Fat and Fertile

Content note: This episode discusses weight loss, weight-based medical discrimination, and fertility challenges. Please take care of yourself as you listen.This week's episode is one that made me both furious and hopeful in equal measure. I sat down with Zoe, who spent years being told to lose weight before she'd be taken seriously about her fertility. After losing nearly four stone and still getting nowhere with UK fertility services, she went to Greece for testing and discovered extensive uterine scarring that would've prevented pregnancy entirely, regardless of her weight.If you've ever been dismissed by doctors who only see your body size, or if you're stuck in "unexplained infertility" territory, this episode is for you. Zoe's story shows why proper investigation matters and what becomes possible when you get the care you actually deserve.In this episode, we cover:- Why "unexplained infertility" often means "we haven't investigated properly" and what testing might be missing- How Zoe discovered extensive uterine scarring that was completely treatable but would never have been found in the UK system- The reality of accessing fertility care abroad and why Greece became the answer when UK services kept saying "lose weight first"- What a hysteroscopy revealed in 10 minutes that years of UK appointments had missed- Why weight loss couldn't have solved the actual problem and what that means for anyone being told their size is the issueUseful Links:Download: Fat Person's Guide to Getting PregnantBook a Fat Positive Fertility Roadmap CallFollow me on InstagramEmail me a question for a future episodeEmma Haslam's work helping UK folks access fertility care abroad This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

This week's episode tackles a question I hear far too often, and it gets me every single time: "My doctor says I have PCOS but only looked at my weight. What now?"If this is your experience, I want you to know something right away, what happened to you isn't medicine. It's bias dressed up as care, and you deserve so much better.In this episode, we cover:- What the Rotterdam criteria actually are and why they matter- Why weight doesn't cause PCOS (and why that distinction is so important)- Other conditions that might be going on if you haven't been properly tested- Practical ways to advocate for the healthcare you deserve- What to do if you suspect you've been misdiagnosedUseful Links:Download: Fat Person's Guide to Getting PregnantBook a Fat Positive Fertility Roadmap CallFollow me on InstagramEmail me a question for a future episode This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

Episode 23: When Your GP Won't Test Your Fertility Until You Lose WeightThis week, we're tackling one of the most common issues fat folks face: being denied basic fertility testing until they lose weight.In this episode:- Why it's not your fault when doctors refuse testing based on weight- The basic fertility tests you deserve access to- When to seek testing - Why your sperm-producing partner should get tested first- How to advocate for yourself when doctors say noKey takeaway: You are not broken and you do not need fixing. The healthcare system needs fixing. There are absolutely tests that can and should be done regardless of your body size, and you deserve to have your health needs met.Resources:Book: "Fat and Fertile" - available on AmazonInstagram: @fatpositivefertilityEmail: nicola@nicolasalmon.co.ukFat Positive Fertility Roadmaps: personalised 90-minute calls to create your fertility planSend me your questions for future "In Your Corner" episodes via DM or email! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

In this personal episode, I'm sharing my PCOS journey - from diagnosis at 16 to navigating fertility and finding weight-neutral care approaches.What We Cover:My PCOS story and unexpected fertility journey3 major PCOS myths that need bustingWeight-neutral care advice that doesn't involve weight-loss!Sponsored by Inofolic Alpha Plus - The only PCOS supplement designed for folks with BMI over 25. Use code NICOLAPOD for 10% off.Resources:Book a Fat Positive Fertility Roadmap SessionJoin the Substack communityGet the book: Fat and FertileHave questions about PCOS? Share your story in the Substack comments - I'd love to hear from you! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

