IVF is often described in purely scientific terms. Yet behind every procedure is something profoundly human. For patients, the journey is deeply personal, complex and emotional. For embryologists, it is a discipline that demands not only technical mastery but care, intention and empathy. Every patient’s experience is unique – much like a work of art, shaped by its own story and meaning.
This campaign draws on that parallel. In art, skill and imagination come together to create something meaningful. In IVF, science and human insight unite to nurture the earliest stages of life.
Assisted reproductive technology depends on advanced tools and rigorous standards, but its true strength lies in the people guiding each step with expertise and compassion. It is this balance – between precision and humanity – that we wanted to honour.
Finding meaning in the microscopic
Within the laboratory, embryologists work with structures so small they are invisible to the naked eye, yet they carry immense significance. Interpreting patterns of cell development demands not only scientific expertise, but a trained eye and steady hand.
There is a quiet beauty to this work – one defined by intention, care and the possibility of new beginnings.
This perspective is captured visually through the work of artist Kaitlin Walsh of Lyon Road Art, whose practice interprets embryonic development as flowing, luminous forms. Her pieces mirror what embryologists observe each day: the intricate, ordered progression that arises from complexity, and the sense of hope held within life at its earliest stage.
Where ART meets science
The Art of ART also reflects our belief that great IVF outcomes rely on more than technology alone. Behind every embryo assessment, laboratory process and clinical decision is a team applying years of experience, scientific training and the kind of instinct that only comes from deep familiarity and practice. It also honours the partnership between our team and each patient – a relationship built on trust, empathy and shared purpose.
At Newlife IVF, our fertility specialists, embryologists, nurses and counsellors have cultivated a level of expertise that elevates their work beyond technical procedure. Their work is a craft shaped by science, refined through skill and grounded in humanity.
Celebrating the craft behind IVF
Through this campaign, we aim to show that IVF is not simply a series of steps, but a deeply considered process that supports both the technical and emotional aspects of treatment. Science drives what we do, but it is our people – and the trust our patients place in them – that bring it to life.
The Art of ART recognises this balance, celebrating the dedication of our team in delivering fertility care that is thoughtful, precise and compassionate. It honours the human side of IVF, and the expertise that makes every patient’s journey distinctly their own.
Building emotional resilience can help you manage these emotions, recover from setbacks and cope with life’s difficulties and uncertainties.
What is resilience?
‘Resilience is the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats or significant sources of stress.’1
Being resilient does not mean avoiding feelings of stress or emotional pain – rather, it is adapting to difficult or unexpected circumstances and bouncing back from the experience.
Resilience improves your wellbeing
Concerning fertility, research has shown that higher levels of resilience among couples struggling with fertility are associated with enhanced quality of life and emotional stability, as well as lower fertility-related distress.2
Beyond helping you cope during fertility treatment, building resilience can have a positive impact on your overall health and wellbeing, leading to3:
Fewer depressive symptoms
Improved adaptation to stress
Enhanced ability to cope during distressing experiences
Improved physical health.
Practices to build your resilience
Like progressively strengthening a muscle, you can learn to become more resilient to life’s challenges over time. Here are some examples that may help.
Grow supportive connections
Drawing on the support of those around you, including your partner (where applicable), family or friends, can help share the emotional load of your experience as you continue with your fertility treatment.4 Help is a two-way street – in addition to accepting help, supporting your loved ones through difficult moments can help you feel connected to others while giving you a sense of satisfaction, in turn strengthening your resilience. Small and simple gestures like checking in with a friend or lending an empathetic ear while others are dealing with stress can also distract you from an inward focus where you feel stuck in your own problems.
Manage uncertainty
During fertility counselling sessions, we often dive into how to navigate feelings of uncertainty and lack of control that can be experienced during fertility treatment. This is because learning how to accept uncertainty – not just during fertility treatment but throughout life in general – can help develop resilience.
But merely accepting the unpredictability and ‘unknowns’ of your fertility care is not an easy thing to do, which is why we recommend practising mindfulness. Instead of latching onto feelings of uncertainty when these thoughts arise, acknowledge their existence and try to move through these feelings. This is one of the hardest things to do, so be kind to yourself while you work on this.
Set small, achievable goals
The pride and sense of accomplishment you feel when achieving a goal is motivating and energising, helping you to feel more optimistic. Research has shown that breaking down your overarching goal into smaller short-term goals can help reframe your mindset while also relieving feelings of disappointment after a negative fertility treatment cycle.4
So ensuring that your goals are achievable is a great way to build resilience. In this instance, the importance is not the goal itself but the process of setting small goals and noticing your progress.
Break down each step in your fertility treatment cycle into mini-goals – this might include taking your hormone injections each day, completing your blood tests and scans, having your embryo transfer or intrauterine insemination procedure, or getting through each day of the two-week wait before finding out whether the treatment resulted in the outcome you were hoping for.
Sprinkle in some joy
There can be moments of sadness and loss when trying to conceive, which can make it harder to appreciate other joys in life, particularly if your fertility journey is regularly on your mind (as it’s very easy for treatment to become a sole focus).
Try to maintain some ‘normality’ in your life by engaging in activities that bring you joy.4 Humour is also effective in helping to develop a more resilient nature, so exploring activities that make you laugh while giving you a break from treatment can help you stay connected to day-to-day life.
Take the time to reflect
Think back on obstacles that you have previously overcome and recognise that you have already been developing resilience over the years, perhaps without knowing it. Reflect on past situations that have caused you stress, grief or trauma and ask yourself:
What worked in helping you to cope during these times?
What didn’t work well?
Who were the best people to help you at those times?
Take these learnings with you on your fertility journey and draw on them when working through any disappointing or unexpected outcomes.
Connect with our supportive counselling team
Our compassionate Newlife IVF counsellors are here to guide you through every step of your journey.
