A Year of Fertility Reflections: Key Insights for Your Journey
- Rachael Robinson

- Dec 19, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 5
Table of Contents
Introduction
Fertility Care Is About More Than a Baby
Preparing the Body Before Fertility Treatment
The Role of the Vaginal Microbiome in Fertility Care
Frozen Embryo Transfers and Supporting the Body
Pregnancy Nutrition and Postpartum Foundations
When It Is Still Not Your Turn
Why Progress Matters Beyond Pregnancy
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
10. Next Steps
A Year of Fertility Reflections: 3 Key Takeaways
Fertility care is about far more than pregnancy outcomes alone. Long-term health and understanding your body matter deeply.
Personalised nutrition and functional medicine are increasingly shaping IVF preparation and success.
Even when pregnancy has not yet happened, progress in health, symptoms, and balance still matters.

Introduction
As the year comes to a close, I take time for fertility reflections. Reflecting on 2025, this has been a meaningful year in the clinic. I feel enormous gratitude for every person who has trusted me to support them during such a vulnerable chapter of their lives.
I know that nobody chooses to walk this path. Many of my patients joke about their IVF cupboard, something they hope never to open again once they have their baby. I understand that feeling completely. Still, the work we do together matters.
Fertility Care Is About More Than a Baby
My goal will always be to help you have a baby. However, fertility care is never just about the end result. Along the way, I want you to feel well in your body. I want you to understand how your body works so you can care for it with confidence. Most importantly, I want you to make informed choices that support your health long-term.
This matters regardless of when or how you become a parent. Your wellbeing is important in its own right.
Preparing the Body Before Fertility Treatment
A core part of my work continues to be supporting both women and men before fertility treatment begins. Much of this work focuses on building strong foundations ahead of IVF. However, this year has also brought several surprise pregnancies before treatment even started. These moments are always incredibly special and deeply humbling.
As IVF protocols become more complex, nutrition and functional medicine are evolving alongside them. This integrated approach allows us to support the body more precisely and with greater intention.
The Role of the Vaginal Microbiome in Fertility Care
One of the most significant areas of progress I have seen this year has been in vaginal microbiome support. Many clients who needed targeted support here saw meaningful microbiome shifts. In turn, this has been associated with improved implantation, pregnancy, and live birth outcomes.
These fertility reflections reinforce the importance of looking beyond hormones alone and addressing the full reproductive environment.
Frozen Embryo Transfers and Supporting the Body
There has been a clear rise in frozen embryo transfer cycles in 2025. With increased use of PGT A testing, more women are separating egg collection from embryo transfer. For many, this has allowed the body to cope better overall. Cycles feel more manageable both physically and emotionally.
Frozen cycles also give us time. This space allows us to correct vitamin D, B12, and iron deficiencies. It also gives us the opportunity to bring thyroid antibodies under better control before transfer.
Pregnancy Nutrition and Postpartum Foundations
This year has been a boom for pregnancies and deliveries, including my first identical twin pregnancy. Supporting so many of you throughout pregnancy has been a true privilege. I know I have become known as the iron police. However, preventing anaemia through diet and lifestyle remains a cornerstone of pregnancy nutrition support.
We also place strong emphasis on blood sugar regulation. This helps reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and supports steady energy throughout pregnancy. Just as importantly, we build nutritional foundations that support recovery and wellbeing postpartum.
When It Is Still Not Your Turn
I also want to acknowledge those of you who are still waiting. I know how heavy this can feel. I remember it clearly. Christmas is often one of the hardest times of the year when you are navigating fertility challenges.
Even if pregnancy has not happened yet, please know that I remain fully committed to supporting you. Every single person I work with matters deeply to me.
Why Progress Matters Beyond Pregnancy
While pregnancy is the goal, it is not the only marker of progress. Sleeping better matters. Improved energy matters. Restored menstrual cycles matter. Reduced endometriosis pain matters. Even having regular bowel movements matters. These changes tell us that the body is moving towards balance. They are signs that foundations are being laid, even when patience is still required.
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
Thank you for trusting me to support you through such an intimate and vulnerable time. It is something I never take lightly. If you are considering working with me, please do reach out. I am always happy to answer questions and explore whether support feels right for you.
Above all, I hope you are able to find moments of joy, rest, and gentleness this Christmas.
Next Steps
If you are preparing for fertility treatment, navigating IVF, or wanting to improve your health before pregnancy, I would love to support you. You can get in touch to book a consultation or ask questions about working together.
You can reach out via the contact form or explore my IVF nutrition resources to receive tailored, evidence-based support through every stage of treatment. You can also join my newsletter for evidence-based guidance and gentle emotional support.
Arrange a 1:1 session with me to create a personalised, practical strategy for the months ahead.




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