The Ultimate Pregnancy Prep Podcast
The Ultimate Pregnancy Prep Podcast helps women who are planning to have a baby in their 30s prepare their bodies naturally for a healthy pregnancy. Host Nora DeBora, a Preconception Health Coach and Holistic Nutritionist, shares advice on avoiding concerns like aging eggs, expensive fertility treatments, and miscarriages. The show features tips from Nora and other experts on topics related to pregnancy preparation. It also includes a disclaimer that the content is educational and not a substitute for medical advice.
Episodes
205: Can the Flu Affect Your Fertility? What Every TTC Woman Should Know
Fresh off a trip to Florida, I came home and got hit with a flu so hard it knocked me off my feet for almost a week. It drained me physically, emotionally and mentally. As I slowly recovered, I kept thinking about you, because when you're trying to conceive, getting sick brings up a whole extra layer of worry. Will this mess up my cycle? Did I just lose this month? What if I conceived and I have a
204: Is It PMS, PMDD or PME? Body Literacy For Your Fertility Journey with Laura Federico & Morgan Miller
In today's episode, I'm sitting down with psychotherapist Laura Federico and midwife Morgan Miller, co-authors of The Cycle Book, and they are pulling back the curtain on PMS, PMDD, and a lesser-known pattern called PME that could be quietly running the show in your cycle. We're also getting refreshingly honest about the pressure that trying to conceive can put on intimacy. Laura and Morgan help n
203: Why Sleep Is a Performance Enhancer for Fertility with Sleep Expert Chrissy Lawler
Today's episode is one I think so many of you have been waiting for, because we're talking about the thing that gets sacrificed first on this journey and yet matters more than almost anything else: your sleep. I'm sitting down with therapist and sleep expert Chrissy Lawler, and she is going to walk us through why sleep is basically a performance-enhancing drug for your fertility, what "good sleep
202: Are You Having a Miscarriage? What To Do, How To Heal and When To Get Help
If you're navigating a miscarriage, now or have in the past, this episode is for you. In today's episode I'm walking you through exactly what to expect and what to do, from the earliest signs and symptoms to be aware of, to how to nourish and rest your body through it, to the specific red flags that mean it's time to head to the hospital. I'll also cover what to do with the supplements and prenat
201: Debunking Your Top Fertility Myths with Dr. Sasha Hakman
Fertility myths are everywhere and this week, we're setting the record straight. I'm sitting down with Dr. Sasha Hakman, a double board-certified OB-GYN and reproductive endocrinologist who brings something rare to this conversation: she's not just the expert, she's also walked her own infertility journey. Together we're busting the biggest myths keeping hopeful parents stuck, from how much prep
200: Hypothalemic Amenorrhea (HA) Mistaken for PMOS & How She Got Pregnant Naturally: Christine's Story
What happens when the diagnosis you're given doesn't actually fit your body? In today's episode, I'm interviewing my client Christine. She did everything "right" to start her family, but when her cycle didn't return after coming off birth control, she was quickly labeled with PCOS and told IVF was her only option. Something about that diagnosis didn't sit right with her and trusting that instinct
199: Is Ovulation Happening Without Release? What Luteinized Unruptured Follicle (LUF) Syndrome Means For Your Fertility
In today's episode I'm tackling a question that trips up even the most experienced cycle-trackers: can your chart look perfectly ovulatory and still, the egg was never actually released? It sounds impossible, but it's a real, documented condition called Luteinized Unruptured Follicle Syndrome, or LUF syndrome. Today I'll be breaking down why ovulation, not your period, is the true main event of yo
198: From a Long IVF Road to Conceiving Naturally When She Least Expected It: Alessandra's Story
In today's episode, my client Alessandra returns to share the raw, deeply personal evolution of her fertility journey, from the heartbreak of loss and a long road through IVF to the unexpected surprise of conceiving naturally when she least expected it. Today, we peel back the layers of what it really looks like to move through grief, release control, and rebuild trust in your body after everythin
197: The Stress You Don't Feel: Demystifying Cortisol, Adrenal Health & Time To Conception
In today's episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on the stress you don't feel, the kind that quietly hijacks your hormones, drains your adrenals, and can drag out your time to conception without you ever naming it as "stress." I'm going to decode your nervous system in real-life terms, show how it flips you between "safe to make a baby" mode and "must survive" mode, and connect that directly to co
196: Behind The Scenes of IVF Prep: PMOS, Male Factor Infertility & Their First-Round IVF Success (Emily's Story)
In this episode, I'm sitting down with my client Emily to share the real story behind her path to pregnancy and it's not as straightforward as it may seem. What began as a proactive plan quickly turned into navigating a PCOS diagnosis, male factor infertility, and a fertility experience that left her feeling discouraged and dismissed. But instead of accepting that as her path, Emily chose to do th
195: Surrender to your feminine frequency to help you conceive with Chelsea Ann
Today's episode invites you into a completely different way of thinking about fertility, motherhood, and what it really means to prepare for a child. I'm joined by Chelsea Ann O'Brien, an integrative medicine nurse practitioner who bridges clinical practice with Eastern spirituality, and together we explore the concept of "feminine frequency" and why so many women today feel disconnected from it.
