Union of gametes of opposite sexes during the process of sexual reproduction to form a zygote
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The mental and emotional weight of trying to conceive doesn't disappear once you're pregnant, or once the baby arrives. For many women, it quietly shapes everything that comes after.Sometimes the hardest part isn't the fertility treatment itself. It's carrying the aftermath of it into motherhood without anyone acknowledging that you went through something significant to get there.In this episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr Renee White sits down with Dr Edna Lekgabe, certified perinatal and reproductive psychiatrist practising in Melbourne, to explore the mental health dimensions of the trying to conceive journey. They cover the difference between normal anxiety and clinical anxiety, how IVF trauma shows up in the body long after treatment ends, and why perinatal mental health challenges are never a personal failing.This is the final episode of the six-part Trying to Conceive series on The Science of Motherhood.In this episode, you'll hear about:Why what you're feeling is a nervous system response, not a character flawHow to recognise when anxiety has moved from visitor to renovationWhat IVF trauma looks like in the body and why it often goes unidentifiedHow medication decisions are made with a risk-versus-risk frameworkWhy reaching out early makes a differenceYour mental health through this journey is part of the journey. It deserves the same attention as everything else. There is support available, and you deserve to use it.If this resonates, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Subscribe to The Science of Motherhood so you never miss an episode.Resources & LinksConnect with Renee
Today's episode invites you into a completely different way of thinking about fertility, motherhood, and what it really means to prepare for a child. I'm joined by Chelsea Ann O'Brien, an integrative medicine nurse practitioner who bridges clinical practice with Eastern spirituality, and together we explore the concept of "feminine frequency" and why so many women today feel disconnected from it. If you've ever felt stuck in overthinking, control, or survival mode on your fertility journey, this conversation will likely land in a very real way. Chelsea shares how our modern conditioning pulls us into masculine patterns that can quietly disrupt our mental, emotional, physical, and even spiritual health and ultimately, our ability to conceive and carry with ease. We talk about how your internal state shapes the environment your future child is being welcomed into, why surrender is not weakness but power, and how healing generational patterns plays a critical role in conscious motherhood. Through both science and story, she offers a grounded yet deeply expansive perspective on becoming the mother your child is already calling in. If you're LOVING this podcast, please follow and leave a rating and review below. PLUS FOLLOW MY INSTAGRAM PAGE HERE FOR BITE SIZED TTC TIPS! For full show notes and guest related links: https://www.naturallynora.ca/blog/195 Need Nora's Support To Get Pregnant? Apply for Private Fertility Coaching with Nora here Click here for a collection of Nora's best self paced programs to get & stay pregnant Grab Your FREE Resources: Just starting your TTC journey? Download my Eat To Get Pregnant Guide Having trouble getting and staying pregnant? Download my Top 3 Things To Do When You're Not Getting Pregnant Wondering what supplements to take to help you conceive? Download my Fertility Foundations Supplement Guide Please Note: The contents of this podcast are for educational and informational purposes only. The information is not to be interpreted as, or mistaken for, clinical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.
FemTech is a big industry but how helpful is it to "the little people" especially those trying to conceive? We talked with NaProTechnology trained PA, Naomi Davis, from Vivify Fertility & Health, about how she's seen FEMTECH support and restrict women trying to grow their families. She lays out the major types of FemTech devices, some pros and cons, and her best advice for those trying to conceive. We live in a technology-driven age, which means we have to be EDUCATED about what helps us vs what doesn't.I'm thrilled that Naomi came on the show today because she is a part of The Fertile Hive, an online community led by NaProTechnology-trained medical professionals who want to provide support, encouragement, and education to those struggling to conceive. The Fertile Hive is one of our partners during the book launch of Woven Well: A Christian Woman's Guide to Reproductive Health, Fertility, and Wholeness which means that if you pre-order the book before July 7th, you'll get free access to an exclusive webinar from the Fertile Hive team! EVERY pre-order qualifies you to attend and learn about resources for education and empowerment when trying to conceive. Pre-order the book wherever you buy your books (Amazon, Christianbook, B&N, Bookshop) and then register here: https://www.wovenfertility.com/pre-order-woven-well.The Fertile Hive is an educational community led by Dr. Kristina Pakiz and Naomi Davis, PA-C, offering expert guidance and sisterly support for women navigating infertility. Together, we cut through the noise to create clarity, confidence, and hope on the fertility journey.GUEST BIO: Naomi Davis is a board-certified physician assistant dedicated to providing holistic women's healthcare that honors the body's natural design. Inspired by her own experience with irregular cycles and PCOS, she practices NaProTechnology under the mentorship of Kristina Pakiz, integrating nutrition, exercise, and evidence-based medicine to help women find answers for pain, irregular cycles, infertility, and menopause-related concerns. Naomi trained at the St. Paul VI Institute and University of Nebraska Medical Center, and lives in Omaha with her husband and three children, where she enjoys sourdough baking and spending time outside.NOTE: This episode is appropriate for all audiences.RELATED EPISODE:Ep. 219: Practical Use of Mira Hormone Monitor with Fertility Awareness Methods Send Us a Text!Support the showOther great ways to connect with Woven Natural Fertility Care: Learn the Creighton Model System with us! Register here!Get our monthly newsletter: Get the updates!Chat about issues of fertility + faith: Substack Follow us on Instagram: @wovenfertilityWatch our episodes on YouTube: @wovenfertilityLove the content? The biggest gift you could give is to click a 5 star review and write why it was so meaningful! This podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Neither Woven nor its staff, nor any contributor to this podcast, makes any representations, exp...
