Functional Fertility with Dr. Kalea Wattles

Mental Health Matters with Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Everest Goldstein

In this episode of The Functional Fertility Podcast, host Dr. Kalea Wattles is joined by Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Everest Goldstein to explore the intricate connections between stress and fertility. They delve into the effects of stress on hormonal and gut health, emphasizing how these factors can significantly impact reproductive health.
The conversation then shifts to mental health, particularly in the context of fertility, pregnancy, and the postpartum period. They address the importance of managing mental health, especially for those with a history of anxiety or depression. The discussion highlights the key nutrients that, when deficient, can exacerbate anxiety while also being critical for reproductive health.
Everest shares insights on the physiological benefits of meditation and mindfulness and emphasize how these practices can help reduce stress and improve fertility. She also answers an important listener question about the challenges of discontinuing anti-anxiety medication before pregnancy. 

Awaken Your Fertility Potential with Michelle Oravitz

Don't miss this episode of The Functional Fertility Podcast, where host Dr. Kalea Wattles sits down with Michelle Oravitz to discuss the profound role of awareness in reproductive health. Michelle, author of the new book, "The Way of Fertility: Awaken Your Reproductive Potential through the Transformative Power of Ancient Wisdom," reveals why she believes awareness is a superpower when navigating fertility challenges. The conversation explores the initial discomfort that comes with heightened awareness and how Michelle guides her clients through these feelings to cultivate a deeper sense of self-understanding. They delve into barriers to optimal fertility, the importance of aligning with our natural circadian rhythms, and the interconnectedness of the heart, mind, and reproductive organs. Michelle also shares a powerful exercise for prospective parents, highlighting the critical role of love in the conception process. This episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to tap into their innate intelligence and enhance their fertility journey.

Hormone Testing: At-Home Options For Your Fertility Journey with Dr. Amy Divaraniya

In this episode of The Functional Fertility Podcast, Dr. Kalea Wattles welcomes Oova founder Dr. Amy Divaraniya to discuss at-home hormone testing, a tool that's reshaping fertility monitoring. They discuss various hormones that can be measured from home and answer listener questions about integrating these tests with traditional methods like tracking basal body temperature or cervical mucus. Dr. Divaraniya highlights the benefits of at-home monitoring for understanding fertility issues, comparing hormone levels detected by Oova with those measured in blood tests. They explore how at-home tests can reveal hormonal patterns that might not be detected through other means, aiding women with irregular cycles and those preparing for IVF. This discussion underscores the value of at-home hormone monitoring in providing deeper insights into reproductive health.

Mindset For Motherhood With Dr. Kirstin Lauritzen

In this episode of The Functional Fertility Podcast, host Dr. Kalea Wattles converses with Dr. Kirstin Lauritzen about the profound effects of the conscious and subconscious mind on fertility. They explore the impact of control on achieving personal health goals, discussing how excessive control can manifest as fertility issues and offering strategies to shift towards a mindset of freedom. Dr. Lauritzen highlights how the body retains negative emotions, affecting overall health, and shares techniques for identifying and processing these emotions. The discussion culminates with insights into Dr. Lauritzen's personal journey and her "Mindset for Motherhood" program, designed to prepare women emotionally for motherhood. This episode provides valuable perspectives on managing emotional health to improve fertility outcomes.

Whole Woman Health: A Body-Systems Approach to Fertility with Carrie Levine, CNM

On this episode of The Functional Fertility Podcast, guest Carrie Levine explores the profound impact of functional medicine on women’s health and fertility. This episode describes why functional medicine stands out as a vital support for women navigating the complex journey of fertility. Discover the most common infertility issues encountered in Carrie's practice and the pivotal functional tests she utilizes to uncover the underlying causes of a woman’s infertility challenges. They also offer compassionate advice for women striving to conceive outside the conventional medical framework or those who have faced traumas within it. Furthermore, they draw an intriguing parallel between menopause and pregnancy, emphasizing the physical, spiritual, and emotional demands of these life stages. They conclude with transformative insights on health enhancements during the preconception period that not only support fertility but also bolster hormonal health as women approach menopause. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of functional medicine’s role in fostering women’s health and fertility.