At Newlife IVF, we are committed to supporting our patients the best we can, which includes providing you with additional counselling sessions at no extra cost. To book an appointment with one of our counsellors, call (03) 8080 8933 or email us at [email protected]. And to make things easy for you, we are more than happy to consult with you over the phone so you don’t have to take time off work.
We also offer our TLC group support sessions to help you overcome feelings of isolation during treatment and improve your connection with others. Please email [email protected] for upcoming meetings.
Remember, you have made it through rough times before. You’ve got this.
References
American Psychological Association. Building your resilience. American Psychological Association. 2020. Accessed 20249. https://www.apa.org/topics/resilience ↩
Herrmann D, Scherg H, Verres R et al. Resilience in infertile couples acts as a protective factor against infertility-specific distress and impaired quality of life. J Assist Reprod Genet. 2011;28(11):1111–1117. doi:10.1007/s10815-011-9637-2 ↩
Quyen G, Vandelanotte C, Cope K, et al. The association of resilience with depression, anxiety, stress and physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Public Health. 2022;22. ↩
Bailey A, Ellis-Caird H, Croft C. Living through unsuccessful conception attempts: a grounded theory of resilience among women undergoing fertility treatment. J Reprod Infant Psychol. 2017 Sep;35(4),324–333. https://doi.org/10.1080/02646838.2017.1320366 ↩↩↩
Based on figures published by the Herald Sun, sourced from the Federal Government’s Your IVF Success website, Newlife IVF recorded the highest pregnancy rates in Victorian patients under 35 years (per treatment cycle attempt in 2024), achieving a 52% pregnancy success rate (compared with the national average of 41%). Exceptional outcomes were also achieved across older age groups, with pregnancy success rates of 43% for women aged 35–38 years (the national average is 35%) and 31% for women aged 39–42 years (the national average is 25%).
Newlife IVF also excelled in live birth rates across Victoria, achieving an outstanding result of 52% for patients under 35 years (46% is the national average), and 27% for 35–42 year olds (the national average is 24%).1 Notably, since its establishment nearly seven years ago, Newlife IVF has consistently delivered outcomes that surpass the national average.
‘We’re proud of what these results mean for our patients, with pregnancy and birth outcomes that continue to exceed the national average,’ said Dr Nicole Hope, fertility specialist and Medical Director at Newlife IVF. ‘Our approach is built on precision and care at every stage. Our specialists focus on optimising conditions for egg quality and embryo development and implantation, while our embryologists bring exceptional attention to the care of eggs, sperm and embryos. Alongside this, our wider team – including nurses, counsellors, genetic counsellors and administrative staff – provides dedicated support across the many aspects of fertility care that influence wellbeing and outcomes. Together, this depth of expertise creates a strong foundation for patient success.’
Outstanding success rates backed by best-practice patient care
Results like these are not achieved by chance. They reflect a clear and consistent philosophy that has guided Newlife IVF since its inception.
Newlife IVF was built on a shared vision to do things differently. From the beginning, the goal was to create a fertility clinic that puts patients before profits, combining best-practice science with genuinely personalised care and support. Every decision and every advancement have been guided by that principle.
As a clinician-owned and led fertility clinic, Newlife IVF is proud to be an independent specialist fertility centre. This independence enables a more supportive and patient-focused experience than is often possible within large corporate-owned clinics.
‘Our results are a reflection of how we work as a connected team,’ said Dr Tiki Osianlis, Managing Director and Scientific Director at Newlife IVF. ‘Clinical expertise and best scientific practice are essential, but they are only part of the picture. What truly sets our care apart is the way our team collaborates around each patient. We take the time to listen, to understand their circumstances, and to adapt treatment accordingly. That shared commitment across every role allows us to deliver care that is both highly individualised and deeply supportive as patients work towards building their family.’
A patient-first approach to fertility care
Every aspect of care at Newlife IVF is designed with patients in mind. From our state-of-the-art laboratory to the use of advanced scientific tools and techniques, expert-led care is combined with cutting-edge technology to maximise each patient’s chance of success.
At Newlife IVF, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to build their family. That belief underpins our commitment to making high-quality fertility treatment as accessible as possible. We remain focused on delivering outstanding results alongside compassionate, personalised care, supporting our patients every step of the way as they work towards building the family they dream of.
Appointments with one of our fertility specialists are available for those ready to explore their next steps. Call us on (03) 8080 8933 or book an appointment online.
Footnotes
These measures represent the births per completed egg retrieval cycle. Success rates are based on the number of live births that resulted from the eggs collected from women in 2022 that were fertilised and implanted as embryos in 2022 and 2023. Source: YourIVFsuccess. ↩
After retrieval, the egg and sperm are combined, and if fertilisation is successful, your embryo spends the first few days growing in the lab under the expert care of our team. This blog will help guide you through these early embryo development steps before transfer or freezing.
Factors affecting embryo development
Embryo development is a complex process that requires a combination of genetic, environmental and physiological factors to progress successfully. To achieve good embryo development, we require:
Healthy egg and sperm
The egg and sperm provide the genetic blueprint for development. Each embryo needs a complete set of 46 chromosomes – 23 from the egg and 23 from the sperm. Some embryos inherit incorrect genetic instructions that can impact embryo development and make it harder for them to divide and grow as expected.
Mitochondrial energy
Embryos need energy to divide and grow, which is provided by mitochondria (tiny energy-producing structures in cells). Poor mitochondrial function can slow or stop embryo development.
Efficient metabolic function:
An embryo’s metabolic function provides both energy and the building blocks needed for development. This includes the creation of protein and fats, and the removal of waste products that can be toxic to the embryo. Together, these provide what the embryo needs for growth, cell division and viability.
Timely cell division
Embryos should ideally divide at a regular pace (2-cell, 4-cell, 8-cell, etc.). Uneven and/or delayed division can mean the embryo is of suboptimal quality and may not develop as expected.
Embryonic genome activation
Around Day 3 (see diagram below), embryos start using their own DNA instead of relying on maternal DNA (genetic code from the egg). If this DNA transfer is inadequate, interrupted or missing, this can slow or stop the development of an embryo.
Stable conditions
Embryos need the right temperature, oxygen and pH balance to grow. These factors are carefully assessed and monitored continuously in the laboratory environment.
Difficulties or inaccuracies in any of these processes can affect the way an embryo grows and can impact whether an embryo will reach the blastocyst stage (where it has divided into many cells), making it suitable for transfer or freezing.
Safeguarding your embryos is our highest priority
We understand how important every embryo is to your journey. That’s why we use the most advanced technology and scientifically proven methods to create the ideal environment for embryo development. From carefully performing every procedure to closely monitoring each embryo’s progress, our highly trained embryologists work tirelessly to give each embryo the best possible chance to grow and thrive.
We maintain strict laboratory conditions, including precise temperature, humidity and air quality control to mimic the natural environment as closely as possible. Our team carefully observes each embryo’s development at every stage. Even though not all embryos will reach the blastocyst stage, please know that we do everything in our power to maximise their potential. Your dream of building a family is at the heart of everything we do, and we are committed to providing the best possible care every step of the way.
If you have any questions about embryo development or your fertility journey, please reach out to Newlife IVF. In the meantime, let’s walk through the different stages of embryo development to help you better understand the process
At Newlife IVF, we’re here to help you make sense of the science, take control where it counts and feel confident in the choices you make. Below, we break down some of the most well-established environmental exposures that can affect fertility, as well as share practical steps you can take to reduce their impact.
Hidden hazards – everyday toxins that can affect your fertility
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs)
EDCs are substances that interfere with the body’s natural hormone systems by mimicking, blocking or altering natural hormone levels. This disruption can affect key biological processes, including fertility. Common EDCs include bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, parabens, dioxins and triclosan.
Where they are found
EDCs are commonly present in plastic containers, cosmetics and personal care items, canned food linings, food packaging, cleaning products and flame-retardant materials.
Potential impact on fertility
EDCs can negatively affect fertility in several ways, including:
Disrupting menstrual cycles, ovulation and egg quantity, as well as affecting an egg’s ability to mature and undergo fertilisation
Interfering with sperm production and testosterone levels.
Because EDCs directly affect the delicate hormonal systems that regulate fertility, minimising your exposure can be a meaningful step towards improving your fertility. Avoid products that contain BPA, phthalates, parabens and other common EDCs – especially when you’re trying to conceive.
Pesticides and herbicides
Widely used in agriculture (to kill pests and weeds), many pesticides and herbicides are known hormone disruptors and neurotoxins, and some have been linked to fertility issues in both men and women.
Where they are found
Non-organic fruits and vegetables, grains, lawn and garden sprays, and contaminated water (from agricultural runoff).
Evidence has also linked herbicide and pesticide exposure to miscarriage, birth defects and hormonal disorders.
What you can do
Because most exposure comes from food and contaminated water, you can reduce your risk by choosing organic produce where possible and thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables with filtered drinking water to remove chemical residues.
Heavy metals (particularly lead, mercury, cadmium and arsenic)
Heavy metals are toxic elements that can accumulate in the body over time, interfering with organ function, including those essential for reproduction.
Where they are found
Contaminated water, seafood (mercury), old paint (lead), cigarette smoke and industrial pollution. While drinking water is monitored in Australia for heavy metal contamination, trace amounts may still be present.
Potential impact on fertility
Heavy metal exposure can negatively affect fertility by:
Damaging the DNA in eggs and sperm
Stimulating hormonal imbalances and egg quality abnormalities
Increasing miscarriage risk and reducing IVF success.
What you can do
Depending on the specific metal and individual factors, such as age, overall health and kidney or liver function, heavy metals can remain in the body’s tissues for extended periods after exposure, making their effects difficult to reverse. Even low-level exposure over time can harm fertility. To help reduce your risk, avoid smoking, limit your consumption of high-mercury fish, use water filters and take care when renovating older homes that may contain lead-based paint.
Pollution and particulate matter
Air pollution and particulate matter (PM) are composed of solid and liquid particles from a range of sources, including combustion, smoke, dust and chemical reactions. Fine PM – particles smaller than 2.5 micrometres (PM2.5) – can enter the bloodstream and contribute to various health issues, including harmful effects on reproductive organs and hormone function.
Where they are found
Sources include car exhaust, industrial emissions, wildfire smoke, cigarette smoke and urban air pollution.
While outdoor air quality isn’t in your control, there are steps you can take to limit your exposure to air pollution. Use indoor air purifiers or filters, avoid exercising outdoors during high-pollution days, and monitor Melbourne’s (or your local area’s) air quality index online for real-time updates.
Microplastics and nanoplastics
Microplastics (less than 5 mm) and nanoplastics (less than 1 mm) are increasingly present in our environment. These particles may carry harmful chemicals and disrupt reproductive function.
Where they are found
Microplastics are found almost everywhere – from waterways and plastic bottles to food wraps, containers, cosmetics and cleaning products (microbeads). These tiny particles come from the breakdown of larger plastic items, synthetic clothing, packaging and even bottled water. It’s believed that most people carry microplastics in their bodies, which are accumulated through the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the products we apply to our skin.
Potential impact on fertility
Studies have shown that microplastics and nanoplastics:
Contain EDCs, such as BPA and phthalates, which interfere with reproductive hormones and disrupt hormone signalling
Accumulate in the ovaries, negatively affecting egg maturation, egg quality and gene expression – reducing the number of viable eggs and making fertilisation and embryo development more difficult
Accumulate in the testes, triggering inflammation and oxidative stress, and damaging sperm quality
Have been found in placental tissue, suggesting they may reach the developing embryo.
