In this episode of the Power in Motion podcast, host Kim Hagle sits down with Nicola Salmon, a fertility specialist, to discuss fertility and weight stigma, and how individuals can navigate their fertility journeys without succumbing to diet culture. Nicola shares insights from her own experiences and her professional journey in the field of body positive fertility.
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Navigating Fertility and Weight Stigma: A Journey Towards Body Positive Fertility
Welcome to an insightful exploration of how weight stigma intersects with fertility, drawing from an engaging conversation with Nicola Salmon, a renowned fertility specialist. In this blog post, we delve deeper into Nicola’s personal journey with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), her professional insights on fat positive fertility treatment, and how non-diet approaches to fertility can empower individuals on their path to parenthood.
The Intersection of Fertility and Weight Stigma
Fertility and weight stigma are inextricably linked in the medical community. Many people are told that their body size is the primary barrier to conceiving. This blunt and often harsh advice can lead to feelings of hopelessness and disempowerment. However, Nicola Salmon’s journey and professional outlook shed light on the fallacies behind this pervasive narrative.
Nicola’s Personal Journey with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
Nicola was diagnosed with PCOS at the tender age of 16, at a time when information and resources about the condition were scarce. Instead of finding support, she was met with the harrowing news that she would need to lose weight to manage her condition and that pregnancy would be difficult, if not impossible.
Challenges Faced
Nicola grew up with the belief that her body was broken and that it must be fixed by losing weight.
Empowerment Through Knowledge
It was only after becoming a qualified fertility acupuncturist that she realized her doctor’s advice was misleading. Despite having PCOS and being in a larger body, she conceived easily when she decided to start a family.
The Misguided Nature of Fertility Advice Tied to Weight Loss
Nicola’s story highlights a critical issue in the field of fertility – the misinformation regarding the need for weight loss. She emphasizes that much of the existing research on fertility is biased, conducted by researchers influenced by diet culture. This bias leads to flawed conclusions that often harm rather than help individuals.
- Bias in Research: Many fertility studies operate on the flawed premise that fat equals bad, thus skewing the results and the advice given to patients.
- Impact of Weight Stigma: Weight stigma in healthcare can lead to increased stress, avoidance of medical care, and misdiagnosis, all of which negatively impact fertility.
Fat Positive Fertility Treatment: A Different Approach
Fat positive fertility treatment champions a more inclusive and accepting approach to fertility care, one that does not center on weight loss as a prerequisite for conception. Here’s how Nicola employs this methodology in her practice.
Non-Diet Approaches to Fertility Care
Nicola advocates for non-diet approaches to fertility, focusing on health and well-being rather than weight loss. This approach addresses several crucial aspects:
- Supporting Health Without Diets: Emphasis is placed on caring for the body through balanced nutrition, gentle movement, and stress management, rather than restrictive dieting.
- Advocacy and Access: Helping clients advocate for themselves to get the right support from their healthcare providers, irrespective of their body size.
- Rebuilding Trust in the Body: Assisting individuals to rebuild a trusting relationship with their bodies, understanding that body size does not diminish their ability to conceive.
- Belief and Empowerment: Cultivating a belief system that reinforces that they are capable and worthy of receiving fertility care, thus empowering clients to pursue their fertility goals confidently.
The Reality of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Fertility
PCOS is often shrouded in myths and misinformation, particularly regarding its impact on fertility. Nicola debunks these myths and offers a more informed perspective:
- Myth Busting: Contrary to popular belief, PCOS does not mean an absolute inability to conceive. While it may affect ovulation and menstrual cycles, many with PCOS can and do become pregnant.
- Holistic Management: Instead of focusing solely on weight loss, managing PCOS may involve a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and supportive therapies like acupuncture.
The Emotional and Psychological Impact of Weight Stigma
Nicola emphasizes the profound psychological toll that weight stigma can exact on those struggling with fertility. This stigma often leaves individuals feeling excluded, isolated, and undeserving of healthcare.
Building a Supportive Community
Creating a supportive environment where individuals do not feel judged or shamed is essential. Nicola’s approach includes:
- Validation of Experiences: Reinforcing that individuals’ experiences and feelings are valid and that they deserve compassionate care.
- Community and Connection: Encouraging connection with others who are experiencing similar struggles, thus reducing the sense of isolation.
Tools and Strategies for Empowerment
Nicola’s toolbox for empowering her clients includes practical strategies designed to bolster their journey towards fertility:
- Research and Evidence: Providing access to well-rounded, unbiased information to help clients understand their bodies better.
- Self-Advocacy Skills: Teaching clients how to effectively communicate their needs and rights within the healthcare system.
Nicola Salmon’s Book: “Fat and Fertile”
Nicola’s book “Fat and Fertile” was borne out of frustration with the lack of resources for individuals in larger bodies. Unlike other fertility books that typically advise weight loss, “Fat and Fertile” offers a comprehensive, compassionate guide focused on supporting fertility without the need for dieting.
Content Overview
The book includes Nicola’s personal experiences, coaching techniques, and evidence-based strategies for navigating fertility.
A Hug in a Book
Described as a comforting and validating resource, the book aims to empower readers to believe in their body’s capability and worthiness of care.
Practical Steps Towards Body Positive Fertility
For those feeling hopeless and disempowered by weight-related fertility advice, Nicola suggests a transformational first step: permission. Granting oneself permission to pursue fertility now, without waiting for weight loss, is a powerful act of self-compassion and empowerment.
Key Takeaways
- Believe in Your Body: Your body is capable and not broken; you deserve to seek fertility care now.
- Advocate for Yourself: Work with healthcare providers who respect and support you without focusing on weight loss.
- Connect and Support: Seek out communities and resources that validate your experiences and provide supportive, non-judgmental advice.
Conclusion
Navigating the complex landscape of fertility and weight stigma requires resilience, knowledge, and compassionate support. Nicola Salmon’s approach to fat positive fertility treatment offers a refreshing and empowering perspective that prioritizes well-being over weight loss. Whether through her book, coaching, or the principles she advocates, individuals can find hope and empowerment in their journey towards conception. Remember, you are not alone, your body is capable, and you deserve compassionate care irrespective of your size.
About Nicola Salmon
Nicola is the leading voice for fat folks seeking fertility support, bringing a unique fat-positive perspective to her work as a fertility coach and author of the groundbreaking book “Fat and Fertile”.
She is a prominent figure in the world of fat activism, using her platform and expertise to challenge the weight bias and stigmas that exist within the fertility industry and empower those who are often marginalised to take control of their reproductive health with confidence and self-assurance.
Through her innovative and evidence-based approach, she helps clients find their own path to wellness, free from diets and body shaming, and encourages them to trust and believe in their ability to conceive. With her expert guidance and compassionate support, Nicola is changing the way people approach fertility.
Nicola’s Book “Fat and Fertile
Radiant Vitality – Kim Hagle
Body Image Coaching – Size Inclusive Fitness – Non-Diet Nutrition
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