As a Woman

Can you get pregnant with low AMH, and what should that result change about your fertility plans? Whether you're trying now or hoping to have children later, understanding what your results can and cannot tell you matters. In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Natalie Crawford answers listener questions with Emily Whitlock. Dr. Crawford explains what AMH can and cannot tell you, how egg quality changes with age, and which evaluations to discuss after recurrent miscarriage. She also answers questions about PMOS (formerly PCOS), cervical mucus during letrozole cycles, and medications and immunity testing before pregnancy, helping you prepare for a more informed conversation with your doctor. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Fertility Q&A 00:19 What Causes Low AMH in Young Women? 03:00 Can AMH Levels Fluctuate or Be Temporarily Low? 04:22 Can You Get Pregnant on Letrozole Without Fertile Cervical Mucus? 06:22 When Should You Stop Spironolactone Before Trying to Conceive? 07:50 Can PCOS Increase Miscarriage Risk? 10:00 When Should You Return to a Fertility Doctor After Miscarriages? 10:54 Why Check Chickenpox and Rubella Immunity Before Pregnancy? 14:49 What Tests Should You Have After Recurrent Miscarriages? 16:31 Should You Treat Autoimmune Disease Before Pregnancy? 17:53 Egg Quality vs. Egg Quantity: What Changes With Age? 19:33 Does Fertility Drop Suddenly at 35? AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nearly two thirds of people living with Alzheimer’s disease are women, and changes in the brain can begin a decade or more before symptoms appear. What does that mean for the choices you make in your 30s, 40s and 50s, and how can you support your brain health now? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by clinical neurophysiologist Louisa Nicola, host of The Neuro Experience. Louisa explains how exercise, sleep, and cognitive challenges support brain health, why genetics are only part of the risk picture, and what changes during menopause. They also examine the emerging research on creatine and the questions to bring to your doctor about cardiovascular health and hormone therapy. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Alzheimer’s Risk in Women: What Can You Do Now? 01:19 Why Is Alzheimer’s More Common in Women? 02:13 Is Dementia the Same as Alzheimer’s? 03:48 Can You Get Alzheimer’s If It Doesn’t Run in Your Family? 08:05 What Does Your Brain Need to Work Properly? 11:19 Why Does Menopause Affect Your Memory? 12:42 What Actually Happens in the Brain With Alzheimer’s? 15:34 Can You Lower Your Alzheimer’s Risk? 17:14 How Does Exercise Affect Your Memory? 20:37 Is High Intensity Exercise Good for Your Brain? 22:08 Can Lifting Weights Help Protect Your Brain? 26:44 How Do You Exercise Your Brain? 27:45 Can Relying on Your Phone Affect Your Memory? 29:42 Can Reading and Writing Help Keep Your Brain Sharp? 33:57 What Happens to Your Brain During Deep Sleep? 36:56 What Can Help You Sleep Better? 37:57 How Much Sleep Do You Need for Brain Health? 38:30 Are Sleep Trackers Helping or Stressing You Out? 39:34 How Do Food and Blood Sugar Affect Your Brain? 40:55 Can Creatine Help Your Memory? 44:00 How Does Your Social Life Affect Your Brain Health? 45:49 What Should You Do If You Have the APOE4 Gene? 47:50 Can HRT Help Lower Your Alzheimer’s Risk? 50:57 What Could the Future of Alzheimer’s Treatment Look Like? 52:07 Taking Your Brain Health Seriously Before Old Age GUEST RESOURCES: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisanicola_ Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/theneuroexperience_/ AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you getting enough sleep but still waking up exhausted? Or struggling to fall asleep while your mind won’t switch off? Better sleep starts with understanding what may be getting in the way, including the two-way relationship between sleep and your hormones. In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford welcomes Dr. Andrea Matsumura, a physician board-certified in internal medicine and sleep medicine. Dr. Matsumura explains how to build a sleep routine that works with your body and why persistent sleep problems deserve more than another supplement. She discusses melatonin, magnesium, hormonal changes, and overlooked sleep apnea symptoms to help you understand what to try and when to seek medical evaluation. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Why Do I Wake Up at 3 A.M.? 02:47 How Do Hormones Affect Sleep? 07:36 REM vs. Deep Sleep: What’s the Difference? 10:29 How to Fix Your Sleep Schedule 14:44 What Are the Effects of Sleep Deprivation? 17:51 When Should You See a Doctor for Sleep Problems? 21:30 How Do Estrogen and Progesterone Affect Sleep? 25:43 Does HRT Help With Sleep Problems? 28:18 Sleep Apnea Symptoms in Women 31:34 When Should You Take Melatonin for Sleep? 34:52 Bedtime Routines for Adults: How to Wind Down 37:05 Does Magnesium Help You Sleep? 40:17 Bedroom Temperature and Weighted Blankets 40:59 How Long Before Bed Should You Stop Drinking Caffeine? 41:38 How Does Alcohol Affect Sleep? 42:50 Different Sleep Schedules With Your Partner: What Can Help? 44:20 Is Mouth Taping Safe if You Might Have Sleep Apnea? 45:57 Why Should You Make Sleep a Priority? WATCH NEXT: [insert] GUEST RESOURCES: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drandreamatsumura/?hl=en Website: www.andreamatsumuramd.com LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/andreamatsumuramd,www.andreamatsumuramd.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrAndreaMatsumura AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. #fertilitydoctor #nataliecrawfordmd #asawoman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why are you feeling more bloated, struggling with digestion, or noticing changes in your metabolism when your usual habits haven’t changed? During perimenopause and menopause, symptoms that seem unrelated may be part of a bigger conversation about hormones and gut health. What should you pay attention to, and where should you start? In this episode of the As A Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford welcomes Cynthia Thurlow, a nurse practitioner, metabolic health expert, and author of The Menopause Gut. Cynthia explains how hormonal shifts can influence digestion and the gut microbiome, and how gut health intersects with inflammation and estrogen metabolism. She shares practical ways to support your gut, what to consider before trying probiotics or fasting, and why persistent bloating or changes in bowel habits deserve medical evaluation. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 The Menopause Gut with Cynthia Thurlow 04:56 How Do Perimenopause and Menopause Affect Digestion? 07:39 What Is Leaky Gut? 11:07 Can Hormonal Changes and Stress Slow Digestion? 14:51 How Does Gallbladder Removal Affect Digestion? 16:24 How Does Fiber Support Your Gut Microbiome? 18:46 What Are Signs of Poor Gut Health? 20:41 Bloating After Meals vs. All-Day Bloating: What’s the Difference? 23:13 How Does Alcohol Affect Gut Health and Estrogen? 25:45 How Can You Support Gut Health With PMOS (Formerly PCOS) or Endometriosis? 29:52 Is Intermittent Fasting Right for You in Perimenopause? 34:09 How Do Fermented Foods Support Gut Health? 35:14 Prebiotics vs. Probiotics: Do You Need Supplements? 36:34 Do You Need Gut Microbiome Testing? 37:25 How Can You Increase Fiber Without More Bloating? 39:32 What Is Resistant Starch? 41:40 Can GLP-1 Medications Reduce Inflammation? 43:30 Does Hormone Therapy Affect Gut Health? 45:40 How Can You Support Gut Health in Menopause? 46:46 The Menopause Gut Book and Where to Find Cynthia GUEST RESOURCES: Website: https://www.cynthiathurlow.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cynthia_thurlow_ Book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/777129/the-menopause-gut-by-cynthia-thurlow-np/ AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), previously known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis can affect far more than periods or fertility. What can irregular cycles, insulin resistance, inflammation, pelvic pain, painful sex, digestive symptoms, mood changes, and fatigue reveal about your whole body health, even when pregnancy is not the goal? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford joins SHE MD hosts Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi, a world renowned OB/GYN, and women’s advocate Mary Alice Haney to explain the PMOS symptoms, testing, and treatment options patients often miss. They also explore why PMOS and endometriosis may coexist, how endometriosis can affect the entire body, why diagnosis is frequently delayed, and what to know about hormonal treatment, surgery, pregnancy planning, and fertility preservation. This conversation will help you recognize important symptoms and advocate for more comprehensive care. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Why Is PCOS Now Called Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)? 02:34 How Is PMOS Diagnosed? 05:59 Which Body Systems Does PMOS Affect? 08:14 What Is the Link Between PMOS and Insulin Resistance? 12:06 How Can PMOS Affect Mood and Inflammation? 17:32 Which Blood Tests Should Be Considered for PMOS? 24:00 What Should You Know About PMOS Before Pregnancy? 29:24 Can Metformin and GLP-1 Medications Help PMOS? 35:19 What Diet and Exercise Strategies Support PMOS? 43:05 What Are the Hormonal Treatment Options for PMOS? 48:55 Can PMOS and Endometriosis Occur Together? 54:04 What Are the Overlooked Symptoms of Endometriosis? 55:46 How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed and Treated? 59:18 What Happens After Endometriosis Surgery? 01:02:05 When Should You Consider Fertility Preservation? GUEST RESOURCES: Podcast: https://www.shemdpodcast.com Website: https://ovii.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shemdpodcast/?hl=en AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Which IVF add-ons and fertility tests are actually worth considering, and what should you know before your next embryo transfer? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, fertility doctor Natalie Crawford, MD, answers your questions about IVF add-ons, sperm DNA fragmentation testing, ICSI, fresh versus frozen embryo transfers, recurrent pregnancy loss, celiac disease, endometriosis after surgery, and more. She explains what these options can and cannot tell you, and how to think through treatment choices after a setback. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Fertility Q&A 00:22 When Can You Try Again After a Missed Miscarriage? 04:49 How Can You Avoid Gluten Cross-Contamination With Celiac Disease? 06:14 Can Adderall Affect Sperm Health and Fertility? 07:03 What Is ICSI and When Is It Used in IVF? 07:51 Fresh vs. Frozen Embryo Transfer: Which Is Better? 09:55 Should You Change Your Fertility Protocol After Recurrent Loss? 12:51 What Comes Next for Fertility After Endometriosis Surgery? 13:54 Are Antibiotics or Steroids Helpful Before Embryo Transfer? 14:53 Should You Test Sperm DNA Fragmentation or Karyotype? 16:47 Can Stress or Recurrent Yeast Infections Affect Fertility? 17:45 What Can Cause Recurrent Pregnancy Loss With Normal Testing? 19:34 Should You Get Sperm DNA Testing for Low Sperm Morphology? AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Food labels can make almost anything look healthy, but what is actually in the food we eat? With growing concerns about ultra processed foods, additives, seed oils, and pesticides, many women are left wondering what truly matters for their hormones and fertility. In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford talks with Courtney Swan, MS, integrative nutritionist and host of Realfoodology. Courtney shares how she and her husband prepared for pregnancy before conceiving at 41, and they discuss how nutrition, inflammation, egg health, and sperm health can shape fertility. Together, they offer practical ways to make informed choices and reduce everyday exposures without fear or perfection. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Food Toxins, Hormones, and Fertility 01:08 Is the American Food System Broken? 05:25 Processed vs Ultra Processed Foods 08:33 Food Additives and Hidden Ingredients 12:05 Seed Oils and Inflammation 15:11 Environmental Toxins, Glyphosate, and Organic Food 18:11 How the Body Handles Everyday Toxin Exposure 19:10 Pregnancy at 41 and Preconception Health 22:43 Male Fertility and Sperm Health 27:42 Fertility After 35 and Metabolic Health 33:03 Where to Start Reducing Toxin Exposure 36:16 Fertility Testing Before Trying to Conceive 38:39 When to Consider a Semen Analysis 39:44 Egg Quality, Mitochondria, and CoQ10 40:23 Courtney Swan and Realfoodology GUEST RESOURCES: Website: https://www.realfoodology.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realfoodology AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trying to conceive and wondering whether it is too late to get pregnant after 35? Being labeled “advanced maternal age” can make one birthday feel like a fertility cliff. But trying to get pregnant at 35 and 40 are not the same conversation, so should you keep trying on your own, get tested now, or discuss treatment before more time passes? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Natalie Crawford explains what actually changes as you move through your late 30s and into your 40s. She breaks down your chances of pregnancy, egg quality and miscarriage risk, when to request a fertility evaluation, which tests to ask for, how to track ovulation, and where egg freezing, IUI, IVF, and PGT may fit, helping you understand your options and use your time intentionally without letting fear make the decision for you. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 What Happens to Fertility After 35? 01:24 Is 35 Too Late to Get Pregnant? 03:19 What Are Your Chances of Getting Pregnant Each Month? 04:17 Egg Quantity vs. Egg Quality After 35 05:26 What Are Your Chances of Getting Pregnant at 38? 06:29 What Are Your Chances of Getting Pregnant After 40? 07:35 How Does Age Affect Chromosomal Abnormalities? 11:04 Does Paternal Age Affect Fertility? 13:01 Can You Carry a Healthy Pregnancy in Your 40s? 14:33 What Does Advanced Maternal Age Mean? 16:00 When Should You Get Fertility Testing After 35? 18:13 What Does an AMH Test Tell You About Fertility? 20:33 Is Egg Freezing Worth It After 35? 22:20 How Can You Get Pregnant After 40? 23:17 How to Track Ovulation When Trying to Conceive 24:50 What Fertility Treatment Is Best After 35? 26:08 Should You Do PGT With IVF After 35? AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women, yet diagnosis can still take years. Some women experience debilitating period pain or GI symptoms, while others have little obvious pain and first encounter endometriosis during an infertility evaluation. How do you know when endometriosis could be the cause, and what should happen next? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford talks with Dr. Mallory Stuparich, a board-certified OB/GYN and fellowship-trained minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon specializing in endometriosis and complex pelvic pain. They explain why endometriosis can be missed even after an ultrasound, how birth control and excision surgery serve different goals, what to consider about fertility before surgery, and how to choose care based on your symptoms and priorities. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Endometriosis Symptoms, Treatment, and Fertility 01:21 Meet Dr. Mallory Stuparich 04:32 What Is Endometriosis? 06:09 What Do the Stages of Endometriosis Mean? 07:33 Why Does Endometriosis Take So Long to Diagnose? 09:03 What Are the Symptoms of Endometriosis? 10:35 Does Endometriosis Run in Families? 11:52 When Is Period Pain Abnormal in Teenagers? 13:01 Can Endometriosis Cause GI Symptoms? 13:58 What Are the Treatment Options for Endometriosis? 16:20 Does Birth Control Treat Endometriosis? 18:45 Can Birth Control Prevent Endometriomas? 21:15 Ablation vs. Excision Surgery for Endometriosis 25:04 When Is Lupron Used for Endometriosis and IVF? 28:00 How Does Endometriosis Affect Fertility? 29:22 Should You See a Fertility Specialist Before Endometriosis Surgery? 32:27 Can Repeat Endometriosis Surgery Improve Fertility? 34:25 How Do You Choose an Endometriosis Surgeon? 36:01 When Is Surgery Used to Diagnose Endometriosis? 37:47 Can Ultrasound Diagnose Endometriosis? 39:26 When Do You Need an MRI for Endometriosis? 41:32 Where Can Endometriosis Grow? 42:31 Endometriosis vs. Adenomyosis: What’s the Difference? 43:50 How Is Adenomyosis Treated Before IVF? 45:21 Can Lifestyle Changes Help Endometriosis? 48:49 Can GLP-1 Medications Help Endometriosis? 50:24 What New Endometriosis Tests Are Being Studied? 51:14 How to Advocate for Endometriosis Care GUEST RESOURCES: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mallorystuparichmd/ Website: https://internationalendo.com/drmallorystuparich/ AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your period has disappeared, but pregnancy and menopause are not the reason. Could stress, underfueling, or exercise be disrupting your brain-ovary connection, and what does your body need before your cycle can recover? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford explains hypothalamic amenorrhea and the subtler hypothalamic dysfunction that can begin while your period is still arriving. Learn how chronic stress and low energy availability affect ovulation, which symptoms may signal low estrogen, what testing can help rule out other causes, and why recovery requires more than simply eating more. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Why Did My Period Stop? 01:47 What Is Hypothalamic Amenorrhea? 03:30 What Causes Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea? 04:00 How Does the Brain Control Ovulation? 06:04 Can Stress Stop You From Ovulating? 07:33 Can Low Body Fat Stop Your Period? 08:42 Hypothalamic Amenorrhea vs. Hypothalamic Dysfunction 10:28 Can You Lose Your Period Without an Eating Disorder? 11:53 What Are the Health Risks of Hypothalamic Amenorrhea? 13:26 What Are the Symptoms of Low Estrogen? 15:35 How Can You Track Ovulation and Cycle Changes? 16:48 How Is Hypothalamic Amenorrhea Diagnosed? 18:52 What Hormone Tests Are Needed for a Missing Period? 21:44 Do You Need a Bone Density Scan for Hypothalamic Amenorrhea? 22:34 How Do You Recover From Hypothalamic Amenorrhea? 23:38 What Should You Eat to Get Your Period Back? 24:41 Does Hormone Replacement Therapy Help Hypothalamic Amenorrhea? 