194: The Hidden Risk: Why Carrier Screening Should Come First with Orren Alperstein and Janet Rosenfield
Before you start trying to conceive, there's one step most people never think about, but it can completely change how you plan for a healthy pregnancy. Genetic carrier screening isn't just for people with a known family history. In fact, most carriers are completely healthy and have no idea they carry a genetic condition. So the question becomes: what don't you know and how could that information
193: The Missing Pieces Behind Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: Briony's Story and What Finally Worked
After two back-to-back miscarriages, my client Briony knew something deeper was being missed. On the surface, she was "doing everything right," but underneath were silent unresolved issues like chronic stress, overtraining, and hidden gut infections. In today's episode, I interview Briony, who shares how she shifted from chasing answers to truly supporting her body as a whole system, alongside he
192: Getting Pregnant After 35: The Functional Roadmap No One Gave You
In today's episode, I am getting into one of the most requested topics, getting pregnant after 35. And I want to be clear right from the start, this is not a scary episode. This is an empowering one. We're going to talk about what's actually happening in your body as you age; the biology, the statistics, the real reasons conception can feel harder and I'm going to break it all down in a way that m
191: Brittany's Story: Misdiagnosed PCOS, Miscarriage, and How She Got Pregnant Naturally Before Starting IUI
What if everything you were told about your fertility, wasn't the full picture? In today's episode, I'm sitting down with my client Brittany, who takes us behind the scenes of a journey that began with a PCOS diagnosis, one that didn't fully reflect what was actually happening in her body. This diagnosis was then followed by a devastating miscarriage and mounting pressure to move forward with IUI.
190: 7 Green Flags That Your Body Is Ready For Pregnancy
If you've been obsessing over what's "wrong" with your body while TTC, this episode is going to feel like a deep exhale. In today's episode, instead of only hunting for red flags, I'm walking you through seven powerful "green flags" your cycle and your body use to quietly tell you, "Hey, things are actually lining up for pregnancy." I take you through my top seven science-backed signs that your f
189: Clomid vs. Letrozole, is it worth it? The Fertility Shortcut that Might Be Setting You Back
Imagine this: after months of trying, you finally see your doctor, pour your heart out, and within minutes you're handed a prescription for Clomid or letrozole with the promise that it will "give you a boost." But what if that supposed shortcut isn't actually a shortcut at all and might even be quietly working against your hormones, your uterine lining, and your long‑term chances of getting and st
188: Why your fertile signs matter more than your health apps with Sabrina Nowicki
In a world where our watches, rings, and phones are constantly tracking our bodies, it's easy to forget that the most powerful "device" we have is our own body awareness. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Sabrina Nowicki, CEO and co-founder of the Cyclicity app, to explore why understanding your fertile signs is still absolutely critical, even in the age of endless health data. We dive int
187: Early Signs of Ovarian Insufficiency & HRT with Dr. Sarah Daccarett
What if what we call Primary Ovarian Insufficiency isn't premature menopause at all, but "ovarian fatigue"? In this groundbreaking episode, Dr. Sarah Daccarett turns conventional hormone wisdom on its head, revealing how hormone depletion can start long before menopause and why diet and supplements alone often miss the mark. She shares her own powerful postpartum story, the science behind modern
186: How Erika Healed Endometritis and Conceived Naturally Despite an Endometriosis & Adenomyosis Diagnosis
In today's episode, you'll meet my client Erika, whose story is a powerful reminder that perseverance, self-advocacy, and the right support can make all the difference on your fertility journey. After an 18-month battle with secondary infertility, Erika found herself caught in a whirlwind of medical procedures, confusing test results, and conflicting diagnoses; including endometritis, uterine pol
185: Your Fertility, On Ice: The Real Scoop on Egg Freezing with Dr. Jaime Knopman
What if you could press pause on your biological clock, without pressing pause on your life? In today's episode, I sit down with Dr. Jaime Knopman, a leading reproductive endocrinologist and author, who demystifies one of the most talked-about and often misunderstood topics in women's health: egg freezing. Together, we peel back the layers on when, why, and how to consider fertility preservation,
