Up the Duff

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Welcome to Up The Duff, a podcast that highlights the experiences and challenges faced by fertility seekers. The guests share their journeys of coping with loss and grief, overcoming societal judgement, and navigating the emotional rollercoaster of trying to conceive. With inspiring stories of resilience and hope, season one offers relatable content for anyone on a similar path. Tune in to hear personal accounts of triumph and the power of never giving up.

Brittany Darling


    • Apr 4, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 30m AVG DURATION
    • 19 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Up the Duff

    Overcoming Resentment and Differing Opinions in Fertility Journeys - With Leonie Akhidenor

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2024 30:35


    On this episode of the Up The Duff podcast, host Brittany Darling is joined by Leonie Akhidenor, certified relationship coach and host of the Parenthood Pod. Together, they delve into the complexities of relationships and parenthood amidst fertility struggles. They tackle topics like resentment, unequal partnership dynamics, maintaining intimacy, handling differing opinions, and coping when one partner considers ending the fertility journey. Leonie's expertise as a relationship coach shines as they navigate the challenges of infertility and relationships. A must-listen for anyone on a fertility journey. In this episode you'll discover:  [00:02:41] Managing relationships during infertility. [00:07:33] Small gestures in relationships. [00:08:26] Dealing with resentment in infertility. [00:13:39] Planning for fertility decisions. [00:16:34] Seeking Relationship Therapy. [00:19:30] Making tough fertility decisions. [00:24:31] Recovering post-infertility and parenting. [00:28:54] Prioritising self-care for relationships. [00:29:28] Prioritising self-care and fertility journey. Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: Eius Fertility  @leonie.akhidenor @parenthoodpod Join our Facebook Community - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Up the Duff Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

    The Impact of Diet, Lifestyle, and Environment on Male Factor Infertility - With Tabitha McIntosh

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2024 26:08


    This episode of the Up The Duff podcast delves into the crucial topic of male factor infertility. Host Brittany Darling is joined by Tabitha McIntosh, an experienced Naturopath, founder & director of Awaken Your Health in Sydney, where she has run her own private clinical practice for fifteen years, integrating Naturopathic healing principles with the latest scientific research to educate and empower her clients. After attaining her Bachelor of Medical Science (University of NSW, 2001), she went on to pursue her passion for Integrative healthcare by completing an Advanced Diploma Naturopathy & Diploma Nutrition (Nature Care College, 2005), and Post Grad Dip of Applied Science in Nutritional & Environmental Medicine (Swinburne University, 2006). She has also completed a Masters in Reproductive Medicine through the School of Medicine (University of NSW 2022). Together, they explore the impact of diet, lifestyle, and environment on male fertility. The conversation sheds light on the significant role men play in fertility and emphasises the importance of considering male factors in the journey to parenthood. Tune in to gain valuable insights on how male health influences embryo development and overall fertility. In this episode you'll discover:  [00:01:58] Male partner role in fertility. [00:04:49] The forgotten male. [00:09:30] DNA fragmentation and early pregnancy loss. [00:13:26] Environmental factors affecting male fertility. [00:17:17] Future-proofing fertility. [00:19:24] Alcohol and drug intake and fertility. [00:22:43] Men's Preconception Health [00:25:54] Fertility journey support. Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: Eius Fertility  Awaken Your Health @awakenyourhealth Facebook - Awaken Your Health  Book - One Bite at a Time and other e-books  Book - Countdown by Shanna H. Swan, PhD  Join our Facebook Community - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Up the Duff Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

