Fat and Fertile

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Fat and Fertile, I'm joined by the brilliant Dr. Alice Keeley – also known as The HeavyWeight Midwife. Alice has over 20 years' experience as a midwife, completed a PhD on plus-size pregnancy care, and is fiercely committed to challenging the weight stigma baked into our maternity systems.We get stuck into the reality of being pregnant in a bigger body – from being weighed without consent at booking appointments, to automatic referrals that leave people feeling confused, judged, and “high risk” before anything's even gone wrong. Alice breaks down how these moments impact care, and shares her passion for creating a more personalised, compassionate, and evidence-based approach to pregnancy support.We also explore Alice's own journey – how her background in social justice shaped her care values, how she came to launch The HeavyWeight Midwife in 2022, and why she believes confidence and communication are essential for navigating pregnancy with autonomy and self-trust.In this episode, I talk about:Why BMI-based guidelines don't tell the full storyHow weight stigma shows up in maternity care (and what to do about it)What's actually useful to know about risks in plus-size pregnancyHow to advocate for yourself at appointments – even when it feels scaryWhy scans, referrals, and medication should always involve informed consentThe surprising role that things like wind and tissue density play in ultrasound scans (!)And why water birth access is a fat-positive issue we should all be talking aboutAlice also shares how her online community and trimester-by-trimester courses are helping thousands of people feel seen, supported, and prepared for pregnancy and birth on their own terms.Links and ResourcesEmail me: nicola@nicolasalmon.co.ukFind me on Instagram: @fatpositivefertilityMy book: Fat and Fertile – available via AmazonAlice's website: theheavyweightmidwife.comConnect with Alice on Instagram: @theheavyweightmidwifeFind Alice's support programmes and membership via her websiteListen to Alice's podcast: The HeavyWeight Midwife PodcastGet 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, you can buy me a coffee here to or share this episode on your favourite social media platform. 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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

On 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.For more information about Nicola and her work, check out www.nicolasalmon.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On 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.For more information about Nicola and her work, check out www.nicolasalmon.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fat and Fertile, I describe the ethical dilemma many fat folks face when they start out on their fertility journeyWe explore how the belief that it's dangerous for us to get pregnant impacts our daily life and we dive into the research around the ethics of getting pregnant in a bigger bodyFor more information about Nicola and her work, check out www.nicolasalmon.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fat and Fertile, come and meet me, Nicola Salmon, the host of the podcast and author of the book "Fat and Fertile"I'll be sharing my journey into fertility care and fat positivity alongside exploring why this work is so essential.For more information about Nicola and her work, check out www.nicolasalmon.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.