In this episode of Fat and Fertile, I’m diving deep into something I don’t talk about nearly enough—what fat positive fertility coaching actually is, and why it matters so much.I’ve been a fertility coach for over seven years now, and while I often share tools, insights, and resources, I realised I haven’t really broken down how coaching works or what it looks like to be supported in a fat-positive, weight-neutral space. So that’s what this episode is all about.I share how my own experience of being diagnosed with PCOS as a teen—and being told I’d never have children—led me to this work. And I explain how my journey through unlearning diet culture and stepping away from weight loss gave me the clarity and drive to support others doing the same, especially those navigating fertility in bigger bodies.In this episode, I talk about:What coaching means to me (and why it’s not about “fixing” you)The unique challenges fat folks face when trying to get pregnantWhy we deserve support that’s free from judgement and shameWhat it means to create safety in your nervous system as you navigate this processHow to explore health-promoting behaviours without dietingAnd why separating your worth from your ability to conceive is a game-changerI also explain what a fat positive approach really looks like in practice—how I work with you to move from where you are now to where you want to be, using tools that centre your autonomy, your lived experience, and your joy.If you’ve ever felt like you're battling the system just to be seen, heard, or supported—this one’s for you. And if it resonates, I’d love to invite you to book a free 30-minute chat with me. No pressure, no pushy sales pitch—just a space to connect and see if coaching might be the right next step for you.Resources & Links:Email me: nicola@nicolasalmon.co.ukFind me on Instagram: @fatpositivefertilityMy book: Fat and Fertile – available via AmazonJoin my community: Ko-Fi MembershipThanks for listening, lovely. You absolutely deserve to feel supported, cared for, and full of hope as you navigate growing your family—exactly as you are. 💛 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Fat and Fertile, Nicola Salmon dives into the practical—and emotional—realities of finding a fertility clinic that supports fat folks with compassion and without weight stigma. Whether you’re just beginning to explore fertility treatment or feeling frustrated by constant barriers, this episode is packed with actionable tips, thoughtful guidance, and much-needed reassurance.Nicola shares the exciting news of her newly updated Fat-Friendly Fertility Clinic Guide, a powerful resource featuring nearly 150 community-sourced recommendations from fat people who’ve accessed IVF and other fertility treatments. She explains how to use the guide, what to look out for, and why it’s so important to have information upfront—especially when some clinics still impose harmful BMI restrictions or hidden costs.She also walks you through her top tips for researching, interviewing, and choosing a fertility clinic that will treat you with the respect and care you deserve. From asking the right pre-consultation questions to understanding your legal and medical rights around weighing, diet talk, and treatment access, Nicola empowers you to advocate for yourself at every stage.If you’ve ever felt disheartened by fertility clinics, this episode is a must-listen. Nicola reminds us that while fat-positive clinics might feel like unicorns, they do exist—and finding the right one can make all the difference in your journey.Links and Resources🧡 Fat-Friendly Fertility Clinic Guide – Download here 🧡 IVF for Fat Folks Course – Your step-by-step guide to navigating fertility treatment in a bigger body 🧡 The Fat Person’s Guide to Getting Pregnant – Free download 🧡 Fat Fertility Facebook Group – Connect with others navigating this journey 🧡 Reddit r/infertility – A moderated space with weight-inclusive policies 🧡 Join the Fat and Fertile Community on Ko-Fi – Exclusive Q&A episodes, community support, and bonus contentGet InvolvedNicola would love to hear from you! If this episode resonates, share your story, ask a question, or leave a review. Your voice matters and could help someone else feel less alone.Support the PodcastIf you're enjoying Fat and Fertile, you can buy Nicola a coffee or share this episode on your favourite social media platform. Every share helps make this information more accessible to the people who need it most.Follow Nicola on Instagram@fatpositivefertility – For fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and behind-the-scenes support.👉 Explore these resources and take your next step toward growing your family—without shame, without diets, and entirely on your terms. Nicola’s in your corner, cheering you on every step of the way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

In this episode of Fat and Fertile, I’m joined by the incredible Emma Haslam, founder of Your IVF Abroad and a passionate advocate for fertility choice. Emma shares her deeply personal journey through infertility, the barriers she faced due to BMI restrictions in the UK, and how she ultimately found a path to parenthood abroad.We dive into the realities of navigating fertility treatment as a fat person, the frustration of arbitrary weight-based restrictions, and the emotional toll of being told to lose weight before receiving medical support. Emma opens up about her decision to seek IVF treatment outside the UK, what that experience was like, and how it led her to create Your IVF Abroad—a business dedicated to helping others access safe, transparent, and supportive fertility care without weight stigma.If you’ve ever felt dismissed by the fertility industry, this episode is a must-listen. Emma’s story is one of resilience, empowerment, and challenging the status quo. She’s proof that fertility care should be accessible to all bodies, and she’s on a mission to make sure others have the information and support they need to explore their options.Listen in to hear:✅ The challenges of accessing fertility care with a higher BMI✅ How Emma found an alternative path to IVF treatment abroad✅ Why weight stigma in fertility care needs to change✅ Tips for navigating fertility treatment with confidence and choiceConnect with Emma & Explore Your Options:Free Webinar: From Obstacles to Options" – How to overcome fertility treatment challenges in your home country, get started on your right path to parenthood, and fast-track growing your family, on your terms. yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclassEmma’s Podcast: yourivfabroad.co.uk/podcastEmma’s Website: yourivfabroad.co.ukEmma’s Instagram: @yourivfabroadNicola’s book: Fat and FertileNicola's Instagram: @fatpositivefertilityGrab the Fat Person’s Guide to Getting PregnantJoin the Fat and Fertile community on Ko-Fi for more support🎧 Tune in now and remember: your body is worthy, and your fertility journey should be met with care, respect, and real choices. 💛 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

Episode SummaryIn this episode, I'm answering five of the most common questions I get about fat positive fertility. These questions originally came from a video I recorded for my Ko-Fi Community but they were too good not to share here!Whether you're curious about navigating fertility in a bigger body, looking for evidence-based insights, or just need some reassurance, this episode is for you. And if you have your own questions, come join us in the Ko-Fi Community, where you can ask me directly!The questions:Can I really get pregnant in a bigger body?What do I do if my doctor denies me fertility care based on my BMI?Can I access fertility treatment in a bigger body if I need it?Will losing weight make it easier to get pregnant?Is it safe to get pregnant in a bigger body?Links and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileFat Person's Guide to Getting PregnantKo-fi CommunityGet InvolvedNicola would love to hear from you! If this episode resonates, share your story, ask a question, or leave a review.Support the PodcastIf you’re enjoying Fat and Fertile, please share this episode on social or leave a review! Every share helps make this info more accessible to everyone who needs it.Follow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.👉 Explore all these resources here and take your first step toward parenthood without stigma or shame. I’m cheering you on every step of the way! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

In this episode of Fat and Fertile, I sit down with Michelle, who shares her transformative journey from navigating societal expectations to embracing body positivity. Michelle opens up about the necessity of setting boundaries, particularly in medical scenarios, to safeguard one's well-being. Her insights into finding size-inclusive care and advocating for oneself during fertility treatments are truly empowering. We explore how she shifted from challenging experiences with body image and disordered eating to become an advocate and doula for plus-size individuals, supporting them in having positive pregnancy and birth experiences. I hope her story inspires you to stand firm in your choices and seek supportive healthcare that aligns with your needs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

In this episode of Fat and Fertile, I open up about my journey from 2024 into an exciting 2025, sharing both personal and professional highs and lows. From grappling with neurodivergence and finding support to winning a prestigious fertility advocate award, it's been quite the roller-coaster! I hope this episode reassures you that joy and passion can be rediscovered, even amidst challenges, and inspires you to embrace self-discovery and empowerment on your fertility journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

In this podcast episode, I delve into my experience with menstrual cycles and the impact movement has had on my usual (irregular) cycle. I also chat about importance of finding enjoyable and accessible forms of movement, the challenges marginalised bodies face in society, and how consistent self-care can help manage stress and support the nervous system. I hope this episode encourages you to find ways to care for your body and mind in a way that feels good to you! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

Lets look at two ways we can use research to support us in navigating fertility care as a fat personGrab the Fat Fertility Bundle here before Sun 18th Feb 2024 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

In this episode we explore the murky world of fertility supplements and what you need to think about, as a fat person, if you decide to use them to support you in getting pregnant Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

In this episode I'm sharing my experience of tracking my irregular cycles as a fat person and exploring what tools are most useful for cycle tracking.We explore what things you need to be aware of as a fat person so you can track your cycles to support getting pregnant.For more information about Nicola and her work, check out www.nicolasalmon.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

In this episode of Fat and Fertile, I'm shedding light on the misconception that being fat causes irregular menstrual cycles.I discuss the importance of proper diagnoses, challenging stereotypes, and emphasize the need for inclusive research and healthcare that goes beyond assumptions about body size. Tune in to learn more about the real factors that can impact reproductive health.For more information about Nicola and her work, check out www.nicolasalmon.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

In this episode of "Fat and Fertile," I share why I use the word FAT in my business and what it means for me both professionally and personally.I also talk about how we can use the power of language to make real change in the way that fat folks are treated and in the fertility industry.For more information about Nicola and her work, check out www.nicolasalmon.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

In this episode of "Fat and Fertile," we explore the concept of fat positive fertility and discuss the importance of moving away from restrictive diets and weight loss, advocating for fertility care without BMI limitations, and creating a nurturing environment for individuals in bigger bodies who want to navigate getting pregnant. For more information about Nicola and her work, check out www.nicolasalmon.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

In this episode of Fat and Fertile, we explore how finding a supportive community can have a positive impact on mental and physical health, especially for folks in bigger bodies who want to get pregnant. I chat about the challenges of finding supportive communities, strategies for finding the right community, and some really great communities that already exist. For more information about Nicola and her work, check out www.nicolasalmon.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

On this episode of Fat and Fertile, we're going to look at why being unsupported has such a huge impact on fat folks and getting pregnant.I'll share the 4 ways you might be unsupported right now and some ideas to create the support you need.For more information about Nicola and her work, check out www.nicolasalmon.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com

On this episode of Fat and Fertile, we explore the ideas that fertility treatment is more risky and less effective for fat folks.We dive into where these ideas come from, why they are rooted in anti-fat bias and how you can use the research to advocate for your care.For more information about Nicola and her work, check out www.nicolasalmon.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fatpositivefertility.substack.com