Fat and Fertile

In this episode of Fat and Fertile, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Alice Keeley – aka The HeavyWeight Midwife. With 20+ years of midwifery experience and a PhD in plus-size pregnancy care, Alice is a powerful voice challenging the weight stigma baked into our maternity systems.We dig into what it’s really like to be pregnant in a bigger body – from being weighed without consent, to “high risk” labels that show up before anything’s even gone wrong. Alice explains how these experiences affect care, and why personalised, evidence-based, compassionate support matters so much.We also explore Alice’s journey, including what led her to launch The HeavyWeight Midwife in 2022, and why autonomy and clear communication are key during pregnancy.We talk about:Why BMI-based guidelines miss the bigger pictureHow to advocate for yourself at appointmentsRisks, referrals, and informed consentWhy water birth access is a fat-positive issueAnd how Alice’s trimester-by-trimester courses are changing livesLinks & Resources📘 Fat and Fertile – Buy the book📰 Join Nicola on Substack📧 Email: nicola@nicolasalmon.co.uk📸 Instagram: @fatpositivefertility🌐 Alice’s site: theheavyweightmidwife.com📲 Alice on IG: @theheavyweightmidwife🎧 Listen to The HeavyWeight Midwife Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 in SubstackThanks 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.

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 and Fertile – Buy the book📰 Join Nicola on Substack📧 Email: nicola@nicolasalmon.co.uk📸 Instagram: @fatpositivefertilityGet 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.

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 Nicola on Substack🎧 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.

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 me in Substack.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 PregnantSubstackGet 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.

Episode SummaryIn 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.What to Expect from the PodcastWe dive deep into how to establish care boundaries in healthcare settings, especially for those undergoing fertility treatments. Michelle's stories highlight the significance of finding size-inclusive providers and becoming informed advocates for ourselves. From addressing weight stigma in maternity care to understanding health risks without fear, this episode is a guide for anyone seeking to reclaim their pregnancy and birth experiences with confidence and autonomy.Highlights:Setting Boundaries in Medical SituationsNavigating Fertility Treatments with ConfidenceUnderstanding Health Risks in a Supportive WayEmbracing Body Positivity and Self-AdvocacyLinks and ResourcesMichelle's book, Fat and PregnantNicola’s book, Fat and FertileFat Person's Guide to Getting PregnantJoin Nicola on SubstackMichelle’s InstagramGet 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.

Episode SummaryIn 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.What to Expect from the PodcastThis episode covers my recent experiences and plans for the future. Dive into understanding how embracing neurodivergence has reshaped my path, the joy I found in cold-water swimming, and a new venture on Ko-fi [since moved into Substack], aimed at fostering a nurturing community away from the constraints of social media.Highlights:Embracing Neurodivergence: ADHD and Autism InsightsAn Award-Winning Year: Best Fertility Advocate 2024Launch of my Community: A Supportive Space for Fat FolksPlans for Fat and Fertile's Second EditionLinks and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileFat Person's Guide to Getting PregnantJoin Nicola on SubstackGet 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.

Episode SummaryIn 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!Highlights:The Connection Between Movement and Menstrual CyclesThe Importance of Supporting the Nervous SystemMovement Without Pressure or Weight-Loss GoalsLinks and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileGet 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.Explore More with NicolaJoin me on SubstackFollow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.Free Resources for Fat Folks: Access a hub of tools designed to support your fat-positive fertility journey, including guides, checklists, research summaries, and my popular Can I Get Pregnant in a Bigger Body? workshop.👉 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.

Episode Summary:Let’s look at two ways we can use research to support us in navigating fertility care as a fat personWhat to Expect from the Podcast: Focuses on navigating the complexities of fertility for people in bigger bodies in an anti-fat world.Explores research, advocacy, and mental health tools to empower listeners in their fertility journeys.Encourages listeners to question fat-phobic narratives in medicine and build confidence in their body's capabilities.Highlights:Nicola's Master's in medical engineering and physics and her experience working in the NHS and accessing complex medical research.Insight into barriers to accessing research, such as paywalls and elitism.Evidence that people in bigger bodies get pregnant at rates similar to those in other body sizes.Research showing BMI-based treatment restrictions are not supported by science.Lifestyle changes (e.g., diet and exercise) often have no impact on pregnancy rates.Encourages listeners to ask healthcare providers for evidence supporting their policies.Using research to counter internalised fat-phobia and build confidence in fertility.Emphasising the importance of believing in your body's ability to conceive for mental well-being.Links and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileInstagramWorkshopSubstackGet InvolvedNicola would love to hear from you! If this episode resonates, share your story, ask a question, or leave a review. You can also join the Fat and Fertile Alliance—a friendly space to connect with others on similar paths.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.Explore More with NicolaSubscribe to my SubstackFollow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.Free Resources for Fat Folks: Access a hub of tools designed to support your fat-positive fertility journey, including guides, checklists, research summaries, and my popular Can I Get Pregnant in a Bigger Body? workshop.👉 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.

