In Episode 14 of The Lifestyle Prescription with Pharmacy Planet, host Rena Dipti Annobil is joined by leading women’s reproductive health specialist Dr Marianna Vendola for a practical, compassionate, and myth-busting conversation about fertility.
As awareness around reproductive health continues to grow—especially among women in their late 20s and 30s—many are asking important questions about egg freezing, IVF, unexplained infertility, and how lifestyle choices impact the chance of conceiving. In this episode, Dr Marianna breaks it all down with clarity and honesty.
Whether you’re trying for a baby, planning for the future, or supporting someone on their fertility journey, this episode offers expert guidance to help you feel informed and empowered.
Table of Contents
1. Why Fertility Awareness Matters Earlier Than You Think
2. Egg Freezing: A Growing “Plan B” for Family Planning
3. Lifestyle Factors That Influence Fertility
5. When to Seek Help: How Long to Try Naturally
6. Understanding Unexplained Infertility
7. IVF: What to Expect from the Journey
8. When IVF Doesn’t Work: Next Steps
Why Fertility Awareness Matters Earlier Than You Think
For generations, women were taught mostly about how not to get pregnant. Yet today, many find themselves facing the opposite challenge: difficulty conceiving. Dr Marianna explains that fertility declines earlier than most people realise:
- Peak fertility occurs between ages 24 and 30
- Decline begins around age 32
- A more significant drop occurs after 35
- At 40, the chance of chromosomal abnormalities rises to almost 50%
Understanding ovarian health early—including AMH testing and ultrasound scans—allows women to make informed decisions before time becomes a limiting factor.
Egg Freezing: A Growing “Plan B” for Family Planning
Egg freezing has risen dramatically in popularity, especially among women focused on career goals or not yet ready to start a family.
Benefits include:
- Preserving younger, healthier eggs
- Flexibility to delay pregnancy
- Long storage limits (up to 55 years)
- Providing a safety net if natural conception proves difficult later
NHS access varies by region, which leads many women to consider private treatment, sometimes supported by finance plans.
Typical costs range from £5,000–£10,000, depending on clinic and number of cycles.
Lifestyle Factors That Influence Fertility
Daily habits and overall wellbeing play a crucial role in reproductive health.
Dr Marianna highlights the biggest factors:
- BMI and weight balance – impacts ovulation and treatment response
- Smoking and vaping – significantly reduce fertility
- Diet and alcohol intake – influence hormone balance
- Environmental and lifestyle stress – affects menstrual health
While no single food or trick can “boost fertility overnight,” a well-balanced lifestyle can make a meaningful difference.
Male Fertility Matters Too
Contrary to popular belief, fertility issues are not solely a women’s concern. In fact:
- Male factor infertility accounts for around 30% of cases
- Younger men can also experience reduced sperm quality
- Assessment of both partners is crucial
Fertility is a shared journey, and early testing prevents wasted time.
When to Seek Help: How Long to Try Naturally
Recommendations vary by age:
- Under 35: try naturally for 1–2 years
- Ages 35–40: seek help after 6–12 months
- Over 40: seek support after 6 months or sooner
If conception does not occur in these windows, basic fertility tests should be the next step.
Understanding Unexplained Infertility
Unexplained infertility occurs when all tests appear normal but pregnancy does not happen.
Key points:
- IVF is often the most effective treatment
- Genetic testing can uncover hidden chromosomal issues
- Many couples achieve success despite no clear diagnosis
Timely intervention is essential to avoid losing reproductive time.
IVF: What to Expect from the Journey
IVF can feel overwhelming, but the pathway becomes clearer with the right guidance.
- Ovarian Stimulation: Daily self-administered injections for 10–12 days to mature multiple eggs.
- Egg CollectionL A minor procedure performed under sedation.
- Fertilisation: Eggs are fertilised in the laboratory and monitored over several days.
- Embryo Testing: Optional genetic testing can reduce miscarriage risk and identify chromosomally healthy embryos.
- Embryo Transfer: A selected embryo is placed gently into the womb.
Throughout treatment, most women continue working—highlighting the need for greater workplace awareness and support.
When IVF Doesn’t Work: Next Steps
IVF does not always result in pregnancy, particularly when ovarian reserve is low or underlying health conditions exist.
Alternatives include:
- Donor eggs
- Donor sperm
- Surrogacy (in cases of severe uterine issues)
These options can still lead to safe, successful family building.
Common Fertility Myths Debunked
Dr Marianna addresses widespread misconceptions:
- Sex positions do not increase fertility
- Certain foods do not guarantee conception
- Men are not fertile indefinitely
- Being 35 may feel young, but fertility declines notably by this age
Reliable sources include the HFEA, NHS, and regulated fertility clinics.
Dr Marianna’s Lifestyle Prescription for Women
Her key advice is simple:
Know your body. Stay informed. Test your fertility.
Understanding your ovarian health at any life stage—20s, 30s, 40s or beyond—provides clarity and empowers informed decision-making.
Watch the Full Episode
Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts
For trusted fertility information, treatment options, and support, visit:
