Fertility and women's health explained by the specialist team at Women's Health Melbourne.https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/what-ivf-nurses-wish-every-patient-knew/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/what-ivf-nurses-wish-every-patient-knew/What happens behind the scenes during an IVF cycle, and who supports patients through the uncertainty, injections, scans and pregnancy-test results? Dr Raelia Lew sits down with IVF nurse Lucy Elam to explore the essential role fertility nurses play throughout treatment.Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/beyond-fertility/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/beyond-fertility/In this episode we explore the often unspoken final chapter of fertility, the moment when individuals or couples begin to consider moving on.Sun, 29 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/the-many-paths-to-parenthood/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/the-many-paths-to-parenthood/What happens when the path to parenthood looks different from what you imagined? In this episode of Knocked Up, CREI fertility specialist Dr Raelia Lew explains donor conception and the extraordinary ways families can be created through donor sperm, donor eggs or donor embryos.Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/understanding-the-difference-between-oi-and-iui/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/understanding-the-difference-between-oi-and-iui/If you're not ovulating regularly, or you've been trying without success, ovulation induction (OI) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) are often the first treatments discussed before IVF.Sun, 01 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/bv-the-vaginal-microbiome-and-fertility/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/bv-the-vaginal-microbiome-and-fertility/Bacterial vaginosis, or BV, is one of the most common vaginal conditions in women of reproductive age, yet many women are unsure how it may affect fertility.Sun, 15 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/fresh-or-frozen-embryo-transfer-which-is-best-for-you/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/fresh-or-frozen-embryo-transfer-which-is-best-for-you/Dr Raelia Lew explains how fertility specialists choose between fresh and frozen embryo transfer, covering OHSS risk, endometrial receptivity and embryo banking strategy.Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:44:46 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/progesterone-the-pro-pregnancy-hormone/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/progesterone-the-pro-pregnancy-hormone/Progesterone is often called the "pregnancy hormone", but what does that actually mean for your body and your fertility?Sun, 01 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/ivf-success-rates-in-2025-what-the-numbers-really-mean/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/ivf-success-rates-in-2025-what-the-numbers-really-mean/IVF success rates are often the first thing people search when starting fertility treatment. But what do those numbers actually tell us, and just as importantly, what do they miss? In this episode, CREI fertility specialist Dr Raelia Lew unpacks the latest IVF success rate data, released in 2025.Sun, 18 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/you-ask-we-answer-our-q-a-episode/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/you-ask-we-answer-our-q-a-episode/Thank you for your questions! In this episode we discuss: Why do some IVF clinics genetically test embryos and some do not? What can I do before FET to assist chances of success? Going to try for a 2nd child. Should I still see the GP for pre-pregnancy bloods?Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/fresh-or-frozen-understanding-embryo-transfer-decisions-in-ivf/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/fresh-or-frozen-understanding-embryo-transfer-decisions-in-ivf/Fresh or frozen embryo transfer. Which is better? In this episode of Knocked Up, Jordi Morrison and fertility specialist Dr Raelia Lew unpack one of the most common and confusing IVF questions.Sun, 21 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/fertility-through-the-decades-what-really-changes-in-your-20s-30s-and-40s/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/fertility-through-the-decades-what-really-changes-in-your-20s-30s-and-40s/We take a look decade by decade look at how fertility changes across your 20s, 30s and 40s. Dr Raelia explains why the 20s are considered the biological peak, with high egg number, high egg quality and fewer health conditions that can interfere with conception.Sun, 07 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/ivf-step-by-step/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/ivf-step-by-step/Starting IVF can feel overwhelming, but understanding each stage can make the experience far less daunting. In this episode, we walk through the IVF process from your first consultation right through to that all important pregnancy test.Sun, 23 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/the-ivf-process/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/the-ivf-process/A step-by-step walkthrough of the IVF journey at Women's Health Melbourne, from initial consultation and testing through stimulation, egg collection, transfer and early pregnancy monitoring.Fri, 21 Nov 2025 07:40:53 