What you can do
While it’s nearly impossible to avoid microplastics entirely, there are practical steps you can take to reduce your exposure and support your reproductive health.
Avoid heating food in plastic containers – instead, choose glass, ceramic or stainless steel for both storing and cooking. Choose filtered tap water over bottled water, and limit your intake of foods that come heavily packaged in plastic. Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly can also help reduce residues from packaging.
When it comes to personal care, look for products labelled microbead-free. At home, be mindful of dust, which can contain microplastic particles. Vacuum regularly using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, and consider using an air purifier to minimise airborne particles.
These small, everyday changes can help reduce your exposure to microplastics and may support better fertility outcomes over time.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as ‘forever chemicals’
PFAS are man-made chemicals commonly found in household and industrial products. These substances are highly persistent – they don’t break down easily and can accumulate in the body over time, potentially disrupting hormone balance.
Where they are found
PFAS-coated cookware offers convenience with easy cleaning. However, when scratched or overheated, it can release harmful chemicals into food. Other sources include fast food wrappers and other food packaging, microwave popcorn bags, stain-resistant fabrics and some cosmetics.
Potential impact on fertility
PFAS exposure has been associated with:
Disrupting hormonal balance, ovulation and menstrual cycles
Reducing egg quality and quantity
Lengthening the time to conception
Lowering IVF success rates
Decreased sperm count and testosterone levels.
What you can do
Avoid non-stick cookware where possible, opt for PFAS-free products, and use filtered drinking water. These steps can help limit your exposure to these long-lasting chemicals.
Mobile phones and electromagnetic radiation (EMR) exposure
Mobile phones, laptops and Wi-Fi devices emit low-level EMR, which has been linked to changes in reproductive health – especially in men.
Where they are found
Smartphones, Bluetooth devices, laptops (especially when used on the lap) and phones carried in pockets.
Potential impact on fertility
EMR exposure has been linked to:
Damaging sperm DNA and reducing motility (especially when phones are stored in pants pockets)
Increasing testicular temperature, which is associated with damage to sperm
Inducing oxidative stress in ovarian tissue and eggs. Prolonged EMR exposure is associated with reduced egg numbers and atretic follicle numbers (follicles that have begun to degenerate and regress), as shown in animal studies.
What you can do
The evidence is stronger for effects on male fertility, and the risks are generally moderate compared to chemical exposures. Nonetheless, simple steps, such as keeping phones out of front pockets and avoiding laptop use directly on the lap, can help reduce risk.
Small changes, meaningful impact
Our environment plays a powerful, yet often overlooked, role in reproductive health. But small, consistent changes can make a real difference to your fertility. At Newlife IVF, we’re here to support your journey with the latest scientific insights and compassionate, expert care. By understanding your exposures and making informed lifestyle choices, you’re already taking meaningful steps toward a healthier path to conception and pregnancy.
Our fertility-friendly action plan below can help reduce environmental stressors in your daily life. And if you need further support, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Call us on (03) 8080 8933 or book an appointment online.
Your fertility-friendly action plan to reduce environmental stress
Choose organic foods where possible to minimise your exposure to pesticides and EDCs
Use glass or stainless steel containers and cookware to reduce your contact with plastic and microplastics
Avoid non-stick cookware, don’t heat food in plastic and avoid using cling wrap in the microwave to help reduce PFAS and plastic exposure
Switch to clean personal care products to minimise your exposure to hormone disruptors – look for products free from phthalates, parabens, microbeads and synthetic fragrances
Use a water filter, which helps remove heavy metals and chemical contaminants
Ventilate your home or use an air purifier to reduce indoor air pollution and exposure to particulate matter
Avoid carrying phones in front pockets to protect sperm health
Take antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, CoQ10 and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) to support fertility by reducing oxidative stress and helping counteract the effects of PFAS.
Witnessing in IVF refers to the process of confirming that the correct eggs, sperm and embryos are used for the correct patient at the correct time. It mitigates the risk of mismatched or misidentified samples. At Newlife IVF, we take this responsibility extremely seriously, which is why we use both electronic and manual methods for accuracy and traceability.
RI Witness – electronic tracking for your peace of mind
Newlife IVF employs the RI Witness electronic witnessing system, which uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to track and verify all eggs, sperm and embryos in the laboratory. Each patient is assigned an RFID card and every patient vessel (e.g. tubes, dishes and cryo-vessels) is labelled with a matching RFID tag, all of which are programmed with each patient’s unique IVF code and three points of identification.
How RI Witness works at Newlife IVF:
Patient RFID card: you are assigned an RFID card that is linked to your profile. This is used for identification during key procedures, such as egg retrieval and embryo transfer
RFID tags on all labware: all test tubes, dishes and cryo-vessels used to hold your biological material are labelled with RFID tags matched to your unique code and profile
Real-time monitoring: all lab workstations have RI Witness receivers that detect these tags automatically. The system logs and monitors every sample movement during the procedure in real-time
Mismatch protection: if a mismatch ever occurs – for example, if two different tags are brought into an area at the same time – RI Witness triggers an audible and visual alarm, and the procedure is stopped immediately to investigate and correct the issue. To further reduce the risk of mismatches, our embryologists strictly work with the biological materials of only one patient at a time at each workstation.
Cryostorage tracking
All biological material placed into cryostorage is barcoded and tagged using the RI Witness system.
Each cryo-vessel is labelled with:
Your full name
Date of birth
Unique IVF code
Date of freezing
Barcode is specific to the eggs, sperm or embryos stored inside.
These cold-resistant tags ensure identification is maintained even at ultra-low temperatures. When the material is removed from cryostorage, the barcode is scanned and cross-verified with RFID data and RI Witness, and double-witnessed by embryologists to confirm all points of identification.