Energize Your Fertility: Mitochondrial Health With Dr. Jillian Moehle

In this episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, we dive into all things MITOCHONDRIA with Dr. Jillian Moehle.
Ever wonder how the powerhouses of our cells, the mitochondria, play a crucial role in achieving a healthy pregnancy? This episode takes you from the basics to the breakthroughs, covering everything mitochondria and fertility. Here’s what we’ll cover!
🔍 Why mitochondrial health is a game-changer for both men and women on their journey to parenthood.🚨 Signs your mitochondria might need a little TLC - and how to respond. 🕰️ The link between aging and mitochondrial function: what you need to know. 🔬 Cutting-edge tools and tests for gauging your mitochondrial wellness.🍏 Mitochondrial support through lifestyle, supplements, and exciting new therapeutics. 🌞 Experience a mitochondrial power "day in the life" with Dr. Moehle’s expert insights.
Whether you’re curious about the science or seeking solutions, this episode is packed with invaluable wisdom to empower your fertility journey. Don’t miss out on discovering how to nurture your cellular energy for a vibrant path to parenthood!
Tune in, get inspired, and take a step closer to your fertility goals with us! 🎧💫

Chart With Confidence: Pro Tips From Lisa Hendrickson-Jack

In this episode of the Functional Fertility podcast, host Dr. Kalea Wattles welcomes guest Lisa Hendrickson-Jack for a deep-dive into the world of fertility awareness. This conversation begins with the basics, exploring what fertility awareness is and how it can significantly enhance a woman’s chances of conceiving. Lisa, a pioneer in treating the menstrual cycle as a crucial health indicator, shares invaluable insights into why understanding our cycles is vital for overall health and fertility planning. We tackle pressing listener questions, from discerning the final days of your period to navigating the stress of tracking basal body temperature. We'll also delve into the effectiveness of fertility awareness for women with irregular cycles, the intricacies of timing sex during long, unpredictable PCOS cycles, and distinguishing between PCOS and hypothalamic amenorrhea. Discover how a nutritional approach, as outlined in "Real Food For Fertility," aids in restoring normal menstrual cycles and boosting fertility. Plus, get expert advice on transitioning off hormonal birth control, with tips on avoiding pregnancy during the preparation phase for conception. Don't miss this episode packed with essential knowledge for anyone looking to understand their fertility better and optimize their reproductive health.

Getting to Baby with Judy Simon, MS, RDN, CD, CHES, FAND

Find your most fertile future in this new episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, featuring the wisdom of registered dietitian nutritionist, Judy Simon. Unveiling key principles from her latest book, "Getting to Baby," co-authored with Dr. Angela Thyer, Judy delves into the power of a fertility-enhancing diet. She highlights the critical role of low-glycemic foods, and shares her expert strategies to improve insulin sensitivity for those facing insulin resistance. She also reveals her innovative "Fertility Plate" tool and explores her favorite nutrient-packed snacks. Even more, Judy will discuss some hot topics and listener questions, including what it truly means to eat “plant-forward,” how to incorporate caloric-rich foods into a balanced fertility diet, how to safely consume seafood while TTC, and how to craft the ultimate fertility-boosting, satisfying salads!
This episode is an essential guide for anyone looking to nourish their body and optimize fertility with every bite.

Heavenly Waters: Treating Period Problems Using Traditional Chinese Medicine with Dr. Amy Galvan

Dive into the ancient wisdom of Chinese Medicine with host Dr. Kalea Wattles and guest Dr. Amy Galvan on this week's episode of the Functional Fertility podcast. Ever wonder why traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) refers to periods as "Heavenly Waters"? Or how it uncovers the myriad of roots causing period problems and infertility? Dr. Galvan demystifies these questions, revealing how an understanding of TCM's unique perspective can lead to targeted treatments for long-standing issues.
She'll guide us through the vital connection between mind, body, and lifestyle, and how making specific shifts can dramatically improve menstrual health. Expect to learn about the five lifestyle changes rooted in TCM that anyone can adopt for better periods, the modern habits that might be worsening your symptoms, and nourishing food recommendations to satisfy cravings while boosting your menstrual wellbeing.
Plus, get inspired to create the ultimate happy-period gift basket with Dr. Galvan's top three must-haves. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to harmonize their cycle naturally and reclaim their health. Tune in to transform your understanding of periods from a monthly ordeal to a harmonious flow with the wisdom of Chinese Medicine. 

Real Food for Fertility with Lily Nichols, RDN, CDE

In this episode of the Functional Fertility podcast, host Dr. Kalea Wattles and guest Lily Nichols, a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist and co-author of the new book Real Food for Fertility, delve into the crucial role of preconception nutrient density, particularly focusing on protein. They explore the benefits of prioritizing dietary protein for conception, discussing the adequacy of current protein intake recommendations and the ramifications of inadequate protein intake on overall health. Lily shares practical strategies for incorporating more protein into daily meals and highlights research indicating the importance of animal foods in providing essential micronutrients vital for fertility and pregnancy. The conversation extends to the nuances of under-nutrition, particularly concerning iron intake, differentiating between heme and non-heme iron sources, and emphasizing key iron-rich foods for those trying to conceive. Additionally, Lily offers insights into the debated topic of liver supplements and rounds off the discussion by outlining the top five nutritious foods crucial for supporting fertility and healthy pregnancy. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking to optimize their nutrition for conception and beyond.