Patient story: My Vegan IVF journey

An exclusive interview with Hannah, creator of the Two Spoons, the plant-based recipe blog

On EP40 of My Fertility Podcast, we explore the powerful intersection of veganism, fertility, and IVF through the candid and inspiring story of Hannah, creator of the Two Spoons blog and cookbook. Hannah’s story offers unique insights into balancing a vegan lifestyle with the emotional and physical challenges of infertility. Below is a detailed interview where Hannah shares her experiences, offers advice, and inspires others facing similar challenges.

Starting the Vegan IVF Journey

Let’s start from the beginning. When did you and your husband decide to start a family, and how did veganism affect your journey?

Hannah: My husband Mitch and I started thinking about family shortly after we got married while living in France. Initially, we weren’t actively trying—I went off birth control, thinking, “If it happens, it happens.” We spent a few wonderful years enjoying life in France, not placing too much pressure on the process.

When we moved back to Canada in 2019, we focused on starting our family. I felt optimistic. I thought I knew how to track my ovulation and believed we were doing everything right. I even took comfort in our lifestyle: I’m a vegan food blogger, and we ate healthily and stayed active. But after six to eight months of trying without success, I began to worry. I reached out to my doctor, and though he assured me it could take a year, he suggested a referral to a fertility clinic just in case.

We were still hopeful. In fact, I remember thinking, “By the time the clinic calls, I’ll be pregnant.” But when that call came, it was a shock—I wasn’t pregnant, and our journey into fertility treatments had just begun.

Balancing Veganism and Fertility Challenges

Many people associate diet with fertility. Did you ever feel pressure or doubt about being vegan during this time?

Hannah: Definitely. There’s a common misconception that being vegan can harm fertility, and I faced plenty of comments questioning whether my diet was the issue. But the reality couldn’t have been more different. Our fertility team made recommendations, like limiting red meat and eating more fruits and vegetables, which aligned perfectly with a plant-based lifestyle. Knowing that reassured me—we were already doing everything we could to support fertility through diet.

That said, I understand the need for balance. It’s about doing what feels right for you. I made sure to take my prenatal vitamins, eat nutrient-dense foods, and focus on holistic health. There was no need to abandon my vegan lifestyle—it was about embracing what worked for me and ensuring I felt confident and prepared for the IVF process.

IVF and Emotional Resilience

Moving from trying naturally to IVF is a big mental leap. How did you process that transition?

Hannah: It was a huge leap. When we learned we’d need IVF with ICSI due to my husband’s sperm motility issue, it felt like the ground had been pulled out from under us. At first, I was overwhelmed, going from believing we had no fertility issues to needing full IVF. I thought, “How did we get here?”

Our fertility specialist was instrumental in helping me shift my mindset. They reminded us that our issue was solvable and that we had great odds of success. Their optimism became my anchor. Whenever I felt down, Mitch would remind me, “This is just an obstacle. We can overcome it.”

I also leaned heavily on mental practices. I wrote mantras like, “My body is capable” and “I’m going to get my baby,” and read them whenever I felt overwhelmed. These moments of self-reassurance, combined with my husband’s support, helped me navigate the emotional ups and downs of IVF.

Vegan Lifestyle Meets IVF: A Holistic Approach

You’ve mentioned your vegan lifestyle aligns with holistic values. How did that fit with IVF, a process often seen as clinical?

Hannah: At first, I struggled with IVF not feeling “natural.” As someone who values holistic living, I found it hard to reconcile that this was how we’d start our family. Over time, though, I realized there’s no single “natural” way to create life. IVF is just as miraculous as any other path to parenthood.

What made it easier was blending IVF with holistic practices. I incorporated yoga, meditation, and nourishing meals into my daily routine. I also leaned into the sense of community—friends, family, and online spaces. IVF is more than science; it’s a deeply human experience that requires emotional support at every step. By combining the clinical and the holistic, I found my balance.

Breaking Myths About Veganism and Fertility

What’s the biggest misconception you’ve faced about veganism and fertility?

Hannah: Without question, it’s the idea that veganism causes infertility. Many people assume that a vegan diet lacks essential nutrients, but that’s simply not true. A well-balanced vegan diet can provide everything you need to support fertility. In fact, recommendations like reducing red meat or alcohol align perfectly with a plant-based lifestyle.

There’s also a lot of pressure on women to bear the weight of fertility issues. Even after learning that our challenges were due to Mitch’s motility, people still assumed my diet was the problem. It’s frustrating but important to remember that fertility challenges are often unrelated to lifestyle. Focusing on nutrient-dense, plant-based foods only enhanced my confidence and preparation for IVF.

Advice for Others Navigating Fertility Challenges

What advice would you give to someone at the start of their fertility journey, especially if they’re vegan?

Hannah: First, find your support network. Fertility struggles can feel isolating, but connecting with others—whether through podcasts, Instagram, or online groups—reminds you that you’re not alone. Hearing others’ stories gave me hope that I could one day share my own success.

Second, protect your emotional well-being. It’s okay to step back from baby showers or events that feel too painful. You don’t have to explain yourself—just do what you need to guard your heart. For me, this also meant finding safe spaces to talk, like with my mom or a friend.

Lastly, hold onto hope. Whether it’s IVF, adoption, or another path, if you want to be a parent, it can happen. Stay focused on your journey, and give yourself grace as you navigate it.

Reflections

With two beautiful boys now, how do you reflect on your journey?

Hannah: Looking back, I’m so grateful for how far we’ve come. IVF gave us our family, and I’m proud to talk about it. I feel like it’s important to normalize these conversations and remind others that there’s no “right” way to build a family. Whether through IVF or any other means, the end result is still a miracle.

Thank you so much, Hannah, for sharing your story and offering so much hope to others. Before we wrap up, can you tell us about your cookbook and blog for those inspired to explore plant-based eating?

Hannah: Of course! My Two Spoons Cookbook features French-inspired plant-based recipes from my time living abroad. It’s full of nourishing, delicious options that even non-vegans love—like my artichoke dip, which has become a favorite among readers. You can find more recipes on my blog (Two Spoons) and the Two Spoons app. I hope they inspire people to enjoy more plant-based meals, whether they’re vegan or just curious!

Hannah’s story is a testament to resilience, hope, and staying true to yourself. Her journey reminds us that challenges—whether fertility-related or otherwise—can be overcome with the right mindset, support, and self-care. Whether you’re navigating infertility or exploring veganism, her insights are a source of strength and inspiration.