25:58 Can Reducing Stress Help You Get Your Period Back? 26:26 How Long Does It Take to Get Your Period Back? AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you know when to continue the same fertility treatment and when it is time to change course? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, fertility doctor Natalie Crawford, MD, answers your questions about failed IVF transfers, IUI, embryo banking, low AMH, thin uterine lining, progesterone levels, sperm morphology, pregnancy after methotrexate, and recurrent implantation failure. She explains what your results can tell you, what they may miss, and when a different protocol or second opinion deserves a conversation. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Fertility Q&A 00:14 What Causes a Thin Uterine Lining After Surgery? 03:21 What Progesterone Level Is Needed for Embryo Transfer? 05:42 How Many Embryos Do You Need for 2 or 3 Children? 08:09 Can IUI Help With Low Sperm Morphology? 09:52 How Many IUI Cycles Should You Try? 11:06 Can AMH Change From Month to Month? 11:42 Do You Need Estrogen or Progesterone After IUI? 12:37 Can High Cholesterol Affect Fertility and Pregnancy? 13:54 When Should You Repeat a Semen Analysis? 14:46 What Is a Pregnancy of Unknown Location? 15:30 Why Should You Wait After Methotrexate to Conceive? 15:49 Do You Need an HSG After an Ectopic Pregnancy? 16:08 Can IUI Help With a Varicocele? 16:48 What Should You Do After Pregnancy Loss With a Euploid Embryo?18:15 What Are the Different Embryo Transfer Protocols? 19:19 What Testing Can Help After Failed Implantation? 20:20 When Should You Get a Second Opinion? AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your periods are still regular and your labs may even look “normal.” So why aren’t you sleeping? Why has your mood changed? And why do you suddenly feel like a different version of yourself? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford talks with Dr. Alicia Robbins, a board-certified OB/GYN, certified Menopause Society Practitioner, and founder of The Elm. They discuss why sleep and mood can change before hot flashes or irregular periods begin, how cycle tracking may reveal patterns, and how progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone are considered in individualized perimenopause care. They also explain the connection between fertility and perimenopause, what else should be ruled out, and how to advocate for better care when your symptoms are dismissed. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 What Is Perimenopause and When Does It Start? 03:20 Why Dr. Alicia Robbins Changed Her Approach to Perimenopause 09:55 Perimenopause vs. Menopause: What’s the Difference? 11:23 Fertility and Perimenopause 12:22 How Do You Know if You’re in Perimenopause? 14:47 How to Track Perimenopause Symptoms 16:02 Hormone Therapy During Perimenopause 17:38 Symptoms of Low Progesterone 18:11 Hormone Therapy, Birth Control, and Pregnancy 20:17 Testosterone and Pregnancy 21:21 Testosterone for Women 23:43 Symptoms of Low Estrogen 25:12 When to Start Hormone Therapy 27:04 Estrogen Patches vs. Pills 27:40 Do You Need Hormone Testing for Perimenopause? 30:01 Is It Perimenopause or Something Else? 32:13 How to Advocate for Better Perimenopause Care GUEST RESOURCES: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aliciarobbinsmd/ Website: https://www.theelmgreenwich.com/ Podcast: https://www.draliciarobbins.com/podcast AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your eggs begin developing months before ovulation. So what can you actually do during that window to improve your egg quality? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Natalie Crawford explains the 60-to-90-day process of egg development and why age is only one part of the egg-quality conversation. She explores how nutrition, inflammation, mitochondrial health, blood sugar, sleep, stress, exercise, supplements, and environmental exposures may shape the ovarian environment during this critical window. You cannot reverse age-related changes, but understanding how an egg develops can help you focus on the factors that may be within your control. Whether you are trying to conceive, preparing for IVF, freezing your eggs, or thinking about your future fertility, this episode offers a science-backed place to start. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Can You Improve Egg Quality Naturally in 90 Days? 01:45 How Many Eggs Are Women Born With? 02:23 Is Egg Quality Determined by Age? 03:32 Egg Quality vs. Egg Quantity: What Is the Difference? 03:13 How Long Does an Egg Take to Develop Before Ovulation? 04:50 When Should You Start Preparing for IVF or Egg Freezing? 05:30 What Causes Chromosomal Abnormalities in Eggs? 06:55 How Does Mitochondrial Health Affect Egg Quality? 08:04 How Are Estrogen and Progesterone Connected to Egg Health? 08:47 What Can Follicular Fluid Reveal About Egg Quality? 10:36 What Foods Help Support Egg Quality? 11:15 Do Healthy Fats Support Fertility and Hormone Health? 12:02 Which Protein Sources Are Best for Fertility? 12:47 Can Omega-3 Fatty Acids Support Egg Quality? 13:33 How Does Oxidative Stress Affect Egg Quality? 13:55 Should You Take CoQ10 for Egg Quality? 14:42 Does Vitamin D Affect Egg Quality and Implantation? 15:21 Can Melatonin Support Egg Quality? 16:22 How Do Blood Sugar and Insulin Affect Egg Quality? 17:41 How Can You Improve Insulin Sensitivity? 18:30 Can Strength Training Support Egg Quality? 19:00 Can Inositol, Metformin, or GLP-1 Medications Support Egg Quality? 19:40 How Do Sleep and Stress Affect Egg Quality? 21:02 Do Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals Affect Egg Quality? 21:44 How Can You Reduce Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical Exposure? 23:02 What Should You Do 90 Days Before Conception, IVF, or Egg Freezing? AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Low libido in women is often blamed on stress, aging, or relationship problems, but changes in desire may begin years before menopause and can involve hormones, medications, pain, sleep, blood flow, and the difference between spontaneous and responsive desire.  Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with board-certified urologist Dr. Kelly Casperson, author of “You Are Not Broken” and “The Menopause Moment,” to explain why women may stop wanting sex, how testosterone and estrogen affect sexual health, and what to discuss with a clinician when something feels different. They also examine birth control and SSRI side effects, hormone therapy, vaginal estrogen, and why women’s sexual health deserves greater attention. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Why Women Can Lose Desire Before Menopause 02:10 Can Your Hormones Change While You Still Have a Period? 03:38 Why Testosterone Matters in Women 05:41 Can Birth Control Lower Your Libido? 08:04 How Estrogen Affects Desire, Arousal, and Vaginal Health 10:02 What Does Low Libido Actually Mean? 10:56 When Low Libido Is Really Painful Sex 13:15 Spontaneous vs. Responsive Desire 15:25 Are You Having Sex Worth Desiring? 16:53 What Causes Arousal Problems in Women? 17:20 How SSRIs Can Affect Sexual Function 17:50 How Couples Can Navigate Mismatched Sex Drives 21:05 Why Perimenopause Can Make You Feel Unlike Yourself 21:24 How Sleep, Estrogen, and Progesterone Affect Desire 21:50 Testosterone’s Role in the Brain, Mood, and Motivation 24:40 How Is Testosterone Prescribed to Women? 27:15 What Happens When Testosterone Is Too High? 30:30 Can Testosterone Affect More Than Libido? 32:00 Testosterone, Wound Healing, and Bone Health 33:25 Could Testosterone Support Hip-Fracture Recovery? 34:00 Can Hormone Therapy Still Help Women Over 60? 36:00 Systemic vs. Vaginal Estrogen 37:00 Why Hormone Treatment May Begin Before Menopause 39:55 Can You Get Pregnant During Perimenopause? 41:41 When Vaginal Estrogen May Help 46:12 How to Talk to Your Doctor About Hormones 48:25 Where to Find Dr. Kelly Casperson GUEST RESOURCES:Website: https://kellycaspersonmd.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellycaspersonmdPodcast: https://kellycaspersonmd.com/you-are-not-broken-podcastYou Are Not Broken: https://kellycaspersonmd.com/you-are-not-broken-bookThe Menopause Moment: https://kellycaspersonmd.com/the-menopause-moment-book AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When your cycles are regular, your ultrasound looks normal, or you have been pregnant before, how do you know when it is time to look deeper? Fertility testing does not always give you the whole picture. An LH surge is not the same as the day you ovulate, a normal ultrasound cannot rule out every uterine issue, and previous pregnancies do not protect you from secondary infertility or recurrent loss. In this Fertility Q&A, Dr. Natalie Crawford answers your questions about ovulation tracking, recurrent chemical pregnancies, PMOS (formerly PCOS), low sperm motility, failed embryo transfers, Hashimoto’s, unexplained infertility, IUI, and when to pursue a more complete fertility evaluation. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Fertility Q&A 00:20 When Do You Actually Ovulate After an LH Surge? 02:00 What Should Be Tested After Recurrent Chemical Pregnancies? 03:58 Should You Fast or Exercise Fasted With PMOS (PCOS)? 06:15 What Does Low Sperm Motility Mean for Fertility? 08:43 When Should You Schedule a Saline Sonogram or HSG? 09:35 What Should You Do After Multiple Failed Embryo Transfers? 11:49 Can Creatine Make Endometriosis Worse? 12:50 How Should You Prepare for Pregnancy With Hashimoto’s? 14:48 When Does Recurrent Loss Require a Fertility Evaluation? 17:42 When Should Both Partners Get Karyotype Testing? 18:41 Is IUI Worth Trying for Unexplained Infertility? 21:41 Who Is the Best Candidate for IUI? 22:32 How Long Can Fertility Be Affected After IUD Removal? 23:50 How to Submit Your Fertility Questions AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk  HOST RESOURCES: Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD  Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com  Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education  This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies. Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For decades, women were handed a birth control prescription and sent home. Side effects were minimized. Questions were met with reassurance instead of real information. That left a vacuum, and into that vacuum poured a wave of claims that hormonal birth control is toxic, wrecks your hormones, causes infertility, and takes years to recover from. The truth? Birth control isn't as simple as "good" or "bad." It's nuanced, and nuance is exactly what the algorithm can't deliver in a 60-second video. In this episode, Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by Dr. Fran Haydanek, a board-certified OB/GYN, residency faculty member, and one of the most trusted physician voices in women's health on social media. Together, they unpack the biggest birth control myths and viral health claims, separating what's supported by evidence from what's misunderstood, oversimplified, or simply untrue. No agenda. No fear. Just evidence-based medicine and two physicians who believe women deserve honest information to make the best decisions for their own bodies. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: * Whether hormonal birth control is actually harming your hormones or fertility * Why so many birth control myths continue to spread online * Which viral hormone claims are backed by evidence and which aren't * How different birth control methods affect fertility, PMOS, and egg freezing * What every woman should know before choosing, stopping, or changing birth control * Why better conversations with your doctor can completely change your care Whether you're choosing a birth control method, planning for pregnancy, managing PMOS, or simply trying to separate fact from fiction online, this episode will help you better understand your body and make more informed decisions with confidence. Topics covered: hormonal birth control, birth control myths, birth control pill, fertility, infertility, PMOS, post birth control syndrome, hormonal IUDs, IUD insertion pain, Depo-Provera, Nexplanon, tubal ligation, salpingectomy, egg freezing, Dutch Test, estrogen dominance, adrenal fatigue, women's hormones, reproductive health. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Why birth control misinformation spread so fast 05:13 The list of doctors who will tie your tubes 08:52 Can you get your tubes untied later? 10:13 Does removing your tubes lower your ovarian cancer risk? 11:32 Does the pill treat PMOS or just mask it? 15:40 Does the pill ruin your hormones? 17:10 Do you need to detox from the pill? 17:50 When to stop the pill if you want to get pregnant 19:30 Annual visit vs problem visit, and why it changes your care 22:05 Does birth control cause infertility? 23:15 Does the pill save your eggs for later? 27:00 Does Depo-Provera cause brain tumors? 29:47 Two doctors disagree about progestin IUDs 32:48 How patients changed IUD insertion pain 36:10 When to take out your IUD before trying 39:56 How your birth control affects an egg freezing cycle 41:50 Do blood draws cause miscarriage?  43:44 Do you need supplements for adrenal fatigue? 45:40 Is estrogen dominance real? 46:34 What is the Dutch test, and why won't most OB/GYNs order it? FOLLOW DR. FRAN HAYDANEK: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pagingdrfran/?hl=en Website: https://www.pagingdrfran.com/ You can listen to Dr. Haydanek’s podcast, I Did My Own Research, wherever you get your podcasts. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-did-my-own-research/id1879906055 AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD: * Earn FREE CE Credits: https://learnatpinnacle.com * Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l&si=1zAekOjCpsCdOgJN  * Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339  * Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk?si=b1bfdc1998994e7f  * Follow Natalie on Substack: https://nataliecrawfordmd.substack.com  * Follow Natalie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd  * Follow Natalie on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nataliecrawfordmd  Dr. Natalie Crawford's book, The Fertility Formula, is a science-backed, compassionate guide that helps women understand their hormones, optimize their health, and take charge of their fertility. Get your copy here: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book  You can learn more about Dr. Natalie Crawford’s practice here: https://www.forafertility.com  This episode is brought to you by ⁠The Pinnacle Podcast Network⁠!  Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD is a doctor but she is not your doctor. Infertility is trying to conceive for 1 year or more without pregnancy (if under age 35) and trying for 6 months or more if you are over the age of 35. If your periods are not regular, you should seek medical evaluation with your gynecologist or fertility doctor regardless of how long you have been trying to conceive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Dr. Natalie Crawford dives straight into the heavy cloud of misinformation surrounding reproductive health to uncover the real science behind your body. In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, she unmasks the pervasive, everyday myths that quietly delay testing and cause unnecessary self-blame for individuals trying to conceive. By breaking down outdated medical timelines and complex hormonal shifts, Dr. Crawford shifts the narrative from panic to proactive power. It is a candid, truth-first guide designed to strip away the guesswork, optimize your cellular health, and put you firmly back in the driver's seat of your own fertility journey. What You’ll Learn: The outdated timeline constraint that routinely delays essential reproductive insights and why early diagnostic data changes everything. The biological reality of maternal age milestones and how metabolic vitality dictates your family planning window far more than a specific birthday. The intricate relationship between hormonal contraceptives and cellular markers that temporarily alters ovulation indicators without permanently depleting your ovarian reserve. Why relying on advanced reproductive technology as a safety net overlooks the strict biological boundaries governing egg and sperm quality. The critical impact of lifestyle modifications on a three-month microscopic timeline that debunks the idea of fertility being a solo endeavor. TIMESTAMPS:  0:01:45, Myth: “You have to wait 12 months before seeing a fertility doctor” 0:03:19, Myth: “Your fertility falls off a cliff at 35”  0:04:48, Myth: “Birth control causes infertility” 0:07:13, Myth: “IVF guarantees a baby” 0:08:58, Myth: “Most fertility problems are the woman’s fault” 0:11:00, Myth: “If you already had one baby, getting pregnant again will be easy” 0:11:56, Myth: “Men should save up sperm for ovulation day” 0:13:15, Myth: “If your periods are regular, you don’t need to track ovulation” 0:15:30, Myth: “There’s nothing you can do to improve egg quality” 0:17:29, Myth: “AMH tells you exactly how fertile you are” 0:21:00, Myth: “You need to keep sperm in, don’t get up or pee after sex” 0:22:15, Myth: “You can’t get pregnant on your period” Host Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with Double Board certified maternal-fetal medicine specialist Dr. Amanda Horton to unpack the hidden biological reality behind pregnancy complications. This episode cuts through the standard postpartum noise to explore how conditions like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes act as critical indicators for a woman's future health. By framing pregnancy as the ultimate physiological stress test, the conversation reveals why these nine months provide a vital window into long-term cardiovascular and metabolic wellness. It is a direct, eye-opening discussion on why the medical system’s failure to connect these dots is one of the most consequential gaps in women’s healthcare, and how you can advocate for your own future history. What You’ll Learn: The hidden physiological stress test that unmasks underlying vascular and metabolic vulnerabilities before they manifest later in life. How a specific plumbing problem in the placenta triggers systemic high-pressure signals that permanently alter cardiovascular health. The critical timeline for postpartum preeclampsia risk that catches new parents off guard after they leave the hospital. Why a routine first-trimester clinical reading can mask pre-existing essential hypertension and cause missed opportunities for medical intervention. The specific hormonal mechanism produced by the placenta that dictates insulin resistance and elevates long-term type two diabetes risk. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 – How pregnancy acts as a full body “stress test” and window into future health 08:21 – What pregnancy related high blood pressure can reveal about long term heart and blood vessel health 18:30 – How gestational diabetes, baby growth, and timing of birth offer clues about metabolic and vascular health 33:05 – Why birth complications like heavy bleeding or placenta problems matter for future fertility and pregnancies 38:46 – The importance of postpartum follow up and preconception visits to turn pregnancy history into a health roadmap Guest Resources: Instagram: @amandahortonmd Host Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you have ever assumed that navigating fertility is a journey meant solely for the female body, this conversation is here to completely change your perspective. Host Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down the stark biological reality of male reproductive health, focusing on why waiting a full year before checking a semen analysis is a massive, time-wasting mistake for hopeful couples. By pulling back the curtain on what actually happens in the embryology lab, this episode highlights the deep connection between everyday lifestyle choices and the genetic integrity of sperm. Ultimately, it emphasizes that a successful pregnancy requires an absolute "army of sperm" and shifts the narrative toward proactive, mutual preparation well before entering the conception window. What You’ll Learn: The Myth of the Single Cell: Why the common phrase "it just takes one" is a dangerous misconception for natural conception and the mechanical reason an egg requires a massive collective effort to crack open. The Calculated Total Motile Sperm Threshold: How multiplying specific volume and movement parameters dictates your eligibility for an IUI, and why dropping "injured players" on the 50-yard line rarely bypasses structural damage. The Day Three Embryonic Halt: The specific genetic window inside the IVF lab where an unaddressed DNA fragmentation issue causes development to completely stall out as the paternal genome takes over. The Tingly Shampoo Interruption: How common personal care ingredients hidden in daily routines mimic female hormones, risking physical changes like gynecomastia and suppressed testosterone production. The Invisible Lab Consequences of Cannabis: Why a standard semen analysis can look completely normal on paper while active toxic exposure is simultaneously driving up partner miscarriage rates behind the scenes. Topics covered in this episode include: sperm production and how it’s made, semen analysis and what it shows, hormones and medical issues affecting sperm, lifestyle and environmental impacts on sperm, when to use IUI versus IVF, advanced sperm testing and procedures, practical sperm health recommendations 00:00 sperm production and how sperm is made 03:35 hormones, testosterone, and what semen analysis can reveal 11:25 semen analysis details: count, volume, movement, and shape 14:59 lifestyle and environmental factors that impact sperm 18:51 when IUI helps, when IVF is needed, and why “it just takes one sperm” is misleading 22:35 advanced sperm testing (DNA fragmentation) and testicular sperm extraction 26:42 practical recommendations to support sperm health and next steps for testing Host Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bringing home a newborn can feel like stepping into a world you are completely unprepared for, whether your road to parenthood was seamless or shaped by years of fertility treatments. In this episode, host Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with board-certified pediatrician Dr. Ari Brown, author of Baby 411, to dismantle the steep learning curve and massive knowledge gap that hits the moment you leave the hospital. They open up about the raw, humbling realities of the postpartum period, the exhaustion of early feeding hurdles, and why even medical professionals find themselves completely overwhelmed by a new baby. This conversation is all about replacing midnight panic with evidence-based confidence so you can navigate the early weeks of parenthood without losing your mind. What You’ll Learn: The unexpected hourly timeline that triggers a sudden behavioral shift in your newborn's appetite right after leaving the hospital. A specific mathematical benchmark for infant weight loss that dictates when parental instincts must shift to medical intervention. The biological explanation behind why your four-month-old is suddenly awake all night and how to decode their new environmental expectations. A critical, time-sensitive boundary for infant swaddling and the hidden safety risks associated with modern sleep gadgets. The exact physical markers of respiratory distress and inconsolable irritability that mean it's time to bypass Google and call your pediatrician. Topics covered in this episode include: early parenthood expectations, preparing for newborn care and choosing a pediatrician, newborn feeding and weight loss, newborn sleep and routines, reflux and colic, safe sleep and when to call the pediatrician 00:00 – early parenthood expectations 03:00 – preparing for newborn care and choosing a pediatrician 11:30 – newborn feeding and weight loss 30:40 – reflux and colic 35:20 – newborn sleep and routines 42:20 – safe sleep and when to call the pediatrician Guest Resources: Website: https://www.draribrown.com/ Instagram: @aribrownmd  Books: https://www.draribrown.com/books/ Host Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating the complex world of reproductive health can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to sort through the confusion alone. In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford and Emily Whitlock answer listener questions about secondary infertility, PMOS (formerly PCOS), endometriosis, ovarian reserve, fertility supplements, and treatment options like IUI and IVF. Together, they break down the science behind common fertility concerns, address persistent myths and misconceptions, and provide practical, evidence-based insights to help you better understand your body, your options, and your fertility journey. What You’ll Learn: The most frequently overlooked genetic blood work that could explain recurrent pregnancy loss and chemical pregnancies. How a progressive inflammatory disruptor can silently trigger secondary infertility as you age. The truth behind a massive social media myth regarding oral contraceptives and underlying ovarian function. Why a specific non-medication supplement option is a game-changer for cellular health and insulin resistance. The critical timeline rules and clinical nuances of utilizing a GLP-1 receptor agonist when planning a pregnancy. Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility and reproductive health questions. 4:04 If someone conceived their first two children naturally but is now struggling to get pregnant, could a condition like endometriosis have developed later and be contributing to secondary infertility? 05:06 Why are so many women being diagnosed with PCOS today, and why does there seem to be so much confusion about how to diagnose and manage it? Can birth control cause PCOS to develop? 8:32 Are there different stages or levels of PCOS, similar to how endometriosis is staged, or is PCOS simply a diagnosis you either have or do not have? 10:15 Prenatals contain nutrients like folic acid and choline that are considered critical for fetal development. If they are so important, why are these supplements not routinely prescribed during pregnancy? 12:05 A 34-year-old with diminished ovarian reserve but a normal antral follicle count is considering treatment. How many IUI cycles would you typically recommend before moving to IVF? 13:26 Who is considered a good candidate for IUI, and what factors help determine whether IUI is likely to be successful? 14:24 If a partner has excellent sperm parameters, does IUI still offer meaningful benefit, or are there situations where it may not be worth pursuing? 16:12 What are your thoughts on using myo-inositol or D-chiro-inositol to support fertility? If recommended, where do they fit into a supplement regimen? 19:43 Can myo-inositol or D-chiro-inositol be taken alongside a prenatal vitamin? If someone becomes pregnant while taking myo-inositol or D-chiro-inositol, should they continue or stop supplementation? Can GLP-1 medications help improve symptoms associated with PCOS? And is difficulty losing weight or unexplained weight gain considered a symptom of PCOS? 22:12 For someone who has successfully lost weight, whether through lifestyle changes, medication, or both, what strategies are most effective for maintaining that weight loss long term? Host Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the As a Woman podcast, where host Dr. Natalie Crawford dives deep into a fundamental health pillar that many of us are guilty of sacrificing: sleep. In this episode, Dr. Crawford is joined by her own clinical experience to unpack the direct, profound connection between the hours you spend in bed and your body's ability to regulate hormones and optimize fertility. By shifting the perspective from viewing sleep as a luxury to treating it as a critical medical intervention, this conversation serves as an essential guide for anyone looking to naturally lower inflammation and reclaim their reproductive well-being. What You’ll Learn: The silent internal communication breakdown between your brain and your ovaries that occurs when your nightly rest drops below a critical threshold. How a specific daily hormonal tug-of-war directly impacts your natural circadian rhythm and stalls the release of essential antioxidants. The surprising role of acute inflammation in reproductive pathways and why standard over-the-counter remedies might actually hinder your cycle goals. How everyday predictability and minimizing sleep variability serve as a major, controllable variable for accelerating your timeline to conception. Why reproductive wellness is ultimately a team sport, detailing how a partner's late-night habits can inherently lower overall pregnancy rates. Host Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with board-certified breast surgeon Dr. Sangeetha Kolluri to unpack a vital conversation around the rising rates of breast cancer diagnoses in young women. Moving past generic, one-size-fits-all medical advice, they dive deep into the absolute necessity of personalized screening and risk assessments to ensure no woman slips through the cracks. By highlighting how true self-advocacy and early action save lives, this episode serves as a critical blueprint for young women looking to take control of their own breast health and reproductive futures. What You’ll Learn: The surprising intersection of the peripartum period and an elevated baseline risk that every postpartum woman needs to understand. Why standard age-based screening guidelines might fail young women, and the specific diagnostic gaps that occur before age 40. The hidden relationship between a customized hereditary cancer gene panel and navigating complex results like variants of unknown significance (VUS). How a specific, free online tool uses your detailed family history and imaging data to completely personalize your preventative screening schedule. The critical timeline linking urgent fertility preservation, chemotherapy, and protecting your ovarian reserve after an unexpected diagnosis. Guest Resources: Instagram: @breasttexas Tiktok: @wildflowerbreastcenter Website: wildflowerbreast.com Host Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the As a Woman podcast, host Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by special guest Emily Whitlock for a rapid-fire Fertility Q&A session. Together, they dive deep into the often misunderstood and frustrating complexities of reproductive health, answering real questions from listeners navigating everything from unexpected cycle changes to the emotional rollercoaster of IVF. By breaking down the complex science into digestible, human terms, they shed light on why understanding your unique hormonal blueprint matters, whether you are actively trying to conceive or simply advocating for your long-term wellness. What You’ll Learn: The hidden relationship between a specific ovarian marker and the unexpected timelines of reproductive aging. Why standard workout routines fail female physiology and how tracking your cycle phases can optimize physical performance. The critical uterine evaluation required after experiencing a late-stage pregnancy loss before moving forward with future embryo transfers. How a common, overlooked hormone elevation could be the secret culprit behind abnormal luteal phase spotting. The biological "famine" response that causes the brain to halt ovulation for years, and the specific limitations of traditional fertility pills in restoring it. Host Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, host Dr. Natalie Crawford dives deep into the devastating reality of failed IVF cycles to explain why a negative result is not a personal failure, but rather a critical piece of biological data. By shifting the perspective from self-blame to scientific empowerment, Dr. Crawford provides listeners with a comforting yet highly informative roadmap on how to navigate the aftermath of an unsuccessful cycle and prepare for what comes next. What You’ll Learn: The overlooked biological distinctions between the IVF retrieval process and embryo transfer success rates. How specific milestones in egg maturity stages directly influence your overall embryonic potential. The critical timeline phase where poor sperm quality halts development, even with a normal semen analysis. Why maternal age and metabolic health dictate the mathematical odds of genetic normalcy in a blastocyst. The five distinct frozen embryo transfer protocols used to optimize the uterine implantation window. Host Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

High-achieving women often have everything on paper: the prestigious title, the corner office, the growing family, yet still feel a haunting emptiness inside. In this episode, Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with Brooke Taylor, a transformational career coach and former Google marketing lead, to uncover why so many women are running on a “success wound” that confuses production with self-worth. By looking at the human element of ambition, Taylor explores how we can stop treating our lives like a high-stakes chess game and start finding a truer, more sustainable source of power that does not lead to burnout. What You’ll Learn: The silent epidemic of the success wound and why high-achieving women often use professional significance as a coping mechanism for a "soul sickness." The two distinct power sources for ambition and how one leads to a frantic, frenzied lifestyle while the other fosters genuine collaboration. Why society rewards the "Justin" archetype and the cultural trap of assigning high morals to those who appear to struggle the most in their productivity. The "mental gymnastics" of family building and how to navigate the anxiety of a ticking clock when you are used to controlling every outcome. A breakdown of the five archetypes of high achievement from the grinder to the hider and how to diagnose your specific response to professional pressure. Guest Resources: Website: Brooke Taylor Coaching Instagram: @brookevtaylor Order The Success Wound by Brooke Taylor https://brooketaylorcoaching.com/successwound/ Host Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Natalie Crawford, MD, dives deep into the gap between being "educated" and being "informed" when it comes to your own body. This episode is a direct response to the heartbreaking phrase she hears most in her clinic: "If only I had known this sooner." By breaking down the most common misconceptions that stall the path to parenthood, Natalie shifts the focus from reactive waiting to proactive empowerment, explaining why understanding your unique biology is the ultimate way to reclaim control over your reproductive future. What You’ll Learn: The hidden discrepancy between population-based averages and your personal timeline for seeking a fertility evaluation. Why regular cycles aren't always the definitive marker of hormonal health and what your apps are likely missing. The biological reality of how chronic inflammation and metabolic health act as silent gatekeepers to egg quality. A breakdown of the essential diagnostic data points - from semen analysis to ovarian reserve - that move you beyond the "IVF-only" narrative. The strategic difference between viewing egg freezing as an insurance policy versus a long-term investment in biology. Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, host Natalie sits down with board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Pooja Lakshman to dismantle the toxic "wellness" culture that leaves women feeling more exhausted than when they started. They explore the hidden architecture of burnout - moving past the superficial world of bubble baths and meditation apps to address the systemic pressures and internal "tiny dictators" that dictate our worth. This is a conversation about why "doing more" isn't the cure and how to reclaim your agency when life feels like a burden you’re carrying alone. What You’ll Learn: The critical neurobiological distinction between everyday stress and the psychological collapse of meaning found in true burnout. Why your inner critic might actually be a "tiny dictator" and the simple naming exercise that helps you reclaim your mental autonomy. The "Pause, Yes, No, or Negotiate" framework for setting boundaries that account for the real-world costs of saying no. How to use the "Check Engine Light" metaphor to separate structural guilt from your actual moral compass. Why psychological integrity is the only resource that truly matters when navigating high-stakes health journeys like infertility. Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When we face challenges with getting pregnant, it’s easy to feel like a passenger in a car with no control over the destination. In this episode, Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down why fertility isn't just a matter of luck or age, but a reflection of your body’s fundamental physiologic foundations. By shifting the focus from quick fixes to the biological "radio static" that disrupts our hormones, Dr. Crawford empowers you to take the wheel through five non-negotiable lifestyle pillars. This conversation is for anyone who has ever felt like the fertility industry simplified their body down to a single number and wants to reclaim their agency. What You’ll Learn: The hidden "radio static" within your internal environment that causes the brain and ovaries to misfire. The critical metabolic distinction between chronological age and the cellular competency of your reproductive system. How a specific type of physical resistance serves as a "secret key" for glucose transport and hormonal balance. The physiological domino effect of chronic stress that triggers a survival-mode fuel dump in the bloodstream. The profound connection between the "vault" of eggs you are born with and the modern environmental triggers that accelerate genetic wear and tear. Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. What is your current interpretation of the scientific evidence on DHEA supplementation for women with low ovarian reserve and advanced maternal age who are preparing for IVF? Can you use retinol skincare products while trying to conceive, or should they be avoided during TTC? For someone in their early 30s who has been trying to conceive for over two years with no positive pregnancy tests and has completed multiple IUIs without success, what would you recommend as next steps or further evaluation? What does it mean if someone notices type 4 cervical mucus occurring twice in a cycle, including again right before their period? For a male partner taking finasteride for several years, is there evidence that it affects sperm quality or fertility outcomes, and should it be stopped when trying to conceive? In lean PCOS, what additional steps can be taken before trying to conceive to help regulate ovulation and hormone balance, especially when cycles are irregular and progesterone is being used to induce a bleed? How do varicoceles impact fertility outcomes even when a standard semen analysis appears normal, and what should patients understand about “normal” lab results versus actual sperm quality? Is there anything that can be done to prevent varicoceles, and what causes them to develop in the first place? When a semen analysis is reported as normal, how should patients and clinicians interpret that result, and what deeper factors might still need to be considered? Order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, out now! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want your questions answered on the next episode? ⁠Ask them here! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Dr. Natalie Crawford pulls back the curtain on why the current fertility system asks women to “fail first” before offering help and why she’s no longer accepting that as the norm. Drawing from both her professional experience and personal journey through infertility and pregnancy loss, she shares the deeper “why” behind her new book, The Fertility Formula. This conversation isn’t about fear, it’s about giving women the information they were never taught and the power to make decisions before time makes them for them. If fertility is finite, then understanding it sooner isn’t optional, it’s essential. What You’ll Learn: The surprising shift in reproductive statistics that makes the traditional "wait 12 months" rule a dangerous relic of the past. The specific 90-day biological window where your daily choices directly influence egg and sperm quality before conception. Why your menstrual cycle is actually a "top vital sign" and what its nuances reveal about your long-term longevity. The invisible biological mechanism where chronic inflammation "hijacks" your reproductive potential and how to lower that burden. The critical difference between genetic "luck" and the metabolic factors you can actually control to change your fertility outcome. Resources: Order The Fertility Formula! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. I’ve been on the progesterone-only pill for three years due to other medical concerns, and I recently stopped taking it because my husband and I are ready to start trying to conceive. What should I expect when coming off this type of pill? Are there any body changes to look out for, and how long does it typically take for cycles to regulate after stopping? My husband and I have been trying to conceive for a year. I’m 30 and he’s 32. He was diagnosed with a varicocele, and his only borderline parameter is motility at 36%. I’ve been diagnosed with mild PCOS and had an HSG that suggested possible adhesions in one tube. Our fertility doctor recommended holding off on varicocele surgery and starting a medicated cycle. In cases like this, is surgery worth pursuing, or are treatments like medicated cycles or IUI typically sufficient? I’m 38, have been trying to conceive for nearly two years, and have mild PCOS with regular cycles. I’ve had two chemical pregnancies and recently moved forward with IVF with PGT-A. I’m currently in the two-week wait after transfer but am experiencing brown spotting again during the luteal phase. With normal labs and no structural issues, what could be causing this recurring spotting? I’m 33 with a history of severe endometriosis and large fibroids. I’ve had surgery that resulted in the loss of one ovary and tube. My AMH is 0.38, and there may be tubal blockage, though I haven’t had an HSG yet. I also froze eggs five years ago. How do you approach decision-making between continuing to try naturally, completing further testing, or moving directly to IVF in a case like mine? I’m 43 and hoping to have a child through IVF. I have regular cycles, a history of miscarriage, ovarian cysts, and fibroids—one of which protrudes into the uterine cavity. My doctor has recommended laparoscopic surgery with a six-month recovery. Would you recommend pursuing egg retrieval and fertilization before surgery? And what are your thoughts on PRP for ovarian or uterine rejuvenation after surgery? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now!https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want your questions answered on the next episode? Ask them here!https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you’re just starting to think about your future family or you’ve been navigating the frustrating "one out of eight" (now one out of five) statistics for years, this conversation is for you. Host Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with Emily Whitlock to peel back the curtain on the science of conception and the launch of Natalie’s new book, The Fertility Formula. This episode is all about moving past the "eyes glazed over" medical jargon to give you a clear, actionable roadmap for your reproductive health - because you can’t make empowered decisions on data you don’t actually have. We talk about: • What the first chapter is about and why it is the start of the book • Important study findings • Why infertility rates are increasing • My personal favorite way to track my cycle And more! What You’ll Learn: The Weather and the Runway: Why a specific "biological hailstorm" might be the hidden culprit behind communication breakdowns between your brain and your ovaries. The Modern Inflammatory Storm: Exploring the shift in infertility rates and how our current environment dictates everything from sperm counts to miscarriage risk. The 20% Accuracy Trap: Why relying solely on a period tracking app might be leading you astray and the "gold standard" combinations for fertility awareness. The Biotin Blindspot: The surprising reason this common "hair, skin, and nails" supplement could be completely sabotaging your hormone lab results. Kitchen-First Detox: The high-impact strategy for reducing endocrine disruptors and forever chemicals by changing how you handle heat and storage in your own home. Resources: Pre-Order The Fertility Formula ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. I’m on Lupron for suspected endometriosis and have been on suppression for almost two months, but I’m noticing vaginal cramping, ovarian pain, shooting rectal pain, and increased pain with intercourse. Is it normal to have increased pain during Lupron suppression, or does this suggest something else is going on? How long, on average, should someone with PCOS and insulin resistance stay on metformin, especially when trying to conceive or undergoing fertility treatment? I recently had an ectopic pregnancy located on my ovary. Is this typically just bad luck, or are there underlying risk factors that increase the likelihood of this happening again? After experiencing an ectopic pregnancy, is there anything specific I should do as soon as I get a positive pregnancy test in the future to ensure everything is progressing safely? When trying to conceive, when should retinol be discontinued? Is it safe to continue using it up until a positive pregnancy test, or should it be stopped earlier? I regularly take creatine (about 5–10 grams per day). Is it safe to continue using creatine while trying to conceive or during pregnancy? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want your questions answered on the next episode? ⁠Ask them here! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The medical system often reduces your thyroid—the engine of your metabolism, mood, and fertility—to a single number: TSH. In this episode, Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with thyroid expert and Modern Thyroid Clinic founder McCall McPherson to discuss why "normal" lab ranges are leaving millions of women debilitated. McCall shares her own harrowing journey of being gaslit by the medical community while struggling to function, and together, they provide a roadmap for how you can take agency over your hormones and demand better care. What You’ll Learn: The critical distinction between "crude oil" and "gasoline" hormones and why TSH testing alone fails to identify hypothyroidism in many symptomatic women. The surprising 10-year gap between the onset of thyroid symptoms and a formal diagnosis, and how frequent full thyroid panels can change your health trajectory. How subclinical hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s disease directly impact unexplained infertility and double the risk of miscarriage during the fertility journey. The specific role of low dose Naltrexone (LDN), selenium, and gut health in reducing thyroid antibodies and achieving long-term autoimmune remission. Why conventional levothyroxine and Synthroid treatments often leave patients "stockpiling" hormones they can't use, and the importance of thyroid optimization over simple replacement. Find McCall McPherson McCall McPherson, PA | Modern Thyroid Clinic Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa Resources: Pre-Order The Fertility Formula ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. I’ve been trying to conceive for a year for our third child. We’re both 35, live a very health-focused lifestyle, and I’ve done five rounds of letrozole without success along with extensive testing. What should the next step in evaluation or treatment look like? When using letrozole, does it make a meaningful difference if it’s taken on cycle days 3–7 versus 5–9, especially depending on whether you ovulate regularly? I have high cholesterol, pre-diabetes, and am about 50 pounds overweight, with two miscarriages in the past year. How do metabolic factors like these actually impact fertility and miscarriage risk, and what should be addressed first? I’ve been on birth control since my teens and currently have a hormonal IUD. Does long-term use affect future fertility, and how far in advance should I stop contraception if I want to plan for pregnancy? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want your questions answered on the next episode? ⁠Ask them here! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with Elena Brower to discuss the literal "rinsing" of the brain that happens when we finally stop moving. They explore how meditation, rest, and genuine presence can transform the way we relate to stress, success, and our own bodies, as well as why so many of us feel uncomfortable with stillness, how our upbringing shaped our views on productivity, and simple ways to start reconnecting with ourselves - no special equipment, perfect schedule, or “expert” skills required. What You’ll Learn: The specific mental "rinsing" process that occurs when your attention finally stays in one place. The way a seismic misunderstanding of success dictates how we treat our bodies during high-stakes seasons. Why your presence is actually the most valuable currency you have in any relationship or career move. The three-minute "state change" you can trigger in a car or a kitchen to reset a fried nervous system. A specific balance of precision and gentleness that changes how you handle personal loss and high-pressure deadlines. Find Elena Brower Book: Hold Nothing Instagram: @elenabrower Resources: Pre-Order The Fertility Formula ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. I’m almost 35 and currently going through IVF. I have PCOS and insulin resistance and have had four early miscarriages despite normal testing and blood work. I’ve also had two laparoscopic surgeries for cysts, one showing mild endometriosis, and a uterine biopsy that showed no inflammation. Given this history, how successful might IVF be for us? What transfer protocol do you recommend after Lupron and letrozole suppression for positive ReceptivaDX results—modified natural or medicated—and what factors guide that decision? Can autoimmune conditions contribute to secondary infertility? I have a four-year-old but have since experienced five miscarriages and have diminished ovarian reserve. After four cycles I’ve only had one embryo tested and it was aneuploid, and my doctor says autoimmune testing may be the next step if endometriosis testing is negative. In a 28-day cycle, is it concerning if a positive LH surge happens around days 15–16? And when tracking cycles, do you count day one as the first day you see bleeding even if it starts midday, or the following day? I’m 35 and planning for pregnancy. What are the most important first steps I should take now to set myself up for success? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want your questions answered on the next episode? ⁠Ask them here! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down the profound, often overlooked connection between what ends up on your dinner plate and the cellular environment where life begins. As a former nutrition major and a fertility specialist who navigated her own complex path to parenthood, she moves past the basic food is fuel talk to show how your gut acts as the primary gatekeeper for your hormones. This conversation is for anyone who wants to stop feeling like a passenger in their own reproductive health and start using evidence-based nutrition to quiet the inflammation that could be standing in the way of their future family. What You’ll Learn: The specific interaction between your intestinal lining and the bloodstream that can turn your body’s defense system into a silent hijacker of reproductive success. Why a common metabolic salesman knocking at your cellular door might be the hidden reason behind poor embryo quality and ovulation struggles. The misunderstood relationship between plant-based fiber and the specific gut enzymes responsible for regulating your estrogen levels. How certain high-fat dairy choices and complex carbohydrate swaps act as biological signals to optimize your progesterone production. The way your daily hydration habits and evening routines collaborate with your gut microbiome to either fuel or extinguish chronic systemic inflammation. Resources: Pre-Order The Fertility Formula ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. 1. When taking a prenatal vitamin, how should we interpret the amount of choline listed on the label? If a prenatal lists 300 mg of choline, is that the full amount counted toward the recommended intake, or does it refer to elemental choline? 2. Is sucralose safe to consume while trying to conceive or during pregnancy, or should it be avoided? 3. I’ve heard that high levels of biotin can interfere with certain blood tests. If a prenatal contains 1000 mcg of biotin and someone is going through IVF with frequent lab work, is that amount considered too high? Should they consider switching prenatals? 4. I’m 38, recently diagnosed with PCOS, and have experienced eight miscarriages. I’ve also been told I have a weak and shortened cervix and have already had a vaginal cerclage twice without success. Are there any additional options or treatments that could be considered? 5. I’m 38 and recently had a baby conceived naturally, though it took some time to get pregnant. I know the general recommendation is to wait about 18 months before trying to conceive again, but I’m worried that waiting too long could make it harder to get pregnant because of my age. How should someone balance recommended spacing between pregnancies with age-related fertility considerations? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want your questions answered on the next episode? ⁠Ask them here! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It isn’t about being an expert on the medical details of infertility; it is about being a phenomenal, loving advocate for someone walking through a season of loss and lack of control. In this episode, host Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with Alison Cheperdak, founder of Elevate Etiquette and author of Was It Something I Said?, to bridge the gap between those struggling and the people who want to show up for them. They unpack the human element behind the awkward silences and ill-advised jokes, offering a roadmap for navigating one of life’s most delicate social and emotional experiences with grace. What You’ll Learn: The specific "limitation acknowledgment" phrase that transforms frozen, awkward silences into safe spaces for connection. Why "social media self-preservation" is a valid friendship tool and how to manage digital triggers without guilt. The unique "etiquette of the out" when sending invitations to major milestones like baby showers or holiday gatherings. Strategic ways to "switch gears" as a host or ally when the conversation turns insensitive at the dinner table. The critical difference between offering vague help and the "Tuesday school pickup" method of specific, tangible support. Find Alison Cheperdak Book: Was It Something I Said? Website: https://elevateetiquette.com/ Instagram: @elevateetiquette Resources: Pre-Order The Fertility Formula ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. I’m preparing for IVF and have heard about ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). What steps can be taken during treatment to reduce the risk of developing OHSS? My cycles are about 28–30 days, but I tend to ovulate around day 19 or 20 and my luteal phase is only about nine days. My progesterone level was just above 3, though the rest of my labs look normal. I’ve had two miscarriages in the past and previously used progesterone after ovulation. If I’m trying to optimize my cycle before a future pregnancy, what tests, questions, or treatments should I discuss with my OB? After someone stops breastfeeding, how long does it usually take for prolactin levels to return to normal? If someone wants multiple children, what is the recommended minimum amount of time to wait between pregnancies for maternal and reproductive health? I’m 37 with diminished ovarian reserve and a history of thin uterine lining. My first FET failed, and I only have one embryo left. I’ve had ReceptivaDX, TRIO testing, and hysteroscopy, all normal, but I’m feeling stuck at a high-volume clinic where care feels very protocol-driven. What would you recommend as the next steps in this situation? What is your perspective on using calcium ionophore to help activate eggs after retrieval during IVF? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want your questions answered on the next episode? ⁠Ask them here! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How long does it actually take to get pregnant? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down the data behind the question she hears every single day. She explores why the rate of infertility is rising, now affecting one in five people in the US, and why we need to move beyond just looking at age to understand the science of our eggs. From the reality of ovarian reserve to the impact of chronic inflammation, this episode is a guide to taking a proactive approach to your reproductive future. What You’ll Learn: Why metabolic competency and mitochondrial health are the "missing pieces" in understanding why some embryos are more successful than others. The biological reality of fecundability and how your actual percentage chance of conceiving per month changes as you move through your 30s. Why your cycle is a vital sign and how tracking physiological markers like cervical mucus can help you conceive 30% to 50% faster. The "double hit" of inflammation and how a diet high in fiber and whole foods can actively protect egg quality from environmental stressors. Why the current medical standard of making patients "fail" for a year before an evaluation is outdated and how to advocate for early testing. Resources: Pre-Order The Fertility Formula ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. I’m 35, had a healthy pregnancy in 2022 followed by three miscarriages, and just found out I have 19% Turner mosaicism on karyotype. If I were your patient, would you recommend moving to IVF with PGT, or continue trying naturally? I’m 32 with an LH/FSH ratio of 2.6 and an AMH of 2.7. The labs were drawn around suspected ovulation. Does this ratio suggest possible PCOS, or could this be a normal mid-cycle finding? I’m 33 and have been trying to conceive for five months. My AMH just came back at 0.057, but the rest of my labs look normal. What would your next steps be, and what are the most common causes of very low AMH at my age? My fiancé uses CBD gummies with trace amounts of THC for chronic pain. We know marijuana can impact fertility, but do CBD products with small amounts of THC meaningfully affect sperm health or fertility outcomes? My partner and I are a same-sex female couple (ages 30 and 32) using donor sperm. We’ve had two unsuccessful IUIs, and I’m about to start a third with letrozole. My workup is normal, but I suspect possible endometriosis. If that’s the case, should we be considering additional evaluation or changing our treatment approach? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want your questions answered on the next episode? ⁠Ask them here! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Life can really catch us off guard, and for many people, cancer teaches us about the uncertainty we all face. In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford chats with the inspiring Dr. Dawn Mussallem, a double board-certified physician, stage four cancer survivor, and heart transplant recipient. Dr. Mussallem shares her incredible journey through these challenges and how they inspired her mission to promote longevity. She highlights that true health goes far beyond just working out; it’s about nourishing our bodies with the right food, building resilience, and creating strong connections with others. What You’ll Learn: Why your mindset and "spiritual core" might matter more for your health than how much you work out at the gym. How your brain’s internal signals can actually change the way your body handles stress and heals from illness. A simple mental trick to help you stay grounded and keep your sense of purpose when life feels totally out of control. The one major change to your diet that science proves can lower inflammation and protect your long-term health. Why eating simple, real food, is still the best way to fight disease and feel your best. The surprising link between your current health habits and your future fertility, even when the odds seem stacked against you. How a "near-death" perspective can shift your daily habits from a place of restriction to a place of true nourishment. The biological reality of "miracles" and how the body can thrive even after a diagnosis that seems final. Find Dr. Dawn Mussallem Instagram: @drdawnmussallem Resources: Pre-Order The Fertility Formula ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. 1. My wife and I have been trying for a while. What tests should men take after a few failed attempts at 36+? 2. I just got off the pill, and my period came late. Is this normal, and will my cycle regulate soon? 3. My partner has low testosterone in the 200s. Should we focus on shots, lifestyle changes, or underlying causes? 4. My periods last 8+ days. What could cause this, and could it affect my fertility? 5. I had a frozen embryo transfer with 5 days of progesterone and it failed. Could the progesterone have affected the outcome? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want your questions answered on the next episode? ⁠Ask them here!⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever feel like your environment is sabotaging your hormones? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford uncovers the impact of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) that can be found in the air we breathe and the products we use daily. These "forever chemicals" interfere with the brain-ovary connection and affect egg quality. But you have the power to combat their effects. Join Dr. Crawford for practical tips on reducing your toxic load and making healthier choices that support your hormonal health and future fertility.  What You’ll Learn: How EDCs act as "biological noise" in the body, interfering with the critical communication between your brain and your ovaries. The surprising connection between your gut health and toxic exposure, and why some chemicals deliver a "double hit" to your systemic inflammation levels. The link between cumulative chemical exposure and common reproductive hurdles, from irregular cycles and PCOS to your long-term ovarian reserve. Startling insights from the EARTH Study regarding how environmental factors impact success rates for couples trying to conceive, both naturally and through IVF. The three primary categories of EDCs you need to know, including several "sneaky" sources hidden in your daily routine that most people overlook. Practical, sustainable ways to audit your home and personal care routine to decrease your toxic load without feeling overwhelmed by the need for perfection. Resources: Pre-Order The Fertility Formula ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. 1. I’m wondering how alcohol affects male and female fertility, and whether cutting back or abstaining can improve our chances with IVF or natural conception. 2. My wife has low estrogen, and we’re trying to conceive. What should we know before her upcoming doctor’s appointment so we can ask better questions? 3. We’ve been trying for 3 years with Clomid and no success. Our doctor suggested a sperm analysis, but we only have access to a CVS kit — are those reliable? 4. I take CoQ10 while trying to conceive — should I take it all month, and do I stop during the two-week wait since it’s not recommended in pregnancy? 5. My partner has low motility. How often should we have sex during my fertile window — and am I ‘using up’ good sperm if we start too early? We conceived once but lost the baby, and I’m struggling to feel confident. Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want your questions answered on the next episode? ⁠Ask them here!⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever feel like a different person during your luteal phase? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, board-certified fertility doctor Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with award-winning researcher and psychologist Dr. Sarah Hill, author of the groundbreaking new book The Period Brain. They move beyond "bikini medicine" to explain how estrogen and progesterone literally rewire your brain's priorities, stress response, and social connections. If you’ve ever wondered why your mood, energy, or motivation shifts from one week to the next, or if you’ve struggled with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), this episode provides the science-backed roadmap you need to work with your hormones instead of against them. What You’ll Learn: - A deep dive into the "progesterone season" and how hormonal shifts change the way your amygdala processes relationship threats. They discuss why modern research has historically ignored the second half of the cycle and the importance of advocating for better data in women’s health. - Understanding the clinical difference between PMS and PMDD. They explore why some women are more sensitive to these fluctuations and who may be predisposed to sensitivities. - Why "one-size-fits-all" nutrition fails. Discover why your basal metabolic rate increases during the luteal phase and how to adjust your calorie intake to support your body’s increased energy needs and hormonal resilience. - The neurobiological differences between natural progesterone and synthetic progestins, and how each impacts mood, brain health, and well-being. - Tangible, approachable steps to support ovulation and increase cellular plasticity, including the role of morning sunlight, magnesium supplementation, and anti-inflammatory nutrition to help you work with your hormones instead of against them. Find Dr. Sarah Hill - Book: The Period Brain - Website: SarahEHill.com - Instagram: @SarahEHillPhD  Resources: Pre-Order The Fertility Formula ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions.1. Husband has low sperm morphology. IUI didn’t work—how much does morphology really matter? 2. After 5 losses and 2 years trying, she’s scared to do IVF with genetic testing. What are her next steps? 3. Low AMH, 3 miscarriages, 3 IUIs, 1 IVF—doctor recommended DHEA without checking testosterone. Could her high testosterone have affected IVF? 4. Thoughts on phone-based fertility monitors for someone with PCOS? Are urine hormone measurements reliable? 5. Miscarriage 6 months ago, now trying again. Husband has low testosterone—what safe options or natural approaches can help? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want your questions answered on the next episode? ⁠Ask them here!⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Perfect for anyone undergoing IVF, this episode explains frozen embryo transfer (FET) protocols, IVF timelines, and how to prepare for transfer day. Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OBGYN and REI, simplifies the technical roadmap of an embryo transfer so you can feel informed instead of overwhelmed. You’ll learn how doctors optimize timing, safety, and your unique medical history to improve IVF success rates. What You’ll Learn: - Fresh vs. Frozen: Why many clinics now favor frozen transfers. - Transfer Protocols: Comparing "natural" vs. medicated cycles. - IVF Timeline: The prep work required between retrieval and transfer. - Transfer Day: A step-by-step guide to the procedure and the two-week wait. Sponsored by EVLO Fitness: Go to https://evlofitness.com and use code AAW get 6 weeks free! Resources: - Pre-Order The Fertility Formula ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ - Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter - Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd - Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford, MD - Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility - Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. Questions Answered: 1. Not TTC yet but has very heavy bleeding with clots and normal labs/imaging. Could this be PCOS alone, or should clotting or other conditions be evaluated—and what tests should be considered? 2. Currently 9 weeks pregnant after 5 early losses and treatment for Asherman’s. Is it safe to continue Lovenox in pregnancy, and how long is it typically recommended? 3. After egg retrieval, blast numbers were lower than expected. Husband has a varicocele—does repairing it improve sperm quality or IVF success rates? 4. Off the pill for a year with no return of menses despite normal labs and ultrasound. Poor response to clomid so far—should she switch to letrozole, and what are her future fertility options? 5. With very high AMH and follicle count, is a trigger shot appropriate during a letrozole cycle—and how can OHSS risk be managed? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want your questions answered on the next episode? ⁠Ask them here!⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with physician and muscle-centric medicine expert Dr. Gabrielle Lyon to explore why skeletal muscle is a powerful driver of hormones, metabolism, fertility, and long-term health, and how women can begin to support it at any age. Key Topics: 1. Muscle as an Organ of Longevity - How skeletal muscle influences hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and aging - Why “muscle span” matters across childhood, reproductive years, and beyond - Rethinking muscle as essential biology rather than aesthetics 2. Fertility, Pregnancy, and Metabolic Health - How muscle relates to insulin resistance, embryo quality, and fertility outcomes - The role of muscle health before and during pregnancy - Why activity and resistance training are key in hormonally vulnerable seasons 3. Training and Nutrition Fundamentals - Practical ways women can start strength training at any level - The importance of stimulus, not perfection, for building and maintaining muscle - How protein intake and meal structure support muscle and body composition 4. Mindset, Stress, and Long-Term Resilience - How mindset can hold women back from building strength - Reframing stress, challenge, and discomfort in training and daily life - Focusing on what you can gain—in health, function, and confidence—over the long term Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Website: https://drgabriellelyon.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drgabriellelyon/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrGabrielleLyon Order FOREVER STRONG: https://drgabriellelyon.com/forever-strong/ Order THE FOREVER STRONG PLAYBOOK: https://drgabriellelyon.com/playbook/ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at http://learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. Questions Answered: 1. A 30-year-old in a same-sex couple with anovulatory PCOS managed on metformin, high AMH, and otherwise normal labs moved from failed IUIs to IVF and had 19 mature eggs but only 4 fertilized despite good donor sperm—what could explain low fertilization rates and how should the next steps be approached? 2. 35 and trying for baby number two, and her 40-year-old husband has been on the GLP-1 medication Zepbound for four months—are there known effects of GLP-1s on male fertility, and should men discontinue them while trying to conceive? 3. A patient with PCOS and mildly elevated thyroid levels is experiencing medication interactions and was prescribed 2.5 mg of methylfolate— is this dose appropriate, and should she be taking methylfolate, folic acid, or both? 4. A patient with endometriosis underwent two egg retrievals, one with estrogen priming that triggered an endometriosis flare and resulted in very high estrogen levels and poor egg maturity—are there stimulation protocols better suited for patients with endometriosis undergoing IVF? 5. A 38-year-old planning IUI with donor sperm, normal fertility workup, AMH of 3.3, and a personal history of being a twin is deciding between natural versus medicated cycles— which approach is more successful while minimizing twin risk and preserving future fertility goals? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠⁠⁠ Want your questions answered on the next episode? ⁠Ask them here!⁠ ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, breaks down how your hormones shift across your 20s, 30s, 40s, and beyond, and what you can actually do in each decade to protect your fertility, brain, bones, and long‑term health. Instead of reacting only when there’s a problem, this episode helps you use your cycle, symptoms, and lifestyle as data so you can make informed decisions at every stage. Key Topics: 1. Foundations in Your 20s - Why your 20s are the ideal decade to quietly build “future you” health - How birth control can mask your natural cycle patterns - Simple ways to start understanding your cycle and ovulation (without obsessing) 2. Protecting Fertility in Your 30s - What actually changes with egg number and egg quality in this decade - Why “wait until you’ve been trying for a year” is often outdated advice - How to think about ovarian reserve testing and when it’s worth asking for it 3. Navigating Perimenopause in Your 40s - How subtle cycle shifts can be early signs of dwindling egg supply - The difference between “regular” cycles and normal for you - Using muscle, nutrition, and sleep to buffer bone loss, brain fog, and weight changes 4. Menopause, Hormones & Longevity in Your 50s and Beyond - What menopause medically means and why the transition is so individual- How estrogen and progesterone relate to brain health, bones, and sex - A framework for thinking about hormone therapy (and fear‑based messaging) Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at http://learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. Questions Answered: 1. I’m 36 with an AMH of 1.1 and want three kids. I’ve lost 50 lbs on a GLP-1 but still have a BMI of 42. Should I try naturally now or focus on optimization first, and what’s the best plan for three healthy pregnancies? 