    Navigating Egg Freezing: Expert Insights and Personal Stories

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 29, 2024 19:06


    This episode of Up The Duff podcast, host Brittany Darling dives into the world of egg freezing with experts including Dr. Raelia Lew, CREI Fertility Specialist, Gynaecologist and Women's Health Melbourne Director, Lucy Lines from Two Lines Fertility, an independent embryologist, fertility educator, and IVF patient advocate, and Stefanie Valakas APD, an expert certified fertility and pregnancy dietitian and nutritionist, and egg freezer herself. They discuss the process, considerations, and preparations involved in egg freezing, providing a well-rounded view with both expertise and lived experience. Tune in to learn about egg freezing, age factors, using frozen eggs, and more! In this episode you'll discover:  00:01:36 - Dr. Lew Explains Egg Freezing Process 00:04:42 - Monitoring and Planning Egg Retrieval 00:07:15 - Age Considerations in Egg Freezing 00:09:23 - Circumstances for Early Egg Freezing 00:10:18 - Ideal Age for Elective Egg Freezing 00:11:03 - Does Egg Freezing Deplete Egg Reserves? 00:11:59 - Stefanie Valakas Early Egg Freezing Decision 00:12:44 - Data on Egg Freezing Success Rates 00:13:27 - The Value of Egg Freezing for Future Use 00:14:06 - Preparing for Egg Freezing: Nutrition and Toxins 00:15:01 - Supplements for Egg Freezing vs. Conception 00:17:11 - What Happens When You Want to Use Your Eggs Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: Eius Fertility  @drraelialew @womenshealthmelbourne @loversproducts  @Knockeduppodcast womenshealthmelbourne.com.au @twolinesfertility Twolinesfertility.com.au @futurefertilitysafe thedietologist.com.au Instagram @the_dietologist and @endo.dietitian TikTok: @the_dietologist Facebook Pages: The Dietologist and The Endometriosis Dietitian Podcast: Fertility Friendly Food Join our Facebook Community - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Up the Duff Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

    The Role of Nutrition in Managing Endometriosis and Improving Fertility - With Stefanie Valakas

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2024 38:37


    In this episode of the Up the Duff podcast, host Brittany Darling speaks with Stefanie Valakas APD, an expert certified fertility and pregnancy dietitian & nutritionist and founder of The Dietologist, about endometriosis and its impact on fertility. They discuss the signs and symptoms of endometriosis, how it can affect your chances of getting pregnant, the process of getting a diagnosis, and the role that nutrition and diet play in managing the condition. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with endometriosis or wanting to learn more about it. In this episode you'll discover:  [00:02:19] Endometriosis and its symptoms. [00:04:19] Delay in endometriosis diagnosis. [00:08:32] Inflammation and fertility. [00:13:38] Over-attributing symptoms to endometriosis. [00:17:12] Gut microbiome's link to endometriosis. [00:22:16] Gluten and endometriosis. [00:24:43] Vaginal microbiota and endometriosis. [00:29:30] Pregnancy and endometriosis. [00:34:08] Prostaglandins and period poops. [00:36:58] Antioxidant combinations and fertility. Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: Eius Fertility  Website: thedietologist.com.au Instagram @the_dietologist and @endo.dietitian TikTok: @the_dietologist Facebook Pages: The Dietologist and The Endometriosis Dietitian Podcast: Fertility Friendly Food Join our Facebook Community - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Up the Duff Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

    Understanding AMH: Is it Really the Best Indicator of Ovarian Reserve? - With Aimee Raupp

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2024 39:47


    In this episode of the Up The Duff podcast, host Brittany Darling is joined by Amy Raupp, an acupuncturist and fertility detective. They discuss the topic of AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) and its role as an indicator of ovarian reserve. They also explore the differences between egg quality and quantity, as well as the role of NAD+ in ovarian aging. If you're looking for fertility support and want to debunk some myths, this episode provides valuable insights and hope for those in their thirties and forties. In this episode you'll discover:  00:01:05 - Discussing AMH and Ovarian Reserve 00:01:49 - Understanding AMH in Fertility 00:02:11 - AMH as an Indicator of Ovarian Reserve 00:03:03 - Comparing AMH and FSH 00:05:10 - AMH and IVF Response 00:05:26 - Hope for Low AMH Results 00:11:04 - Improving Egg Quality 00:11:16 - Endocrine Disruptors and Fertility 00:12:32 - NAD+ and Fertility 00:13:35 - CoQ10 and Fertility 00:15:02 - Lifestyle Changes for Fertility 00:15:19 - Avoiding Endocrine Disruptors 00:20:28 - Hypothetical Case Study: Woman in Late 30s/Early 40s 00:25:56 - Advocating for Personalised Fertility Treatment 00:26:07 - Taking Time Off from Fertility Treatments 00:27:37 - Improving Blood Flow to Reproductive Organs 00:28:22 - Techniques for Increasing Blood Flow 00:30:28 - Vitamin D and Fertility Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: Eius Fertility  @aimeeraupp aimeeraupp.com Join our Facebook Community - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Up the Duff Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

