Fertility Q&A: Inflammation, Hormones, Cycle Tracking & More

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.

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.

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
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