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/we-can-make-eggs-from-skin-cells/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/we-can-make-eggs-from-skin-cells/In this episode of Knocked Up, Jordi Morrison and Dr Raelia Lew unpack one of the newest breakthroughs in reproductive science: the creation of human egg cells from skin cells. Dr Raelia explains how stem cells work, what makes egg cells unique, and why this research is both exciting and still far from clinical use.Sun, 09 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/fertility-and-peri-menopause-part-2/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/fertility-and-peri-menopause-part-2/In part 2 of our fertility and perimenopause series, Dr Raelia Lew takes us through the treatment pathways available for women in their 40s who are trying to conceive. We discuss embryo banking, PGT testing, IVF, donor eggs, and how age affects egg quality and success rates.Sun, 26 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/fertility-and-peri-menopause-part-1/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/fertility-and-peri-menopause-part-1/In part one of understanding our fertility and peri/menopause, we unpack why fertility becomes more challenging as we approach perimenopause. Dr Raelia explains how shifting hormones, irregular cycles, and declining egg quality combine to make conception more difficult in our 40s.Sun, 12 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/factors-that-influence-ivf-success-rates-what-you-need-to-know/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/factors-that-influence-ivf-success-rates-what-you-need-to-know/Explains how IVF success rates are measured and reported, and the age, medical, lifestyle, laboratory and treatment factors that influence live birth outcomes.Thu, 02 Oct 2025 03:15:08 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/pcos-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/pcos-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/When you hear "PCOS", it's easy to think only of the negatives. But the story is far more complex. From why women with PCOS can actually have higher egg counts, to the fertility myths that cause unnecessary fear, this episode breaks down the good, the bad and the truly misunderstood.Sun, 28 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/lifestyle-factors-explored-part-2-with-dr-alexandra-harvey/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/lifestyle-factors-explored-part-2-with-dr-alexandra-harvey/Part 2 of our 2-part series on lifestyle factors and fertility features Dr. Alexandra Harvey, Senior Research Scientist at Melbourne IVF. With 25 years of experience in embryology and fertility research, Dr. Harvey breaks down the science behind modifiable factors that can impact your fertility journey.Sun, 14 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/lifestyle-factors-explored-part-1-with-dr-alexandra-harvey/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/lifestyle-factors-explored-part-1-with-dr-alexandra-harvey/Part 1 of our 2-part series on lifestyle factors and fertility features Dr. Alexandra Harvey, Senior Research Scientist at Melbourne IVF. With 25 years of experience in embryology and fertility research, Dr. Harvey breaks down the science behind modifiable factors that can impact your fertility journey.Sun, 31 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/urinary-incontinence-after-childbirth-explained-with-dr-tzippi-ben-harim/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/urinary-incontinence-after-childbirth-explained-with-dr-tzippi-ben-harim/We are joined by Dr. Tzippora Ben-Harim, head of Gynaecology at Women's Health Melbourne, about urinary incontinence after childbirth.Sun, 17 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/blood-sugar-hormones-and-fertility/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/blood-sugar-hormones-and-fertility/Nutritionist Mandi Azoulay explains how blood-sugar control affects fertility and PCOS, listing warning signs, dietary tips and supplements to support conception.Wed, 13 Aug 2025 07:33:38 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/could-your-gut-hold-the-key-to-fertility/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/could-your-gut-hold-the-key-to-fertility/Research suggests that digestive health may play a role in reproductive health, alongside established factors like ovulation tracking and prenatal nutrition. We are joined by gastroenterologist Dr. Lindy Jackson to uncover the surprising connection between gut health and fertility.Sun, 03 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/the-vitamin-d-and-amh-connection/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/the-vitamin-d-and-amh-connection/Ever wondered why your fertility specialist tests both AMH and vitamin D? In this episode of "Knocked Up," Dr. Raelia Lew explains the relationship between these two crucial markers and why it matters for your fertility journey.Sun, 20 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/how-to-prepare-for-ivf/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/how-to-prepare-for-ivf/A comprehensive guide to preparing for IVF at WHM, covering pre-treatment counselling, medical checks, lifestyle preparation, emotional readiness and the care team involved.Thu, 17 Jul 2025 04:49:54 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/could-ivm-be-the-future-of-fertility-care-with-dr-violet-kieu/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/could-ivm-be-the-future-of-fertility-care-with-dr-violet-kieu/In our latest Knocked Up podcast episode we are joined by fertility specialist Dr. Violet Kieu to explore IVM, In Vitro Maturation, a promising alternative to IVF.Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/embryo-centred-care/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/embryo-centred-care/Unlike traditional patient-centred care, embryo-centred care focuses on optimising every step of the IVF process to prioritise what gives the embryo the best chance of success. Dr.Sun, 22 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/fertility-futures-with-professor-david-gardner/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/fertility-futures-with-professor-david-gardner/We welcome back Prof David Gardner to the Knocked Up Podcast to talk to us about the latest developments in fertility treatment and what to expect in the future. Listen to our previous episode with Prof David Gardner on The science behind the best success rates with Professor David GardnerSun, 08 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/how-to-interpret-a-semen-analysis/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/how-to-interpret-a-semen-analysis/Understanding Male Fertility: What You Need to KnowDid you know male factors contribute to infertility in over 50% of couples struggling to conceive? In this episode, Dr. Raelia breaks down what a semen analysis really tells us , and why one test is never the whole story.Sun, 25 May 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/understanding-the-brca-gene-cancer-risks-prevention-and-support-for-carriers-with-dr-lironne-wein/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/understanding-the-brca-gene-cancer-risks-prevention-and-support-for-carriers-with-dr-lironne-wein/We speak with Dr Lironne Wein about the BRCA gene and its implications for breast and ovarian cancer risk. Topics covered: - BRCA Gene Basics - Cancer Risk Statistics - Screening and Prevention - Genetic Testing - Fertility Considerations - Menopause After SurgerySun, 11 May 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/why-the-media-doesnt-get-egg-freezing/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/why-the-media-doesnt-get-egg-freezing/With elective egg freezing being so new, how we interpret the data in the context of today's population doesn't quite give the accurate story. Dr Raelia Lew explains. We recommend listening to the 'Beyond Expectations' podcast episode "Kate Lancaster on What They Don't Tell You About Egg Freezing"Sun, 27 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/endometriosis-and-fertility-navigating-treatment-decisions-and-new-research/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/endometriosis-and-fertility-navigating-treatment-decisions-and-new-research/Today we are joined by guest experts Dr. Vanessa Ross and Dr. Samantha Mooney to discuss the new research they are conducting on endometriosis and fertility. With endometriosis affecting about 1 in 7 women generally, and more like 1 in 3 infertile women.Sun, 13 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/ovarian-prp/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/ovarian-prp/Detailed clinical guide to ovarian PRP therapy, explaining the procedure, preparation, administration, aftercare and potential risks for improving ovarian reserve.Tue, 08 Apr 2025 07:56:34 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/the-new-definition-of-fertility/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/the-new-definition-of-fertility/This week Australia's Medicare has broadened the definition of infertility, aligning with recommendations from the Gorton Review and the 2018 MBS review. So, we ask Dr Raelia Lew, what does this mean for us?Sun, 06 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/an-ages-surgeons-perspective-on-endometriosis-with-dr-lima-wetherall/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/an-ages-surgeons-perspective-on-endometriosis-with-dr-lima-wetherall/In this episode we are joined by Dr. Lima Wetherall, an AGES Specialist Gynaecologist and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon. Dr.Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/the-vagina-in-chinese-medicine/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/the-vagina-in-chinese-medicine/Explains how Chinese Medicine views vaginal health through Qi, Blood, Yin and Yang balance, covering common disharmony patterns and acupuncture, herbal and dietary treatment approaches.Fri, 21 Mar 2025 06:15:25 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/pregnancy-after-fertility-treatment/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/pregnancy-after-fertility-treatment/Pregnancy after fertility treatments can differ from spontaneous conception. Patients typically discover pregnancy earlier through blood tests, receive more intensive monitoring in the first trimester, and face slightly elevated risks for complications like multiple pregnancies, preterm birth, and placenta previa befor…Sun, 16 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/big-miracles-and-fertility-for-singles-with-dr-daniel-lantsberg/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/big-miracles-and-fertility-for-singles-with-dr-daniel-lantsberg/We speak to Dr Daniel Lantsberg, featured in the channel 9 show "Big Miracles" with his patient, Anna. Dr. Daniel Lantsberg