2. I’ve been trying to conceive for 10 months and have a family history of Hashimoto’s. How does hypothyroidism affect fertility, and how can it be managed while trying to get pregnant? 3. I’m 40 with DOR (AMH 0.6, AFC 3–5) and about to start IVF. Is a dual stimulation approach right for me, should I bank embryos before transfer, and how many embryos are typically needed for one live birth? 4. I’m starting IVF for the first time. How important is the embryologist, and is it appropriate to meet them or tour the lab without overstepping? 5. I’m 33 with stage 4 endometriosis, prior excision surgeries, endometriomas, and a uterine polyp. What should I look for in an REI, and how can I reduce inflammation before egg retrieval and embryo transfer? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠⁠ Want your questions answered on the next episode? ⁠Ask them here!⁠ https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by gastroenterologist Dr. Will Bulsiewicz to explain how gut health, inflammation, and hormones are connected—and what simple changes can support your energy, mood, and fertility. Key Topics: 1. The Gut–Hormone Connection - What the gut microbiome is and why it affects your whole body - How inflammation can quietly impact hormones, cycles, and fertility - Why symptoms like fatigue can be a sign of a deeper imbalance 2. Everyday Habits That Harm (or Help) Your Gut - How modern food, stress, and sleep patterns disrupt gut health - Why ultra-processed foods work against long-term wellness - Simple signs your gut may need more support 3. Food, Rhythm, and Daily Choices - The role of fiber, colorful plant foods, healthy fats, and fermented foods - How consistent routines around meals, sleep, and light support hormones - Practical ways to eat and live “gut-friendly” without a strict diet 4. Empowerment, Fertility, and Self-Advocacy - How a healthier gut can support hormones, fertility, and overall resilience - Why understanding your body helps you ask better questions in care settings - Focusing on what you can control rather than quick fixes Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Follow Dr. Will Bulsiewicz on Instagram @theguthealthmd Order his book Plant Powered Plus Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at http://learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. Questions Answered: 1. How can I support my fertility now if I want kids later but not yet? 2. What should male partners focus on to support fertility when starting to try? 3. Can prenatals or DHA affect ovulation timing or cycle length? 4. How can I optimize my chances of pregnancy after surgery for stage 2 endometriosis? 5. What could cause consistently negative OPKs after hormonal birth control, and how should this be evaluated? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠⁠ Want your questions answered on the next episode? Ask them here! ⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel ⁠Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility⁠. ⁠Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at ⁠http://learnatpinnacle.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by registered dietitian and PCOS specialist Cory Ruth, author of “PCOS Is My Power,” to explain how PCOS, blood sugar, and nutrition all fit together. They talk about why PCOS is so misunderstood, what insulin resistance really means, and simple, realistic ways to eat and live that support your hormones, metabolism, and fertility, without cutting out everything you love. Key Topics: 1. Making Sense of PCOS - What PCOS actually is in everyday terms - Why it can look different from person to person - How it can affect periods, skin, hair, weight, and fertility 2. Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Health - What insulin resistance means for your body - How it can drive common PCOS symptoms - Why it matters for long‑term health 3. Everyday Food and Lifestyle Choices - How to think about carbs, sugar, and fiber without fear - A simple way to build a more PCOS‑friendly plate - Practical tips for eating out, snacks, and occasional drinks 4. Mindset, Mental Health, and Long‑Term Management - The emotional weight of a PCOS diagnosis - Why guilt and “all‑or‑nothing” thinking make things harder - How Cory’s book and approach help you feel more in control over time Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Order Cory’s Book, PCOS is My Power Follow her on Instagram @thewomensdietitian Checkout her Website https://www.thewomensdietitian.com/ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at http://learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OBGYN and REI, unpacks how stress communicates with your brain and ovaries—and how that relationship can shape your cycles, egg quality, and fertility over time. This episode connects physiology with realistic strategies so you can better support your hormones in a chronically stressed world. Key Topics: 1. Stress & Your Brain–Ovary Connection - How your brain integrates stress and reproductive signals - Why the same “control center” influences both hormones and stress - How modern life blurs acute and chronic stress 2. Cycles, Ovulation & Stress Load - Ways stress can alter normal ovulatory patterns - Early warning signs that your cycle is under strain - How stress-related changes can progress over time 3. Metabolism, Inflammation & Egg Health - How stress affects glucose, insulin, and inflammation - Why metabolic health matters for hormone balance - Links between stress biology and fertility outcomes 4. Building Stress-Resilient Hormones - Daily practices to lower your physiological stress burden - Movement, sleep, and muscle as hormone-supportive tools - Rethinking coping mechanisms and everyday stressors Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at http://learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OBGYN and REI, reframes fertility as a key health signal, not just about getting pregnant. Whether you want kids soon, someday, or aren’t sure, this episode helps you understand your cycle, your egg reserve, and what you can start doing today to protect your hormonal and reproductive health. Key Topics: 1. Ovarian Reserve - What your “egg reserve” really means (and why it’s not just about infertility) - The difference between how many eggs you have and how healthy they are - How hormones and ultrasound can give a snapshot of how your ovaries are doing 2. Understanding Your Test Results - Why numbers like AMH can change and shouldn’t be seen as a verdict on your future - How “low” or “normal” depends on your age and overall health, not just a lab range - Why testing is about getting information and options, not panic 3. Influencing Factors & Taking Control - How everyday inflammation  can affect hormones and eggs - The role of sleep, strength training, and blood-sugar balance in supporting fertility - When it makes sense to push for testing, see a fertility specialist, or change doctors 4. Charting Your Fertility Path - How to actually track your cycle beyond an app prediction - Using cycle changes as early warning signals - Thinking ahead: egg freezing, earlier trying, or simply lifestyle changes Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at http://learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, OBGYN and REI, sits down with licensed acupuncturist Sadie Minkoff to discuss how acupuncture fits into the bigger picture of hormones, stress, and fertility. They explore how this approach can work alongside traditional medical care so you can feel more informed and less alone on your fertility journey. Key Topics: 1. What Acupuncture Really Is - Rethinking what “needles” actually mean in this setting - Seeing acupuncture as part of a larger, whole‑body system - How this approach aims to gently “nudge” the body 2. Fertility, Hormones, and Stress - How stress and inflammation can interfere with hormones and ovulation - Ways acupuncture may calm the nervous system and support balance - Why “normal tests” don’t always mean your body feels normal 3. Using Acupuncture on the Fertility Journey - How it can be used when TTC spontaneously, with IUI, or with IVF - Why timing sessions around your cycle and treatments can matter - How it may support egg quality, implantation, and early pregnancy 4. Finding Care and Knowing Your Options - What to look for in a fertility‑focused acupuncturist - What a typical first visit and follow‑up might look like - Options if you can’t access in‑person care, including at‑home support Check out Sadie's Practice Website https://reproductiveacupuncture.com/ Follow Sadie's Practice on IG @sageacupunctureaustin Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at http://learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, a board-certified OBGYN and REI, guides listeners through the often misunderstood world of pregnancy loss. Using both her professional knowledge and personal insights, she helps you gain confidence in understanding this experience, whether you’re facing it yourself or supporting someone who is. Find out what’s actually happening, why it matters, and the important steps you can take next. Key Topics: 1. What Is Pregnancy Loss? - Common types of pregnancy loss and what the medical terms mean - Why pregnancy loss happens more frequently than most people realize - Dispelling shame and myths 2. Navigating the Emotional Experience - The wide range of feelings and reactions people may have. - Encouraging openness and seeking support from loved ones. - Why it’s okay to grieve in your own way and at your own pace. 3. Understanding the Causes - Overview of possible reasons, from genetics to physical health - How hormones and biology can impact pregnancy. - Emphasizing that many factors are beyond one’s control 4. Management & Healing - What to expect medically: natural healing, medication options, and procedures. - The importance of follow-up care and monitoring. - Pathways to recovery and when to consider further evaluation. Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at http://learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by Dr. Amanda Skillern to break down the IVF experience in a way that feels supportive, clear, and reassuring. Together, they discuss what to expect from beginning to end, choosing the best care team for your needs, and how to feel more confident and prepared during your fertility journey. Key Topics:1. Understanding IVF - What IVF is, and why it often takes more time and steps than people expect - How clinics create a plan that matches your personal goals and circumstances - Setting realistic expectations and keeping perspective throughout the process 2. Knowing What to Ask - Simple questions you can ask during appointments to stay informed - Why understanding your options and speaking up matters - How to communicate with your team 3. Personalizing Your Journey - The importance of having your care tailored to you- How making adjustments along the way can lead to better support and outcomes - How to know when it’s time to get another opinion or try a different approach 4. Empowerment and Support - How to keep yourself motivated during ups and downs - Tips for choosing a clinic and team that make you feel heard - Reminders that you can’t control every outcome, but you can control the journey Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Follow Fora Fertility on Instagram ⁠@forafertility⁠ Become a patient https://www.forafertility.com/ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at http://learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OBGYN and REI, tackles the overwhelming and often misunderstood diagnosis of diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). If you've been told your egg count is low or your AMH levels aren’t ideal, you’re not alone. This episode provides clarity on what these numbers really mean, how to interpret your fertility options, and empowering next steps for anyone facing this diagnosis. Key Topics: 1. Ovarian Reserve - What diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) is and what it is not - The difference between egg quantity (reserve) and egg quality - How tests like AMH, FSH, and AFC reflect ovarian health 2. Understanding Your Test Results - Interpreting fluctuating hormone and follicle counts - Why a low ovarian reserve diagnosis does not mean pregnancy is impossible - The importance of considering age and individual medical history 3. Influencing Factors & Taking Control - Lifestyle and health factors that impact your reserve - The crucial role of diet, exercise, sleep, and avoiding toxins - When and why to seek a second medical opinion 4. Charting Your Fertility Path - Today’s treatment options - Tailoring plans to your life stage and goals - Making informed, empowered decisions for your unique fertility journey Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at http://learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, OBGYN and REI, sits down with pelvic floor physical therapist Dr. Sara Reardon to dive into a part of women’s health that’s often overlooked—but incredibly important. In this conversation, they break down the mysteries of the pelvic floor, explore how hormones shape your daily experiences, and share actionable steps to help you feel empowered in your body. Key Topics:  1. Understanding the Pelvic Floor - What the pelvic floor is and why it matters in daily life - How it’s connected to different parts of your body - Reasons it might not be “feeling right,” and what that could mean 2. Listening to Your Body’s Signals - Signs you shouldn’t ignore related to periods or discomfort - Why certain symptoms may not be “just normal” - The importance of knowing your own body cues 3. Hormones Through Every Stage - How monthly cycles, pregnancy, and menopause impact what you feel - When hormone changes could affect more than you expect - Ways to be proactive before, during, and after big life changes 4. Making Pelvic Floor Care Accessible - Steps you can take in your own home to support your health - What to expect if you see a pelvic floor therapist - Helpful resources and how to advocate for your own care Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Follow Dr. Reardon on IG @the.vagina.whisperer and TikTok @thevagwhisperer Buy her book Floored Check out her website thevaginawhisperer.com Join her V Hive app for pelvic floor workouts Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OBGYN and REI discusses the frustrating and often confusing world of unexplained infertility. If you’ve been told “everything looks normal” yet you’re still struggling to conceive, you’re not alone, and you deserve real answers. In this episode, Dr. Crawford breaks down what unexplained infertility really means, why so many couples receive this diagnosis, and what you can do to move forward with clarity, confidence, and hope. Key Topics:  1. The Fertility Puzzle - Why "normal" test results don't tell the whole story - Hidden factors affecting conception - Breaking down the medical mystery 2. Body's Hidden Inflammation - How silent inflammation impacts fertility - Everyday factors that disrupt reproductive health - Simple ways to calm your body's internal storm 3. Beyond Traditional Testing - What doctors aren't seeing in standard fertility exams - The role of egg and sperm quality - Advanced approaches to understanding fertility challenges 4. Empowering Your Fertility Journey - Lifestyle changes that make a difference - When to consider advanced treatments - Taking control of your reproductive health Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by Dr. Arti Thangudu, a triple board certified physician in endocrinology, internal medicine and lifestyle medicine, to reveal the hidden truth about insulin resistance and its surprising effects on women's health. Discover how this often-overlooked condition can impact your energy, hormones, and fertility - and what you can do to take control. Key Topics:  1. Understanding Insulin Resistance - Your body's communication breakdown - Why it's more than just a diabetes problem - How it affects different body systems 2. Detecting Insulin Resistance - Beyond basic blood tests - Recognizing early warning signs - When to seek professional guidance 3. Lifestyle Strategies for Improvement - Nutrition that supports metabolic health - Exercise approaches that make a difference - Sleep's critical role in metabolic function 4. Treatment and Management Options - Supplement considerations - Medical interventions - Personalized approach to healing Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Follow Dr. Thangudu on Instagram @draartithangudu Check out her website and practice: sa-complete.comSubscribe to her YouTube ChannelListen to her podcast “Endocrine Matters” Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down ovulation induction, explaining how medications like Clomid and Letrozole work, and why understanding your body’s hormone signals is key. She dives into common causes of ovulation issues, from PCOS and hypothalamic amenorrhea to structural brain factors, and shows why identifying the root cause is critical before starting medication. Key Topics: 1. Understanding Your Reproductive System - How your brain communicates with your ovaries - The delicate dance of hormones - Why some women struggle to ovulate 2. Why Ovulation Goes Wrong - Common reasons ovulation gets disrupted - The impact of lifestyle on reproductive health - When to seek medical intervention 3. Ovulation Induction Options - Different drugs for different diagnoses - Personalized approaches to ovulation induction - What to expect during treatment 4. Becoming Your Own Fertility Advocate - Understanding your body's signals - Questions to ask your healthcare provider - Empowering yourself through knowledge Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by her clinical partner, Dr. Amanda Skillern,  to discuss the complex world of fertility clinics, offering patients an insider's guide to selecting the right medical practice for their unique fertility journey. Key Topics: 1. Finding the Right Doctor - Understanding specialized