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The Forgotten Parents: Why Adoption Leave Excludes the Self-Employed
Robyn Harris Robyn Harris

The Forgotten Parents: Why Adoption Leave Excludes the Self-Employed

This week we marked World Adoption Day - a day dedicated to honouring families formed not by biology, but by connection, commitment and love. It is a moment to celebrate the thousands of parents who open their homes and hearts to children who need one. It is a day of positivity, visibility and awareness.

Yet, beneath the graphics, hashtags and heart-on-hand selfies, there sits a truth most people have never heard: Self-employed parents who adopt are not entitled to statutory adoption leave. They are not entitled to statutory adoption pay. They are not entitled to any equivalent financial support.

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Fertility Treatment Is Healthcare. So Why Is the UK Still Expecting People To Use Holiday and Sick Days for IVF?
Robyn Harris Robyn Harris

Fertility Treatment Is Healthcare. So Why Is the UK Still Expecting People To Use Holiday and Sick Days for IVF?

Every year, thousands of people in the UK begin fertility treatment. For many, this isn’t simply a medical pathway, but a deeply emotional, physically demanding and time-sensitive journey that often follows heartbreak, uncertainty and years of trying.

Yet despite this reality, the UK still offers no legal right to paid leave for IVF or fertility-related medical appointments.

In a country where maternity rights are protected and recognised, fertility treatment remains a policy grey zone, leaving people quietly taking sick days, booking annual leave, rearranging workloads, or inventing excuses to attend appointments that may shape their chance of becoming a parent.

We protect pregnancy, but we still don’t protect the path so many need to take to get there.

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Scientists create embryos from human skin DNA
Robyn Harris Robyn Harris

Scientists create embryos from human skin DNA

This month saw a breakthrough that could reshape fertility forever.

For the first time in history, scientists have created early-stage human embryos using DNA from skin cells - potentially opening the door to new ways of overcoming infertility and even allowing same-sex couples to have genetically related children.

It’s a milestone that blurs the boundaries between science fiction and science fact. And while this technology is still many years from clinical use, it raises profound questions about what it means to create life, redefine parenthood, and extend the limits of fertility as we know it.

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Fertility Care in Focus - Our Response to the New Draft NICE Guidance
Robyn Harris Robyn Harris

Fertility Care in Focus - Our Response to the New Draft NICE Guidance

This September, the NICE - National Institute for Health and Care Excellence released draft guidance that could mark a major shift in how fertility treatment is delivered across the UK. The proposals focus on two key areas: stopping the use of unproven treatments that don’t improve outcomes, and ensuring that eligible women under 40 are offered three full IVF cycles.

The Fertility Show exists to provide a platform for open, honest conversation between patients, experts, and policymakers. We welcome this latest draft from NICE because it addresses issues that our community has repeatedly raised - variation in care and inequity of access. In this article, we’ll unpack the proposed changes, highlight the response from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) and share our perspective on what this means for people going through fertility treatment.

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Real Stories, Renewed Hope: What Makes The Fertility Show So Powerful
Robyn Harris Robyn Harris

Real Stories, Renewed Hope: What Makes The Fertility Show So Powerful

For anyone who has just started their fertility journey, is exploring alternate paths to parenthood or wants to learn how to better support those who are struggling to conceive, there’s nowhere quite like The Fertility Show. With world-renowned fertility experts, UK-based and international clinics, holistic and mental wellbeing practitioners and honest panel discussions with former and current patients all under one roof, it’s the best place to learn, be inspired and feel hopeful about the future.

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Exploring LGBTQ+ Pathways to Parenthood: Insights from The Fertility Show 2025
Natalie Field Natalie Field

Exploring LGBTQ+ Pathways to Parenthood: Insights from The Fertility Show 2025

This year’s Fertility Show opened up an honest and moving conversation around the many ways LGBTQ+ people are creating families. In a session hosted by Seetal Savla, we heard from fertility expert Dr Carole Gilling-Smith, Founder of The Agora Clinic and Hayley King, a parent through donor conception and donor-conceived herself. Together, they brought a mix of clinical insight and lived experience to the stage, offering guidance, empathy, and hope to those navigating their own journeys.

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Top 5 Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit to the Fertility Show
Natalie Field Natalie Field

Top 5 Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit to the Fertility Show

Planning to attend the Fertility Show? Whether it’s your first time or you’re returning for another year, a little preparation can help you get the most out of the day. From expert seminars to one-on-one advice, there’s so much to see and do — so here are five essential tips to help you make the most of your experience.

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5 Things I Wish I’d Known Before I Started My Fertility Journey
Natalie Field Natalie Field

5 Things I Wish I’d Known Before I Started My Fertility Journey

When I first started trying to conceive, I had no idea what lay ahead. I assumed it would happen quickly, that I’d see two pink lines on a test within a few months, and that would be that. But like so many others, I soon realised that fertility isn’t always straightforward. The experience was tough, but has also taught me many lessons I never expected to learn. 