Embryologist double-witnessing
In addition to RI Witness, every procedure is manually witnessed by two embryologists. This human double-checking system complements electronic witnessing and adds a layer of human judgement, visual verification and accountability.
Manual witnessing includes:
Verifying three patient identifiers (full name, DOB and patient unique IVF code)
Cross-referencing all vessel labels, barcodes and RI Witness tags
Confirming the procedure that is to take place
Checking the freeze dates and, for embryos, specific embryo numbers
Confirming the correct sample before and after thawing.
This step is essential when biological material is entering or exiting the laboratory, and before every procedure such as insemination, embryo transfer, embryo biopsy or cryopreservation.
Cryostorage safety – cryo-vessel monitoring and audits
Biological materials such as eggs, sperm and embryos are stored in specially designed devices (cryo-vessels) that are specific for very cold temperatures. The cryo-vessel is tagged with a special tag that withstands very cold temperatures. The cyro-vessel includes the patient’s name, date of birth, unique IVF code and the date of the freezing, along with a unique barcode that is specific to that patient’s egg, sperm or embryo held within the individual device.
Every sample is:
Uniquely identified and traceable
Matched at any time using the RI Witness system and barcode
Manually verified when moved or thawed.
Regular audits are conducted, comparing all stored material against patient records, to ensure that what is in storage precisely matches what is documented in each individual file and the RI Witness log.
Thawing of stored biological material
When biological material is removed from cryostorage, the barcode is scanned and linked to the patient’s vessel via an RFID tag. Removal of eggs, sperm or embryos from cryostorage is also witnessed manually by the embryologist performing the procedure and a second embryologist. Before thawing the biological material, the embryologists will witness the three points of patient identification on the cryotag, the freeze date and, in the case of embryos, the specific embryo number on the cryotag. This is cross-referenced with the vessel the biological material will go into after thawing, and the RI witness system. A mismatch at any point will sound an alarm.
Only once all of these steps have been completed will the thawing of the eggs, sperm or embryos proceed.
Summary of witnessing measures at Newlife IVF:
Only one patient’s material is handled at each workstation at any time
All vessels and labware are RFID tagged and barcoded
The RI Witness system and the embryologist manual double-witnessing are used to confirm all details at every procedure
Cryostored material is linked to the patient via a barcode and the RI Witness system.
Regular audits verify that frozen material in storage matches patient records and the RI witness system.
Please ask us!
We understand IVF can be a time filled with both hope and uncertainty. Our systems are designed to mitigate risk and ensure your biological material is being managed with the highest levels of care, security and accountability. If you have any questions, please speak to a member of our team. We’re always happy to help you feel supported and informed.
Victoria Devine aims to make finance easier in every area of life, including fertility care. To do this, she strongly advocates that you take the time to do your research. Whether it be a new sweater, a first home or your future fertility – it pays to educate yourself first.
Victoria sat down with Dr Hope and asked her all about egg freezing. With a straightforward clarity that comes from her decades of fertility experience, Dr Hope outlined the egg freezing and IVF processes, and the differences between the two. She also explained how fertility care is timed to match the natural rhythms of your body. For this reason, a lot of fertility treatments are timed around your menstrual cycle.
‘The body has it all worked out and everything we do is actually trying to mimic or replicate what happens in the body,’ said Dr Hope.
Having covered the fundamentals, Victoria and Dr Hope then dived into the costs of egg freezing and IVF, as well as who is eligible for Medicare deductions to their fertility treatment. Dr Hope also discussed some of the patient financing options available to help people manage the costs of fertility care more comfortably.
Cutting out hidden fees at Newlife IVF
When it comes to any major expenses, Victoria recommends that it can be helpful to budget for both the known costs and any additional expenses that may come your way. In the case of egg freezing – depending on the healthcare provider you choose – you may have costs tacked on outside of the initial quote.
This is why at Newlife IVF, transparency with patients is a priority. It is rare for a patient to receive an unexpected or additional cost – and if there is a medical need for one, this will always be discussed beforehand.
‘People shouldn’t be getting too many extra costs outside what they are quoted,’ said Dr Hope.
Dr Hope also explained that all Newlife IVF patients receive an appointment with a member of the finance team before any treatment is started. This appointment helps people understand the costs of treatments and services, and the financing options available, which can help them make informed decisions about whether the treatment/service is right for them.
Infertility is more common than you may think
To complement Dr Hope’s fertility guidance, Victoria shared her own pregnancy experience, as well as the fertility journeys of some of her friends. It quickly became clear how varied fertility journeys can be and that there is no one-size-fits-all for family planning. This led Victoria to ask if there are any factors that can affect someone’s fertility.
Dr Hope explained that the quality of a woman’s eggs is one of the main contributors to their chances of having a baby. She added that although egg quality is affected by many factors, age is often the most crucial.
‘For women, the single biggest thing that predicts when we can get pregnant is our age,’ said Dr Hope.
Drawing on her proactive approach to fertility treatment, Dr Hope also talked through what people can do to improve their egg quality at any age.
A brief background about the webinar presenters
Victoria Devine is a multi-award-winning financial advisor, business owner, podcaster and author. She hosts the popular podcasts She’s on the Money and The Property Playbook, and is the CEO of Zella, a financial services company. Through all her ventures, Victoria aims to transform the way millennials think about money to make their financial dreams achievable.
Dr Nicole Hope is a highly experienced fertility specialist and the Medical Director of Newlife IVF. She also holds an advanced Certificate in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (CREI). This is the highest level of qualification you can have in fertility care and less than 100 Australian fertility specialists have it! Above all, Dr Hope is passionate about helping her patients start or grow their families, and she prioritises the importance of providing the right information and support at each step of fertility care.
Learn more about the financial side of egg freezing
Watch the webinar for a full breakdown of egg freezing, the costs and the financing options available.
