Claim OwnershipFunctional Fertility with Dr. Kalea Wattles
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Functional Fertility is designed to help you demystify your hormones, up-level your lifestyle, and supercharge your fertility potential. Dr. Kalea Wattles is joined by experts in the field of functional and integrative medicine, combining cutting-edge science with treasured traditional wisdom on an exploration of preconception wellness. Whether you’re trying to get pregnant for the first time, or you’re exploring assisted reproductive technologies, Dr. Wattles is here to give you the tools you need to combat period problems, perfect your cycle tracking skills, power up your egg health and build the family of your dreams.
This is functional fertility.
This is functional fertility.
64 Episodes
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In this episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, Dr. Kalea Wattles is joined by Sarah Thompson, L.Ac., CFMP, and doula, for a deep dive into the nutritional and functional medicine strategies that support a healthy pregnancy and reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia. They explore the specific dietary patterns shown to lower risk for pregnancy-induced hypertension, key lifestyle interventions that offer protection, and the essential lab markers—like uric acid, homocysteine, and vitamin D—that can provide early insight into a patient’s risk profile. Sarah shares how genetic polymorphisms can influence nutrient metabolism and pre-eclampsia risk, offering guidance on when to consider genetic testing. The episode wraps with actionable tips on preparing the body for the energetic demands of childbirth through targeted nutritional strategies.
On this week's episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, Dr. Kalea Wattles is joined by Elyse Wagner, founder of A Nourished Life and A Nourished Business Academy. On this episode, Elyse shares:
How to unravel and rewrite the deep-rooted beliefs and values that shape our habits
What mindset shifts can help women feel more empowered and in control during their fertility journey?
How women can reframe negative self-talk and cultivate a more positive, nourishing mindset
Powerful affirmations to keep you on the right track during your fertility journey
Thank you to NEEDED for sponsoring this episode. Find the highest quality perinatal nutrition at thisisneeded.com and use code FUNCTIONALFERTILITY for 20% off your first order!
On this episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, Dr. Kalea Wattles is joined by Functional Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Nicole Fennell to unpack the vital connection between thyroid health and fertility. If you’re trying to conceive, you’ve likely heard about the importance of thyroid function—but did you know that even “normal” lab results don’t always tell the full story? Nicole shares why some patients still struggle with infertility despite seemingly optimal thyroid levels, the key nutrients that support both thyroid and reproductive health, and what your body temperature might reveal about your hormones. Plus, we tackle listener questions on Hashimoto’s, medication, and persistent hair shedding. If you’re looking to optimize your thyroid for a healthy conception, this episode is a must-listen!
In this episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, Dr. Kalea Wattles offers a comprehensive review of adrenal health as it relates to fertility. She covers:
The hormones secreted by the adrenal glands, including cortisol and DHEA
The impact of chronically elevated cortisol on the reproductive system, and the best way to test cortisol
The role of DHEA in follicular development, and how production of DHEA changes as we age
The benefits of DHEA supplementation for those with poor ovarian response
The most impactful lifestyle factors and supplementation to support health in the HPA-axis
Thank you to Needed for sponsoring this episode! This week's fertility supplement sspotlight features Needed Stress Support, an evidence-based blend of adaptogenic botanicals designed to support healthy function of the HPA Axis. Head to thisisneeded.com and use code FUNCTIONALFERTILITY for 20% off your first month of Needed products!
In this episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, host Dr. Kalea Wattles is joined by Tiny Healthy Founder and CEO, Cheryl Sew Hoy. In this episode, Cheryl reviews vaginal "community state types," describing specific microbial compositions that can influence pregnancy outcomes. Even further, Cheryl discusses the connection between gut health and fertility outcomes, and the connection between the gut and vaginal micorbiome. Finally, Cheryl discusses ongoing clinical research investigating the influence of the gut and vaginal microbiome on IVF outcomes.
Thank you to Needed for sponsoring this episode! Needed's pre-and-probiotic supplement is highlighted in this episode, as this supplement contains a blend of bacterial species that have been shown to support the health of the gut and vaginal microbiome. Head to thisisneeded.com and use code FUNCTIONALFERTILITY for 20% off your first order!
In this episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, Dr. Kalea Wattles is joined by holistic fertility expert Dr. Aumatma Simmons to discuss the complexities of unexplained infertility, premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). The conversation begins with the frustration surrounding a diagnosis of unexplained infertility and emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive lab workup to uncover underlying conditions. Dr. Aumatma shares her insights on diagnosing and treating premature ovarian insufficiency, including key interventions she uses in her practice. The discussion transitions to recurrent pregnancy loss, detailing the laboratory workup she offers, common patterns observed, and the role of advanced testing such as sperm DNA fragmentation in cases involving male partners. This episode provides practical, evidence-based guidance for patients navigating these challenging fertility scenarios.
In this episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, Dr. Kalea Wattles chats with Ximena Vengoechea, author of The Life Audit! In this episode, you'll learn:
- What is The Life Audit, and how can it benefit you on your fertility journey?
