Who Controls Early Embryo Development (Egg vs Sperm)

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Hey beautiful 💛

Okay buckle up, because today’s episode is an absolute cracker. I’m joined by Emma Whitney, also known as Emma the Embryologist, Director of Embryology and Genetics at The Evewell in London, and honestly, one of the smartest, coolest, most down-to-earth humans in the fertility world.

If you’re doing IVF, thinking about IVF, or just trying to wrap your head around what actually happens after egg collection, this is your backstage pass.

Emma’s been in the fertility world for over 20 years and spills all the juicy behind-the-scenes details from inside the lab. What embryologists actually do, how eggs and sperm get their sexy dance on, the myths that make her scream at Google, and how mental health plays a huge role in this space (yes, even for the scientists).

This chat is equal parts science class, girl talk, and emotional support sesh. You’ll laugh, probably gasp, and walk away with a whole new appreciation for the women and men creating life both in and out of the lab.

Inside this episode, we cover:
✨ What really happens from egg collection to embryo transfer
✨ IVF vs ICSI vs PGT-A (and why none of them are “better”)
✨ The truth about day 1–3 being all mum genes, and when the dad’s DNA actually kicks in
✨ The wildest things Emma’s seen under the microscope
✨ How preconception prep can totally change your outcomes (yep, she’s seen it)
✨ Why mental health in the fertility field matters more than you think
✨ The biggest myths about IVF success rates (and what clinics don’t always tell you)

💛 Why this matters for you

Because IVF can feel like one giant mystery box. Equal parts hope, heartbreak, and “what the actual heck is going on in there?” Emma breaks it all down with compassion, a bit of sass, and real talk that’ll make you feel informed and empowered, not terrified.

If you’ve ever wondered what happens to your embryos while you’re at home refreshing your email every five minutes, this episode is your peace of mind.

Resources mentioned:
💛 Emma’s 10 Questions To Ask Before Choosing a Fertility Clinic (pinned post on her Instagram)
👉 @emmatheembryologist
👉 emmatheembryologist.com

My resources + ways to connect:
🌿 Ultimate Preconception Checklist
👉 https://abiwilde.myflodesk.com/preconception-checklist

🤖 10 AI Tools to Support Your Hormones, Cycle & Sanity
 👉https://abiwilde.myflodesk.com/10-ai-prompts

💛 If this episode blew your mind or gave you that “ohhh now I get it” moment, hit follow, drop a

If you’re craving extra support, my Link in Bio is packed with goodies like my free Ultimate Preconception Checklist and 10 AI Tools to Support Your Hormones, Cycle & Sanity. You can even snag a free 30-minute call with me if you want to talk through your fertility journey and what’s next.

And if you want more, come hang out with me on the ‘Gram @abi.wilde — it’s where I share lots of free tips, tools, and fertility vibes to achieve whole-body healing.

Until next time, mama x