Knocked Up: All About Fertility and Women's Health

About Knocked Up: All About Fertility and Women's Health

Knocked Up is your go‑to podcast for clear, evidence based conversations on fertility, pregnancy and women’s health. Hosted by Dr Raelia Lew, CREI accredited fertility specialist and founder of Women's Health Melbourne. Find us on Instagram @knockeduppodcast. Follow Women’s Health Melbourne (@womenshealthmelbourne) and Dr Raelia Lew (@drraelialew). Knocked Up is produced by Jess Clark (@clark_collective_) Have a question? Email podcast@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au — all submissions are anonymous.

Publisher

Women's Health Melbourne

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

25 Apr 2018

Latest episode

11 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

210 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   11 Oct 2026

   Pregnant After IVF: What Happens Next? With Dr Scott Shemer

   A positive pregnancy test after IVF can bring enormous joy, but it can also open the door to an entirely new set of questions and anxieties. Is every IVF pregnancy considered high risk? Will you need additional monitoring? Does conceiving through assisted reproduction affect how or when you give birth? And how can you manage the fear that often follows infertility or pregnancy loss? In this episode of Knocked Up, fertility specialist Dr Raelia Lew speaks with Melbourne obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Scott Shemer about what happens after the long-awaited positive pregnancy test. Together, they explore the transition from fertility treatment to obstetric care and explain why pregnancy after IVF should never be approached with a one-size-fits-all label. Dr Shemer discusses the factors that may influence pregnancy risk, including maternal age, existing medical conditions, multiple pregnancy and the reason IVF was required. They also unpack birth choices after IVF, including induction, planned caesarean section and spontaneous labour, and why there is no single “right” way to give birth. The conversation also covers twin pregnancies, miscarriage, recurrent pregnancy loss and the heightened anxiety that can accompany pregnancy after infertility. Dr Shemer explains the very real experience of “scanxiety”, when reassurance after an ultrasound gradually gives way to fear before the next appointment, and how personalised monitoring and mental health support can help. In this episode: Is an IVF pregnancy automatically considered high risk? The factors that may increase pregnancy complications after IVF Moving from a fertility specialist to an obstetrician Why preconception care with an obstetrician can be valuable Private and public maternity care options Private health insurance and pregnancy cover Induction, caesarean section and vaginal birth after IVF Twin pregnancies following single or double embryo transfer How different types of twins affect pregnancy monitoring Pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriage investigations When it may be physically and emotionally appropriate to try again Managing pregnancy after miscarriage “Scanxiety” and the need for additional reassurance Why home Doppler monitoring can provide false reassurance Perinatal anxiety, depression and mental health support The importance of personalised, compassionate pregnancy care Dr Scott Shemer is a specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist based at Epworth Freemasons Hospital in Melbourne. His practice provides evidence-based, inclusive and highly personalised care from preconception through pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period. Dr Shemer also brings a personal understanding of the fertility journey, having experienced IVF with his own family. Connect with Dr Scott Shemer Dr Scott Shemer’s website (https://drscottshemer.com.au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Dr Scott Shemer on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/drscottshemer/) Epworth Freemasons Hospital (https://www.epworth.org.au/our-services/maternity) Connect with Dr Raelia Lew and Women’s Health Melbourne Women’s Health Melbourne (https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Dr Raelia Lew (https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/dr-raelia-lew) Women’s Health Melbourne on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/womenshealthmelbourne/) Dr Raelia Lew on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/drraelialew/) Melbourne IVF (https://www.mivf.com.au/) Email: podcast@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au (mailto:podcast@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au) Knocked Up Producer: Jess Clark @clark_collective_ (https://www.instagram.com/clark_collective_/) Episode sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Ellechemy, an Australian-made, gynaecologist-designed intimate lubricant and skincare range co-founded by Dr Raelia Lew. Discover Ellechemy (https://ellechemy.com.au/) Ellechemy on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ellechemy/) Follow Knocked Up on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/knockeduppodcast/) and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube for more evidence-based conversations about fertility, IVF, pregnancy and women’s health. This podcast is intended for general education only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Speak with your healthcare professional about your individual circumstances.

2. 

   27 Sept 2026

   Breast Cancer, Fertility and IVF: What Every Woman Should Know

   How does a breast cancer diagnosis affect fertility, pregnancy and future family planning? And does IVF increase your risk of developing breast cancer? In this important episode of Knocked Up, fertility specialist Dr Raelia Lew is joined by specialist breast cancer surgeon Dr Chantel Thornton and filmmaker Sue Collins, producer and director of the documentary Conquering Breast Cancer. Dr Thornton explains the latest thinking around breast cancer risk, screening and early detection, including the signs and changes women should never ignore. She also discusses BRCA gene mutations, preventative breast surgery, breast reconstruction and the role of lifestyle factors such as exercise, alcohol, smoking and maintaining a healthy weight. Later, filmmaker Sue Collins joins the conversation to share the decade-long journey behind Conquering Breast Cancer. Sue reflects on the women featured in the documentary, the psychological impact of diagnosis and recurrence anxiety, and why personal stories can provide hope to people experiencing their darkest moments. Why breast cancer diagnoses are increasing Breast cancer risk factors and the importance of early detection Breast changes and symptoms that should be investigated How breast density can affect screening and individual risk BRCA gene mutations and genetic testing Using IVF and embryo testing to avoid passing on a genetic mutation Whether IVF or egg freezing increases breast cancer risk How chemotherapy can affect ovarian function and fertility Urgent egg and embryo freezing before cancer treatment Fertility preservation for younger women with breast cancer Tamoxifen, pregnancy timing and future family planning Preventative mastectomy and modern breast reconstruction Exercise, alcohol, smoking, weight and breast cancer risk The emotional and psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis Why bringing a support person to appointments can help The stories behind the documentary Conquering Breast Cancer Finding hope, support and the right medical team This episode of Knocked Up is proudly sponsored by Breast Imaging Victoria. When it comes to breast cancer screening and diagnosis, having access to high‑quality imaging - and clinicians who specialise in breast health - makes all the difference. Breast Imaging Victoria provides expert mammography, ultrasound, and contrast mammograms, stereotactic biopsy and us guided core biopsies and FNA’s biopsies,delivered by a team who understand how important clarity, accuracy, and compassion are during what can be an anxious time. Their radiologists and breast imaging specialists work closely with referring doctors to ensure women receive timely results and personalised follow‑up. Whether you’re attending routine screening or investigating a new breast change, Breast Imaging Victoria offers evidence‑based care in a supportive environment. To learn more or to book an appointment, visit breastimagingvictoria.com.au (www.breastimagingvictoria.com.au ) This podcast provides general information and does not replace individual medical advice. If you notice a new lump, nipple discharge, skin or nipple changes, unusual pain, or a change in the size, shape or appearance of your breast, speak with your GP or healthcare professional. Women’s Health Melbourne (https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Learn more about Dr Raelia Lew and fertility care (https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/fertility?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Request an appointment with Women’s Health Melbourne (https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/appointment?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Knocked Up on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/knocked-up-all-about-fertility-and-womens-health/id1381363197?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Follow Knocked Up on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/knockeduppodcast/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Dr Chantel Thornton’s official website (https://www.breastcancerspecialist.com.au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Follow Dr Chantel Thornton on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/drchantelthornton/) Watch or learn more about Conquering Breast Cancer (https://conqueringcancercampaign.com/conquering-breast-cancer-au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Learn more about filmmaker Sue Collins (https://moonshine.agency/moonshine-agency-team/sue-collins-biography/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Breast Imaging Victoria (https://www.breastimagingvictoria.com.au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Follow Breast Imaging Victoria on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/breastimagingvictoria/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Book a breast screen with Breast Imaging Victoria (https://www.breastimagingvictoria.com.au/) Self Breast Check Guide (https://www.breastimagingvictoria.com.au/self-breast-check) Breast Cancer Network Australia (https://www.bcna.org.au/) Cancer Council Australia: breast cancer screening information (https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/screening-tests-and-treatments/early-detection-and-screening/breast-cancer-screening?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Have a question about fertility or women’s health? Email podcast@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au. All submissions are treated anonymously.

3. 

   13 Sept 2026

   What Your Fertility Ultrasound Is Really Looking For

   What can a fertility ultrasound actually tell you about your chances of becoming pregnant? In this episode of Knocked Up, Dr Raelia Lew speaks with a specialist obstetric and gynaecological ultrasound doctor to uncover what expert fertility scans can reveal about your reproductive health. They explore how ultrasounds can identify endometriosis, adenomyosis, blocked fallopian tubes, fibroids and other conditions that may affect fertility. They also explain the difference between a standard pelvic ultrasound and a specialist gynaecological scan, including why the person performing and interpreting your scan matters. You’ll learn what an antral follicle count really measures, why a low egg count does not automatically mean infertility, and how flushing the fallopian tubes may improve the chance of spontaneous conception for some couples. The conversation also covers what doctors look for during a six-week pregnancy scan, including the location of the pregnancy, the number of embryos and early signs of viability. Importantly, they explain why an inconclusive first scan does not necessarily mean that a pregnancy will be unsuccessful. In this episode: The difference between a general and specialist gynaecological ultrasound How endometriosis can appear on an ultrasound The subtle signs of superficial endometriosis How doctors assess whether the fallopian tubes are open Whether a tubal flush can improve natural conception What adenomyosis is and how it may affect fertility Transvaginal, abdominal and transrectal ultrasound options What your antral follicle count says about ovarian reserve Why a low egg count does not equal infertility What doctors look for during an early pregnancy scan Why pregnancy dating and viability can sometimes remain uncertain Episode chapters 00:46 What does a specialist ultrasound doctor do? 01:44 Specialist versus general gynaecological ultrasound 05:54 The anatomy required for natural conception 07:08 Detecting endometriosis on an ultrasound 09:03 How blocked fallopian tubes affect fertility 10:05 What happens during a tubal patency test? 12:02 Poppy seed oil versus foam tubal flushing 13:27 Can flushing your tubes improve conception? 14:41 Understanding adenomyosis 18:20 The subtle ultrasound signs of endometriosis 21:15 Pelvic pain, tenderness and organ mobility 24:01 Alternatives to transvaginal ultrasound 28:41 What is an antral follicle count? 30:23 Do you lose eggs during IVF or egg freezing? 32:08 Why low egg count does not mean infertility 32:38 What happens during a six-week pregnancy scan? 33:59 When early pregnancy viability is uncertain ABOUT WOMEN’S HEALTH MELBOURNE Women’s Health Melbourne is an innovative fertility and women’s health practice led by Dr Raelia Lew. Its specialist team provides evidence-based care across fertility, IVF, egg freezing and women’s health. Learn more or book an appointment   (https://www.womenshealthmelbourne.com.au/)womenshealthmelbourne.com.au (http://womenshealthmelbourne.com.au). This podcast provides general information and should not replace personalised medical advice from your healthcare professional. Host: CREI Fertility Specialist, Dr Raelia Lew Guest: Dr Lufee Wong www.wum.com.au (http://www.wum.com.au) Knocked Up Producer: Jess Clark Follow us on Instagram ⁠⁠@knockeduppodcast ⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/knockeduppodcast/?hl=en) ⁠⁠@drraelia lew⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/drraelialew/?hl=en) ⁠⁠@womenshealthmelbourne⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/womenshealthmelbourne/?hl=en) ⁠⁠www.youtube.com/@knockeduppodcast⁠⁠ (http://www.youtube.com/@knockeduppodcast) Women’s Health Melbourne is an innovative fertility and women’s health practice led by Dr Raelia Lew. Its specialist team provides evidence-based care across fertility, IVF, egg freezing and women’s health. Learn more or book an appointment through Women’s Health Melbourne. This podcast provides general information and should not replace personalised medical advice from your healthcare professional. Embryo donation, egg donation Australia, donor conception, donor-conceived children, IVF journey, IVF failure, infertility support, fertility trauma, miscarriage support, pregnancy loss,

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Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.