    How to Improve Implantation Rates Through Food - With Monique Cormack

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2024 36:29


    In this episode of the Up The Duff podcast, host Brittany Darling is joined by nutritionist Monique Cormack to discuss the two-week wait, a nerve-wracking time for fertility seekers. They explore what foods are helpful during this period, what to avoid, and whether anything can aid implantation, with a special focus on beetroot juice. They also delve into the topic of supplements and nutrients that can be taken or avoided during the two-week wait. Tune in for a juicy and informative discussion on navigating this crucial stage on the path to parenthood. In this episode you'll discover:  00:01:31 - Understanding the Two-Week Wait 00:02:12 - The Limbo Period of Conception Explained 00:03:32 - Emotional Wellbeing During the Two-Week Wait 00:04:10 - Nutritional Recommendations for the Two-Week Wait 00:05:04 - Foods to Support Uterine Receptivity 00:06:08 - The Role of Nitrate-Rich Foods 00:08:14 - The Science Behind Beetroot Juice 00:10:24 - Ways to Incorporate Beetroot into Your Diet 00:12:17 - Additional Benefits of Watermelon and Ginger 00:15:43 - Foods to Avoid During the Two-Week Wait 00:16:10 - The Role of Caffeine in the Two-Week Wait 00:18:08 - Supplements and Nutrients During the Two-Week Wait 00:20:04 - Continuing or Stopping Supplements Post-Transfer 00:22:24 - Progesterone and Related Supplements 00:26:07 - Timing for Dietary Nitrates and Implantation Support 00:34:05 - Continuing Nitrate-Rich Foods During Pregnancy Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: Eius Fertility  @moniquecormacknutrition moniquecormack.com Join our Facebook Community - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Up the Duff Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

    The Important Questions to ask After a Miscarriage - With Gabriela Rosa

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2024 40:31


    In this episode of Up The Duff, host Brittany Darling is joined by Gabriela Rosa, a clinical researcher and fertility specialist. They discuss the topic of miscarriages, covering why they occur, underlying causes and investigations, the role of IVF, and medical or genetic conditions that may contribute to miscarriages. They also address the important question of how to get started after a miscarriage, when it is safe to try again, and steps to reduce the risk of future miscarriages. With one in four pregnancies in Australia ending in miscarriage, this episode provides valuable information and insights for fertility seekers. In this episode you'll discover:  00:02:54 - Commonality and Misconceptions of Miscarriage 00:04:31 - The Problem with Dismissing Miscarriages 00:05:03 - The Timeframe of Recovery Post-Miscarriage 00:06:38 - Importance of Investigating Even the First Miscarriage 00:08:57 - The Flaw in Waiting for Multiple Miscarriages Before Investigating 00:09:37 - Healthcare System Constraints and Testing 00:10:31 - The Importance of Optimal Ranges in Test Results 00:14:15 - The Impact of Nutritional Deficiencies on Miscarriage 00:18:13 - The Role of IVF in Preventing Miscarriages 00:19:06 - The Importance of Addressing Underlying Causes 00:24:26 - The Overuse of IVF and the Need for Detailed Diagnosis 00:26:55 - The Impact of Lifestyle Choices on Fertility 00:30:30 - The Validity of Choosing Not to Pursue Parenthood 00:31:45 - Practical Advice Post-Miscarriage Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: Pink Elephants Eius Fertility  @gabrielarosafertility @fertilitybreakthrough Fertilitybreakthrough.com Join our Facebook Community - ⁠⁠⁠⁠Up the Duff Podcast⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram

    Recurrent Implantation Failure - why some embryos don't stick - With Lucy Lines

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 18, 2024 33:50


    In this episode of Up The Duff, host Brittany Darling is joined by Lucy Lines from Two Lines Fertility, an independent embryologist, fertility educator, and IVF patient advocate. They discuss recurrent implantation failure and why some embryos don't stick during IVF. They also explore tips for increasing chances of implantation and how to choose which embryo to transfer first. If you've experienced multiple miscarriages or recurrent implantation failure, this episode is a must-listen. In this episode you'll discover:  ▶️ Lucy's Background and Role in Fertility ▶️ IVF as a Business and Patient Advocacy ▶️ Human variations in medication efficacy. ▶️ Embryo Transfer and Implantation Challenges ▶️ Natural Conception and Embryo Statistics ▶️ Genetic Testing of Embryos ▶️ Impact of sperm on embryo development. ▶️ Vaping and fertility. ▶️ Lifestyle factors and fertility. ▶️ Post-Embryo Transfer Advice Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: Eius Fertility  @twolinesfertility Twolinesfertility.com.au @futurefertilitysafe Join our Facebook Community - ⁠⁠⁠Up the Duff Podcast⁠⁠ Follow us on ⁠⁠Instagram