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Newsletter February 2025
Natalie Field Natalie Field

Newsletter February 2025

For couples struggling with their fertility, we recognise that Valentine's Day can heighten feelings of disappointment and stress. The day is often associated with societal expectations of romance, intimacy, and family, which can feel especially challenging for those facing a fertility struggle. Note: it is completely normal and understandable to feel this way.
 

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Reflecting on Last Year's Fertility Show: My FIVE Top Seminars
Natalie Field Natalie Field

Reflecting on Last Year's Fertility Show: My FIVE Top Seminars

As we gear up for another exciting Fertility Show, and we get our new seminar timetable in order, I can’t help but reflect on some of the most impactful seminars from last year. Whether you are a first time visitor or a regular attendee, the range of expert speakers and topics at The Fertility Show are incredible. If you missed out or are looking for a bit of inspiration for this year, here are some of my absolute favourite seminars from last year that I think everyone should see!

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Understanding Male Infertility: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatments
Natalie Field Natalie Field

Understanding Male Infertility: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatments

Male infertility impacts many couples. Indeed of all infertility cases, 50% are a male factor issue.  At this year’s Fertility Show, we extensively covered the topic.  One panel discussion we unpacked the facts with Consultant Urologist Mr Jonathan Ramsey and male fertility patient Shaun Greenaway.  This article delves into that discussion, covering the causes, diagnosis, and potential treatments for male infertility.

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Creating a Supportive Workplace for Employees Facing Fertility Challenges
Natalie Field Natalie Field

Creating a Supportive Workplace for Employees Facing Fertility Challenges

Navigating fertility challenges can be an emotionally taxing journey, impacting various aspects of life, including work. As employers, creating a supportive environment can make a significant difference for employees going through this experience. Here are some strategies workplaces can adopt to provide meaningful support.

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Navigating Mental Health During Infertility
Natalie Field Natalie Field

Navigating Mental Health During Infertility

Fertility challenges can significantly impact mental health, affecting both men and women. The emotional toll of infertility is profound, with research indicating that a vast majority of individuals undergoing fertility treatments experience depression and anxiety. This emotional strain can infiltrate various aspects of life, including work, relationships, and self-perception.

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Holistic Approaches to Fertility: Integrating Mind-Body Wellness
Natalie Field Natalie Field

Holistic Approaches to Fertility: Integrating Mind-Body Wellness

The Fertility Show 2024 highlighted some of the fantastic holistic approaches to fertility. One of our seminars explored the roles of acupuncture and reflexology in supporting reproductive health. Experts Barbara Scott and Sarah Clark share their insights and experiences in these fields.

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From Patient to Host: My Four Years at The Fertility Show
Natalie Field Natalie Field

From Patient to Host: My Four Years at The Fertility Show

Having attended the Show several times, I love seeing how it has evolved. In previous years, most of the exhibitors were clinics, which created a formal, slightly intimidating atmosphere. The talks were more expert-led, so hearing medical terms all day long might have been overwhelming for attendees, particularly those at the start of their fertility journey.

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Meet the Clinic - Dunya IVF
Natalie Field Natalie Field

Meet the Clinic - Dunya IVF

Established in 2008, Dunya IVF Clinic offers hope for couples aspiring to parenthood through assisted reproductive technologies. Located in the serene northern part of Cyprus, the clinic offers fertility services designed to support patients throughout their journey to conceive.

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Meet the Clinic - Cyprus IVF
Natalie Field Natalie Field

Meet the Clinic - Cyprus IVF

Cyprus IVF Hospital is a prominent fertility centre located in Northern Cyprus. The leadership team comprise of Nevzat Arshan, their managing director, and Dr. Sara Khan, the first female IVF specialist in the region. They have worked hard to ensure that the hospital has been at the forefront of fertility and reproductive health since its inception.

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Meet the Clinic - CRGH
Natalie Field Natalie Field

Meet the Clinic - CRGH

The Center of Reproductive and Genetic Health (CRGH) has legacy spanning over three to four decades. CRGH has established itself not only as a pioneer in reproductive health in the UK but also as a leader in Europe. The clinic's commitment to delivering high IVF success rates and bespoke patient care is a testament to its dedication and expertise.

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Meet the Clinic: Acibadem Clinic, Turkey
Natalie Field Natalie Field

Meet the Clinic: Acibadem Clinic, Turkey

Acibadem fertility is part of a larger hospital chain in Turkey, and stands out for its innovation and excellence in fertility treatments. With a network of approximately 12 to 13 IVF clinics across the country, Acibadem Maslak Hospital, located in Istanbul, is the largest in this chain also the biggest IVF centre in Turkey.

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