The IVF Journey with Dr Michael Chapman

In this episode, Prof Chapman answers a listener’s question about antiphospholipid syndrome (APAS) and how it can affect IVF outcomes. He explains how immune-related conditions increase miscarriage risk, and why treatments like heparin and steroids can improve success rates when properly managed. Prof Chapman also shares valuable insights on what to do after a failed IVF cycle—when to change proto...

In this episode, Prof Chapman answers viewer Jen’s two big questions about IVF costs — what happens financially if your first cycle fails, and what hidden or unexpected fees to look out for. He explains why most clinics don’t offer discounts for additional cycles, breaks down the true cost structure behind IVF treatments, and shares practical advice on what to ask before you start so you know exac...

In this episode, Prof Chapman marks a remarkable milestone — the 500th episode of his fertility podcast. Reflecting on decades of helping couples conceive, he shares insights into one of the most common yet misunderstood fertility conditions: polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Prof Chapman explains the hormonal imbalances behind PCOS, how medications like Clomiphene and Letrozole can restore ovul...

In this episode, Prof Chapman explains why Australia ranks among the top three countries globally for IVF use — not because of higher infertility rates, but because of its unique Medicare support and ethical framework. He discusses how affordability and access have shaped fertility care, the impact of conditions like undescended testicles on sperm health, and the ethical challenges of doctors reco...

In this episode, Prof Chapman explains how interstate and even overseas patients can be managed via Zoom right up to the day before egg collection, outlines consult fees ($370 with ~$160 back on Medicare), and notes which Life Fertility doctors provide end-to-end obstetric care in Sydney. He separates evidence from hype on uterine lining “receptivity” and immune testing—highlighting antiphospholip...

In this episode, Prof Chapman dives into some of the most common — and crucial — fertility questions women ask in their 40s. From how many IVF or egg retrieval cycles might be needed for a successful pregnancy, to the impact of fibroids, and whether you can conceive without fallopian tubes, he breaks it all down with clarity and compassion. Prof Chapman also explores the truth about egg quality —...

In this episode, Prof Chapman unpacks the growing trend of egg freezing and why more women in their 20s and 30s are considering it. He explains how the process works, the role of age in fertility, the realistic chances of success, and what to look for when choosing a clinic. From costs and timing to risks and expectations, this is a clear guide to help women make informed decisions about preservin...

In this episode, Prof Chapman explains ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) — once the most dangerous complication of IVF. He traces how rates have dramatically dropped over the past 25 years, why modern trigger injections make OHSS rare today, and why freezing embryos can often lead to safer, equally successful outcomes. Prof Chapman also shares the critical importance of being treated in exp...

In this episode, Prof Chapman unpacks the real cost of an IVF cycle in Australia, reflects on the biggest breakthroughs of his 35-year career, and shares why sperm injection changed the game for male infertility. He also explores whether AI truly improves IVF outcomes, and dives into the ethical and emotional challenges of long-term embryo storage. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman –...

In this episode, Prof Chapman answers Katie’s question about why ovulation can occur on different cycle days even with the same Letrozole dose, offering practical guidance on dose adjustments and monitoring. He also addresses Jen’s concern about whether embryos can ever get mixed up during IVF, explaining real-world safeguards, human error risks, and why such cases are extremely rare. Explore the...

In this episode, Prof Chapman explains the growing demand for donor sperm in Australia, the categories of patients who need it, and the ethical framework that requires all donations to be altruistic. He discusses why local supply remains limited, the role of international sperm banks, the rigorous testing and safeguards in place, and the costs involved for patients seeking donor treatment. Explore...

In this episode, Prof Chapman explores how telehealth has transformed fertility care for rural Australians. He explains how virtual consultations, e-scripts, and remote treatment coordination allow patients to receive up to 90% of their IVF care without leaving home, making family-building more accessible than ever. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook P...

