TRE at home versus with a practitioner
The benefits of TRE for physical issues like back pain, tight hips, digestion, and sleep
How TRE supports emotional release and trauma healing in women's health
The significance of releasing control and cultivating relaxation in fertility
Differences between TRE and practices like yin yoga
Upcoming courses and how to find qualified practitioners
Find a TRE Practitioner - Official TRE directory to locate practitioners
Laura Wilkes Instagram

For more Fertility Support & Care:

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As it is Pride Month around the world we are sharing the fertility journey from one of our LGBTQ+ community members.
Debs shares her personal and systemic challenges navigating fertility treatments as a LGBTQ+ woman. We explore the emotional, systemic, and logistical aspects of building a family through assisted reproductive technologies, highlighting areas for greater inclusivity and support.

We discuss
Deb’s journey from childhood awareness to the decision to pursue a family as a lesbian woman
Systemic barriers faced in fertility clinics and registration
The role of donor sperm selection and emotional considerations
Differences in treatment options, access, and costs across counties
The impact of societal perceptions and the need for better representation and education
Insights into pregnancy, birth, and legal challenges for same-sex parents
Stonewall Family Formation Guide - Comprehensive resource on pathways to parenthood for LGBTQ+ families

For more Fertility Support & Care:

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