Why the growth in cannabis products has got fertility experts worried
With cannabis-based products becoming increasingly popular for anxiety and endometriosis pain, new research has raised important concerns about their impact on fertility. A/Prof Alex Polyakov, Medical Director at Genea Fertility Melbourne and Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Melbourne, says women trying to conceive, naturally or through IVF, should avoid cannabis in all forms. […]
Trump pregnancy warning: What experts say about paracetamol risks
US President Donald Trump’s recent warning for pregnant women to “tough it out” without paracetamol has caused confusion and alarm. Experts, including A/Prof Alex Polyakov, Medical Director at Genea Fertility Melbourne, have stepped in to clarify the evidence. In the article, A/Prof Polyakov explains that most studies linking paracetamol to autism and ADHD are retrospective. […]
Gestational diabetes linked to autism in study: what scientists say
A major study involving more than nine million pregnancies has suggested a possible link between gestational diabetes and an increased risk of ADHD and autism in children. A/Prof Alex Polyakov explains that while there appears to be “a signal,” the research cannot prove cause and effect. He highlights that genetics remain the strongest driver of […]
Trump to link Tylenol use in pregnant women to autism as president promises ‘amazing’ announcement
US President Donald Trump made headlines with comments linking paracetamol use during pregnancy to autism and urged pregnant women to avoid it unless necessary — sparking controversy among scientists and health experts. In The Independent, A/Prof Alex Polyakov weighs in on what the evidence really shows: breaking down what current studies can and can’t tell […]
Mapped: Widows’ access to partners’ sperm varies wildly across Australia
Posthumous sperm use remains uncommon in Australia, usually arising after the sudden and unexpected death of a partner. A/Prof Alex Polyakov, Fertility Specialist and Medical Director at Genea Melbourne City, has seen first-hand how the legal complexities add further strain for those already experiencing grief. He has raised concerns about the unfairness of state-by-state legislation […]
CT scans before conception linked to pregnancy risks
Recent research has suggested a possible link between CT scans before conception and an increased risk of pregnancy loss or congenital anomalies. A/Prof Alex Polyakov notes that while these findings are statistically detectable in large datasets, the differences are modest and may not be clinically meaningful for individual patients. He also highlights that many women […]
Cannabis Use May Affect IVF, Scientists Warn
Cannabis and Fertility: Why Patients Should Be Cautious A new study published in Nature Communications has raised concerns about the effects of cannabis on egg and embryo development in women undergoing IVF. While the study did not examine natural conception, researchers found evidence that THC exposure may reduce embryo quality and increase the risk of […]
Can artificial intelligence models provide reliable medical counselling to fertility patients?
In this latest publication, A/Prof Alex Polyakov and colleagues investigate how generative AI models compare with fertility specialists when asked real-world clinical questions. The findings shed light on both the potential and current limitations of AI in reproductive medicine. Read the article
Secondary Infertility
Secondary infertility, the struggle to conceive after having a child is a silent challenge many families face. This episode features A/Prof Alex Polyakov, Medical Director at Genea Fertility Melbourne City. Alex offers valuable insights into this often-overlooked issue. Discussed was the emotional impact, potential causes, and steps towards overcoming secondary infertility, shedding light on a […]
This new breakthrough could be key in managing endometriosis
Endometriosis, a chronic condition affecting millions worldwide, may see a breakthrough in treatment thanks to new gut microbiome research. A/Prof Alex Polyakov describes the disorder as misplaced uterine-like tissue growth, causing severe pain and potential infertility. While traditional treatments range from pain relief to surgery, emerging options like the newly approved Ryego and dietary interventions offer fresh […]