In this episode, Prof Chapman unpacks the 2025 Medicare rebate expansion that now recognizes social infertility, opening IVF access for single women and LGBTQ+ couples. He explains the practical changes this has brought to clinics, the financial impact for patients, and the emotional challenges unique to this group. Prof Chapman also highlights the importance of psychological support, the role of...

In this episode, Prof Chapman shares why IVF is not always the immediate answer for couples struggling to conceive. He explains when it makes sense to wait, the key investigations that can reveal underlying issues, and why treatments like ovulation induction or intrauterine insemination (IUI) often succeed before IVF is needed. Prof Chapman also highlights important age considerations and why wome...

In this episode, Prof Chapman explores the emotional impact of a failed IVF cycle and why it happens more often than many realize. He discusses the science behind embryo quality, genetic factors, and miscarriage rates, while also highlighting strategies to improve success in future cycles. With compassion and clarity, he shares how couples can process disappointment, explore genetic testing, and a...

In this episode, Prof Chapman answers a listener’s question about pregnancy loss, ectopic concerns, and whether to pursue frozen embryo transfer or wait for natural conception. He explains the risks of ectopic pregnancy, the role of PCOS and microadenoma in fertility treatment, and reassures listeners about the safety of IVF transfers. Prof Chapman also highlights important investigations for recu...

In this episode, Prof Chapman explores the true risks of IVF—separating early fears and misconceptions from what decades of research now tell us. He explains why IVF babies are among the most studied children in history, how medical advances have made serious complications like ovarian hyperstimulation rare, and why long-term health risks such as cancer have been shown to be no greater than in nat...

In this episode, Prof Chapman takes us step-by-step through the IVF process—from triggering egg maturation to retrieval, fertilization, embryo development, and transfer. He explains the techniques used in egg collection, options for anesthesia, how sperm is prepared, and the science behind fertilization methods like ICSI. With honesty and empathy, he shares the emotional highs of a positive pregna...

In this episode, Prof Chapman breaks down the early stages of the IVF process — from overriding the body’s natural cycle to stimulate multiple eggs, to the precise timing of the “trigger” injection before egg collection. He explains how hormones, scans, and blood tests all work together to maximize the chances of creating healthy embryos, and why timing is critical for IVF success. Explore the &#8...

In this episode, Prof Chapman focuses on the male side of infertility—explaining when IVF is appropriate and when it’s not. He encourages listeners to consult true fertility experts and underscores that IVF should never be the default path. Real talk, real stats, and practical guidance for hopeful dads. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, yo...

In this episode, Prof Chapman, Senior Fertility Specialist and Medical Director of Life Fertility Center Sydney, takes us back to basics—breaking down who truly needs IVF and who might conceive with simpler treatments. He explains the critical first steps in fertility assessment, the key differences in male and female infertility management, and when less invasive options like ovulation induction...

In this episode, Prof Chapman unpacks the latest innovations in IVF—from robotic lab tech that could outperform embryologists to oral fertility drugs that may ease the patient journey. He reflects on the promises and pitfalls of emerging trends like in-lab egg maturation and cautions against overhyped solutions. With decades of insight, he reminds us that while IVF is evolving rapidly, consistency...

In this episode, Prof. Chapman reflects on how far IVF has come—from 10% pregnancy rates and invasive laparoscopic egg collection in the 1980s, to today’s advanced culture mediums, time-lapse incubators, and genetic testing of embryos. He explains the major lab-based improvements over the past five years and outlines what’s next, including non-invasive embryo screening and AI-driven selection tech...

In this episode, Prof Chapman explores the evolving science behind fertility preservation for women in their 30s and 40s. He discusses the dramatic improvements in egg freezing techniques, the increasing social demand for delayed motherhood, and the realistic expectations women should have when considering this option later in life. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey&...

In this episode, Prof Chapman answers a live question about whether it’s okay to take a break from fertility treatment—and explains when it’s helpful and when it might be risky, especially depending on age. He also dives into the growing role of men in fertility care, unpacking how the shift from sidelined observers to active participants is transforming the experience for couples. With honesty an...