training - Importance of board certification - What makes a true fertility expert 2. Clinic Decision-Making - Who really controls medical choices - The impact of corporate vs. physician-owned practices - Patient care vs. financial priorities 3. Patient Experience - Communication styles and expectations - Personalized care team approach - Monitoring and cycle management 4. Financial Transparency - Navigating insurance complexities - Understanding true treatment costs - Avoiding hidden fees and surprise bills Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, OBGYN and REI, breaks down the emotional and physical challenges of the two-week wait, sharing practical strategies, coping tools, and compassionate guidance for anyone trying to conceive. Key Topics: 1. The Fertility Cycle Explained - Egg development and release - Hormonal changes after ovulation - The role of the corpus luteum 2. Embryo's Early Journey - Fertilization process - Traveling through the fallopian tube - Preparing for potential implantation 3. Hormonal Signals and Symptoms - Understanding progesterone effects - Early pregnancy hormone production - Distinguishing between pregnancy and typical cycle symptoms 4. Emotional Survival Strategies - Managing anxiety during the waiting period - Recognizing normal bodily changes - Practical coping mechanisms for the two-week wait Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by Kayla Barnes-Lentz to unravel the mysteries of women's health optimization. This episode cuts through the noise, offering a refreshing approach to understanding your body's unique signals and potential. Discover how personalized strategies can transform your energy, hormones, and overall well-being. Key Topics: 1. Sleep Secrets    - Listening to your body's rhythm    - Creating your ideal rest environment    - Navigating sleep challenges 2. Movement that Matters    - Understanding your body's natural cycles    - Designing a personalized fitness approach    - Breaking through traditional exercise myths 3. The Importance of Nutrition    - Simplifying your eating strategy    - Connecting food to your body's signals    - Breaking free from diet culture 4. Personal Health Tracking    - Becoming your own health detective    - Exploring innovative tracking tools    - Interpreting your body's unique data Visit Kayla’s Website kaylabarnes.com Follow Kayla on Instagram @kaylabarnes Kayla's YouTube Channel Longevity Optimization Podcast Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, OBGYN and REI, dives into the science of progesterone—one of the most important yet misunderstood hormones in women’s health. Learn how it affects your cycle, fertility, mood, and more—so you can finally make sense of what your body’s been telling you. Key Topics: 1. Progesterone Basics - What makes this hormone unique - Its role in the menstrual cycle - How it supports a potential pregnancy 2. Hormonal Harmony - The relationship between estrogen and progesterone - Identifying healthy hormone levels - When to be concerned about imbalances 3. Fertility and Progesterone - How progesterone impacts conception - Signs of potential hormonal challenges - Natural and medical support strategies 4. Navigating Hormone Health - Common myths about progesterone - Questions to ask your healthcare provider - Understanding your body's signals Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OBGYN and REI, is joined by Stefany Bare, a former patient and friend, to share her fertility journey.  From the unexpected diagnosis of low ovarian reserve to navigating a second attempt with a deeper understanding of her body, Stefany’s story highlights the importance of early testing and trusting your intuition. This conversation offers insight, empowerment, and reassurance for anyone navigating their own fertility path. Key Topics: 1. Early Fertility Testing - Listening to your body's signals - When and why to seek professional help - Understanding basic fertility markers 2. Emotional Landscape of Fertility - Managing stress and expectations - Protecting mental health during treatment - Building support systems 3. Personal Fertility Journey - Unexpected challenges with conception - Navigating medical treatments - Maintaining hope and perspective 4. Empowerment Through Education - Learning about reproductive health - Asking the right questions - Becoming an advocate for your own care Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Follow Stefany Bare on IG @stefany.bare Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OBGYN and REI, discusses what could be the root cause of your irregular cycles. Your period is more than a monthly inconvenience. It's a vital sign. And when your cycles are not regular, your body is sending a signal that something deeper is going on. In this episode, we're unpacking what actually defines a normal cycle and what your irregular cycle really means. 1. Your Cycle: More Than Just a Period    - What makes a cycle "normal"    - Red flags to watch for    - Why tracking matters 2. Understanding your hormones    - The brain-body hormone conversation    - How stress impacts your cycle    - Signals your body sends during irregular periods 3. Common Cycle Disruptors    - Hormonal conditions explained     - Lifestyle factors that throw things off    - When to seek professional help 4. Empowering Your Hormonal Journey    - Questions to ask your healthcare provider    - Tools for understanding your body    - Taking proactive steps toward hormonal regularity Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Dr. Natalie Crawford and Dr. Shannon Ritchey, physical therapist and founder of EVLO Fitness, as they break down the science of movement, revealing how strategic exercise can transform your hormonal health, fertility, and overall wellness. Key Topics: 1. Strength Training Demystified - Debunking fitness industry myths - Why muscle matters more than cardio - Simple strategies for effective workouts 2. Your Body, Your Fitness Journey - Listening to your body's signals - Avoiding the "no pain, no gain" trap - Customizing exercise to your life stage 3. Hormones & Movement - How exercise impacts reproductive health - Cycle-friendly fitness approaches - Building resilience through smart training 4. Pregnancy & Postpartum Movement - Challenging traditional exercise restrictions - Maintaining strength during major life changes - Recovery and muscle memory secrets Follow Dr. Shannon Ritchey on IG @dr.shannon.dpt Learn more about EVLO fitness https://evlofitness.com/ Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OBGYN and REI, breaks down the powerful tools that can help you understand your body's natural fertility signals. Learn how to move beyond basic period tracking apps to truly understand when you're ovulating, time intercourse effectively, and spot potential issues early. Whether you're trying to conceive or simply want to connect with your cycle, this episode gives you practical, science-backed methods to take charge of your reproductive health. 1. Understanding Your Body's Natural Signals - Why your period app might be misleading you - The difference between tracking and truly understanding your cycle - How your body communicates fertility throughout the month 2. The Cervical Mucus Method - What to look for and when to check - Simple techniques you can do at home - How this free method can guide your timing 3. Temperature Tracking Made Simple - Modern tools that make monitoring easier than ever - What your morning temperature reveals about ovulation - Reading the patterns your body creates each month 4. Ovulation Test Strips and Timing - When and how to use these affordable tools - Understanding what a positive result really means - Combining methods for the most accurate results Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by double board-certified Internal Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine physician, Dr. Brook Stubbs, to discuss the powerful connection between nutrition, hormonal health, and overall wellness. Discover how simple dietary choices can transform your energy, fertility, and long-term health. Key Topics: 1. The Gut-Hormone Connection - Understanding your body's internal communication - Why fiber is your secret wellness weapon - How food impacts your hormonal signals 2. Nutrition and Fertility - Breaking down diet myths - Plant-based eating strategies - Simple swaps for better reproductive health 3. Inflammation and Your Body - Recognizing hidden inflammatory triggers - The role of diet in reducing body stress - How food choices affect energy and metabolism 4. Practical Nutrition Strategies - Easy meal planning tips - Building a diverse, plant-forward diet - Sustainable approaches to healthy eating Follow Dr. Brooke Stubbs Instagram: @brookiestubbsMD and @rootedfemme Learn more about her practice https://www.rootedfemme.com/ Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down everything you need to know about your eggs - how many you have, how good they are, and what age really means for your fertility. She explains the difference between egg quality and quantity, how your ovarian reserve is tested, and practical steps you can take to support your egg health at any age. Key Topics: 1. Understanding Your Egg Supply - The natural decline of eggs from birth through menopause - How the monthly egg release system works in your ovaries - Do you lose eggs even when not ovulating or trying to conceive? 2. Testing Your Fertility Potential - AMH blood test and what it measures in your body - Antral follicle count ultrasound examination process - How these tests relate to your remaining egg supply 3. How Age Affects Your Eggs - The relationship between time and egg quality deterioration - Genetic changes that occur in eggs as you get older - Why pregnancy becomes more difficult after age 35 4. Taking Control of Your Egg Health - Lifestyle factors that influence egg quality - The role of inflammation in reproductive health - How diet, stress, and environmental toxins impact fertility Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Nicole Basa, bariatric surgeon, joins Dr. Natalie Crawford to unpack the complex connection between weight, hormones, and metabolism—breaking it down with real talk, expert insights, and practical tips every woman needs to hear, especially if you’ve ever felt stuck on your weight loss or health journey. Key Topics: 1. Metabolic Health Basics - Your body's calorie-burning engine - Hormones that control metabolism - How genetics impact weight 2. Hormones and Weight Challenges - Insulin's role in weight gain - Hormone changes during perimenopause - How hormones affect fertility 3. Effective Weight Loss Strategies - Importance of protein intake - Building muscle through resistance training - Breaking weight loss plateaus 4. Medical Interventions for Weight Management - Understanding GLP-1 medications - Bariatric surgery options - Resetting your body's weight set point Follow Dr. Nicole Basa Instagram @nicolebasamd Check out her clinic in Austin, TX https://bamedicalcenter.com/ Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses the complex world of inflammation, exploring its critical role in fertility, reproductive health, and overall well-being. Through personal experience and medical expertise, she breaks down the science behind inflammation, its effects on the body, and practical strategies for reducing its impact on fertility. Key Topics: 1. The Inflammation Spectrum - Acute vs. Chronic Inflammation - Immune System Activation - Progression to Autoimmune Conditions 2. Inflammation's Impact on Reproductive Health - Hormonal Disruption - Ovulation and Implantation Challenges - Reproductive Disorder Connections 3. Gut Health and Inflammation - Dietary Influences on Inflammation - Gut Microbiome and Fertility - Insulin Resistance and Inflammatory Responses 4. Practical Strategies for Reducing Inflammation - Nutrition and Diet Modifications - Stress Management Techniques - Environmental Toxin Reduction Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by Dr. Mary Claire Haver, a board-certified OBGYN and fierce advocate for changing the conversation around women's health. Together, they demystify perimenopause and menopause by breaking down the hormonal changes women experience and providing empowering strategies for navigating this critical life transition. Key Topics: 1. Your Changing Body's Hormonal Journey - How your ovaries start becoming less cooperative - Why estrogen matters more than you think - Decoding the symptoms no one talks about 2. The Real Story About Hormone Replacement - Busting myths about hormone treatments - What science really says about staying healthy - Finding the right hormone solution for your body 3. Lifestyle Hacks for Feeling Your Best - Building strength when your body feels different - Eating for your inflammation - Nutrition strategies that actually work for midlife 4. Taking Charge of Your Health - Learning the language of your body - Finding doctors who will really listen - Becoming the CEO of your personal health journey Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! ⁠https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book⁠ Follow Dr. Mary Claire Haver TikTok @drmaryclaire Instagram @drmaryclaire @the_pause_life  Facebook The Pause Life by Dr Mary Claire Haver  YouTube: Mary Claire Haver, MD LinkedIn The 'Pause Life with Dr. Mary Claire Haver Purchase her book The New Menopause  Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford explains the IVF journey—breaking down the medical process, emotional rollercoaster, and key ways to prepare. Whether you're just starting to explore fertility treatments or already on the path, she offers expert insights and practical advice to help you feel informed, empowered, and supported on the journey. Key Topics: 1. The IVF Process - Scientific complexity of fertility treatment - Hormone regulation and egg stimulation - The science behind creating embryos 2. Genetic Screening and Reproductive Potential - Chromosomal analysis and embryo selection - Age-related fertility challenges - Giving yourself the best chance at pregnancy 3. Preparing for IVF - Eating for fertility - Lifestyle changes that boost your chances - Taking care of yourself inside and out 4. Being Your Own Health Advocate - Asking the right questions - Understanding what doctors are telling you - Taking control of your fertility journey My debut book, The Fertility Formula, is on pre-sale! Order now! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special bonus episode of As a Woman, fertility physician Dr. Natalie Crawford shares a long-awaited announcement: her first book, The Fertility Formula: Take Control of Your Reproductive Future, is officially available for pre-order! Dr. Crawford takes you behind the scenes of the book she’s always dreamed of writing—a comprehensive, evidence-based guide to understanding fertility and hormonal health. She wrote this book for anyone who’s ever felt left out of the conversation about their own body, especially those navigating fertility struggles. In this episode, she discusses: Why she wrote The Fertility Formula What makes this book different from other fertility resources How lifestyle, inflammation, and hormones are all connected Her personal story with infertility and pregnancy loss A special pre-order bonus: The 7-Day Hormone Reset The Fertility Formula is your guide to understanding and optimizing your fertility. Inside you will find: The most common but overlooked causes of infertility and what you can actually do about them The truth about the biologic clock and why egg quality is about more than just age How to accurately track your menstrual cycle for conception, pregnancy prevention, and hormone health—and uncover the root cause of abnormal cycles A step-by-step guide to getting pregnant, from timing intercourse with ovulation to navigating infertility treatments if needed A lifestyle plan to improve your hormone health, reduce inflammation, and boost fertility—through better sleep, stress-reduction, nutrition, movement and decreasing toxins 20+ recipes for quick, easy, and delicious meals that support hormones and fertility Pre-Order The Fertility Formula NOW! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by nurse practitioner, creator, and advocate, Katie Duke, for a deeply honest conversation about fertility, career, and taking control of your future. Katie opens up about her egg freezing journey from the emotional highs and lows to the unexpected medical hurdles and everything in between. 1. Understanding Egg Freezing - What is egg freezing? - Misconceptions about fertility and timing - The importance of reproductive autonomy 2. Navigating Fertility Clinics - The difference between clinical approaches - Red flags in medical care - Importance of personalized medical experiences 3. Personal Fertility Journey - Katie's decision to freeze eggs at 36 - Challenges with different fertility centers 4. Empowerment and Choice - Owning your reproductive decisions - Breaking the stigma around fertility conversations - Encouraging women to explore their options Follow Katie Duke on Instagram ⁠@thekatieduke Check out her website https://www.katiedukeonline.com/ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down the essential information about fertility testing, empowering women to understand their reproductive health. Learn when to get tested, what tests reveal, and how to advocate for yourself in your fertility journey. Key Topics: 1. When to Get Fertility Testing -Guidelines for testing based on age -Signs you should seek testing earlier -Importance of not waiting for a referral 2. Male Fertility Evaluation -Semen analysis basics -Impact of testosterone on fertility -What a sperm test reveals 3. Female Fertility Testing -AMH and ovarian reserve explained -Hormone level testing -Ultrasound and anatomical evaluations 4.Understanding Your Results -What tests can and cannot tell you -Interpreting ovarian reserve numbers -Questions to ask your doctor Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford and Dr. Shieva Ghofrany dive into the often-unspoken world of women's sexual health. From hormonal changes to relationship dynamics, this episode breaks down the science and stigma surrounding libido, offering candid insights and empowering advice for women at every life stage. Key Topics: 1. Hormones and Sex Drive - The role of testosterone, estrogen, and cortisol - How hormonal changes impact intimacy 2. Perimenopause and Sexual Health - Recognizing hormonal transitions  - Managing libido changes 3. Medical Insights - Contraception and sexual side effects - Vaginal health and non-hormonal options 4. Empowerment and Self-Care  - Breaking down shame and stigma  - Loving your body through different life stages Follow Dr. Shieva Ghofrany on Instagram ⁠@drshievag⁠ Check out her website to learn more about Dr. Shieva Ghofrany and her practice. h⁠ttps://www.drshievag.com/⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content and freebies. If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out Natalie’s YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, double board certified OBGYN and REI, provides an in-depth roadmap for anyone preparing to start their pregnancy journey, covering everything from fertility tracking to preconception health. Key Topics Covered: 1. Birth Control and Fertility Transition - When and how to stop different birth control methods - Impact of birth control on fertility - Recommended waiting periods before trying to conceive - Hormonal vs. non-hormonal contraception effects 2. Fertility Tracking Methods - Understanding the fertile window - Cervical mucus monitoring - Basal body temperature tracking - Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) -Pros and cons of different tracking techniques 3. Age and Fertility Considerations - Fertility potential by age group - When to seek fertility evaluation - Egg quality and reproductive aging - Recommended timelines for conception attempts 4. Preconception Health Preparation - Importance of prenatal vitamins - Lifestyle modifications for fertility - Nutrition and diet recommendations - Exercise and stress management strategies -Male health considerations 5. Preconception Medical Preparation - Scheduling preconception consultations - Essential medical screenings Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Natalie's YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. ⁠Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by ⁠The Pinnacle Podcast Network⁠! Learn more about Pinnacle at ⁠learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford, double board certified OBGYN and REI, breaks down the complex world of reproductive hormones, providing you with a comprehensive guide to understanding their menstrual cycle, hormone function, and reproductive health. Key Topics Covered: 1. Hormone Basics -The HPO (Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Ovary) Axis -How hormones communicate in the body -Roles of key hormones: GnRH, FSH, LH, Estrogen, Progesterone 2. The Menstrual Cycle Explained -Egg development and ovulation process -Hormone fluctuations throughout the cycle -Normal cycle length and characteristics 3. Hormone Health Insights -Identifying normal vs. abnormal cycles -Impact of prolactin and thyroid hormones -Importance of hormone testing 4. Common Misconceptions -Estrogen dominance -Hormone balance -Effects of biotin on hormone testing Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content and freebies If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Natalie's YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to As a Woman: Fertility, Hormones, and Health. We are so excited to share season 3 of the podcast! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus be sure to follow along on Instagram @nataliecrawfordmd, check out Natalie's YouTube Channel, Natalie Crawford MD, and if you are interested in becoming a patient, check out Fora Fertility. As a Woman is part of the Pinnacle Podcast network. Learn more here! Want free CE Credit? Join the Learn at Pinnacle App Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford answers your fertility questions, covering everything from frustrating OPK struggles and irregular periods to short luteal phases, PCOS, and managing endometriosis while trying to conceive. Whether you're wondering how to track ovulation more effectively, when to try naturally after surgery, or how supplements and hormones fit into your journey this episode is for you. Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content and my FREE TTC Starter Kit! Don't forget to ask your questions on Instagram for next week’s For Fertility’s Sake segment when you see the question box on Natalie’s page ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd.⁠⁠⁠⁠ You can also ask a question by calling in and leaving a voicemail. Call 657–229–3672 and ask your fertility question today!     Thanks to our amazing sponsors! Check out these deals just for you: Quince- Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠Quince.com/aaw ⁠⁠⁠⁠for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Ritual-Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠ritual.com/aaw⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start Ritual or add Essential For Women 18+ to your subscription today. Calm - Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠calm.com/aaw⁠⁠⁠⁠ for 40% off unlimited access to Calm’s entire library. AquaTru - Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠aquatru.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use code AAW for 20% off! Green Chef - Go to ⁠⁠greenchef.com/50aaw⁠⁠ and use code 50AAW to get 50% off your first month, then 20% off for two months with free shipping. If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Sunday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠⁠ check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Natalie's YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford gives an in-depth look at male fertility, a topic often overlooked in discussions of reproductive health. She begins by explaining the spermatogenesis process, detailing how sperm develop over approximately 72 days, and how this timeline impacts fertility assessments and treatment planning. Dr. Crawford also answers listener questions, addressing important topics such as low testosterone, leukocytospermia, and how lifestyle choices—from diet and weight to substances like nicotine and marijuana—can impact male fertility. Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content and my FREE TTC Starter Kit! Don't forget to ask your questions on Instagram for next week’s For Fertility’s Sake segment when you see the question box on Natalie’s page ⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd.⁠⁠⁠ You can also ask a question by calling in and leaving a voicemail. Call 657–229–3672 and ask your fertility question today!     Thanks to our amazing sponsors! Check out these deals just for you: Quince- Go to ⁠⁠⁠Quince.com/aaw ⁠⁠⁠for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Ritual-Go to ⁠⁠⁠ritual.com/aaw⁠⁠⁠ to start Ritual or add Essential For Women 18+ to your subscription today. Calm - Go to ⁠⁠⁠calm.com/aaw⁠⁠⁠ for 40% off unlimited access to Calm’s entire library. AquaTru - Go to ⁠⁠⁠aquatru.com⁠⁠⁠ and use code AAW for 20% off! Green Chef - Go to ⁠greenchef.com/50aaw⁠ and use code 50AAW to get 50% off your first month, then 20% off for two months with free shipping. If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Sunday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠ check out ⁠⁠⁠Natalie's YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford answers your voicemail questions about frozen embryo transfers. From transfer timing and uterine health to post-transfer activities and intimacy during treatment, this episode covers the essential insights every fertility patient needs to know. Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content and my FREE TTC Starter Kit! Don't forget to ask your questions on Instagram for next week’s For Fertility’s Sake segment when you see the question box on Natalie’s page ⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd.⁠⁠⁠ You can also ask a question by calling in and leaving a voicemail. Call 657–229–3672 and ask your fertility question today!     Thanks to our amazing sponsors! Check out these deals just for you: Quince- Go to ⁠⁠⁠Quince.com/aaw ⁠⁠⁠for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Ritual-Go to ⁠⁠⁠ritual.com/aaw⁠⁠⁠ to start Ritual or add Essential For Women 18+ to your subscription today. Calm - Go to ⁠⁠⁠calm.com/aaw⁠⁠⁠ for 40% off unlimited access to Calm’s entire library. AquaTru - Go to ⁠⁠⁠aquatru.com⁠⁠⁠ and use code AAW for 20% off! Green Chef - Go to ⁠greenchef.com/50aaw⁠ and use code 50AAW to get 50% off your first month, then 20% off for two months with free shipping. If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Sunday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠⁠ check out ⁠⁠⁠Natalie's YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses IVF and answers questions about fertility treatment preparation and potential challenges. She explains why starting early with suppression medications like birth control, progesterone, or Lupron can help align egg growth for a more effective cycle. She breaks down the benefits of using a low-dose gonadotropin protocol to reduce the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), and emphasizes the importance of checking hormone levels, particularly FSH and LH, before starting to ensure your body will respond well to the trigger shot. Dr. Crawford shares lifestyle recommendations that support fertility, including adopting an anti-inflammatory diet, reducing exposure to environmental toxins, and considering supplements tailored to individual needs. She also highlights the value of comprehensive fertility testing and understanding the financial aspects of treatment so you can make informed decisions every step of the way. Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content and my FREE TTC Starter Kit! Don't forget to ask your questions on Instagram for next week’s For Fertility’s Sake segment when you see the question box on Natalie’s page ⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd.⁠⁠ You can also ask a question by calling in and leaving a voicemail. Call 657–229–3672 and ask your fertility question today!     Thanks to our amazing sponsors! Check out these deals just for you: Quince- Go to ⁠⁠Quince.com/aaw ⁠⁠for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Ritual-Go to ⁠⁠ritual.com/aaw⁠⁠ to start Ritual or add Essential For Women 18+ to your subscription today. Calm - Go to ⁠⁠calm.com/aaw⁠⁠ for 40% off unlimited access to Calm’s entire library. AquaTru - Go to ⁠⁠aquatru.com⁠⁠ and use code AAW for 20% off! Green Chef - Go to greenchef.com/50aaw and use code 50AAW to get 50% off your first month, then 20% off for two months with free shipping. If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Sunday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠⁠ check out ⁠⁠Natalie's YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠⁠Fora Fertility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford answers your fertility questions called into the voicemail. Questions Answered: -What happens if you lose your period after stopping birth control? -Is it normal to have low basal body temperatures during the luteal phase? -Should someone with regular cycles but a potentially short luteal phase consider taking Clomid? -How significant is a drop in AMH and increase in FSH between ages 29 and 31? -Can a past chlamydia infection cause long-term fertility difficulties? -Is it safe to have a colonoscopy while starting IVF or during breastfeeding? -Can women with PCOS donate their uterus or become surrogates? - What physical activities are recommended or restricted after an IUI? Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at ⁠nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter⁠ to receive updates, Q&A, special content and my FREE TTC Starter Kit! Don't forget to ask your questions on Instagram for next week’s For Fertility’s Sake segment when you see the question box on Natalie’s page ⁠@nataliecrawfordmd.⁠ You can also ask a question by calling in and leaving a voicemail. Call 657–229–3672 and ask your fertility question today!     Thanks to our amazing sponsors! Check out these deals just for you: Quince- Go to ⁠Quince.com/aaw ⁠for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Ritual-Go to ⁠ritual.com/aaw⁠ to start Ritual or add Essential For Women 18+ to your subscription today. Calm - Go to ⁠calm.com/aaw⁠ for 40% off unlimited access to Calm’s entire library. AquaTru - Go to ⁠aquatru.com⁠ and use code AAW for 20% off! If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Sunday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram ⁠@nataliecrawfordmd,⁠ check out ⁠Natalie's YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD⁠, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out ⁠Fora Fertility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses her top tips for trying to conceive, emphasizing the importance of prenatal vitamins and the need for a preconception consult with an OB-GYN. She advises tracking cycles, using methods beyond apps, and considering genetic carrier screening. She also addresses listener questions, suggesting early testing and lifestyle changes to improve fertility outcomes. This episode offers practical, evidence-based insights to help optimize fertility and understand reproductive health. Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, Q&A, special content and my FREE TTC Starter Kit! Don't forget to ask your questions on Instagram for next week’s For Fertility’s Sake segment when you see the question box on Natalie’s page @nataliecrawfordmd. You can also ask a question by calling in and leaving a voicemail. Call 657–229–3672 and ask your fertility question today!      Thanks to our amazing sponsors! Check out these deals just for you: Quince- Go to Quince.com/aaw for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Ritual-Go to ritual.com/aaw to start Ritual or add Essential For Women 18+ to your subscription today. Calm - Go to calm.com/aaw for 40% off unlimited access to Calm’s entire library. AquaTru - Go to aquatru.com and use code AAW for 20% off! If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Sunday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram @nataliecrawfordmd, check out Natalie's YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out Fora Fertility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford explains how individualized protocols can lead to better outcomes in IVF and egg freezing. She breaks down key fertility concepts, including ovarian reserve, AMH levels, follicle counts, and the roles of FSH and LH in egg development. Dr. Crawford also discusses how age affects egg quality, the potential impact of sperm genetics, and why multiple cycles are sometimes needed to achieve a healthy embryo. She emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy and lifestyle changes to support reproductive success. Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, Q&A, special content and my FREE TTC Starter Kit and Vegan Starter Guide! Don't forget to ask your questions on Instagram for next week’s For Fertility’s Sake segment when you see the question box on Natalie’s page @nataliecrawfordmd. You can also ask a question by calling in and leaving a voicemail. Call 657–229–3672 and ask your fertility question today!      Thanks to our amazing sponsors! Check out these deals just for you: Quince- Go to Quince.com/aaw for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Ritual-Go to ritual.com/aaw to start Ritual or add Essential For Women 18+ to your subscription today. Calm - Go to calm.com/aaw for 40% off unlimited access to Calm’s entire library. AquaTru - Go to aquatru.com and use code AAW for 20% off! If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Sunday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram @nataliecrawfordmd, check out Natalie's YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out Fora Fertility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses uterine factor infertility, emphasizing the importance of understanding uterine development and potential abnormalities. She explains various uterine anomalies, including unicornuate, bicornuate, and uterine septums, and their impact on fertility. Dr. Crawford highlights the significance of proper diagnostic tools like saline sonograms and MRIs for accurate detection. She addresses common issues such as polyps, fibroids, and adenomyosis, and their effects on fertility. Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, Q&A, special content and my FREE TTC Starter Kit and Vegan Starter Guide! Don't forget to ask your questions on Instagram for next week’s For Fertility’s Sake segment when you see the question box on Natalie’s page @nataliecrawfordmd. You can also ask a question by calling in and leaving a voicemail. Call 657–229–3672 and ask your fertility question today!      Thanks to our amazing sponsors! Check out these deals just for you: Quince- Go to Quince.com/aaw for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Ritual-Go to ritual.com/aaw to start Ritual or add Essential For Women 18+ to your subscription today. Air Doctor - Go to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code AAW to get UP TO $300 off today! If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Sunday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram @nataliecrawfordmd, check out Natalie's YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out Fora Fertility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down unexplained infertility in younger couples, addressing common misconceptions and answering your fertility questions. Knowledge is power, and Dr. Crawford's goal is to equip you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your reproductive health—because no one should have to let time or lack of data make the choice for them. Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, Q&A, special content and my FREE TTC Starter Kit and Vegan Starter Guide! Don't forget to ask your questions on Instagram for next week’s For Fertility’s Sake segment when you see the question box on Natalie’s page @nataliecrawfordmd. You can also ask a question by calling in and leaving a voicemail. Call 657–229–3672 and ask your fertility question today!      Thanks to our amazing sponsors! Check out these deals just for you: Quince- Go to Quince.com/aaw for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Ritual-Go to ritual.com/aaw to start Ritual or add Essential For Women 18+ to your subscription today. Air Doctor - Go to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code AAW to get UP TO $300 off today! If you haven’t already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Sunday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram @nataliecrawfordmd, check out Natalie's YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out Fora Fertility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices