From Embryologist to Fertility Coach: Supporting Patients Beyond the Lab

Putting patients at the centre of fertility care.

After 15 years working at the heart of fertility clinics as an embryologist I've witnessed countless moments of hope, heartbreak and resilience. I've been privileged to see science and human spirit come together in the most profound ways. But I've also seen a gap - a deeply human need that often goes unmet during fertility treatment.

Many individuals and couples come out of their fertility journey not only emotionally depleted but also questioning the path they took:

Was this the right treatment for me?

Did I have all the information I needed?

Did I really understand all the options before investing so much - emotionally, physically and financially?

For many, the fertility journey takes a deep emotional and financial toll, and it's only afterwards that they begin to question whether their treatment was truly the best fit.

"It is very overwhelming and there's an element of desperation. It's easy to be blinded by the thought of being successful. One-off sessions would be a great way to get the help when you need it, with an expert like you".

"We really struggled to get to grips with the financial side of things. We were given a price list of £5-6k but the real price was £12k. It was a minefield. We had already committed at this point and felt very deceived by the hospital. This had a massive impact on our stress levels and I just wanted someone to be honest".

These are the insights that inspired me to create a new kind of support - one that blends scientific awareness with emotional understanding.

I now offer fertility coaching, a service designed to empower patients with evidence-based advice, professional experience and - perhaps most importantly - a safe, supportive space to process the complex emotions that fertility treatment can bring.

Why Fertility Coaching?

Fertility treatment is not just a medical journey. It's a deeply personal, emotional and often isolating one. As a fertility coach, I bridge the gap between the clinic and the lived experience of the patient.

My goal is to make sure individuals and couples feel:

• Fully informed of their options before committing financially

• Confident in the treatments they choose, with a clearer understanding of the science behind them

• Emotionally supported through what can be an emotional and confusing time

• Connected to additional resources - including charities, peer communities and reliable support networks

  
  

Whether someone is just starting their journey, considering switching clinics, navigating donor conception, or facing repeated failure with no clear answers, my role is to help them make empowered decisions.

Fertility coaching from an embryologists perspective bridges the gap between the process and the patient.

A Science-Based, Patient-Centred Approach

My experience working across various clinics in the UK, gives me a unique perspective. I understand the technical, behind-the-scenes aspects of treatment - but I also understand what patients aren't always told.

I offer evidence-based guidance rooted in the latest fertility technologies, but always tailored to the individual. No two journeys are the same and what works for one person may not be right for another. That's why my coaching is bespoke - taking into account medical history, personal values, identity and long-term goals.

Importantly, I work with individuals and couples of all genders, sexualities and ethnicities. Inclusive care isn't just a value - it's a necessity in a world where reproductive health care isn't always equitable or accessible.

For Patients and Professionals alike

If you're a Fertility Patient, know this:

You don't have to navigate this alone. Coaching can offer you clarity, calm and control at a time when things may feel anything but.

If you're a Fertility Consultant, I invite you to consider how coaching can enhance patient care. When patients are emotionally and practically prepared, when they fully understand their choices and when they feel truly heard - outcomes may improve and trust in the clinical process grows.

I'd be honoured to be part of your extended care team, offering patients a service that compliments your expertise and gives them added confidence in their treatment plan.

Professional fertility coaching can elevate the standard of patient care offered in fertility clinics.

Working with me

I currently offer private coaching sessions and am actively partnering with UK clinics to integrate coaching into the patient journey. Whether it's a one-off session or ongoing support, patients receive personalised guidance with no clinical agenda other than what is best for them.

To learn more or to enquire about working together, please get in touch at hello@scarlettsalter.com

Together we can reshape what fertility care looks like - more informed and more supported.