184: Your 'Must Have 3 Stage Fertility Workup' No Matter Where You Are On The TTC Journey
Imagine your lab report is a novel and your doctor only reads the back cover. Technically accurate, but you miss the whole plot. In today's episode, I'll show you how I read between the lines of so‑called normal labs to understand what your body is really saying about getting and staying pregnant. I'll also walk you through the fertility "ecosystem" I'm always assessing, and I'll share my three‑st
183: Pelvic Pain during preconception and what to do about it with Dr. Alex
If you've ever wondered how your pelvic health might be quietly influencing your fertility, you're going to love today's episode. I'm sitting down with Dr. Alex, a pelvic floor physical therapist who's redefining how women think about pelvic pain, tension, and conception. You'll discover why "tight" isn't always strong, how simple daily practices can help release restriction in the body, and why a
182: What to do once you get that positive pregnancy test & early first trimester support
In today's episode, I'll be sharing what to do in those very early days after seeing your positive pregnancy test. Unfortunately, many women receive very little real support in the early first trimester because conventional care doesn't "kick in" until that first prenatal visit, which is often not until around the 8–10 week mark, meaning you're left to navigate those intense, confusing early chan
181: Endometriosis Isn't the End: How to Heal and Get Pregnant with Aimee Raupp
In today's episode, I interview fertility expert Aimee Raupp for a deep dive into endometriosis and its impact on fertility. Drawing from her extensive professional and personal experience, Aimee explains what endometriosis is, how it's diagnosed, and its potential origins. She provides actionable advice on managing the condition through both conventional and holistic approaches, including specif
180: The Fertility Strategy That Worked on their First Try + Jem's Story
What if getting pregnant on your very first try wasn't about luck, but strategy? In today's episode, I sit down with my client Jem, a London-based TV producer and hypnotherapist whose fertility story might just change how you think about preconception. Instead of waiting to struggle, Jem decided to take control long before she started trying for a baby. Through functional lab testing, she uncovere
179: Behind the scenes of Functional Fertility Coaching: My 1:1 process explained
If you've ever walked out of an appointment being told "everything looks fine, just keep trying," but deep down you knew there was more to the story, this episode is for you. Today, I'm taking you behind the scenes of what it's really like to work with me inside private, functional fertility coaching, how we move beyond basic blood work and five‑minute check‑ins, and instead piece together your un
178: How to emotionally prepare for pregnancy test day
Pregnancy test day can feel like one of the most emotionally charged days of your entire fertility journey, where hope, fear, and everything in between collide in a single moment. In today's episode, you'll be gently guided through how to prepare your heart and nervous system for that day so it feels more intentional and supported, rather than chaotic and overwhelming. Together, we'll walk through
177: She stopped progesterone suppositories & got pregnant naturally + Jenn's Story
In today's episode, I feature a private coaching client Jenn, who shares her three-year journey to pregnancy while navigating a PCOS diagnosis. She recounts her frustrating experiences with conventional medicine, which often left her feeling dismissed and hopeless. After taking her health into her own hands and working with Nora, Jenn learned to understand her body, stopped treatments that were ma
176: Is 'lose weight first' really necessary? Rethinking weight & fertility with Dr. Rani
In today's episode, Dr. Rani, a physician and healthcare technology leader, discusses the nuanced relationship between weight management and fertility. She advocates for a holistic definition of "healthy weight" that prioritizes overall well-being over a simple number on the scale. Our conversation covers how weight impacts both natural conception and assisted reproductive technologies, highligh
175: How to prevent Hyperemesis Gravidarum (debilitating morning sickness) with Jes Reynolds
Imagine feeling so sick during pregnancy that even water won't stay down, that's Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), a severe form of morning sickness that can leave women bedridden and depleted. But what if HG isn't just bad luck or genetics? In today's episode, I sit down with Jes Reynolds, who challenges the common myths surrounding HG and reveals how it often signals deeper physiological imbalances,
174: Your complete guide to a successful fertility treatment
If you're gearing up for IUI, IVF, ICSI, a frozen transfer, or even just thinking about stepping into a fertility clinic, this episode is going to completely change how you think about "getting ready" for treatment. Instead of hoping the right protocol or clinic is enough, you'll learn how to turn the months before treatment into one of the most powerful tools you have to influence egg and sperm q
173: How exercise can optimize fertility and pregnancy prep with Dr. Hannah Ryles
In today's episode, I sit down with OB-GYN Dr. Hannah Ryles to explore how exercise and movement can powerfully boost fertility for both men and women. We dive into tailored exercise guidelines for preconception, spotlighting the differences for healthy weight versus those managing metabolic or inflammatory conditions, and unpack the benefits of cycle-syncing workouts. Dr. Ryles also shares insigh
172: Low Ovarian Reserve? What you need to know about AMH & getting pregnant
Low AMH and "diminished ovarian reserve" can feel like a fertility dead end, but they're not the full story. In this episode, you'll learn what those numbers actually mean, how much they really say about your chances of getting pregnant (naturally or with treatment), and the most powerful levers you still have control over so you can move forward feeling informed, hopeful, and in the driver's seat
171: How to get pregnant in 2026
Happy New Year, my friends, and welcome to Season 5 of the Ultimate Pregnancy Prep Podcast and to 2026. This year is all about intention, strategy, and evidence-based steps to help you finally move the needle on your fertility. In today's episode, I'm walking you through my top 3 things to do if you've been trying to get pregnant without success, and my top 3 things to do if you're just getting st
170: High FSH, egg donor and TTC in your late 30's and 40's
High FSH: three little letters that can send you spiraling when you're trying to get pregnant. Maybe you've been told your FSH is "too high," your eggs are "too old," or that an egg donor is your only chance at having a baby, but this episode is here to shift that narrative and help you see that number in a completely different light. We'll unpack what high FSH really means, how it fits into your
169: What spirit babies reveal about unexplained infertility with Anne-Claire Le Bihan
Today I interview Anne‑Claire Le Bihan, a former midwife and naturopath, and now practicing spirit baby communicator, who guides you beyond "doing more" and into a softer, magnetic way of being that opens space for baby to arrive. You'll hear how dreams, signs, and your own inner knowing can become a clear dialogue before conception, why mindset and energy shift fertility from contraction to recep
168: Fertility recovery after HA with Dr. Ashley Burton
What happens when a type‑A, high‑achieving doctor slowly loses her period, her sense of safety in her body, and eventually her fertility, only to discover she is the one pushing her hormones to shut down? In this raw and hopeful episode, Dr. Ashley Burton traces her path from childhood body image and disordered "health" habits through years of irregular cycles, the pill, an unexpected pregnancy an
167: My top 8 PSA's for anyone TTC
In today's episode, I'm sharing my top 8 essential insights as a functional fertility coach that go far beyond standard advice, to help you truly understand, prepare, and take charge of your fertility. Get ready to learn why generic protocols aren't enough, how to avoid common misconceptions, and which proactive, holistic steps can give you the best shot at conception and a healthy pregnancy. If y
166: 5 things every woman should do before TTC with Dr. Roxanne Pero
In today's episode, we're diving deep into the five things every woman should do before trying to conceive with one of the most holistic minds in women's health, Dr. Roxanne Pero. As a triple-boarded OB/GYN specializing in functional and lifestyle medicine, Dr. Pero brings a modern, integrative lens to preconception care. Together, we unpack why pregnancy preparation should start long before that
165: The all in one fertility treatment app with Irene Alvarado
In today's episode, I interview Irene Alvarado, a software engineer turned entrepreneur, whose personal fertility journey led her to develop the Berry Fertility app, a true game-changer in patient-centered reproductive care. From experience with egg freezing, Irene saw firsthand just how overwhelming the clinical logistics, medication schedules, and data tracking could be. That's why Berry Fertili
164: Top ways to improve cervical mucus when TTC
