Fertility Finesse Show

Aisling Mooney spent 15 years and close to 100 treatment cycles trying to have a baby. In the end she taught herself to read the research and found a trial her doctors hadn't heard of. The protocol worked, and she had her daughter at 39. She then built Fertally, a fertility intelligence platform that connects clinical care, personal tracking data and research. Join us as we talk discuss using AI responsibly with a human in the loop, working with clinicians, going for EU medical device accreditation, and building real support for women's health.Be sure to like AND download this episode, and follow for more great guests!Key topicsLiving with a prolonged fertility journey, and how fragmented care feelsSelf-advocacy and teaching yourself to read medical researchFrom research translation tool to personalised machine learningWearable data and daily logs, including a voice agentAI with a human in the loop, and the role of regulationFilling the gaps between appointments and building trust with cliniciansClass IIa EU MDR accreditation, clinical trials and the launch timelineMentorship, community, and women's health research gapsChapters0:14 – Welcome and guest introduction2:07 – A 15-year fertility journey3:48 – Teaching herself the science and finding the trial6:16 – Fragmented care and the power imbalance7:53 – From positive test to founder: building Fertally10:40 – Machine learning and each person's own algorithm11:51 – Diagnostic support, EU MDR and the community data vision13:02 – The research gap in women's health14:27 – Using AI carefully and responsibly15:22 – Voice agent and data visualisation17:22 – Clarity without anxiety, and clinicians' response18:25 – Bridging the gaps between appointments20:51 – Individualised treatment: the protocol that worked22:00 – Juggling Fertally, Her Tally and Cúra Studio24:57 – Timeline: clinical trials and launch25:24 – What Class IIa EU MDR accreditation involves26:03 – Mentorship and a supportive founder community28:13 – Takeaways and closingFertility Finesse is your go-to podcast for smart, straight-talking conversations about fertility, IVF, miscarriage, and everything that comes with navigating this emotional rollercoaster.Hosted by internationally recognised fertility coach, trauma therapist, and former midwife Helena Tubridy, the show blends medical accuracy with lived experience. Expect expert guests from reproductive medicine, psychology, and allied fields, alongside practical mindset tools and strategies Helena has honed through years of guiding clients worldwide.Clear insights, compassionate guidance, and the occasional reality check to help you cut through the overwhelm and actually feel more in control of your journey.Whether you’re just starting out, deep into treatment, or finding your way after loss, Fertility Finesse empowers you with the knowledge, support, and confidence to advocate for your fertility. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Surprising reasons oral health should be part of your preconception and pregnancy care! Your mouth is your portal to your whole body, and a microbiome feeder.Did you know dentures were a kind wedding gift for newly weds in Ireland at one time? Host Helena Tubridy and dentist Dr. Christina Taut discuss how hormones, diet, saliva changes in pregnancy, and habits affect the mouth, and why prevention matters for both parent and baby.We discuss practical steps for brushing, flossing, dental visits, nutrition, and when children should first see a dentist. Christina also explains common concerns like dental treatment during pregnancy, effects on your baby's health,amalgam fillings, fluoride, and why public health systems should integrate oral health more closely with general care.Key topicsChristina explains how pregnancy hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, can increase gum bleeding, inflammation, and pregnancy gingivitis even when oral hygiene is good.She shares that saliva changes during pregnancy, including reduced flow and altered mineral levels, can affect the oral environment and raise risk.The conversation emphasizes that dental treatment is safe during pregnancy, with the second trimester often preferred for non-urgent work, while cleaning and scale and polish can happen at any stage.Christina says oral health before conception matters for both partners because bacteria can transfer between close contacts, so fathers and partners should not be left out of fertility conversations.Nutrition comes up repeatedly, with vitamin C, vitamin D, folic acid, calcium, and omega-3 discussed as important supports during pregnancy, alongside reducing sugary drinks and snacks.The episode highlights that pregnancy diabetes can significantly increase periodontal risk, making integrated medical and dental care especially important.Helena and Christina discuss how morning sickness and mouth acidity can damage enamel and increase sensitivity, and Christina stresses that dental teams are there to help, not judge.They cover common questions about replacing amalgam fillings, with Christina explaining that current concerns are environmental rather than based on proven health risks.Fluoride is discussed in depth, including the role of fluoride toothpaste and the ongoing debate around water fluoridation and its current impact on oral health.For children, Christina stresses early dental visits, ideally when the first tooth appears and definitely before age one to two, so