Functional Fertility with Dr. Kalea Wattles

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

On the latest buzz-worthy episode of the Functional Fertility podcast, our dynamic host Dr. Kalea Wattles teams up with the insightful Dr. Katie DiNello to unpack the essentials of METABOLIC HEALTH. They start off by shedding light on what metabolic health really means—hint: it's so much more than what the scale tells you! Curious about whether your metabolic health is on point? They’ve got the lowdown on the tell-tale labs, signs, and symptoms to look out for. The duo seamlessly connects the dots between metabolic health and its pivotal role in reproductive wellness, highlighting why it's a game-changer before and during pregnancy. If you're eyeing a healthy body weight and top-notch metabolic health on your path to conception, they're serving up the ultimate first steps and markers of readiness to ensure you're all set. For the expecting or aspiring mamas feeling overwhelmed about their metabolic health, there’s a wealth of strategies and reassurance on offer. Wrapping up with a personal touch, Dr. DiNello shared her top three pro-tips for keeping metabolic health in stellar shape. This episode is a perfect blend of science and realness with a fresh, engaging twist, making the complex world of metabolic health accessible and exciting for anyone looking to nurture their body and future little ones.

In the latest episode of the Functional Fertility Podcast, Dr. Kalea Wattles invites Ryan Woodbury, co-CEO of Needed, to explore the critical role of prenatal vitamins in maternal and infant health. They delve into the historical approach of designing prenatal vitamins based on Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs), discussing how this method may have underserved pregnant and nursing women. Emphasizing Needed's philosophy that "Nutrition has the power to change health outcomes for mothers and babies," Ryan highlights the benefits of focusing on nutrient adequacy, especially during the trying-to-conceive (TTC) period. The episode also sheds light on the rigorous three-year development process of Needed's Nutritional System, emphasizing their commitment to optimal dosing, nutrient forms, and ongoing clinical research. Ryan shares insights from the development phase and details about a current clinical study they are recruiting for. Furthermore, the importance of third-party testing for quality control in perinatal supplements is underscored, showcasing Needed's dedication to exceeding quality standards. The episode concludes with a look at Needed's future initiatives in enhancing maternal and infant health through quality products, research, and advocacy.

In this episode of the Functional Fertility podcast, hosted by Dr. Kalea Wattles, the spotlight is on a fascinating and often overlooked topic: cervical fluid. Dr. Wattles passionately discusses the significance of cervical fluid in understanding fertility, shedding light on its pivotal role as a natural indicator of ovulation and reproductive health. With her characteristic enthusiasm, she delves into the transformations of cervical fluid throughout the menstrual cycle and its crucial function in facilitating sperm's journey to the egg. Dr. Wattles also shares valuable tips for optimizing cervical fluid, including the importance of hydration, acupuncture, supplements like N-acetyl-cysteine, and maintaining a healthy energy balance. Tune in to discover how embracing this knowledge can empower you on your fertility journey and enhance your understanding of your body's signals. Thank you to this episode's sponsor - Needed! Head to thisisneeded.com and save 20% on your favorite prenatal supplements for both men and women with code FUNCTIONALFERTILITY.

In this episode of the Functional Fertility podcast, host Dr. Kalea Wattles is joined by physician, mother, and gardener Dr. Michelle Sequin. Dr. Seguin explores the profound health benefits of gardening and its connection to fertility. Drawing inspiration from her experiences in regenerative gardening, the discussion unfolds around the parallels between tending to a garden and caring for one's health, emphasizing lessons in resilience, hope, and renewal. Dr. Sequin sheds light on horticulture therapy and the concept of "infertility gardens" as therapeutic tools. The episode delves into the healing capacity of nature, offering examples of how time spent in the garden contributes to personal well-being. Dr. Sequin also discusses research on the correlation between exposure to green environments and sperm quality. The conversation extends to the benefits of seasonal eating for both health and the planet, accompanied by practical advice and resources for those interested in embracing seasonal eating. Ending on a light note, Dr. Sequin shares her go-to meal packed with veggies for a delightful and nutritious experience. This episode brought to you by Needed! Needed's Pre/Probiotic supplement is Packed with clinically-studied strains of probiotics, plus prebiotics with polyphenols. Just like we’ve been talking about planetary health in this episode, one of the magic ingredients to optimal fertility and pregnancy is a happy, healthy microbiome! Head to thisisneeded.com and use code FUNCTIONALFERTILITY for 20% off your order.