Get ready to discover how cervical mucus works, what it's made of, and why it's critical not just for sperm survival, but for creating a truly fertile environment. In today's episode, you'll learn how mucus quality changes with hormones and age, how to use it as a tool to track your cycle and flag potential issues, and strategies to improve mucus production for a better chance at pregnancy. From d
163: Their four month miracle: Jolene & Rob's proactive journey to parenthood
Imagine standing at a crossroads. where hope and uncertainty collide. Instead of waiting for fate to decide, Jolene and Rob unlocked the secrets inside their bodies, rewriting their future with a science backed approach and relentless commitment. In today's episode, I interview my client Jolene who shares her and her partner's proactive approach to preparing for pregnancy, focusing on comprehensiv
162: How to make baby-making sexy, sacred and a source of profound connection with Susan Bratton
Today's episode is an absolute treat, you'll hear from Susan Bratton, the legendary intimacy expert who's about to turn your conception journey from clinical stress-fest to a pleasure-packed adventure. If you thought trying for a baby meant spreadsheets and ovulation charts, Susan's here to prove that laughter, connection, and a dash of playful technique can make the whole process way more fun (an
161: How to properly use OPK's (Ovulation Predictor Kits)
In today's episode, I unravel the mysteries of ovulation predictor kits with hands-on advice for anyone trying to decode their fertile window while trying to get pregnant. You'll discover how OPKs work, the key hormones involved, and why timing sex just right can make all the difference for conception. I also explore some of the unique challenges of using OPKs with PCOS and share expert tips for t
160: From hormone havoc to fertility harmony: Lindsey's gut healing story to pregnancy
What happens when a decade of birth control meets a fierce determination to rewrite a fertility story? In today's episode, I interview my client Lindsey who cracks open the real challenges behind her quest for pregnancy including unexpected gut troubles, hormonal confusion, and the frustration of a short luteal phase. After trying without success on her own, she signs up for 1:1 private coaching a
159: Beyond the Egg: Rethinking Fertility with Gabriela Rosa
In today's podcast episode, I interview fertility expert Gabriela Rosa who provides an in-depth exploration of reproductive health and the challenges a lot of couples face with conventional approaches to fertility treatment. She emphasizes the importance of viewing fertility as a holistic, whole-body process that requires comprehensive optimization for both partners. Gabriela also critically exami
158: How to know when it's time for progesterone suppositories
In today's episode, I dive into the world of progesterone and reveal why this "pregnancy protector" might just hold the missing piece to your fertility puzzle. If you've ever wondered when you'll need progesterone suppositories, how ovarian function really evolves through your 30s and early 40s, or how to spot subtle hormone shifts before they impact your fertility journey, this episode is for you
157: Persistence pays off: How Rose got pregnant after overcoming fertility barriers
In today's episode, I interview my client Rose, who shares her comprehensive fertility journey, highlighting the importance of self-advocacy and proactive research while navigating her reproductive health. Through persistence, not giving up and deciding to bring a fertility coach on board after a year of negative tests, she uncovered her barriers to fertility that were preventing her from getting
156: How your partner's sperm health impacts placental development, risk of miscarriage & baby's health
Today I pull back the curtain on an often-overlooked aspect of fertility: your partner's sperm health. In this episode, I dive into how sperm quality can profoundly influence placental development, affect the risk of miscarriage, and shape your baby's long-term health. You'll also discover why hearing "everything is normal" from your doctor isn't always the final word and why traditional labs miss
155: How unresolved emotional patterns, grief and fear impact fertility with Elizabeth King
In today's episode, I interview Elizabeth King, a Certified International Fertility Expert, and we discuss a holistic approach to fertility, emphasizing the critical connection between emotional, spiritual, and physical health. She shares her personal experiences and professional insights on how unresolved emotional patterns, stress, and lack of body trust can impact conception. This episode explo
154: Should you be eating low carb with PCOS when TTC?
In today's episode I'm diving deep into one of the most debated questions of PCOS and fertility - should you be eating a low-carb diet when preparing for pregnancy with PCOS? If you've ever wondered why blood sugar seems to fluctuate more when you have PCOS, or why so many experts talk about insulin resistance and its impact on your fertility journey, you're in the right place. In this episode, I
153: Nervous system regulation and somatic tools for improving fertility with Lauren Enright
In today's episode, I interview Lauren Enright, a mind/body fertility coach who provides an in-depth exploration of the nervous system's role in overall health and fertility. She breaks down the complex structure of the nervous system, explaining how chronic stress and dysregulation can impact reproductive health and discusses practical techniques for increasing nervous system resilience. Lauren's
152: Ready for baby #2 (or 3)? Proven prep for your next pregnancy
Today I'm diving into top strategies on how to prepare for baby #2 (or #3), especially if you're still breastfeeding, working on getting your health back to baseline, and juggling life with a toddler. Whether you're just starting to think about growing your family or you're actively trying to conceive, this episode is packed with evidence-based tips to help you feel empowered and prepared. I'll co
151: Sperm health impacts on natural conception & fertility treatment success with Ayla Barmmer
In today's episode, I interview Ayla Barmmer, the Founder and CEO of FullWell. We get into the weeds of male reproductive health, focusing on the critical importance of sperm quality and its broader implications for fertility and healthy children. Our conversation offers practical advice for individuals trying to conceive, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to reproductive health that i
150: The affordable genetic test to help you get pregnant (Grow Baby)
In today's episode, I'm diving into the fascinating world of genetic testing for fertility, unpacking the differences between traditional genetic carrier screening and the innovative Grow Baby Genetic Test. While carrier screening is a powerful way to discover if you or your partner carry hidden genetic risks for serious inherited conditions, what if you could go even further? That's where the Gro
149: PFAS's, forever chemicals and how they affect fertility with Dr. Tony Francis
On today's episode, I interview Dr. Tony Francis, a distinguished scientist, who exposes the hidden dangers of PFAS, those "forever chemicals" that are found in everyday products that quietly disrupt hormones and fertility. You'll discover where these forever chemicals lurk, how they impact your health, and why they're so tough to avoid. Dr. Tony shares practical, actionable tips to reduce your ex
148: Naturally pregnant at 37 after healing chronic BV, gut inflammation and hormone imbalance + Damaris's Story
In today's episode, I interview my beautiful client Damaris, who shares her fertility journey from experiencing two miscarriages to becoming naturally pregnant at 37 through a holistic approach to her health. Her story involves underlying issues with chronic bacterial vaginosis, compromised gut health which led to hormonal imbalances. Her story emphasizes the importance of personalized care, self-
147: Is this silently sabotaging your fertility? Endometritis and Urea Plasma
Today's episode explores the critical role of a healthy uterine and vaginal microbiome when preparing for pregnancy and trying to conceive (TTC). Despite mounting evidence linking microbiome balance to improved fertility, successful implantation, and better pregnancy outcomes, most OB/GYN offices still overlook routine testing and proactive care in this area. I dive into how conditions like chroni
146: Fertility treatment planning, insurance and costs with Dr. Christy Lane & Laura McDonald
In today's episode, I interview Dr. Christy Lane and Laura Macdonald, the founders of Flora Fertility, an innovative insurtech platform aimed at providing affordable and accessible fertility insurance for Gen-Z and millennial women. The company offers a proactive insurance model that covers fertility treatments and supports women through personalized lifestyle interventions. Their approach focuses
145: Pregnant after 4+ years of trying, Nicole's story of resilience and hope
What if your fertility journey took years longer than you ever imagined-and the answers you needed weren't what you expected? In today's episode, Nicole pulls back the curtain on her four-year quest to conceive, revealing the twists, heartbreaks, and breakthroughs that led to her long-awaited IVF pregnancy. Nicole shares how she was able to transform frustration into fierce self-advocacy, why she