- How performing a Life Audit help you to gain clarity, assemble a network, and take aligned action towards the life you've always wanted
- What materials and tools you need to successfully conduct your own Life Audit
If you're working to gain clarity about what you want for your life, fertility journey, or parenthood experience - it's time for a Life Audit! Tune in to hear more about the process and to get the inside scoop (full of pro-tips) from Life Audit creator Ximena Vengoechea.
Thanks to NEEDED for sponsoring this episode! Use code FUNCTIONALFERTILITY for 20% of your purchase at thisisneeded.com.
When you're trying to conceive, there is nothing more frightening than finding out you aren't ovulating regularly. If you have found yourself in this startling situation, this episode will make the investigation less spooky and more strategic.
In this episode of the Functional Fertility podcast, Dr. Kalea Wattles reviews some of the most common causes of anovulation, including PCOS, hypothalamic amenorrhea, adrenal dysfunction, hypothyroidism, elevated prolactin, and illness or fever. We’ll discuss how to test for these conditions and some tricks (treats?) for managing them!
Thank you to NEEDED for sponsoring this episode! Functional Fertility podcast listeners can get 20% off their first month of Needed products by visiting thisisneeded.com and using code FUNCTIONALFERTILITY.
This episode sponsored by NEEDED! Use code FUNCTIONALFERTILITY at thisisneeded.com for 20% off your first month of products!
In this episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, we explore how manual therapy can unlock new possibilities for those facing unexplained infertility. Our guests Larry Wurn, CEO, LMT, and Sharon Hepburn, COO, PT, LMT from Clear Passage Therapies review the role of adhesions in fertility challenges, share success stories of patients with elevated FSH who improved with treatment, and explain how manual therapy influences the ovaries, cranium, and dura. We discuss how manual therapy can open blocked fallopian tubes without surgery and can help prepare the endometrium for implantation. We also cover an effective protocol for treating endometriosis, exploring when therapy is best utilized—before or after surgery. The episode wraps with a powerful success story using the Clear Passage Approach, offering hope for those navigating complex fertility journeys.
Join Dr. Kalea Wattles as she chats with Jess Tims, a Certified Fertility Doula and mom who turned her own journey with unexplained infertility into a mission to support others.
In this episode, we dive into:
- What exactly is a fertility doula, and how can they guide you on your path to pregnancy?
- The emotional rollercoaster of infertility, pregnancy loss, and IVF—and the mind-body tools Jess uses to help her clients find peace.
- Real-life success stories that show the transformative power of compassionate support.
Tune in to hear Jess's heartfelt wisdom, inspiring stories, and the advice she shares with almost every client. Whether you’re just starting your fertility journey or looking for hope after a loss, this episode is packed with encouragement and practical tips.
In this episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, Dr. Kalea Wattles chats with acupuncturist, herbalist, and Arvigo abdominal massage therapist Holly Leever. We'll cover:
- What is Arvigo abdominal massage, and how does it support fertility?
- Who is a good candidate for this type of treatment?
- How tracking your cycle can help you add abdominal massage at the right time to support fertility
- Strategies for developing a deeper connection to the womb during your fertility journey
Thank you to our season two sponsor, NEEDED! This episode highlights Needed Egg Quality Support, a blend of targeted antioxidants designed to support egg quality. Use code FUNCTIONALFERTILITY for 20% off your order at thisisneeded.com.
In this episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, Dr. Kalea Wattles connects with Nectar Health (https://www.mynectarhealth.com/) Founder and CEO, Diane Ducarme, to discuss the connection between migraines and fertility. In this show, we'll talk about:
- The connection between migraines and the menstrual cycle
- The gut-brain axis and the role of the gut in both reproductive health and migraines
- Superfoods that can help those with migraines
- How to communicate to your partner the severity and impact of migraine pain
- How working to address the underlying causes of migraines improves fertility outcomes as well
Thank you to our season 2 sponsor - Needed! In this episode, we highlight Needed's Pre/Probiotic, a clinically-studied blend of probiotics, prebiotics, and polyphenols to support the gut and vaginal microbiome. Listeners can receive 20% off at thisisneeded.com with code FUNCTIONALFERTILITY.
In this episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, Dr. Kalea Wattles helps you to identify your own "gut health persona" with a series of gut health assessments designed to help you identify signs of low digestive enzymes, dysbiosis, hypochlorhydria, and low bile acid. We'll review signs and symptoms, findings you might see on your lab work, and tried-and-true solutions for improving gut health. Need a refresher on the gut-fertility connection? This episode also offers a brief review of the connecting points between our digestive health and fertility outcomes.
Thanks to our season 2 sponsor Needed! Podcast listeners can enjoy 20% off their order of the highest quality perinatal supplements at thisisneeded.com with code FUNCTIONALFERTILITY.
In this episode, Dr. Kalea Wattles describes the function of insulin in the body and what can happen when we shift into the metabolic state known as "insulin resistance." She walks through the impacts of insulin resistance on various tissue types, including the ovaries, and how our metabolic health can impact ovulation, endometriosis, and fibroids. Dr. Wattles will also highlight some key nutritional pillars designed to increase insulin sensitivity, improving metabolic health for optimal fertility!
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.
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.
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.
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! 🎧💫
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.
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.
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