What to Expect from the PodcastA refreshingly fat-positive perspective, exploring the unique nutritional challenges faced by those in bigger bodies, such as the impact of diet culture, higher potential nutritional needs, and barriers to access. With a focus on informed decision-making, we debunk myths around supplement quality.HighlightsNavigating Supplementation for Fertility in a Bigger BodyDebunking Myths About Supplement QualityUnique Nutritional Needs and Context for Fat FolksSpecific Recommendations for Key SupplementsEmpowering Listeners to Take ControlLinks and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileSubscribe to my SubstackFollow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.Free Resources for Fat Folks: Access a hub of tools designed to support your fat-positive fertility journey, including guides, checklists, research summaries, and my popular Can I Get Pregnant in a Bigger Body? workshop.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!Episode SummaryGet InvolvedNicola would love to hear from you! If this episode resonates, share your story, ask a question, or leave a review. You can also join the Fat and Fertile Alliance—a friendly space to connect with others on similar paths.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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Summary: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. The episode emphasises the value of reconnecting with your body through natural signals and creating a tracking system that aligns with your needs and budget. Nicola encourages listeners to use tracking as a tool for empowerment, not stress, and to approach the process with curiosity and compassion.HighlightsImportance of Tracking CyclesChallenges with Tracking as a Fat PersonBuilding Connection with Your BodyLinks and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileSubscribe to my SubstackFollow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.Free Resources for Fat Folks: Access a hub of tools designed to support your fat-positive fertility journey, including guides, checklists, research summaries, and my popular Can I Get Pregnant in a Bigger Body? workshop.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!Get 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 10: Being fat doesn’t cause irregular cycles14 SeptEpisode Summary: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.What to Expect from the PodcastListeners will learn what constitutes a "normal" menstrual cycle, actionable steps for managing irregularities, and how to advocate for better healthcare. Nicola also provides practical tips for supporting the nervous system and tracking cycles effectively. This empowering episode encourages listeners to reject harmful stereotypes, seek the care they deserve, and navigate their fertility journeys with confidence and self-compassion.HighlightsDebunking the Myth: Fatness and Irregular CyclesWhat is Considered "Normal" for Menstrual CyclesActionable Steps for Managing Irregular CyclesLinks and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileJoin Nicola on SubstackFollow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.Free Resources for Fat Folks: Access a hub of tools designed to support your fat-positive fertility journey, including guides, checklists, research summaries, and my popular Can I Get Pregnant in a Bigger Body? workshop.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!Get 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Summary:In this episode of "Fat and Fertile," Nicola share why she uses the word FAT in her business and what it means for her both professionally and personally.She also talks 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.What to Expect from the PodcastWe look at why Nicola went from avoiding the term to confidently reclaiming it as a neutral descriptor and her struggles with internalised fatphobia and how writing her book, Fat and Fertile, transformed her perspectiveHighlightsNicola’s relationship with the word "fat"The cultural stigma of the word "fat"Fat as a neutral descriptorIssues with terms like "obesity" and "overweight"Reclaiming the word "fat"Why some people struggle with the word “fat”Links and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileSupport my work on SubstackFollow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.Free Resources for Fat Folks: Access a hub of tools designed to support your fat-positive fertility journey, including guides, checklists, research summaries, and my popular Can I Get Pregnant in a Bigger Body? workshop.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!Get InvolvedNicola would love to hear from you! If this episode resonates, share your story, ask a question, or leave a review. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode SummaryIn 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. What to Expect from the PodcastWe look at the concept of fat-positive fertility and how it reshapes the way fat individuals navigate their journey to parenthood.HighlightsDefining Fat-Positive FertilityThe Fat-Positive Fertility FrameworkThe Impact of Fat-Positive CareLinks and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileSupport My Work on SubstackFollow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.Free Resources for Fat Folks: Access a hub of tools designed to support your fat-positive fertility journey, including guides, checklists, research summaries, and my popular Can I Get Pregnant in a Bigger Body? workshop.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!Get 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode SummaryIn 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. What to Expect from the PodcastThe podcast looks into why a supportive community is crucial for fat individuals navigating fertility.HighlightsWhy a Supportive Community MattersChallenges Fat Folks Face in Finding CommunityStrategies to Find a Supportive CommunityBenefits of Being in a CommunityLinks and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileSupport My Work on SubstackFollow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.Free Resources for Fat Folks: Access a hub of tools designed to support your fat-positive fertility journey, including guides, checklists, research summaries, and my popular Can I Get Pregnant in a Bigger Body? workshop.👉 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!Get InvolvedNicola would love to hear from you! If this episode resonates, share your story, ask a question, or leave a review. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Summary: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.What to Expect from the PodcastNicola looks at reasons fat folk have difficulty getting pregnant and identifies one key reason for you.Highlights:Addressing the Main Reason for Fertility Challenges in Fat FolksSocietal Unsupportiveness and Thin IdealHealthcare System BarriersImpact of Anti-Fat Bias from Friends and FamilyCreating Community and Support NetworksConclusion and Invitation to Join ProgramLinks and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileInstagramSupport My Work on SubstackFollow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.Free Resources for Fat Folks: Access a hub of tools designed to support your fat-positive fertility journey, including guides, checklists, research summaries, and my popular Can I Get Pregnant in a Bigger Body? workshop.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!Get 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Summary: In 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.What to Expect from the PodcastLooking at anti-fat bias in healthcare, noting that IVF procedures were originally tested on smaller bodies. Addressing safety concerns, particularly around anesthesia risks, citing studies that show no increased risk for those with the highest BMI. Importance of informed consent and advocating for ourselves.HighlightsChallenges in Accessing Fertility Treatment for Fat FolksEfficacy of IVF for Fat FolksAnti-Fat Bias in HealthcareSafety Concerns and Anesthesia RisksOther Potential Risks and EvidenceLinks and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileInstagramSupport My Work on SubstackFollow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.Free Resources for Fat Folks: Access a hub of tools designed to support your fat-positive fertility journey, including guides, checklists, research summaries, and my popular Can I Get Pregnant in a Bigger Body? workshop.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!Get 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode SummaryOn this episode of Fat and Fertile, we explore the myth that you don't deserve fertility care or treatment until you've lost weight.We explore where that belief comes from, what happens when we think that and what we can do instead.What to Expect from the PodcastNicola refutes this belief, emphasising that diets fail because the body's survival mechanisms resist starvation. She shares a client's journey from feeling body hatred and responsibility for infertility to embracing self-worth and seeking medical advice and highlights the importance of recognising one's inherent worth and reproductive rights, as affirmed by the World Health Organisation.HighlightsExploring the Myth of Deserving CareImpact of Shame and Body ImageChanging the Narrative and Embracing WorthinessLinks and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileInstagramSupport My Work on SubstackFollow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.Free Resources for Fat Folks: Access a hub of tools designed to support your fat-positive fertility journey, including guides, checklists, research summaries, and my popular Can I Get Pregnant in a Bigger Body? workshop. 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!Get 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode SummaryOn this episode of Fat and Fertile, we explore the myth that weight loss and dieting will fix fertility.We look at three different assumptions that mean that the idea of dieting as a fertility fix persists and the one piece of advice I give all my clients around food.What to Expect from the PodcastDieting is ineffective and harmful, leading to disordered eating and negative impacts on mental health and metabolism. Behavior changes, such as increased physical activity and healthier eating, are more beneficial than weight loss. Nicola also critiques the concept of "fertility diets," highlighting that social determinants of health, like access to care and stress management, are more impactful on fertility than diet alone.HighlightsMyths About Dieting and FertilityWeight Loss and Its ImplicationsThe Problem with Fertility DietsSocial Determinants of HealthLinks and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileSupport My Work on SubstackFollow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.Free Resources for Fat Folks: Access a hub of tools designed to support your fat-positive fertility journey, including guides, checklists, research summaries, and my popular Can I Get Pregnant in a Bigger Body? workshop.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!Get 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode SummaryOn this episode of Fat and Fertile, Nicola unpacks common self-limiting beliefs that fat individuals may hold about getting pregnant, challenges the validity of BMI as a health metric, and critiques the discriminatory practices in healthcare that deny fat people the right to fertility treatment. Nicola also shares evidence and insights from research studies debunking the myths surrounding fatness and fertility, while emphasising the importance of self-advocacy and bodily autonomy in healthcare.Highlights:Common internalised beliefs about fatness and pregnancy (e.g., it’s dangerous or irresponsible to get pregnant in a bigger body) and how these beliefs stem from societal stigma and misinformation rather than facts.History and flaws of BMI as a health measure and the systemic use of BMI to deny fertility care, especially in public healthcare systems like the NHS.Research evidence debunking the validity of excluding fat individuals from fertility treatments based on BMI.Weight Stigma in Healthcare and the impact of delayed or denied medical care due to anti-fat bias.Highlighting that the so-called ethical dilemma is rooted in societal biases rather than genuine medical risks and the importance of bodily autonomy in decision-making about fertility care.Links and ResourcesNicola’s book, Fat and FertileMore info on the Fat and Fertile Alliance, Nicola’s community for folks looking for extra support on their fertility journeySupport My Work on SubstackFollow Me on Instagram: Join me here for fat-positive fertility tips, updates, and encouragement.Free Resources for Fat Folks: Access a hub of tools designed to support your fat-positive fertility journey, including guides, checklists, research summaries, and my popular Can I Get Pregnant in a Bigger Body? workshop. 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!Get 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.