144: Mold toxicity & its impact on fertility with Erica Garber
Today's episode explores the complex issue of mold toxicity and its wide-ranging impacts on health, particularly fertility and overall well-being. Erica Garber provides insights into how mold can silently affect the body, discussing symptoms, testing methods, and gentle detoxification approaches for optimizing fertility outcomes. Our conversation dives into the complexities of a mold detoxing prot
143: IBS, low FODMAPS diet and improving digestion when TTC
In today's episode, I'm diving into the complex interplay between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), the Low FODMAP diet, and fertility. For many women trying to conceive, chronic symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular digestion aren't just uncomfortable, they can signal deeper imbalances that may be impacting reproductive health. Emerging research highlights how gut inflammation and m
142: SIBO & gut inflammation when TTC with Krista Znebel
In today's podcast with holistic nutritionist Krista Znebel, we explore Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and its connection to fertility. We dive deep into SIBO's symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment, honing in on the importance of a holistic approach that addresses root causes and supports overall digestive health. Krista shares her insights into how gut health directly impacts fertilit
141: What causes heavy periods and what to do about it?
Heavy periods, also known as menorrhagia, are often brushed off as a normal inconvenience, but they can be a sign of deeper health issues that may impact fertility and your ability to prepare for a healthy pregnancy. In today's episode, I'll be diving into the underlying causes of heavy menstrual bleeding, why addressing them is crucial for optimizing fertility, additional tests to help you get so
140: Why you should start with your vaginal microbiome when planning for pregnancy with Ara Katz
In today's episode, I explore the vaginal microbiome with Ara Katz, co-founder of Seed Health. We discuss the scientific understanding of microbiomes in the vagina and its critical role in reproductive and overall health. Ara shares her personal journey in microbial science, explains the importance of maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome, and shares how various factors can disrupt this delicat
139: How to grocery shop (on a budget) when TTC
Today's episode is all about transforming your grocery cart into a fertility-boosting powerhouse. We'll dive into my absolute non-negotiable foods that should make it onto your weekly shopping list, I'll share my golden rule for navigating the grocery store aisles and also explore how to swap out those sneaky neurotoxic foods for healing alternatives that'll make your cells (and future baby) thank
138: MTHFR, nutrigenomics & DNA testing for fertility with Jaclyn Downs
Today's episode explores the complex world of genetic testing, with a specific focus on fertility and health. Jaclyn Downs, a functional genomics analyst, provides in-depth insights into how genetic variations, particularly MTHFR, can impact overall health and fertility. She emphasizes the importance of comprehensive genetic interpretation, debunking common myths and explaining how genetic testing
137: Your health doesn't have to be perfect to conceive
In today's episode I'll be sharing some insights into the idea that your health doesn't have to be perfect to successfully conceive. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure to achieve optimal health before starting your fertility journey, you're not alone. I want to reassure you that conception is possible even when things aren't picture-perfect. Our bodies are remarkably resilient and cap
136: The migraine and fertility connection with Diane Ducarme
In today's episode I interview Diane Ducarme who shares her expertise on migraines, including a holistic approach that combines Western science and Eastern medicine to understand and treat this complex condition. She explores the intricate connections between hormones, stress, gut health, and migraines, emphasizing the body's logical nature and its ability to heal when given the right support. Thr
135: Top 10 sleep hygiene tips to improve your chances of getting pregnant