    The Power of Antioxidants - what they are, what they do and how they support fertility - With Jennifer Ward

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2024 19:30


    In this episode of Up the Duff we chat with Jennifer Ward, Senior Naturopath, owner of Hälsa Health, and currently completing a Masters of Reproductive Medicine. We discuss the power of antioxidants and how they support fertility in both males and females.  We explore what antioxidants are and how they help balance out oxidative factors in the body and emphasise the importance of antioxidants in supporting cellular health and fertility. We discuss the vulnerability of reproductive cells to oxidative stress and the role of age in fertility. Jennifer explains that while a healthy diet can provide some antioxidants, supplementation may be necessary for those with specific needs. We also highlight the importance of finding the right balance between antioxidants and free radicals in the body. In this episode you'll discover:  00:00:00 - Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgement00:00:42 - Guest Introduction: Jennifer Ward, Naturopath00:01:12 - Understanding Antioxidants00:02:31 - Food Sources of Antioxidants00:04:06 - Antioxidants and Fertility00:05:27 - Antioxidants and Aging00:06:18 - Antioxidants in IVF00:07:17 - Supplemental Antioxidants and Diet00:08:05 - Types of Antioxidants for Fertility00:09:03 - Quality and Safety of Supplements00:10:21 - Antioxidants During Pregnancy00:11:03 - Free Radicals and Antioxidants Balance00:12:51 - Lifestyle Choices and Oxidative Stress00:14:34 - Reducing Exposure to Free Radicals00:16:40 - Red Wine and Antioxidants Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: Eius Fertility  Halsa Health  Jennifer Ward  Follow Jennifer Ward  Follow Halsa Health  Join our Facebook Community - ⁠⁠Up the Duff Podcast⁠ Follow us on ⁠Instagram

    Supporting your Mental Health whilst Navigating Infertility - With Ceci Jeffries

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2024 29:58


    In this episode of Up the Duff, we chat with Ceci Jeffries, Fertility Coach, founder of the Fertility Collective, and voted “Best Fertility Advocate' globally in 2023. The conversation explores the importance of education and communication in the context of fertility struggles. It emphasises the importance of open communication, understanding different perspectives, and finding ways to support each other emotionally when dealing with infertility. Ceci also unpacks the strain that fertility struggles can put on relationships and gives advice on how to navigate this challenge and maintain a strong partnership. In this episode you'll discover:  00:03:09 - Ceci's Personal Fertility Journey00:04:23 - The Reality of IVF00:05:51 - The Role of a Fertility Coach00:08:12 - Decision Fatigue 00:09:12 - Infertility's Impact on Mental Health00:12:12 - Supporting Mental Health During Fertility Treatment00:17:35 - Managing Workplace Communication and Stress During Fertility Treatment00:22:08 - Relationship Strain During Fertility Struggles00:27:17 - Post-IVF Intimacy Issues Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: Eius Fertility  Fertility Collective  https://fertilitycollective.org/meet-ceci Follow @ceci_fertilitycollective Join our Facebook Community - ⁠Up the Duff Podcast Follow us on Instagram

    Welcome to Season 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2024 1:55


    Welcome to season 2 of Up The Duff podcast, with host Brittany Darling. Up The Duff is a podcast for fertility seekers and those that are curious about procreation. In season one, we explored a wide range of real life fertility journeys and navigated what it means to advocate for yourself on this sometimes bumpy road to parenthood. As we dive into season two, we're taking your questions to the most frequently requested fertility experts in the field. Join us weekly as we explore egg freezing, the two-week wait, implantation, male factor infertility, AMH and the latest science around antioxidants. We can't wait to share these incredible episodes with you, so let's dive in. Don't forget to share your favourite episodes with friends and leave a review to support the show! Join our Facebook Community -⁠ ⁠Up the Duff Podcast ⁠ Follow us on Instagram