After a loss, one of the most tender questions a woman can ask is: Is my body ready to try again? In this episode, I'm walking you through the three signs I look for — the ones I wish someone had walked me through after my own three miscarriages.We open in Isaiah 43:19 — "Behold, I am doing a new thing" — and let that promise anchor everything we dig into. Because this episode isn't just about physical readiness. It's about what it looks like to partner with the Lord in this process, lean into wise counsel, and discern his timing alongside your body's signals.Episode Highlights:Why I always encourage waiting 2–3 cycles after miscarriage before trying to conceive againSign #1: Have you discovered and addressed your root causes? (Thyroid, adrenals, gut, inflammation — and how grief impacts your stress hormones)Sign #2: What your luteal phase is telling you — and why progesterone health is mission critical before conceptionHow cycle charting with an evidence-based method gives you real, accurate data on your hormonal healthSign #3: The peace of the Holy Spirit and the role of wise counsel in discerning when it's timeWhat it looks like inside the Fertility Framework program to get feedback on your charts and support through this journeyResources & Links:✨Get my Faith Driven Fertility Booklet: bekahyawn.com/booklet ✨Join Fertility Framework: If you're ready for deeper support, personalized cycle guidance, and faith-filled encouragement, come join me inside Fertility Framework! This is a space where you AND your husband can learn about the science of your cycle while keeping God in the centre of your fertility journey and growing towards Him together. Read the testimonies & enroll here: bekahyawn.com/course ✨If you would like personal support on your journey but are not sure how to get started, book a free 10-minute consult with me here: bekahyawn.com/consult
The Waiting Well - Infertility, Faith-based Encouragement, Trying to Conceive, Fertility
If you've ever watched another pregnancy announcement and wondered—even for a moment—if God loves her more than He loves you, today's episode is for you. Because Romans 9 contains one of the most difficult passages in all of Scripture: "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated." And if we're not careful, we'll read that verse and start believing something God never intended us to believe—that His sovereignty means He is arbitrary, unfair, or playing favorites with our lives. So today we're going to talk about what Romans 9 actually teaches, what it doesn't teach, and why God's sovereign choice is meant to produce humility, worship, and trust—not fear that you've somehow become less loved because you're still waiting.
The emotional side of a fertility journey is real, and it's the part that often goes unspoken. You can walk into treatment prepared with every medical question imaginable and still feel blindsided by the weight of the waiting, the uncertainty, and the grief that can come when things don't go to plan.That gap deserves more airtime than it gets.In this episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr Renee White sits down with Dr Giselle Crawford, fertility specialist and gynaecologist with more than ten years of experience in obstetrics, gynaecology, and infertility care, to explore the emotional terrain of fertility treatment and what genuinely good care looks like from the inside. They cover everything from managing expectations through the IVF process, to navigating grief, supporting your relationship, and knowing when to pause.This episode is Part 5 of the Trying to Conceive series on The Science of Motherhood.You'll Hear About:Why emotional preparation matters as much as medical readinessHow to understand the concept of attrition in IVFWhat stress actually does (and doesn't) do to fertility outcomesHow partners can move from spectator to co-pilotWhy stopping treatment isn't giving upHaving language for what you're going through makes it easier to carry. This episode gives you that, alongside the science to back it up.If someone you love is navigating fertility treatment right now, this is the episode to share with them. And subscribe so you don't miss an episode of The Science of Motherhood.Resources & Links:
If you've been trying to conceive for a while, you've probably found yourself down a research rabbit hole at some point, reading forum threads at midnight and trying to decode acronyms you barely know. IVF, IUI, FSH, ICSI. The information is out there, but it doesn't always feel like it was written for you.Understanding the difference between your options, and knowing the right questions to ask, can make a conversation with a fertility specialist feel far less overwhelming.In this episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr Renee White sits down with Dr Denise Nesbitt, obstetrician, gynaecologist, and fertility specialist at Hunter IVF, to unpack the key differences between IUI and IVF, including when each is recommended and what to actually expect from both processes. They explore sperm health, egg freezing, success rates, and what's really happening during the two-week wait.This episode is Part 4 of the Trying to Conceive series on The Science of Motherhood.You'll Hear About:How doctors decide between IUI and IVFWhat actually happens during each fertility cycleWhy sperm health matters more than most people realiseWhat success rates mean and what influences themHow to emotionally prepare for the two-week waitStarting this journey is brave. Having the right information means you can walk into that appointment knowing the right questions to ask, and feeling far less alone in the process.If you know someone who's navigating fertility treatment, share this episode with them. And subscribe so you don't miss an episode of The Science of Motherhood.Resources & LinksFollow Renee on Instagram: @fillyourcup_
The Clinical Cost of Isolation: Why High-Performing Women Cannot Afford to Do Their Fertility Journey Alone Social isolation increases mortality risk in women by 26 to 29 percent, with physiological effects equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. For women on a fertility journey, the same elevated cortisol that drives those mortality numbers is also […] The post EP380: The Clinical Cost of Isolation: The Science Behind Why Women In Community Conceive appeared first on Rosanne Austin.
Holistic Fertility, “Unexplained Infertility,” and Mercier Therapy with Dr. Jen Mercier In this episode, HeHe sits down with fertility specialist, midwife, and creator of Mercier Therapy Dr. Jennifer Mercier for a powerful conversation about infertility, reproductive health, and why so many families are being told “everything looks normal” while still struggling to conceive. Together, they unpack the reality behind “unexplained infertility,” the labs and diagnostics that are often skipped in traditional fertility care, and why true fertility support has to look at the whole body—not just your ovaries. Dr. Mercier breaks down cycle-specific hormone testing, thyroid health, prolactin, semen analysis, endometriosis, C-section scar tissue, and the environmental factors impacting fertility rates today, from microplastics and endocrine disruptors to chronic stress and lifestyle exposures. HeHe and Dr. Mercier also dive into restorative reproductive medicine, NaPro approaches, and Mercier Therapy, Dr. Mercier's pelvic visceral manipulation technique designed to support reproductive function and improve pelvic mobility. This episode is packed with practical education, hope, and empowering reminders that infertility care should never be one-size-fits-all. If you've ever felt dismissed, rushed toward IVF without answers, or frustrated by “normal” labs that don't explain what's happening in your body, this conversation is for you. 00:00 Non Toxic Registry 04:48 Meet Dr Jen Mercier 11:09 What Traditional Care Misses 22:15 Fertility Crisis Causes 39:07 Unexplained Infertility Roots 45:09 Seven Pregnancies Later 45:48 Joy of Later Motherhood 47:27 VBAC and Hospital Pressure 48:15 Why Doulas Matter 49:07 Mercier Therapy Explained 50:04 Documentaries and Premiere 54:41 Finding a Practitioner 58:05 Phones, Nature, and Ions 59:50 NAPRO and Systemic Issues 01:02:35 Microplastics Practical Swaps 01:09:47 Hope and Final Takeaways Guest Bio: Dr. Jennifer Mercier, ND, PhD, is a fertility specialist, midwife, and the creator of Mercier Therapy®, a pelvic visceral manipulation technique supporting reproductive health. With over 25 years of experience, she has helped hundreds of couples conceive naturally and has trained healthcare professionals worldwide. She is the author of Conceive and the filmmaker behind Fertility: The Shared Journey and Conceiving Miracles. Connect with Dr. Mercier: www.ExpectAMiracle.life SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Dr. Mercier on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.jennifer.mercier BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app LINKS MENTIONED: Check out the study by Shanna Swan here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9370524/
Have you heard of the new trend ‘Spermmaxxing'? On social media, people are using this as a term to describe ways you can increase the quality and quantity of your sperm. The approaches to this range anywhere from getting more sleep and eating better, to eating raw garlic and dipping your testicles in ice water…So, does any of this actually work?Joining Seán to discuss is Helena Tubridy, Fertility Coach and author of ‘Still Trying to Conceive'.
