In the first episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast for 2025, I am joined by the wonderful Tracey Anderson Askew, a distinguished educator in breathing retraining and parenting, who sheds light on a fundamental yet overlooked aspect of our physiology—breathing. Together we explore how intentional breathing techniques can alleviate stress, lower cortisol levels and boost blood flow, which can ultimately enhance fertility and overall reproductive health.

We discuss the connection between breath and the nervous system, revealing how different breathing patterns affect us both physically and emotionally. Tracey introduces practical strategies to combat over-breathing—a common yet misunderstood practice and distinguishes between typical breathwork and breathing retraining. Her practical advice will be a game-changer if you’re struggling to fall pregnant.

Tracey Anderson Askew is a seasoned teacher, hypnotherapist, breathing retrainer, and educator specialising in childbirth and parenting. She is the director of Transform Parenting and the former director of the Better Breathing Centre in Canberra. With over two decades of experience, Tracey has assisted more than 6,000 new parents with her face-to-face and online workshops. As a mother of four, she combines her vast knowledge and personal insights to guide families through pregnancy and early parenting. Her expertise in breathing retraining aims to enhance physiological wellness and subsequently, reproductive health.

Key Takeaways:

• Breathing is a powerful, free resource that plays a critical role in managing stress and supporting fertility.
• Breathing retraining helps to optimise oxygen utilisation and reduce stress.
• Nose breathing and maintaining an upright posture are cornerstones of optimal breathing habits.
• Over-breathing can lead to lower CO2 levels, impacting the body’s ability to utilise oxygen effectively.
• Simple changes in breathing technique can significantly influence physiological states and promote both relaxation and reproductive health.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The pathway to the deep relaxation response, or one of the most direct pathways, is the breath."
2. "The opposite to the stress response is what’s called the deep relaxation response."
3. "The myth is that CO2 is just a waste gas. No, it's actually vital for oxygenation processes."
4. "Nose breathing is generally much calmer and signals to the body that you're not being chased by a tiger."
5. "When you're stressed, you get dumber because you can't access your whole brain."

Mentioned in this episode:

Fertility Over 40 Guide

Learn the 5 Things you need to do NOW to boost your chances of pregnancy over 40! If you have been told your eggs are ‘old’. You have low AMH. You’ve struggled with miscarriage. You have been recommended IVF or had failed cycles. It’s been suggested to use donor eggs. Then this guide is for you!

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide

In this bonus episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I invite several women within my community, whose advice I trust, to provide their real life advice for you. From personal tips to professional advice, this episode has been created to help you navigate the emotional challenges the festive season can bring while facing fertility struggles.

The episode features contributions from notable community figures including Joanna Sampieri, known on Instagram as IVF Mumma Tribe, Rachael Casella from Macenzies Mission, who you can find on Instagram as My Life of Love, Trish Tselepi from Pink Elephants support, Fertility Psychologist Cath Corcoran and we also have someone my patients would know well and that’s Emilee Nichols, Emilee is my Patient Care Coordinator and Marketing Coordinator who experienced her own IVF journey.

These beautiful guests have kindly taken the time to offer their practical tips and advice around managing difficult conversations, finding time for self care, emphasising the importance of being kind to yourself and finding moments of joy.

Resources:

• Rachael Casella - www.instagram.com/mylifeof_love
• Pink Elephants Support Network - https://www.instagram.com/pinkelephantssupport/

https://www.pinkelephants.org.au/

• Fertility Psychologist Cath Corcoran - www.instagram.com/cathcorcoranpsychologist
• Joanna Sampieri - www.instagram.com/ivf_mumma_tribe

Mentioned in this episode:

Fertility Over 40 Guide

Learn the 5 Things you need to do NOW to boost your chances of pregnancy over 40! If you have been told your eggs are ‘old’. You have low AMH. You’ve struggled with miscarriage. You have been recommended IVF or had failed cycles. It’s been suggested to use donor eggs. Then this guide is for you!