Sperm contributes half of the genetic material needed for embryos to form. Issues related to sperm quality or function can lead to difficulties in embryo development, including issues with:
Genetic material quality: For successful fertilisation and healthy embryo development, ideally sperm DNA should remain intact. Damage to this genetic material – whether from oxidative stress, environmental factors or ageing – can lead to chromosomal abnormalities or improper DNA variations in the embryo, increasing the risk of developmental issues or miscarriage.
Sperm chromatin structure: Sperm chromatin, the DNA arranged within the sperm cell, must be tightly packed and properly organised to protect against DNA damage. Normal sperm chromatin structure is needed for successful fertilisation and embryo development. Abnormalities in chromatin structure can result in poor DNA repair, leading to embryo fragmentation (when tiny pieces of the cells that make up the embryo break away from the cells during division) or developmental arrest (when an embryo stops developing).
Sperm motility (movement): Sperm with low motility (asthenospermia) may struggle to reach and fertilise the egg through natural conception or IVF. Even if fertilisation occurs, impaired motility – depending on its cause – can impact early embryonic development, as the sperm may not deliver the essential signals and factors needed for optimal growth.
Sperm morphology: Sperm with abnormal morphology (size or shape) can affect fertilisation and embryo development. For instance, abnormal sperm may struggle to penetrate the egg, preventing fertilisation or causing abnormal embryo development. Structural defects, such as head or tail abnormalities, may prevent the sperm from properly interacting with the egg’s membrane, making fertilisation difficult in both natural conception and IVF. Therefore, abnormal sperm morphology is indicative of low sperm quality.
Sperm epigenetics: Sperm carries epigenetic information – modifications that influence how genes function without changing the underlying DNA sequence. Disrupted sperm epigenetics can lead to improper gene expression in the embryo, increasing the risk of developmental issues, infertility or genetic disorders.
Oxidative stress: Sperm are vulnerable to oxidative stress – an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body – caused by factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, environmental toxins or prolonged heat exposure. This oxidative damage can lead to DNA fragmentation, where sperm DNA strands break, potentially compromising embryo development after fertilisation.
Paternal age: As men age, their sperm quality may gradually decline, making conception more challenging. Although men do not experience a sudden decrease in fertility like women, ageing impacts sperm health, testicular function and pregnancy outcomes. For instance, older men may produce lower-quality sperm, reducing the chances of fertilisation. Sperm from older men are also more susceptible to DNA damage, which can increase the risk of miscarriage and DNA changes contributing to genetic conditions, including autism or schizophrenia in children.
Lifestyle changes to support sperm health
While some factors affecting sperm health are beyond control, lifestyle choices can play a significant role in improving sperm quality. Making positive changes may help enhance sperm function and increase the chances of successful conception. Suggestions that may assist with sperm quality include:
Keep the testicles cool
High temperatures can damage sperm. Avoid hot tubs, saunas, car seat warmers, placing your laptop on your lap for long periods, and carrying your mobile phone in your front pocket. Wear loose-fitting underwear to keep your testicles cool and prevent overheating.
Maintain a healthy diet
A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants from fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains and lean proteins can help protect sperm from damage.
Additionally, fertility-boosting nutrients such as vitamins C, E and folic acid, as well as zinc and selenium, have been linked to improved sperm quality. These are present in citrus fruits, leafy greens, eggs and nuts.
Consider fertility supplements
If you’re finding it difficult to obtain enough nutrients from your diet, you may wish to consider fertility supplements. Specifically, supplements such as zinc, folic acid, selenium and CoQ10 may support sperm health. However, please consult your fertility specialist before starting any new supplements.
Engage in regular exercise
Moderate physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and improve overall health, which supports sperm production. However, excessive exercise or overtraining can have the opposite effect, leading to reduced testosterone levels and impaired sperm quality. Additionally, prolonged cycling (over 1.5 hours) should be avoided.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
Smoking and vaping are associated with poor sperm quality, including reduced count and motility and increased DNA damage. Quitting should be a priority for those looking to improve fertility.
Excessive alcohol consumption can also negatively affect sperm count and quality, so keep your intake to moderate levels for optimal reproductive health.
Maintain a healthy weight
Being overweight or obese can lead to hormonal imbalances, reduced sperm quality and lowered overall fertility. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help improve sperm health.
Avoid exposure to toxins
Minimise exposure to harmful chemicals such as pesticides, heavy metals and industrial toxins, as they can negatively affect sperm health. Avoid contact with pollutants in some cleaning products, plastics and air pollution – and skip drinking from plastic water bottles.
If chemical exposure is unavoidable (i.e. due to your work environment), always use appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves and masks, to reduce risk.
Attend regular medical assessments
Prioritising your overall health is essential, as conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and infections can negatively affect sperm quality. Regular check-ups with your GP or healthcare professional can help detect and manage these issues early.
If you’re trying to conceive, inform your fertility specialist about any medications or supplements you’re taking, as some may impair sperm function.
Avoid drug use
Recreational drug use, such as marijuana or anabolic steroids, can significantly reduce sperm count and quality. If you’re using these substances, consider seeking help to quit.
Manage stress
Chronic stress can negatively impact hormone levels, affecting sperm production. Consider practising relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, deep breathing, exercise or hobbies that help you relax.
Get enough sleep
Quality sleep is essential for overall health and plays a crucial role in hormone regulation. Poor sleep can disrupt hormone levels, including testosterone, which is vital for sperm production. To support reproductive health, prioritise restful sleep and aim for 7–9 hours of quality rest each night.
Limit caffeine intake
Excessive caffeine may negatively affect sperm quality. Limiting your intake to moderate levels (one or two cups per day) can be beneficial.
When to seek help
Making these lifestyle changes can help improve sperm quality over time. However, if you and your partner have been trying to conceive without success – 12 months if the female partner is under 35 years or six months if over 35 years – it may be time to seek specialist guidance. A fertility specialist can provide personalised advice and may recommend fertility testing to gain a clearer understanding of your reproductive health.
To book an appointment with one of our fertility specialists and explore your options, call Newlife IVF on (03) 8080 8933 or schedule a consultation online via our appointments page.
Today, that vision, combined with the collective expertise and experience of our fertility specialists and support staff, has earned Newlife IVF recognition as one of Victoria’s top-performing IVF clinics.
According to the latest figures reported by the Herald Sun (sourced from the Federal Government’s Your IVF Success website), Newlife IVF holds the highest IVF success rate in Victoria for women under 35, with an impressive 62.5% of embryo transfers resulting in live birth.
For women aged 35 to 42, Newlife IVF also leads with the highest birth rates per embryo transfer in Metropolitan Melbourne (31.7%), placing us third overall in Victoria for this age group.
‘We are delighted to share that we have had another great year for our patients, with our pregnancy and birth success rates consistently above the national average. Our fertility specialist team focuses on providing the best possible milieu for eggs to mature and embryos to implant, and our amazing embryologists focus on every aspect of the egg, sperm and embryo care to provide a nurturing environment to achieve their developmental potential,’ said Dr Nicole Hope, fertility specialist and Medical Director at Newlife IVF.
A vision for exceptional fertility care
As a clinician-owned and led fertility clinic, we’re proud to be one of the few independent specialist fertility centres in Victoria. This independence allows us to offer a more personalised, supportive experience than corporate-owned clinics.
‘We feel so privileged to play a part in our patients’ journeys. Being able to provide a level of care that helps them achieve their dream of starting a family is truly an honour for us,’ said Dr Tiki Osianlis, Newlife IVF’s Managing Director and Scientific Director.
Every aspect of our practice is designed with our patients’ needs in mind. From our state-of-the-art laboratory to our use of advanced scientific tools and techniques, we combine expert-led care with cutting-edge science to give our patients the best possible chance of building the family they dream of.
‘Our IVF success rates highlight how effective our approach is. It’s not just about the science – it’s about the people. The entire team, from our fertility specialists and nurses to our embryologists, counsellors and admin staff, take the time to truly understand each patient’s unique journey. We adapt our care to fit their needs, and every single one of us is genuinely invested in helping our patients achieve their dream of becoming parents,’ said Dr Tiki.
Giving you Newlife in a different way
At Newlife IVF, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to build their family, which is why we’re committed to making high-quality fertility treatment as accessible as possible. We remain committed to delivering outstanding results and compassionate care, empowering our patients with the best possible chance of success.
If you’re ready to explore your options for having a baby, you can make an appointment with one of our specialists by calling (03) 8080 8933 or by booking online.
IVF is an assisted reproductive technique that helps people overcome fertility challenges to start or grow their families. This process involves fertilising an egg with sperm in a specialised laboratory, with the resulting embryo carefully transferred into the uterus with the aim that it will lead to a pregnancy.
Whether you’re just beginning your fertility journey or considering your options, understanding the IVF process is an empowering first step. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process that we use at our fertility clinic in Melbourne, to help you make informed decisions about your next steps.
A step-by-step guide to the IVF process at Newlife IVF in Melbourne
From the initial consultation through to the embryo transfer procedure, IVF involves a series of carefully coordinated stages – tailored to your unique needs – that are designed to give you the best chance of pregnancy success.
Initial consultation with our Melbourne-based fertility specialist
If you’re concerned about your fertility and would like to seek advice from a fertility specialist, you will need a referral from your GP to attend our IVF clinic.
During your initial consultation, your fertility specialist will assess your health and the factors contributing to your fertility issues, as well as provide tailored advice, including recommendations about diet and lifestyle. This process involves taking a thorough medical history from you, performing relevant examinations and ordering appropriate tests. Your fertility specialist will also discuss all available treatment options with you so you can make an informed decision about whether the IVF process is right for you.
If it is decided that IVF treatment is appropriate, we will register you as a patient at our fertility clinic. At this stage, mandatory tests, such as screening for infectious diseases, will be conducted if they have not been done previously.
Personalised fertility treatment planning
As no two fertility journeys are the same, fertility care at our IVF clinic in Melbourne is never one-size-fits-all. Our approach begins with uncovering the root causes of your fertility challenges and guiding you through the treatment options that best suit your unique circumstances. These options can range from straightforward solutions like fertility optimisation and ovulation induction to advanced treatments, such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), IVF, or IVF with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
In some cases, and after a careful review of your medical and IVF history, your fertility specialist may prescribe adjuvant treatments to complement an IVF cycle.
Ovulation induction and hormone stimulation
Ovulation induction is a commonly used fertility treatment for individuals with ovulatory dysfunction. Often serving as an early intervention, it can be effective as a standalone treatment or combined with others, such as IUI or IVF, to improve the chances of conception. Ovulation induction involves using fertility medication to stimulate your ovaries to produce one or more mature eggs and assist with ovulation. For those undergoing IVF, hormone stimulation with fertility medications is used to stimulate your ovaries to produce a higher number of mature eggs than they normally would. This is a critical step in preparation for egg retrieval.
During this stimulation phase, self-administered hormonal injections are given over 8–14 days to encourage the development of multiple eggs, increasing the number available for retrieval and fertilisation.
Fertility blood tests and monitoring
Careful monitoring plays a vital role throughout the stimulation phase. Using a combination of blood tests and ultrasounds, your fertility specialist will closely track how your ovaries are responding and how the follicles (sacs in the ovaries that contain eggs) are developing. These tests allow your specialist to assess if everything is progressing as planned and fine-tune your fertility medication to optimise your results.