    Navigating Secondary Infertility - With Anna Lahey

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2023 63:09


    In this episode of Up the Duff, host Brittany Darling speaks with Anna Lahey, founder of Vida Glow and a mother of four, about her experience with secondary infertility. Anna shares her journey of feeling her family was incomplete and her determination to have more children despite being told she would never conceive on her own. Listeners are advised that the episode discusses miscarriage. Tune in to hear Anna's inspiring story of surrendering to the process and ultimately achieving her dream of expanding her family. In this episode you'll discover: [00:00:38] Navigating secondary infertility. [00:04:15] Cycle tracking and fertility journey. [00:09:41] The loneliness of IVF clinics. [00:12:14] Fertility and cycle awareness. [00:17:29] Beatrice was a surprise. [00:22:03] Emotional toll of miscarriage. [00:26:06] Miscarriages and gender reveal party. [00:30:01] Miscarriages and resilience. [00:35:47] The struggle to let go. [00:39:09] The financial costs of fertility treatment. [00:42:40] Endometritis and fertility. [00:50:13] Special care in the hospital. [00:52:25] Traumatic experiences after birth. [00:55:16] Mastitis and breastfeeding challenges. [01:01:20] Feeding your baby experience. Items mentioned in this episode include: Vida Glow Australia | Ingestible Beauty | Clinically Proven Follow Anna on instagram Join our Facebook Community - Up the Duff Podcast  Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes.

    Egg Freezing and fertility over 40 - With Kimberley Pullen

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2023 17:33


    On this episode of Up the Duff, we explore the topic of egg freezing. Kimberly shares her personal journey of deciding to freeze her eggs at the age of 35 after a breakup. We discuss the fears and uncertainties surrounding fertility and the psychological benefits of having a backup plan. We also learn that there has been a significant rise in egg freezing in Australia, but only a small percentage of people actually use their frozen eggs. Stay tuned to find out if Kimberly ultimately uses her eggs to conceive a baby in her 40s. Join us as we delve into the pros and cons of egg freezing and hear firsthand experiences. In this episode you'll discover: [00:00:29] Egg freezing. [00:05:28] Hormonal side effects of egg freezing. [00:09:48] Pros and cons of the process. [00:15:58] Natural pregnancy after endometriosis. [00:17:11] Facebook group and continued conversation. Items mentioned in this episode include: ⁠Eius Fertility⁠ Join our Facebook Community - ⁠Up the Duff Podcast  Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes.

    Hetertopic Pregnancy, IVF, Pregnancy Guilt and Hyperemisis Gravidarium - With Keira Rumble

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2023 36:51


    In this episode of Up the Duff, we chat with Keira Rumble, founder of Habitual Beauty, Krumbled Foods, and Mini and Me. Keira shares her fertility journey, including her struggles with IVF, Hyperemesis Gravidarum, and pregnancy guilt. We discuss her experiences with chronic pain and the challenges she faced in becoming a parent. If you're in need of inspiration and motivation to advocate for yourself, this episode is for you. Join us as we dive into Keira's incredible story. In this episode you'll discover: [00:01:08] Pregnancy and chronic pain. [00:05:14] Advocating for self-advocacy. [00:08:29] The importance of sharing personal stories. [00:13:19] Trying fatigue and IVF. [00:16:07] Genetic blood clotting condition. [00:19:14] Egg retrieval pain. [00:25:48] Pregnancy challenges and complications. [00:28:22] Missing moments of motherhood. [00:31:01] Egg quality and fertility. [00:35:13] Creating a beneficial pregnancy drink. Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: ⁠⁠Eius Fertility⁠⁠ https://krumbledfoods.com/ https://krumbledfoods.com/pages/mini-me https://habitualbeauty.co/ Follow Keira  Join our Facebook Community - ⁠Up the Duff Podcast  Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes.

    Fertility over 40 and Navigating IVF with a Disability - With Jaci Armstrong

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2023 21:21


    In this episode of Up The Duff, we are joined by Jaci Armstrong, a woman who sought fertility treatment for social reasons. Jaci, who is vision impaired, shares her journey of conceiving her baby Eloise at the age of 43. We discuss the challenges she faced and explore ways to improve accessibility in the medical community for individuals with disabilities. Join us as we dive into Jaci's inspiring story and discuss the importance of inclusive fertility treatment. In this episode you'll discover: [00:01:34] Navigating fertility treatment with disabilities. [00:03:57] Vision impairment and guide dogs. [00:09:26] Number of embryo transfers. [00:13:54] Access to information for disabilities. [00:14:45] Guide dogs being welcomed. [00:19:04] Navigating parenting with a disability. Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: Australian Network on Disability Eliza Hull - disability advocate  Join our Facebook Community - ⁠Up the Duff Podcast Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes.

    Pregnancy Loss, Anxiety, IVF and Finding Your Village - With Melissa Hemsley

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2023 40:42


    In this episode of Up the Duff, we speak to Melissa Hemsley about her fertility journey and the challenges she faced along the way. Melissa opens up about her surprise diagnosis of generalised anxiety disorder and ADHD, and how it impacted her path to parenthood. She also discusses her struggles with anxiety during early pregnancy and the support she received following her miscarriages. Melissa's strength, resilience and bubbly personality shines through as she shares both the highs and lows of her journey. Tune in to hear her story and gain insights on mindset and resilience in the face of fertility struggles. In this episode you'll discover: [00:01:32] Melissa's fertility journey. [00:05:03] Weird pregnancy aversions [00:09:10] The loss of the babies. [00:12:23] Miscarriage and surgery. [00:17:13] Coming home to yourself. [00:21:17] Sacred rituals after childbirth. [00:26:49] The village and support. [00:31:07] ADHD and fertility. [00:33:13] Research and self-care tips. [00:37:10] Involving partner in fertility journey. [00:40:26] Facebook group and community. Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: Pink Elephant Melissa's substack Melissa's instagram The first 40 days Nine Golden Months   Join our Facebook Community - ⁠Up the Duff Podcast  Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes.

    Premature Ovarian Insufficiency and Male Factor Infertility - Defying the odds - With Laura Devine

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2023 44:00


    In this episode of Up The Duff, Laura Devine shares her fertility journey, which includes experiencing premature ovarian failure and her partner's male factor infertility. Despite the challenges, Laura's story is one of hope and resilience. Tune in to hear how she navigates the bumpy road to parenthood and defies the odds of infertility. In this episode you'll discover: [00:01:30] Sharing fertility journey through podcast. [00:06:51] Semen analysis on Adam. [00:09:27] Fertility struggles and diagnosis. [00:14:10] IVF treatment delays. [00:18:24] First egg retrieval. [00:22:07] Pregnancy complications and loss. [00:26:21] Pregnancy loss and perseverance. [00:31:01] Changing fertility specialists. [00:35:14] Struggles with fertility and infertility. [00:42:05] Male infertility stigma and communication. Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: Pink Elephant Join our Facebook Community - ⁠Up the Duff Podcast  Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes.

    Surrogacy and LGBTIQA+ fertility, and postpartum depression - With Sean Szeps

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2023 39:58


    In this episode of Up the Duff, host Brittany Darling interviews Sean Szeps, the original DILF and father of boy-girl twins. Sean shares his journey to becoming a father with his partner, Josh, via surrogacy. They discuss Sean's early desire to be a parent and how he became obsessed with the idea as a young child. Tune in to hear Sean's inspiring story and learn more about his new book, "Not Like Other Dads." In this episode you'll discover: [00:01:32] Always wanted to be a parent. [00:03:39] Lying to live a lie. [00:09:24] Surrogacy and egg donation. [00:10:46] Surrogacy agency marketing material. [00:15:37] Placental abruption specialist [00:18:01] Early days with twins. [00:20:18] The power of the first second. [00:24:00] Parenting in a new country. [00:28:00] Mental health struggles and escape. [00:30:00] Men's mental health stigma. [00:33:28] Men's struggle with mental health. [00:36:28] Queer parenting and community. [00:39:36] Facebook group and continued conversation. Thank you to our sponsors  Eius Fertility https://eiusfertility.com/ Items mentioned in this episode include: ⁠Rainbow Families⁠ Surrogacy Australia Buy Sean's book  Follow Sean on instagram and tik tok Join our Facebook Community - ⁠Up the Duff Podcast Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes.

    Welcome to the Up the Duff Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2023 2:45


    Welcome to Up The Duff, a podcast that highlights the experiences and challenges faced by fertility seekers. The guests share their journeys of coping with loss and grief, overcoming societal judgment, and navigating the emotional rollercoaster of trying to conceive. With inspiring stories of resilience and hope, season one offers relatable content for anyone on a similar path. Tune in to hear personal accounts of triumph and the power of never giving up. Don't forget to share your favourite episodes with friends and leave a review to support the show! Join our Facebook Community - ⁠Up the Duff Podcast 

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