Don't Tell Me To RELAX- Your Fertility Podcast

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

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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
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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

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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

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Men in May- this month we will be focusing in on the male side of fertility, culminating in a Live Q&A on June 1st with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Claire Mooney- male fertility expert from Fertility Solutions. I⁠⁠⁠⁠f you would like to join us and ask a question- please ⁠⁠⁠⁠register your details here⁠⁠⁠⁠- and if you have a question for Claire and can't join live then ⁠⁠⁠⁠email me here.⁠

In this final episode of our Men in May series, fertility nutritionist Kirsty Harrison shares expert advice on the role of supplements in male fertility, debunking myths and highlighting what the scientific evidence actually supports.
If you're overwhelmed by supplement options or want to optimize sperm health, this discussion is packed with practical tips and insights.
Key topics discussed:
The purpose of fertility supplements for men and common goals
Understanding oxidative stress and its impact on sperm quality
The risks of taking too many antioxidants and how to identify imbalance
Evidence-based supplements: vitamins C, D, E, zinc, folate, and coenzyme Q10
Differentiating supplements for motility, morphology, and count
The importance of targeted testing before supplementing
The pitfalls of blanket supplement recommendations and multi-ingredient products
Lifestyle factors crucial to sperm health: diet, sleep, stress, and exercise
The limitations of semen analysis alone and the value of thorough diagnostics
Practical advice on selecting quality protein powders and supplements
When to consider specific tests for oxidative stress and sperm function
Top three foundational steps: optimize diet, sleep, and get proper testing

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