In today's episode, I'll share how your sleep habits can influence your time to conception. Recent research has shed light on the profound effects of sleep on reproductive health for both men and women. From regulating crucial hormones to improving egg and sperm quality, proper sleep plays a vital role in optimizing your hormones for fertility. I dive into the science behind sleep and fertility co
134: Geriatric pregnancy & how to choose your prenatal with Ronit and Vida
In today's episode I interview Ronit and Vida, founders of Wenatal. They each share their personal 'later in life' fertility journey, their challenge with pregnancy loss and the inspiration behind their prenatal supplement company which is to provide comprehensive, high-quality supplements and education to support couples who are trying to conceive. We dive into the importance of both the male an
133: 5 winter self-care strategies to optimize fertility in the colder months
Slowing down in winter is essential for aligning with nature's rhythms and supporting our physical and mental well-being as you try to conceive. When we resist the urge to maintain the same high-energy lifestyle as summer and instead lean into the season's quieter nature of winter, we can experience improved mental clarity, reduced anxiety, and a more balanced approach to our daily lives, helping
132: Using fertile visualizations to manifest a healthy pregnancy with Lindsay Goodwin
In today's episode I interview Lindsay Goodwin, a holistic fertility expert who explores the intricate connections between mental, emotional, and physical aspects of fertility through a unique blend of scientific and spiritual approaches. Lindsey works with neuro-linguistic programming, visualization techniques, and understanding subconscious patterns in supporting individuals' fertility journeys.
131: Best remedies for boosting immunity when TTC
Summary: There is an intricate dance between our immune system and reproductive health and it is nothing short of remarkable. Supporting your immune system isn't just about warding off the common cold, it's a crucial step in nurturing your fertility and creating the optimal environment for conception and a healthy pregnancy. In today's episode, I'll be sharing my top 12 things to boost and priori
130: Understanding and protecting your mental health pre, during and beyond pregnancy with Dr. Dawn Kingston
In today's episode, I interview Dr. Dawn Kingston, an award-winning researcher and mental health clinician with over twenty-five years in medicine. We explore the complex relationship between mental health and pregnancy along with challenging common misconceptions about the emotional experience during this critical phase of life. We dive deep into understanding nervous system regulation and how
129: Top 3 functional labs to help you get pregnant in 2025
In today's podcast episode, I'm diving into the game-changing world of functional lab testing and why it's revolutionizing the approach to fertility. By examining hormones, nutrients, and your microbiome, functional lab tests provide invaluable insights that can help identify and address the root causes of health problems and fertility challenges, outside of just regular blood labs. Whether you're
128: How to get pregnant in 2025
Happy New Year my friends! I hope you enjoyed your time over the holidays and welcome to 2025. This is going to be your best year yet and I'm honored to be supporting you on your journey to getting pregnant. In today's episode, I'm sharing my top 3 things to do to help you get pregnant. I've divided this episode into 2 sections (1) for those who've been trying for a while without success and (2) f
127: 10 easy tips to stay healthy and boost fertility over the holidays
If you're trying for a baby in 2025, this week's episode is packed with my top 10 tips that will help you get prepared and stay healthy over the holidays. The holiday season can be overwhelming and I know you've been working hard all year to optimize your health, balance your hormones, support your gut and improve your menstrual cycle parameters. Don't let it all go to waste this holiday season. E
126: Coming off the pill with PCOS and what to do when you're ready to TTC with Dr. Marc Sklar
In today's episode, I interview Dr. Marc Sklar, a natural fertility specialist helping couples successfully get pregnant. We dive deep into the topic of PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) including the challenges of working with the conventional medical model with a PCOS diagnosis compared to the holistic perspective on diagnosis and treatment. Marc shares his expertise on the importance of person