This episode sponsored by Needed! Use code FUNCTIONALFERTILITY for 20% off your order of high quality perinatal supplements at thisisneeded.com. On this episode of the Functional Fertility podcast, Dr. Kalea Wattles ushers in the new year with a dedicated focus on creating a preconception plan for 2024. Encouraging listeners to consider the holistic aspects of preconception health, Dr. Wattles emphasizes the importance of annual wellness exams with primary care doctors and addresses the often-overlooked significance of dental health in fertility. She delves into the connection between oral health, systemic inflammation, and fertility, highlighting the impact on both women and men. Dr. Wattles further discusses the role of functional medicine in preconception planning, providing insights into the specific labs she considers for a comprehensive fertility assessment. Concluding with an invitation to her upcoming online program, the episode serves as a valuable guide for those embarking on their fertility journey in 2024.

You asked, Dr. Kalea answered! This episode is dedicated to listener questions - girl talk with a doctor twist! Here are the questions covered in this episode: Thank you to everyone for tuning in to Functional Fertility in 2023. Can't wait to see you in 2024!!

In this episode of the Functional Fertility podcast, host Dr. Kalea Wattles engages in an insightful discussion with Functional Dietitian Kristen DeAngelis about the impact of discontinuing birth control on fertility. Addressing common concerns, they provide advice on nutrition and nutrient repletion after oral contraceptive use, offering insights into the timeline for trying to conceive (TTC) post-discontinuation. They tackle a listener question about the potential difficulty of conceiving after past birth control use and explore strategies for creating postpartum wellness. Kristen shares her preconception steps that fostered resilience, detailing nutrition goals during pregnancy while accommodating energy fluctuations and cravings. The episode concludes with a focus on essential postpartum nutrients and guidance on discerning normal postpartum fatigue from potential health concerns.

In this episode of the Functional Fertility podcast, host Dr. Kalea Wattles connects with nutritional therapist Angela Heap, focusing on a personalized health analysis for fertility. Heap discusses crucial tests in her practice, highlighting her specialization in fertility for women over 35. She offers valuable advice for listeners in their early 30s seeking to enhance reproductive longevity through nutrition. The conversation explores the role of nutrition in shielding egg cells from oxidative stress, particularly in the context of IVF journeys. Angela discusses the optimal timeline for preparing the body for IVF, addressing common health obstacles clients face during this process. The episode concludes with insights into personalized nutrition plans and nutrition recommendations to support the body after a frozen embryo transfer (FET).

In this episode of the Functional Fertility podcast, host Dr. Kalea Wattles engages with acupuncturist Susana Puelles, delving into Puelles' personal journey that led her to specialize in fertility support. The conversation revolves around reproductive longevity, addressing crucial environmental factors influencing aging in the reproductive system. Susana shares key strategies for reversing cellular damage and highlights botanical medicines that optimize the health of eggs and sperm. The focus shifts to the importance of replenishing reserves for healthy hormones and fertility, exploring how patterns of depletion impact reproductive health and offering insights on identifying such patterns within oneself. Susana concludes by discussing treatments and practices that promote replenishment and restoration, providing a holistic approach to fertility well-being.

In this podcast episode, host Dr. Kalea Wattles welcomes fertility yoga instructor, Lynn Jensen, to discuss the role of yoga in enhancing fertility. Lynn explains how yoga supports optimal fertility, highlighting differences in practice during preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum timeframes. She offers her perspective on practicing yoga during IVF, including recommended poses and those to avoid. Lynn reviews research showing that yoga and meditation can significantly improve pregnancy outcomes and discusses how these practices address issues related to subfertility. The conversation shifts to the Chinese 5-element energy system, specifically the Metal Element, and its impact on fertility. Jensen talks about the importance of slowing down in the fertility journey and guides clients to balance urgency with patience. Lastly, she shares how her Yoga for Fertility classes, aimed at individuals facing challenges like miscarriage or IVF cycle failure, can aid in navigating these emotional hardships.

In this episode of Functional Fertility, Dr. Kalea Wattles and Dr. Alexis Gonzales delve into the complexities of endometriosis using the Functional Medicine Matrix. Dr. Gonzales shares her journey into specializing in endometriosis care, driven by her personal experience. Dr. Gonzales explains how various perpetuating factors, like gut health, insulin resistance, autoimmunity and chronic inflammation, can contribute to endometriosis symptoms. Further, she emphasizes the importance of a collaborative care approach, identifying key practitioners in an endometriosis care team. The episode covers the timing of excision surgery in relation to fertility preservation methods like egg freezing, practical advice for patients suspecting endometriosis, and the top modifiable lifestyle factors from a functional medicine perspective. Strategies to manage chronic inflammation and endo pain are also discussed, along with the mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of coping with this painful chronic condition, underscoring the need for holistic self-care.