#94 Uniquely Wired, Uniquely Trying: Trauma & IVF Through a Neurodivergent Lens with Liz Bancroft
Episode description
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
https://emdraa.org/find-a-therapist/