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide

Episode Summary:

In this inspiring episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I am joined by World Renowned Entrepreneur Lisa Messenger and Seasoned Lifestyle Columnist and Finance Expert Sarah Megginson who share with us special insights into their story detailed in their book, "The Power of Two." Lisa, a dynamic force in the business world as the CEO of Collective Hub, opens up about her challenging path to motherhood, spanning eight years and 18 rounds of IVF. Sarah, a respected lifestyle columnist and financial expert, joins her as both co-author and the incredible surrogate who carried Lisa's child. Their story is not just about overcoming fertility challenges; it's a testament to the power of connection, resilience, and unwavering support.

Lisa’s candid recount of living a "private hell" while maintaining her successful career is a sentiment many can resonate with. Sarah’s empathetic leap into surrogacy, highlights the beautiful nature of a true friendship and of mutual empowerment.

Both Lisa and Sarah share insights into the nuances of asking for help and maintaining open communication and boundaries, not only through their personal journey but also as invaluable life lessons for listeners facing any form of adversity.

About the Guests

Lisa Messenger: Lisa Messenger is a renowned entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker. She is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Collective Hub, a multimedia brand dedicated to empowering individuals to pursue their passions. With over 40 books to her name, Lisa is a leading figure in business innovation and positive psychology. Her journey through diverse professional landscapes and personal challenges, including an extensive fertility journey, culminates in her new book, "The Power of Two."

Sarah Megginson: Sarah Megginson is a seasoned lifestyle columnist, editor, and financial expert with notable works appearing in Cosmopolitan, Mamma Mia, and Yahoo Finance. She is dedicated to simplifying finances for a broader audience, using her platform to educate and empower. Sarah’s transformative experience as a surrogate mother for Lisa Messenger frames the heart of "The Power of Two," where friendship and resilience shine through adversity.

• Lisa’s journey through 18 rounds of IVF highlights the emotional and financial strains associated with fertility struggles and the importance of support systems.
• Surrogacy in Australia is an altruistic process deeply embedded in trust and mutual respect, as exemplified by Sarah's unwavering support.
• Open communication and clearly defined boundaries can strengthen relationships and ensure mutual understanding in challenging journeys.
• Empowerment stems from shared experiences, as Sarah and Lisa illustrate the power of sharing struggles to inspire and uplift others.

• "Sometimes the unthinkable becomes thinkable." — Lisa Messenger

• "The power of possibility is really what our book is all about." — Sarah Megginson

• "If you have tried that yourself or watched that path yourself, then that's when advice is helpful." — Lisa Messenger

• "There's so much that went into it…for me it was about open communication and understanding each other's needs." — Sarah Megginson

• "Hugo is my baby. He is the one I was always meant to have." — Lisa Messenger

• Check out the book "The Power of Two" for a detailed narrative of Lisa and Sarah's extraordinary journey - https://www.panterapress.com.au/product/the-power-of-two/

Mentioned in this episode:

FREE Guide -...

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:

Fertility Over 40 Guide

Learn the 5 Things you need to do NOW to boost your chances of pregnancy over 40! If you have been told your eggs are ‘old’. You have low AMH. You’ve struggled with miscarriage. You have been recommended IVF or had failed cycles. It’s been suggested to use donor eggs. Then this guide is for you!

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide

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.

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...

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:

Fertility Over 40 Guide

Learn the 5 Things you need to do NOW to boost your chances of pregnancy over 40! If you have been told your eggs are ‘old’. You have low AMH. You’ve struggled with miscarriage. You have been recommended IVF or had failed cycles. It’s been suggested to use donor eggs. Then this guide is for you!

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide

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.

• Dr. Lisa Lee on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-lee-5140309b/
• Thrive Fertility: Website - Fertility Treatment Melbourne - Thrive Fertility, Epping

Mentioned in this episode:

FREE Guide - The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Aging on Fertility

FREE Guide...

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 hormones
• Preconception 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

Mentioned in this episode:

Fertility Over 40 Guide

Learn the 5 Things you need to do NOW to boost your chances of pregnancy over 40! If you have been told your eggs are ‘old’. You have low AMH. You’ve struggled with miscarriage. You have been recommended IVF or had failed cycles. It’s been suggested to use donor eggs. Then this guide is for you!

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide