As a Woman

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 Why the current medical standard of making patients "fail" for a year before an evaluation is outdated and how to advocate for early testing.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

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

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

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 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, 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 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 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 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