The Fertility Suite

Professor Sheena Lewis’ research has been focused on male infertility and in particular sperm DNA damage testing, where her goal has been to identify causes of and treatments for male infertility by developing novel biomarkers.

Sheena has published over 120 full papers plus book chapters and numerous reviews. Her research has led to the formation of a University spin out company; Examen marketing male fertility tests. She also has a strong commitment to public engagement with research and regularly communicates her group’s latest research findings through international TV, radio and online interviews.
Today we talk all about what sperm DNA fragmentation is, how it affects fertility and how to go about understanding whether this may be an issue for you.
Examen have recently launched semen analysis testing in Belfast. You can book your test and find out more about your fertility here. https://examenlab.com/book-a-semen-analysis-test-at-our-belfast-hub/

Golnoush Golshirazi, molecular biologist and founder of Screen Me joined me to discuss the vaginal microbiome and its importance for fertility & loss. Golnoush also discusses how her own experiences have shaped the community she has built and fuelled her research in this area. ScreenMe offers vaginal microbiome and seminal microbiome testing, paired with education, support and care to help people improve their intimate health.
We covered:

What is the vaginal microbiome?
Why is it important to test your intimate health
How does this relate to fertility & Loss
How the vaginal miocrbiome can affect IVF success
What can be done if you have an imbalance & treatment plans

Andrew Coutts of the International Fertility Company tells us everything you need to know about having IVF abroad. For anyone considering IVF this is a must listen!

We discuss:

What are the benefits of having IVF abroad
What are the standards of clinic like abroad
Do the clinics abroad offer ‘better’ more up to date treatment options than UK clinics Are there big cost differences
What are the pitfalls/potential downsides of IVF abroad
How do you start to look for a clinic

Victoria Wigley , Embryologist tells us everything you need to know to improve your chance of success with IVF. We discuss:

What it means to have ‘good egg quality’

Embryo grading & PGT-A testing

What factors will affect how many blastocysts you could get

How important the lab is when choosing an IVF clinic and what should be the basic requirements

The importance of improving sperm health before an IVF cycle

Top tips to improve your chance of getting good quality embryos
Victoria runs independent IVF advice service 'All About Embryology' and has previously worked at New Life clinic, CRGH and The London Fertility Centre.

Dr Lauren Rockliffe is a Chartered Health Pyschologist and pregnancy health coach and founder of Bloomwell Pregnancy supporting women throughout any stage of their fertility and pregnancy journey.
In todays episode we discuss:
The emotional impact of TTC, triggers and how hard & overwhelming it can all be
Tools to help manage this and foster self compassion
How self compassion can help with TTC and why its important
Practical tools and tips for cultivating Self Compassion

You can book a free call with Lauren via her website or follow her on instagram at @bloomwellpregnancy