When you’re having trouble getting pregnant, or going through fertility treatment, understanding the science behind fertility can be a helpful way of gaining perspective and providing answers.
Fertility SA Scientific Director Michael Barry has been a fertility scientist for 27 years and has seen a number of major breakthroughs in fertility technology.
In this Fertility SA podcast series he explains the science behind fertility – from day-to-day embryo storage and management, to IVF and genetic testing.
“A large part of my job is to ensure that everything at Fertility SA goes right – that includes managing the day to day embryology in the lab such as egg and sperm collection and storage, and ensuring embryos are kept safe in our care,” he said.
“It’s important to maintain the inherited viability of the eggs, sperm and embryos by providing a stress-free environment, so that what the embryos see in the lab is as similar as possible to what they would see in the body.”
Having experienced some of the major breakthroughs that have taken place over the past 30 years in fertility, Michael is positive about the next phase of research coming through, including genetic screening and egg and sperm quality management.
“In my opinion, there’s nothing better than being able to provide someone with a child, I’ve been doing it for 27 years now and I can’t verbalise the privilege it is to be involved in that part of a couple’s life.”
Anyone affected by fertility problems can contact Fertility SA for advice and guidance. Call 8100 2900.
Listen to the full podcast.