dental care becomes normal from the start.Timestamps00:00 - Why oral health belongs in fertility and pregnancy planning00:58 - Hormones, bleeding gums, and pregnancy gingivitis02:07 - Saliva changes, cravings, and oral microbiome shifts03:07 - Safe dental treatment during pregnancy and timing by trimester05:19 - Why a partner’s oral health matters before conception07:24 - When to return after birth or a C-section09:42 - Nutrients that support pregnancy and gum health11:11 - Pregnancy diabetes and higher periodontal risk13:48 - Morning sickness, acid wear, and enamel sensitivity16:02 - The amalgam filling debate and why replacement is not always needed18:14 - Fluoride in water and why the issue remains contentious23:59 - Christina’s PhD research and what it found about child well-being26:35 - Why oral health education needs more public awareness29:45 - When children should first see a dentist33:09 - How “Lift the Lip” helps public health nurses spot early problems35:29 - Why baby teeth matter and school checkups are not enoughFertility Finesse is your go-to podcast for smart, straight-talking conversations about fertility, IVF, miscarriage, and everything that comes with navigating this emotional rollercoaster.Hosted by internationally recognised fertility coach, trauma therapist, and former midwife Helena Tubridy, the show blends medical accuracy with lived experience. Expect expert guests from reproductive medicine, psychology, and allied fields, alongside practical mindset tools and strategies Helena has honed through years of guiding clients worldwide.Clear insights, compassionate guidance, and the occasional reality check to help you cut through the overwhelm and actually feel more in control of your journey.Whether you’re just starting out, deep into treatment, or finding your way after loss, Fertility Finesse empowers you with the knowledge, support, and confidence to advocate for your fertility. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sex and intimacy specialist Grace Alice O'Shea answers that question Why Is baby-making sex so different?' offering practical advice for reclaiming your pleasure in sex, managing stress, and nurturing connection during often complex fertility journeys. .In this episode we explore the complex relationship between your sex, fertility, and emotional well-being Keywordssex and fertility, intimacy, pleasure, reproductive health, emotional well-being, trauma-informed care, relationship tips, fertility treatment, body connection, sexual desireKey TopicsThe impact of fertility treatments on intimacyUnderstanding desire: spontaneous vs responsiveReconnecting with your body after traumaThe role of pleasure and play in sexStrategies to reduce pressure and anxiety in sexTakeawaysSex is more than reproduction; it’s about pleasure and connection.Taking sex off the table temporarily can reduce pressure and rebuild desire.Small daily acts of connection strengthen intimacy.Reframing sex as play helps maintain desire during fertility struggles.Self-compassion and gentle reconnecting with your body are crucial.Chapters00:00Introduction to Fertility and Intimacy01:42The Shift from Pleasure to Function in Sex03:17Reclaiming Sex as Play and Connection06:28The Importance of Daily Connection07:48Navigating Body Image and Desire10:45Mindset and the Journey of Sexual Discovery11:48Reclaiming Connection and Taking Pressure Off Sex15:23The Importance of Date Nights18:30Navigating Relationship Dynamics and Responsibilities18:37Understanding the Impact of Medical Interventions19:34Addressing Trauma and Reconnecting with the Body22:54The Mechanics of Sex and Fertility26:42Reframing Sexual Experiences During Fertility Challenges30:10Prioritizing Relationship Health Amidst Fertility Struggles31:11Embracing Worthiness and PleasureFertility Finesse is your go-to podcast for smart, straight-talking conversations about fertility, IVF, miscarriage, and everything that comes with navigating this emotional rollercoaster.Hosted by internationally recognised fertility coach, trauma therapist, and former midwife Helena Tubridy, the show blends medical accuracy with lived experience. Expect expert guests from reproductive medicine, psychology, and allied fields, alongside practical mindset tools and strategies Helena has honed through years of guiding clients worldwide.Clear insights, compassionate guidance, and the occasional reality check to help you cut through the overwhelm and actually feel more in control of your journey.Whether you’re just starting out, deep into treatment, or finding your way after loss, Fertility Finesse empowers you with the knowledge, support, and confidence to advocate for your fertility. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keywordsfertility law, reproductive rights, surrogacy, donor conception, IVF, legal implications, same-sex couples, embryo storage, parental rights, IrelandSummaryThis conversation delves into the intricate legal landscape surrounding fertility treatments in Ireland, focusing on the implications of donor conception, surrogacy, and the evolving legislation that governs these areas. Annette Hickey, a leading reproductive lawyer, shares her insights on the importance of understanding legal rights and responsibilities for intended parents, particularly in the context of same-sex couples and the challenges they face. Our discussion also highlights the anticipated changes in legislation, including the 2024 Act, and the role of a regulatory authority in ensuring ethical practices in assisted human reproduction.TakeawaysLegal frameworks in fertility treatment are crucial for intended parents.Surrogacy is often a last resort for couples after many challenges.Consent from donors is essential to avoid legal complications.The 2024 Act is expected to bring significant changes to fertility law.Same-sex couples face unique legal challenges in parenthood.Advocacy groups like Equality for Children provide vital support.The surrogate is legally recognized as the mother until laws change.Parents should be transparent with children about donor conception.The regulatory authority aims to ensure ethical surrogacy practices.Publicly funded fertility treatments currently exclude same-sex couples.TitlesNavigating the Legal Landscape of FertilityUnderstanding Surrogacy and Donor RightsSound Bites"The couple, the baby is at the centre.""The 2024 Act has not commenced yet.""Talk to Equality for Children."Chapters00:00Navigating the Legal Landscape of Fertility Treatments03:23Understanding Donor Assisted Human Reproduction Laws06:40Legal Implications for Same-Sex Couples in Fertility10:09The Role of the 2024 Act in Reproductive Law13:08Surrogacy: Current Legal Definitions and Challenges16:23The Future of Regulatory Authority in Surrogacy20:36Impact of Regulation on Fertility Clinics and Agencies23:27Navigating Legalities in Fertility Treatments25:35The Emotional Toll of Fertility Journeys27:42Understanding Parental Rights and Legal Relationships30:16Embryo Transport and Legal Considerations31:57Public Funding and Eligibility for Fertility Treatments33:37The Importance of the Donor Conceived Person Register36:31Parental Disclosure and Child Identity38:30Changing Perceptions of Surrogacy and FertilityFertility Finesse is your go-to podcast for smart, straight-talking conversations about fertility, IVF, miscarriage, and everything that comes with navigating this emotional rollercoaster.Hosted by internationally recognised fertility coach, trauma therapist, and former midwife Helena Tubridy, the show blends medical accuracy with lived experience. Expect expert guests from reproductive medicine, psychology, and allied fields, alongside practical mindset tools and strategies Helena has honed through years of guiding clients worldwide.Clear insights, compassionate guidance, and the occasional reality check to help you cut through the overwhelm and actually feel more in control of your journey.Whether you’re just starting out, deep into treatment, or finding your way after loss, Fertility Finesse empowers you with the knowledge, support, and confidence to advocate for your fertility. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Senator Nicole Ryan shares her personal journey through pregnancy loss, and her advocacy for legislative change to recognize miscarriage with a certificate, better bereavement leave after pregnancy loss,and more understanding care for affected women. We discuss the emotional, legal, and societal aspects of pregnancy loss, and the importance of proper acknowledgment and support.Keywordspregnancy loss, miscarriage, legislation, mental health, advocacy, Ireland, pregnancy loss leave, certificates of loss, societal support, mental health supportKey TopicsLegislation for pregnancy loss recognitionPersonal journey through miscarriageMental health impact of pregnancy lossAdvocacy and policy change in IrelandSocietal attitudes towards miscarriageTakeawaysRecognition of pregnancy loss through certificates can validate grief and aid mental health.Legislation for pregnancy loss leave is crucial for supporting women emotionally and physically.Society needs to move beyond silence and stigma around miscarriage to foster understanding.Employer support and workplace policies are vital in the healing process.Personal stories like Nicole Ryan's can inspire legislative and societal change.Nicole RyanKey FrameworksLegislative advocacyMental health support after pregnancy lossAction ItemsWrite to your local TD about pregnancy loss recognitionDownload and share the Pregnancy Loss ToolkitSupport legislation for pregnancy loss leave and certificatesChapters00:00Introduction to Fertility and Loss01:37Nicole Ryan's Advocacy Journey08:24Understanding the Trauma of Miscarriage14:55Legislative Changes for Pregnancy Loss18:39The Importance of Recognition and Support23:27Practical Steps for Support and AdvocacyResourcesPregnancy Loss Research Group ToolkitSenator Nicole Ryan's SocialsIreland's Department of HealthFertility Finesse is your go-to podcast for smart, straight-talking conversations about fertility, IVF, miscarriage, and everything that comes with navigating this emotional rollercoaster.Hosted by internationally recognised fertility coach, trauma therapist, and former midwife Helena Tubridy, the show blends medical accuracy with lived experience. Expect expert guests from reproductive medicine, psychology, and allied fields, alongside practical mindset tools and strategies Helena has honed through years of guiding clients worldwide.Clear insights, compassionate guidance, and the occasional reality check to help you cut through the overwhelm and actually feel more in control of your journey.Whether you’re just starting out, deep into treatment, or finding your way after loss, Fertility Finesse empowers you with the knowledge, support, and confidence to advocate for your fertility. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.