is a Fertility Specialist at Melbourne IVF.Sun, 02 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/big-miracles-and-unexplained-infertility-with-dr-kokum-jayasinghe/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/big-miracles-and-unexplained-infertility-with-dr-kokum-jayasinghe/With Big Miracles back on TV for 2025, we speak with one of the Doctors featured in the series, Dr Kokum Jayasinghe.Sun, 16 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/ovarian-cancer-the-silent-killer-with-specialist-gynaecologist-dr-tzippi-ben-harim/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/ovarian-cancer-the-silent-killer-with-specialist-gynaecologist-dr-tzippi-ben-harim/At the start of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month we learn more about this 'silent killer' with Dr Tzippi Ben-Harim, Specialist Gynaecologist from the WHM team. - What is ovarian cancer – where does it grow, how does it develop? - Why do we often hear ovarian cancer described as a 'silent killer'?Sun, 02 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/what-are-the-investigations-we-should-do-before-ungoing-fertility-treatment/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/what-are-the-investigations-we-should-do-before-ungoing-fertility-treatment/Dr Raelia Lew talks us through the testing that we may undergo before starting fertility treatment.Sun, 19 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/howpregnancyaffectsskin/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/articles/howpregnancyaffectsskin/Explains common pregnancy-related skin changes such as the pregnancy glow, melasma, acne and skin tags, with guidance on safe skincare during pregnancy.Wed, 15 Jan 2025 08:26:25 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/the-reset-with-dietitian-wendy-fedele/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/the-reset-with-dietitian-wendy-fedele/Happy New Year! As we start a new year, it's a nice time to hit reset and set some intentions for the coming year.Sun, 05 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/changes-in-thyroid-guidelines-and-fertility-with-dr-rebecca-mackenzie-proctor/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/changes-in-thyroid-guidelines-and-fertility-with-dr-rebecca-mackenzie-proctor/Dr Rebecca Mackenzie-Proctor join us on Knocked Up to discuss the importance of the thyroid gland, its function and how things have recently changed when comes to your fertility.Sun, 22 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/what-is-a-ppos-cycle-and-is-it-right-for-you/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/what-is-a-ppos-cycle-and-is-it-right-for-you/What does PPOS mean? What is it?, and how does it compare to conventional IVF? Is the timeline different? Who is it suitable for? Are the results the same? What is the success rate? How does the treatment differ? Side effects of the medication? What are the benefits? Are there disadvantages?Sun, 08 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/what-you-should-know-before-freezing-your-eggs/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/what-you-should-know-before-freezing-your-eggs/Deciding to freeze your eggs can be a big decision, we ask Dr Raelia Lew how we should be informed. - What tests do you recommend your patients undergo before freezing your eggs? - What factors could affect a patient's eligibility for egg freezing? - How long does the entire process take?Sun, 24 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/we-answer-your-questions-part-2/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/we-answer-your-questions-part-2/Part 2 of answering your questions. If you don't hear your question answered in this episode, it will be in part 1. - What are the options for getting pregnant with cystic adeno? - Treatment options for short luteal phase  - What pre-conception supplements do you have to take?Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/we-answer-your-questions-part-1/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/we-answer-your-questions-part-1/Such great questions! Thank you listeners :) If you don't hear your question answered in this episode, it will be in part 2, coming our in two weeks. - Please explain the difference between egg freezing and and embryo freezing, which is best and why?Sun, 27 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/having-sex-to-get-pregnant-try-ellechemys-protectility-lubricant/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/having-sex-to-get-pregnant-try-ellechemys-protectility-lubricant/You know us as the hosts of Knocked Up, some of you may know Raelia as your Doctor. We are also the founders of Ellechemy, an intimate wellness company – we make very clever lubricants.Sun, 13 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/navigating-assisted-reproductive-treatment-art-outcomes-a-guide-to-fertility-treatment-results/https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/podcast/navigating-assisted-reproductive-treatment-art-outcomes-a-guide-to-fertility-treatment-results/In this episide we discuss the outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Treatment (ART) and IVF. Key topics covered in the podcast include: - Possible outcomes of ART: pregnancy, unsuccessful treatment, biochemical pregnancy, miscarriage, and ectopic pregnancy. - The process and timing of informing of treatment outcomes.Sun, 29 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT