#94 Uniquely Wired, Uniquely Trying: Trauma & IVF Through a Neurodivergent Lens with Liz Bancroft Artwork

What To Expect When You're Injecting

Hosted by fiercely infertile Cassie Silver, What To Expect When You're Injecting takes listeners on a journey through the world of infertility, sharing stories from men and women, as well as her own. Nothing is off limits in this uncensored podcast, as the Australian media identity explores the highs and lows of infertility and everything in between... your legs (literally). A seamless mix of storytelling and education, the raw conversations are set to provide comfort to anyone on the rollercoaster ride to conceiving. Plus, we'll have a laugh where it's most inappropriate and ask experts the questions we've all Googled. Doctors and donors, surrogates and semen, miscarriages and milestones. For men and women, who love men or women- if you're creating life with a bit of science and a lot of love, this is for you. Join the community @injecting_to_be_expectingDisclaimer: The stories of guests are testimonials and do not represent the thoughts and opinions of What To Expect When You're Injecting. Please always seek advice from medical professionals in relation to your fertility journey

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What To Expect When You're Injecting

#94 Uniquely Wired, Uniquely Trying: Trauma & IVF Through a Neurodivergent Lens with Liz Bancroft

March 17, 2025 • Cassie Silver • Season 4 • Episode 94

In honour of Neurodiversity Celebration Week, we’re joined by Liz Bancroft—Clinical and Counselling Psychologist, IVF veteran, and founder of the Hope Affirm Thrive program.

Fertility treatment is often described as a medical journey, but for neurodivergent women, it’s also a sensory, emotional, and psychological battleground—one that standard fertility care is rarely designed to accommodate. From overstimulating clinic environments to invasive procedures that trigger trauma responses, Liz unpacks the hidden stressors that make IVF uniquely challenging for differently wired minds.

But this conversation goes deeper than just managing sensory overwhelm—it’s about healing the nervous system to create the best possible conditions for both emotional and reproductive resilience. Liz breaks down the science behind chronic stress, trauma, and fertility outcomes, revealing why trauma work isn’t just about mental well-being—it’s a critical factor in the IVF process itself.

Beyond the unhelpful “just relax” advice, Liz shares evidence-based strategies for trauma integration, nervous system regulation, and self-advocacy, giving all women the tools to reclaim control, reduce emotional burnout, and navigate IVF in a way that actually works for their brains.

Whether you’re just starting treatment or deep in the trenches, this episode is an essential listen for anyone who feels unseen, overstimulated, or emotionally exhausted by the fertility system—because your mental health matters just as much as your hormone levels.

Resources

www.hopeaffirmthrive.com.au

www.bancroftpsychology.com

https://emdraa.org/find-a-therapist/