Have you heard of the new trend ‘Spermmaxxing'? On social media, people are using this as a term to describe ways you can increase the quality and quantity of your sperm. The approaches to this range anywhere from getting more sleep and eating better, to eating raw garlic and dipping your testicles in ice water…So, does any of this actually work?Joining Seán to discuss is Helena Tubridy, Fertility Coach and author of ‘Still Trying to Conceive'.
You've probably been told to "just relax" at some point on your fertility journey. Maybe by a friend, a family member, or even a health professional. And if you're anything like most people trying to conceive, you probably wanted to throw something at them.That advice isn't just unhelpful. It's both slightly right and completely missing the point.In this episode, Dr Renee White unpacks the real science behind stress, mindfulness, and fertility, cutting through the noise to tell you what the evidence actually supports, what it doesn't, and what's genuinely worth trying.This is part three of our six-part Trying to Conceive series.You'll Hear About:Why stress and reproduction are biologically competing systemsHow chronic stress disrupts your cycle and hormonesWhat mindfulness reliably improves (and what it doesn't)Why pregnancy rate claims need more evidence behind themFive evidence-backed practices worth integrating nowThe fertility journey asks so much of you. It can feel like your body is working against you, when the science tells a more nuanced story. Your nervous system and your reproductive system are in conversation, and understanding that relationship puts something real back in your hands.Share this episode with someone who's been told to "just relax" and deserves a better answer. And subscribe so you don't miss an episode of The Science of Motherhood.Resources & Links
Στο νέο μας επεισόδιο έχουμε τη χαρά να φιλοξενούμε τον Γιώργο, που πολλοί γνωρίζετε από την συμμετοχή του σε ένα από τα σημαντικότερα Ελληνικά hardcore συγκροτήματα των 10s, τους Ruined Families. Με αφορμή το πρώτο full length της νέας του μπάντας, Conceive, κάνουμε μια βουτιά στο παρελθόν, από τις αρχές των 00s που ήρθε για πρώτη φορά σε επαφή με αυτή τη μουσική, τις πρώτες του μπάντες, τους xFor No Reasonx και τους Voldera Cult, τις κυκλοφορίες και τις περιοδείες των Ruined Families, μέχρι και τη φιλία του με τον Pat Flynn των Have Heart.Μεταξύ άλλων, συζητάμε για πολύ hardcore, με μια έμφαση στα 90s, καθώς και για τη σκηνή του σήμερα. Το επεισόδιο κλείνει με ένα ακυκλοφόρητο κομμάτι από τον επερχόμενο δίσκο των Conceive.Tracklist: 1. Ruined Families ‘Wholecar'2. Conceive ‘False delight'
Some books are written to impress people.This one was written to move people.In this solo episode of Tradeswomen Talk.I'm sharing the story behind my book, Conceive It. Believe It. And Then Do That Sht!t why I wrote it, what it cost me to tell the truth, and what I hope readers take away from every page.This isn't a book about being extraordinary. It's a book about what happens when ordinary people stop waiting for permission and start betting on themselves.From growing up in Trinidad to becoming a union plumber in New York City, from cleaning houses and working as a nanny to founding Tools & Tiaras, writing books, and building a movement that has impacted thousands of girls, my journey has been filled with setbacks, detours, rejection, and moments when quitting would have been easier.But I've learned something along the way:Dreams don't work because you have talent.Dreams work because you do.In this episode, I talk about the difference between wishing and believing, why action is the missing ingredient in so many people's lives, and how grit has carried me further than confidence ever could.If you've been sitting on an idea, a business, a career change, a creative project, or a dream that's been whispering to you for years, this conversation is for you.Because the truth is, most people don't fail because they aren't capable.They fail because they never begin.So consider this your nudge. Your push. Your loving Caribbean auntie-style kick in the pants.Conceive it.Believe it.And then do that sh!t!
In 2024, the average age of a mother giving birth was 33.3. Last year, over 40% of the patient population in the Rotunda Hospital was over 35. It's clear that women across the country are choosing to have kids later in life.But, we also know that choosing to have a baby later can be a source of many fertility issues. Doctors and Fertility Coaches across the country are encouraging women to start thinking about their fertility plan, but many don't want to hear it.For more on this, Ciara Doherty is joined by Fertility Coach and author of ‘Still Trying to Conceive', Helena Tubridy...
What would you do if you were told that there was virtually no chance of getting pregnant and fulfilling your dream of becoming a mother?Health Coach Cristíona Aston is 45, and based on her age and AMH score, she has been told to grieve and move on…She refuses, and joins Andrea to discuss her fertility journey.
What did you think of this episode?As a writer, your story behind the story plays a huge role in reaching future readers. Get ready to hear today's story with Angela Mackey. Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I'm your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I'm so glad you're listening in. During this episode, we continue a new addition to Your Best Writing Life with The Story Behind the Stories series.My industry expert Angela Mackey encourages people to experience God through His Word so that everything–from ordinary days to hard seasons–is transformed by Jesus. She lives with her family in the Arkansas River Valley, cheering on her adult kids and delighting in the surprising ways God shows up daily.Tell us the Story Behind Difficult to Conceive: A Godly Perspective for the Road Ahead.This is a nonfiction book for women dealing with infertility. Biblically based, encouraging, and providing guideposts to help you with your journey through infertilityObviously, this book is based on your journey of infertility. What prompted you to take on the responsibility to write it?Share some of the Scriptures…and how they helped you to help others. Wrestling with God, how to ask questions, lament, and walk away changed and blessed, Genesis 32:24-32.How to determine God's direction for you and your spouse based on knowing what Godly wisdom looks like from James 3:17-18.Often, our thoughts whirl out of control and do not help us focus on God and trust Him. So, we would discuss the battle for our minds based on 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 and Philippians 4:8-9When things do not go as we prayed, we may wonder if we just did not have enough faith. We would discuss the kind of little faith Jesus condemned and see that God honors even faith as small as a mustard seed. Multiple scriptures are used here.When things are particularly dark, the best thing for us to do is put on the garment of praise. So we will discuss what it takes to put on a garment of praise in the midst of darkness and how that will not change your circumstance often, but it does change your perspectiveThree tips for writers.Prayer is your most important tool to effectively communicate God's message.Next, start with God's word, not your idea. Instead of saying I want to write about how important positive thinking is so I will find some verses about that, ask what does God's Word say about thinking? Seek His Word…the ideas will be rooted in Him.Trust that the Holy Spirit in you will give you all you need to effectively communicate His message as you write, rewrite, edit, and do the work to write well.Listener giveaway… is a downloadable 9-day devotion that is attached to my enewsletter. It is based on Philippians 4:8. Available here: http://eepurl.com/h3NafzAs we wrap up – Online Infertility Support Group Called Circle of Hope sign up link: https://www.twelve12ministries.org/circleofhopeYou can find out more in our show notes below:Website:https://angelamackey.com/Podcast:https://life-as-worship.com/Book:https://a.co/d/06FDQT7nFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mackeyal/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rethinking_my_thinking/Visit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeYour host - Linda Goldfarb#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy PodcastAwarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast
Most of us weren't taught that what happens before conception matters. You were told to take a folate supplement, book in when you got a positive test, and go from there. But there's a window of time before you even start trying that can shape not just your pregnancy, but your child's long-term health.The science on preconception care has moved significantly, and most people still aren't hearing about it.This is Part 2 of our six-part Trying to Conceive series.In this episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr Renee White sits down with Dr Eliza Hannam, GP, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, and founder of Nurtured Medical, a specialised perinatal clinic in Sydney, to explore what genuinely evidence-informed preconception care looks like. Together they unpack what the periconception window actually means, what testing is available and when to seek it, and what both partners can do to optimise health before pregnancy begins.You'll Hear About:Why preconception health affects your child's long-term metabolic healthWhat a thorough preconception GP appointment coversWhich supplements and nutrients matter most before conceptionHow to read your cycle beyond what any app can tell youWhen to seek fertility support without waiting 12 monthsThe periconception window is a gift of time, and knowing how to use it well changes things. You don't need to be a biochemist to understand it. You just need the right conversation.If you know someone who's thinking about starting a family, share this one with them. And subscribe so you don't miss an episode of The Science of Motherhood.Resources & Links:Connect with Dr Renee White:
What This Episode Moves Through • the moment when control starts to loosen its grip without force • how overdoing slowly fades when you stop feeding it attention • the difference between doing the work & becoming the work • why nothing needing to be fixed can feel uncomfortable at first • the quiet shift from urgency into steadiness • what it feels like to live without bracing for what's next There was a point where pushing just… stopped working. Not in a dramatic way. Not in a breakdown. Just a quiet realization that doing more wasn't creating more. That the effort, the planning, the constant adjusting… wasn't landing the way it used to. And for a moment, that felt like something was wrong. This episode sits inside that space. Not the part where everything clicks into place, but the part where the noise settles & you're left standing in something unfamiliar. Something quieter. Something that doesn't need to prove itself. It's less about what to do next & more about what happens when there is no next step waiting. Timestamps 01:03 When there is no next step 02:03 Watching control soften over time 03:01 Creating from a different place 03:57 Expanding beyond just getting pregnant 04:24 Observing patterns without turning them into problems 05:23 The urge to rush & how it shows up 05:53 A different way of standing in your life 06:22 When pressure starts to dissolve 06:51 Letting uncertainty be enough 07:20 There is no finish line Full Transcript Over on the Blog: https://www.findingfertility.co/blog/what-happens-after-you-stop-trying-so-hard-to-conceive-during-ivf-infertility Let's Do This Together
In this episode of The Conscious Conception Show, I'm joined by Briony Lawton from Space Together to explore a topic that so many women quietly experience while trying to conceive… burnout. Many women today are juggling demanding careers, responsibilities, emotional pressure, and the constant feeling that they need to keep going, keep pushing, and hold everything together. But what happens when your body has been running in survival mode for so long that it no longer feels safe to slow down? Together, we explore how burnout, people-pleasing, lack of boundaries, and disconnection from self can impact overall wellbeing — and why supporting your body begins with rebuilding your relationship with yourself. In this conversation, we discuss: What burnout really looks like in everyday life Why high-achieving women are particularly vulnerable to emotional exhaustion The role boundaries play in protecting our wellbeing Why slowing down can feel uncomfortable or even unsafe How self-abandonment and constant “doing” disconnect us from our bodies Gentle, realistic ways to begin reconnecting with yourself again We also reflect on why this matters not only for conception, but for the kind of foundation we create for motherhood, parenting, and the future wellbeing of our children. This episode is a compassionate reminder that supporting your fertility is not just about doing more… sometimes it begins with learning to listen, honour yourself, and create space for balance again.
Fertility preparation begins months, sometimes years, before you start trying to conceive. Knowing what to look for, and when, could change the entire shape of your conception journey.If you've ever wondered whether your body is actually ready for pregnancy, or whether there's something your results aren't telling you, this conversation will change how you think about your health.In this episode, Dr Renee White sits down with Megan Haralampou, degree-qualified Naturopath, Nutritionist, and Biomedical Science graduate, to unpack what a truly comprehensive pre-conception blood panel looks like and why the standard tests often aren't enough. Together they explore iron absorption, thyroid antibodies, cycle tracking, postpartum blood work, and how to read your results through an optimal lens.This is episode one of our six-part Trying to Conceive series.You'll Hear About:Why "normal" blood results can miss a fertility concernWhat a complete iron picture actually looks likeHow to track your cycle beyond a period tracking appWhen to get blood tests done after having a babyWhat postpartum thyroiditis has to do with depressionUnderstanding your body before pregnancy, and after, is one of the most practical things you can do for your health. You deserve care that looks at the full picture, not just what fits inside a reference range.Share this episode with anyone who's thinking about trying to conceive and wants to go in prepared. And subscribe so you don't miss an episode of The Science of Motherhood.Resources & LinksConnect with ReneeFollow Renee on Instagram: @fillyourcup_
One year in. And what a year it has been.In this episode I am joined by Katie Rollings, founder of Fertility Action, to mark the charity's first birthday. We talk about everything from the support groups that have quietly changed people's lives, to the campaign work happening at the highest levels of government, to what Katie believes the next big push needs to be: a national fertility strategy.This is a conversation full of hope. There is still so much to do, but the momentum is real, the people are extraordinary, and the case for change has never been stronger.What we discuss in this episode:What Fertility Action has achieved in its first year and the stories that have kept Katie goingHow the support groups actually work and why showing up with your camera off is completely fineThe Trying to Conceive group, the Positive Test and Beyond group, the Secondary Infertility group and what each one has becomeThe in-person walk-and-talk meetups in London and ManchesterThe woman who found her best friend through a Fertility Action support groupWhy the Life After Treatment group has been harder to grow and what Fertility Action is learning from thatThe South Asian support group and why in-person connection is what that community really needsThe new NICE guidelines and the change that barely made the headlines: up to six cycles in selected patientsWhy campaigning at ICB level has not worked and why Fertility Action is now pushing for central commissioningHow fertility treatment compares across Europe and why the UK is falling behindWhy fertility still sits awkwardly between the Women's Health Strategy and the Men's Health Strategy and gets properly covered in neitherWhy Katie believes the UK urgently needs its own national fertility strategyThe education project Fertility Action has launched with colleges and the National Education UnionThe moment a 17-year-old student challenged them in a college debate and what happened nextThe Three Peaks Challenge: why Katie chose it, who is doing it and how to donateFertility Action's birthday celebrations and what the next two years look likeHow to get involved as a volunteerAbout Katie Rollings and Fertility ActionKatie Rollings is the founder of Fertility Action, the UK's newest fertility charity, now celebrating its first birthday. Fertility Action provides free peer support groups, education and advocacy for the one in six people struggling to conceive. All of the team are volunteers and every penny raised goes directly into building more services for patients.Find out more and access support: fertilityaction.orgFollow Fertility Action on Instagram: @fertilityactionFertility Action support groupsAll groups are free, online and run every week. There is no expectation to keep showing up. You can come with your camera off. You can just sit in the chat. It is as low-pressure as it gets.Trying to Conceive (Tuesdays and Thursdays)Positive Test and BeyondSecondary InfertilityLife After TreatmentSouth Asian Fertility Support (developing)Sign up at fertilityaction.orgBirthday celebrationsFertility Action is holding two celebrations for its first birthday:A formal event with clinical partners and supportersQuiz and Fizz at Fisher's Farm on 23 May, open to the wider communityGet involvedFertility Action is a grassroots, all-volunteer charity and they need help across everything from research and communications to events and policy. If you have skills and a bit of time to offer, they would love to hear from you.Get in touch at fertilityaction.orgThis episode is sponsored by Wild NutritionI know how overwhelming it can be knowing which supplements to buy when you are trying to conceive. That is exactly why I appreciate what Wild Nutrition offers: free one-to-one consultations with nutritional therapists so you get guidance that is genuinely tailored to your situation. Their supplements are formulated for optimal absorption, with 31 carefully selected nutrients including folate, zinc and B vitamins, and are trusted by over 50,000 couples.As a listener of The Fertility Podcast, you can get:50% off Wild Nutrition supplements for 3 monthsA free personal consultation with an expert nutritional therapistVisit wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcast to get started. Terms and conditions apply.Support the Three Peaks ChallengeI am joining Katie and a brilliant group of people from across the fertility sector to climb Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours in June, raising funds for Fertility Action. Every donation, however small, goes directly towards building more support services for people going through this. And yes, I will be giving you a shout-out on the podcast if you donate.Here's how you can donate Stay connectedFollow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyIf you haven't already, please subscribe and leave a review. It really helps more people find the podcast.Thank you, as always, for your ear holes. Until next time
Welcome back to Everymum the podcast, I'm Aisling Keenan your host, and today's guest is someone whose story speaks to so many modern realities around motherhood, family, and the choices women are making when life doesn't follow the 'typical' path. Siobhan O'Hagan who you might know from her life online which began years back when she became a fitness influencer, is now a mum of one, working with an online community of women who want to live healtheir, and she has recently made the deeply personal decision to become a single mother by choice. Not because she gave up on finding a partner, but because she knew she wanted to grow her family and didn't want to put that dream on hold in the meantime. I LOVE following Siobhan online and particularly love how she's approached this whole journey with complete upfront honesty. In this episode, we talk about what led her to make her decision around expanding her family, the fears that came with it, and the practical realities of pursuing fertility treatment on her own. Siobhan opens up about the IVF process itself, and what it means to embrace the label SMBC, and if she feels she identifies with it. We also get into the assumptions people make about what a family is supposed to look like, the reactions she's had from others, and how she talks to her daughter about the journey of bringing a sibling into the world this way. But what makes this conversation so powerful is that it isn't just about fertility treatment or solo parenting. It's about agency. It's about making a brave decision for your life, even when it falls outside the traditional narrative. Whether this path is something you've considered yourself, or whether you're simply interested in the many ways families are made today, Siobhan's honesty, warmth, and clarity make this a fascinating and deeply moving conversation. Here's my chat with Siobhan, I'll be back next week with more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this deeply honest and faith-centered conversation, Angela Mackey joins TS Wright to discuss one of the most challenging journeys many believers face—infertility, grief, and trusting God when life doesn't unfold as expected.Angela opens up about her personal story, growing up in a strong Christian home and walking closely with the Lord from a young age. However, her faith was tested in profound ways when she experienced multiple ectopic pregnancies, forcing her to wrestle with difficult questions about God's goodness, timing, and sovereignty.This episode explores what it truly means to worship God—not just in blessing, but in suffering.Key Topics DiscussedGrowing up in faith and misconceptions about “earning” blessingsFacing infertility and the emotional/spiritual toll it bringsThe tension between God's ability vs. His will (“Even if He doesn't…”)Lessons from Daniel 3 and unwavering faith in the fireWhy grief and joy often coexist in the Christian lifeThe importance of lament and honesty before GodAvoiding idolatry of dreams, identity, and expectationsKeeping Christ at the center of marriage during hardshipPractical wisdom for couples walking through infertilityLearning to trust God's “yes” and His “no”Key TakeawaysYou are not alone—infertility affects 1 in 6 couplesGod's goodness is not defined by outcomesSilence and presence are often more powerful than words in griefWorship is a lifestyle—even in sufferingIntimacy with God requires vulnerability and honestyTrusting God means surrendering control of the storyAbout Angela MackeyAngela Mackey is an author, speaker, and podcast host of “Life as Worship.” Her ministry focuses on helping believers live lives that glorify God—even in life's darkest moments.She is the author of: “Difficult to Conceive: A Godly Perspective for the Road Ahead” – a resource for women navigating infertility with faith and hope.Connect with AngelaWebsite: https://angelamackey.comPodcast: Life as WorshipBook: Difficult to Conceive (available on Amazon and major retailers)Follow TS Wright and the Kingdom Cross Roads.Check out this link to view Kingdom Cross Roads on TV.https://jesussaid.tv/?affiliate=tswright_gccTo get a copy of our new book "Embracing the Truth" or to have TS Wright speak at your event or conference or if you simply want spiritual or life coaching or just a consultation visit:www.tswrightspeaks.comVisit our website to learn more about The God Centered Concept. The God Centered Concept is designed to bring real discipleship and spreading the Gospel to help spark the Great Harvest, a revival in this generation.www.godcenteredconcept.comKingdom Cross Roads Podcast is a part of The God Centered Concept.Final ThoughtTrue faith is not proven when God answers our prayers—it is revealed when we trust Him even when He doesn't.
If you've been trying to conceive and feel like you're doing everything “right”… but still not getting answers—this episode is for you.In this powerful conversation, Dee Davidson, FDN-P, sits down with Claudia Rosenhouse Raiken, creator of the DreamBirth™ Program, to explore a missing piece in the fertility conversation: the emotional and energetic blocks that can impact hormone balance, conception, and pregnancy.With decades of experience supporting parents and working in over 300 births, Claudia brings a deeply integrative perspective—bridging science, body awareness, and intuitive connection.Together, they explore how fertility is not just physical—it's also influenced by:Emotional patterns and subconscious blocksNervous system regulation and stressThe mind-body connectionEnergetic readiness for conceptionClaudia shares how her DreamBirth™ approach helps women:Support hormonal balance in a more holistic wayRelease internal blocks that may be affecting fertilityBuild a deeper connection with their body and future childCreate a more supported, aligned path to conception and pregnancyIn This Episode, You'll Learn:Why fertility challenges aren't always just physicalHow emotional and energetic blocks can impact conceptionThe role of the nervous system in hormone balanceWhat it means to connect with your baby before pregnancyPractical ways to begin supporting your body beyond supplements and protocolsWho This Episode Is ForWomen struggling with fertility or trying to conceiveThose who feel stuck despite doing “all the right things”Women exploring a more holistic, root-cause approach to hormone healthAnyone curious about the deeper connection between mind, body, and fertilityListen + SubscribeIf this episode resonates, be sure to subscribe, share, and leave a review so more women can access this conversation.Connect with Claudia:https://www.claudiaraiken.com/about-claudiaConnect with Dee Davidson:https://www.instagram.com/confidently_love_yourself/Medical DisclaimerThis content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your health or fertility plan.
Detoxing before pregnancy is one of the most misunderstood topics in the health space. In this episode, we break down what detox actually means in the body, why it matters for fertility, and how to approach it safely without creating more harm than good.You'll learn how toxins impact hormones, ovulation, and pregnancy, and why your body's ability to eliminate toxins matters more than simply “detoxing.”We also walk through the most important systems involved in detoxification including the liver, lymphatic system, and organs of elimination, plus the biggest mistakes people make when trying to detox while actively trying to conceive.If you've ever wondered whether you should detox before pregnancy, this episode gives you a clear, realistic framework.0:00 Trailer & Introduction 2:44 What Is a Toxin? Internal vs. External Explained 6:27 Endocrine Disruptors & Their Impact on Fertility 7:55 The Overflowing Sink Analogy 8:51 Why Some People Can "Get Away With" Anything (Genetics & Drain) 11:43 Epigenetics — Why You & Your Grandma Are Different 13:29 The 3-Part Detox Framework: Faucet, Drain & Liver 13:58 The Knife Factory Analogy (How Your Liver Works) 14:52 The Poop Train & Pee Train Explained 17:44 Critical Rule: No Active Detox During Your Two-Week Wait 21:51 Ideal Timeline: 3–6 Months Before Trying to Conceive 24:12 Step 1 — Getting Your Organs of Elimination Working (Poop, Pee, Sweat) 26:31 Sauna & Sweating: When It's Safe & When to Stop 29:17 The Sperm Factor — Why Men Need to Stop Sauna 3 Months Early 30:41 The Lymph System — Trash in New York City Analogy 31:46 Dry Brushing, Rebounders & Vibration Plates 36:35 Breast Massage & Electrolymphatic Drainage 38:27 The Liver Deep Dive: Phase 1 vs. Phase 2 Detox 41:13 Cruciferous Vegetables, DIM & Food-Based Liver Support 42:37 Key Herbs: Dandelion, Burdock, Milk Thistle, Artichoke 47:18 What Liver Enzymes on Blood Work Actually Tell You (And What They Don't) 48:52 Bile, Gallbladder Health & Bitter Herbs 53:20 Castor Oil Packs — How, When & Where 56:57 The Nervous System as a Detox Organ 58:55 Social Media, News & EMFs as "Energetic Toxins" 60:51 Protecting Yourself From Information Overload During TTC 62:59 The Energetic Sink: Why Some People Spiral & Others Don't 70:29 Boundaries With News & Social Media in the Preconception Window 74:05 How to Go Deeper: Courses, Membership & Working with a PractitionerResources From This Episode:Dr. Leah's Womanhood Wellness MembershipLiver SauceThe Toxin Solution by Dr. Joe Pizzorno Healthy As A Mother Episode #161 - Boundaries In MotherhoodHealthy As A Mother Episode #22 - Detoxing Before PregnancyHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER
If you've been relying on ovulation calculators, apps, or devices to tell you when you're fertile… this episode might lovingly challenge you. Because what if those “shortcuts” are actually keeping you from deeper understanding—and even deeper connection with God in your fertility journey? In today's episode, I'm sharing: Why conception calculators often miss the mark The difference between “shortcut fertility” and true body literacy How to partner with God (instead of outsourcing to algorithms) A better, deeper, more effective way to support your hormones and conceive This is your invitation to stop guessing… and start understanding. Resources & Links: ✨Join Fertility Framework: If you're ready for deeper support, personalized cycle guidance, and faith-filled encouragement, come join me inside Fertility Framework! Right now, when you join Fertility Framework, you'll also receive the Pregnancy Framework Bundle completely FREE — a $297 value that walks you through exactly what to do emotionally, physically, and spiritually once you get that positive test. This offer ends Friday. Enroll here: bekahyawn.com/course ✨If you would like personal support on your journey but are not sure how to get started, book a free 10-minute consult with me here: bekahyawn.com/consult
Listen to today's podcast... In our early adult years we spent so much effort on prevention, who knew that conception could be so difficult, or that Stress Decreases Your Chances Of Conceiving. For more than a couple of years my husband and I tried to conceive a child. At that time we never heard that Stress Decreases Your Chances Of Conceiving. We endured months and months of taking temperatures, doctor visits, disappointments, crying, trying new medications, testing of all kinds and grieving. It was a horrible roller-coaster ride. We were not alone in our struggles. Infertility rates in Canada are increasing with roughly 1 in 6 couples experiencing fertility issues. While we were going through this struggle, we told very few people, especially our families. Stress grew as the months passed. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency! Here are today's Tips For Building Resiliency Increasing Your Chances of Conceiving and Celebrating Infertility Awareness Week: Find Ways To Relax. I know that you may hate hearing this, but it is one thing that you can do. Be Nutrition Wise. Our nutrition impacts the way in which our bodies function, both efficiently and effectively. Aim For Emotional Balance. Watch out for negative emotions such as anger, guilt, or resentment, which many women may feel at some point in their journeys to conceive. Laugh More. Laughter can take the edge off of a stressful day. Take Advantage of Support and Counselling. Keep the Romance Alive While Trying to Conceive. If you know someone who is experiencing fertility issues, let them know that you understand how difficult this is for them and that you are there to listen to their frustrations, their fears, and their disappointments. For more information on coping with mental health issues, sign up for one of my on-line courses at worksmartlivesmart.com under the resources and courses tab #mentalhealth #hr
If you've ever thought, “I just want to get my body ready to get pregnant and stay pregnant…” this episode is for you. Today I'm walking you through 3 foundational steps to prepare your body for pregnancy—physically and spiritually. We're talking about: What to do in seasons of waiting and grief How to actually understand what your body is telling you And how to begin supporting your hormones in a way that's specific to you Resources & Links: ✨The Hormone Reset Bootcamp 2 day live class was on 4/21/2026 and 4/22/2026. If you missed it, I would still love to see you in my Fertility Framework course! ✨Join Fertility Framework: If you're ready for deeper support, personalized cycle guidance, and faith-filled encouragement, come join me inside Fertility Framework! This is a space where you AND your husband can learn about the science of your cycle while keeping God in the centre of your fertility journey and growing towards Him together. Read the testimonies & enroll here: bekahyawn.com/course ✨If you would like personal support on your journey but are not sure how to get started, book a free 10-minute consult with me here: bekahyawn.com/consult
click the link below to download the service notes https://esm.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/04.18.26-Congregational-Notes.pdf*********************************Website: esm.usPastor Mark BiltzMission Statement: (https://esm.us/about/)El Shaddai Ministries exists to take Torah to the nations by restoring the Biblical and historical perspectives that have been lost over the last 2000 years, uncovering replacement theology, and healing our Christian-Jewish relationships.Statement of Beliefs:https://tinyurl.com/4ks6eznu
Leviticus 12:1-15:33
FRUITFUL FERTILITY | Holistic fertility support, Trying to conceive, Fertility coaching
The waiting season during infertility can be so hard. As Christians we know we SHOULD trust God's timing, but it's harder to put into practice. That's why in today's episode we are going to talk about how to strengthen our faith and trust in Christ! I'll share my 3 tips for learning to trust God while waiting to conceive. Watch the FREE Masterclass Unexplained Infertility Breakthrough Grab the Low Progesterone Playbook Get it here Shop my favorite fertility boosting supplements Rise + Source Let's work together: Work with me DM me on Instagram: @fruitfulfertilityco
We welcome author and radio host Leigh Fitzpatrick Snead to discuss her book Infertile but Fruitful: Finding Fulfillment When You Can't Conceive. How can couples navigate the emotional and spiritual trials of infertility without losing hope, and what does it mean to live a truly fruitful life when parenthood does not unfold as expected? Show Notes Infertile but Fruitful: Finding Fulfillment When You Can't Conceive Saint Paul VI Institute MyCatholicDoctor - Faithful Healthcare You Can Trust Leigh Fitzpatrick Snead - Website Conversations with Consequences - EWTN The Catholic Association Leigh Snead on Instagram iCatholic Mobile The Station of the Cross Merchandise - Use Coupon Code 14STATIONS for 10% off | Catholic to the Max Read Fr. McTeigue's Written Works! "Let's Take A Closer Look" with Fr. Robert McTeigue, S.J. | Full Series Playlist Listen to Fr. McTeigue's Preaching! | Herald of the Gospel Sermons Podcast on Spotify Visit Fr. McTeigue's Website | Herald of the Gospel Questions? Comments? Feedback? Ask Father!