As you near the end of the stimulation phase, monitoring is used to determine the optimal time for the ‘trigger injection’, which prepares the eggs for ovulation (i.e. their release from the ovaries). Your fertility nurse will liaise with your fertility specialist and guide you on when to administer the injection, as precise timing is essential – the egg retrieval procedure must occur before natural ovulation. Monitoring usually takes place at one of our Newlife IVF locations in Melbourne. However, you don’t have to be in Melbourne to access treatment. We have patients that live in rural or interstate locations and we work with local pathology and ultrasound providers to assist with our patients’ monitoring needs.
Egg retrieval procedure at our IVF clinic in Melbourne
Egg retrieval, also known as egg collection or egg pickup, is a key step in the IVF process. This procedure involves collecting eggs from your ovaries, which can be frozen for future use or fertilised in the next stage of your IVF cycle.
Performed at our IVF clinic under sedation, egg retrieval is a straightforward procedure that typically takes 20–30 minutes. During this time, your fertility specialist carefully collects eggs from your ovaries using a fine needle guided by ultrasound imaging. On average, 8–12 eggs are retrieved, although the exact number depends on factors such as age, ovarian response to the medication and health history.
Collecting multiple eggs at once is important to IVF success. A higher number of eggs increases the chance of developing the healthy embryos needed for a successful embryo transfer and pregnancy.
Our team understands that undergoing egg retrieval can feel both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. But you can rest assured that we’re here to support you every step of the way so that you feel informed and comfortable throughout the entire IVF process.
Sperm collection and ICSI treatment
On the day of egg retrieval, fresh semen samples are collected from the male partner. If you’re using frozen or donor sperm, our embryologists will ensure the sample is thawed and ready for use.
For standard IVF, the semen sample is carefully prepared by removing the seminal fluid (the fluid that contains sperm), isolating the motile sperm and removing immotile sperm before the insemination procedure
For ICSI, the process is more precise. Only a single sperm is used for fertilisation, requiring experienced embryologists to select the healthiest and most viable sperm and inject it directly into the egg.
Selecting the ideal sperm is a delicate process requiring years of expertise. Our embryologists are trained to identify sperm with the best shape and structure to maximise the chances of successful fertilisation.
Fertilisation and embryo development
The next step in the IVF process is fertilisation, where egg and sperm are brought together.
In some cases, depending on the sperm quality and the patient’s previous history, we use standard insemination, where each egg is placed in a laboratory dish and exposed to thousands of prepared sperm. The fittest sperm may then fertilise the egg naturally, mirroring what would occur in the body.
However, if there are challenges such as low sperm count or abnormalities in sperm quality, an advanced technique called ICSI may be used. With ICSI treatment, a single, healthy-looking sperm is carefully injected into an egg to increase the chances of fertilisation. While this method offers additional precision, it’s important to note that not all eggs will successfully fertilise.
If fertilisation occurs, the resulting embryos are carefully placed in an incubator that mimics the conditions of the female body. Over the next five days, these embryos grow and divide, preparing for the next stage of the IVF process – embryo transfer.
The embryo transfer procedure
The embryo transfer is one of the quickest yet most important stages of the IVF process. During this procedure, a carefully selected embryo is placed into your uterus with the hope that it will successfully implant and lead to pregnancy.
Performed under ultrasound guidance, the transfer involves using a long, thin instrument to gently release the embryo through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. For most women, the procedure feels similar to a routine pap test. It is quick, requires no anaesthetic and allows you to resume your usual activities afterwards.
At Newlife IVF, our fertility specialists and embryologists are committed to providing the highest standard of care and technology to maximise your chances of IVF success.
Pregnancy testing and ongoing support
The pregnancy test represents the culmination of weeks of preparation. This fertility blood test measures the level of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) in your body – a hormone produced when a fertilised egg (an embryo) implants into the uterus. Elevated hCG levels can indicate a successful IVF cycle and the achievement of pregnancy.
This test is performed approximately eleven days after the embryo transfer, giving your body the necessary time to respond to implantation. While waiting for results can be an emotional experience, our dedicated team is here to support you regardless of the outcome.
This webinar, presented by fertility specialists Dr Chris Russell and Dr Nicole Hope, provides a more detailed explanation of the IVF process.
Why choose Newlife IVF?
At Newlife IVF, we understand how significant the IVF process is, and we’re committed to walking beside you on your journey to parenthood. Whether celebrating your success or exploring the next steps, you’ll always have compassionate care and expert guidance from our team.
Clinician-owned and led fertility clinic in Melbourne
As one of few independent specialist fertility centres in Victoria, we take pride in offering a more personalised, compassionate and supportive experience compared to corporate-owned clinics.
State-of-the-art IVF treatment in Melbourne
Every aspect of our practice is thoughtfully designed with your needs in mind, from our expert-led care to our state-of-the-art laboratory and scientific tools and techniques.
Advanced scientific techniques and high IVF success rates
We incorporate cutting-edge scientific advancements into every step of our IVF treatment process, helping to give you the best possible chance of achieving a successful pregnancy.
Our approach includes the use of the EmbryoScope time-lapse system, which provides continuous monitoring of embryo development, sequential media to nurture embryos, and EmbryoGlue to enhance implantation potential when transferring embryos into the uterus.
For ICSI treatment, we take it a step further with egg spindle visualisation technology, allowing us to carefully select eggs with the greatest potential for fertilisation.
Our IVF success rates reflect the effectiveness of these methods, consistently exceeding the national average and giving our patients a better chance of achieving their dream of parenthood.
Accessible and affordable IVF treatment in Melbourne
At Newlife IVF, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to build their family, which is why we are committed to providing affordable IVF treatment. Our fee structure is designed to be transparent and accessible, ensuring that fertility treatment, including IVF, is reasonably priced and doesn’t involve the stress of unexpected costs.
Contact Newlife IVF – your trusted fertility clinic in Melbourne
What is IVF and how does it work?