#19: Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority (VARTA)

#19: Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority (VARTA)

Author: Sexual Health Victoria November 19, 2019 Duration: 27:03
In this episode, we interview Kate Bourne from the Victorian Assisted Reproduction Treatment Authority (VARTA). VARTA is responsible for the registration of reproductive clinics, public education, donor conception registers and can connect people with a sperm or egg donor. Statistically, there is a child in every class who was conceived through some kind of Assisted Reproductive Technology. When FPV run classes in primary school about making babies we talk about IVF and other types of Assisted Reproductive Technology. We think it is important that all types of conception are included. Kate discusses the role of VARTA, provides guidance about what to say to children about alternative methods of conception, and when to have those conversations. Enjoy!  Resources: VARTA website for news about fertility, includes links to support groups. VARTA page titled When to tell: ages and stages giving detailed advice on how to tell children about IVF or ART at different ages.  The Donor Conception Network  for books to help explain different types of conception. Corey Silverberg’s book – What Makes A Baby  is a great book to start a conversation about babies no matter how they were conceived. VARTA & FPV teaching module is a classroom resource to use for students grade 3- 10 when teaching about Assisted Reproductive Technology. More information about FPV @ fpv.org.au

Talking about bodies, relationships, and sexuality can feel daunting, whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious. Doing ‘IT‘ is here to make those essential conversations a little easier and a lot more informed. Created by the Schools, Community and Disability team at Sexual Health Victoria, this podcast brings expert voices directly to you, demystifying the wide world of relationships and sexuality education without judgment. Each episode delves into practical and nuanced topics-from navigating puberty and understanding consent to exploring identity and fostering safe, healthy relationships. We recognize that many adults struggle with how to start these talks with the young people in their care. That’s precisely why this resource exists: to offer clarity, evidence-based information, and a sense of shared experience. Tuning in, you’ll hear straightforward discussions that replace anxiety with actionable knowledge, helping to build a foundation for open, honest dialogue. This isn't about a single lecture; it's an ongoing conversation that evolves with life's changes. Join us on Doing ‘IT‘ for a compassionate and comprehensive guide to topics that matter deeply to everyone's wellbeing.
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