Host Myrna Young welcomes fertility specialist Gabriela Rosa to explore the top causes of infertility in women and the often-overlooked role of male fertility. They discuss factors affecting egg and sperm quality, the impact of lifestyle and environmental elements, and the importance of comprehensive diagnosis in overcoming infertility. Gabriela shares insights from her Fertility Breakthrough program, emphasizing personalized treatment and holistic approaches to enhancing reproductive health. Gain valuable information about improving fertility and the collaborative journey couples undertake to successfully achieve parenthood.Through this engaging conversation, Gabriela highlights significant factors such as the influences of both egg quality and sperm quality on successful conception. Contrary to popular belief, she emphasizes that infertility is a couple's issue, attributing 40% of infertility to male factors and offering strategies for improving reproductive health. She discusses overlooked aspects like environmental effects, lifestyle choices, and lesser-known biochemical hurdles. Gabriela's holistic approach provides listeners with actionable insights into tackling infertility, while shedding light on the often-unexplored perspectives of male fertility and its critical role in achieving a successful pregnancy.Timestamp Summary0:02 Understanding Infertility as a Couple's Issue9:05 Improving Fertility Through Sperm Quality and Lifestyle Changes16:26 Uncovering Hidden Factors in Infertility and Miscarriage24:20 Rethinking Strategies for Success in Complex Cases26:11 Exploring Fertility Journeys and Challenges in Conception33:17 Causes and Challenges of Female Infertility36:54 The Pill's Impact on Fertility and Individual Reactions41:53 Environmental Factors and Social Challenges in Fertility Issues45:11 Overcoming Infertility with Gabriela Rosa's Fertility Breakthrough MethodResourcesGabriela Rosa's Website: Fertility BreakthroughTalk Sex with Gabriela Rosa PodcastSponsor of this Episode Spark Energy + FocusIf you are ready to add spark to your life. Spark Energy + Focus is offering 30% off and free shipping. Go to drinkspark.com and use code TRANSFORM at checkout See this video on The Transform Your Mind YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@MyhelpsUs/videosTo see a transcripts of this audio as well as links to all the advertisers on the show page https://myhelps.us/Follow Transform Your Mind on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/myrnamyoung/Follow Transform Your mind on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063738390977Please leave a rating and review on iTunes https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/transform-your-mind/id1144973094https://podcast.feedspot.com/personal_development_podcasts/For sponsored Brand interviews and sponsorship inquires please visit Partner With The Transform Your Mind Podcast | Myrna Young Life Coach
Infertility can shake faith, identity, and relationships in ways few people openly discuss. In this heartfelt conversation, author and registered nurse Angela Mackey joins Dr. Saundra to share her journey through secondary infertility, pregnancy loss, and IVF, offering biblical encouragement for women walking this painful road. Get Angela's FREE 9-day Devotional based on Philippians 4:8. Get your copy of Difficult to Conceive. *Recorded onsite at NRB, pardon the audio quality of this live interview I Choose My Best Life Podcast is one of the Top 20 Christian Women Podcasts I Choose My Best Life Books: Being Fully Known, Colorful Connections, Sacred Rest, Come Empty, Set Free to Live Free Connect with Saundra: Twitter: @DrDaltonSmith Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drdaltonsmith Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrSaundraDaltonSmith
The Springs in the Desert Podcast: Catholic Accompaniment Through Infertility
Our good friend Leigh Snead is back on the pod to talk about her new book, Infertile But Fruitful, Finding Fulfillment When You Can't Conceive. She and Ann dig into some of the big themes in the book:Why was this the right time to write a book on infertilityWhat it was like revisiting the memories – and emotions – of that time when she and her husband were “in the thick of it”The value of sharing our infertility struggles with others and asking for prayersAnd a lot more!Leigh's book is engaging, funny, encouraging, and real. She's “our people,” and her book, and this conversation, feels like a heart-to-heart with a friend.Links:Pick up Leigh's book at Sophia Press, or your favorite bookseller.Read more about why Leigh wrote this book on The Catholic Association's Substack.If you missed it the first time, catch Cassandra and Leigh's pre-book release conversation.
Are you doing everything "right" on your fertility journey and still feeling like something is missing? Too many women trying to conceive are unknowingly working against their bodies, taking the wrong supplements, obsessing over fertility trackers, and ignoring the one thing that predicts everything: their energy. The medical system was never designed to give you the full picture, and no one has ever looked at all of you. In this episode, Carolina sits down with Kirsten Karchmer, TikTok's most trusted fertility expert, board-certified reproductive acupuncturist, and founder of Conceivable, to reveal what is really standing between you and your baby. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER:Why popular supplements like Vitex, myo-inositol, and pomegranate juice may actually be hurting your fertilityThe simple 1 to 10 energy check that reveals the true root cause of why your body is not ready to conceive yetWhy you were born worthy of motherhood and how rewriting the stories your nervous system holds is the most powerful fertility tool you haveSend a text Liked this episode? Share it with your TTC friends! Love the show? Say thanks in true podcasting style by leaving a review. Join the FREE Make A Baby Community to see exactly where you are blocked in your fertility and learn what healing can help you. Follow Carolina for more fertility & womb healing tips: Website | TikTok | Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook This podcast is for informational and spiritual purposes only and does not constitute medical or any professional advice. Review our full Privacy Policy here and Disclaimer here.
Holly Schechter always knew she wanted to be a mom. But getting there was a journey. After a car crash and two major spine surgeries, she struggled with infertility. Today, Holly shares her remarkable story of IVF… with a hopeful ending. … Recommendations from the archive • Infertility got you down? Maybe you need to laugh about it with infertility sketch comedy in our episode Awkward Adventures in Infertility. • Our early episode The Longest Longest Time is about one woman's struggle with miscarriages for 11 years… and how she eventually came to have a baby. … Episode resources • Holly is now head of education at Conceive, a digital platform that provides 24/7 medical and emotional support for people trying to get pregnant. … • Join LST+ for community and access to You Know What, another show in the Longest Shortest universe! • Follow us on Instagram • Sign up for our newsletter, where we recommend other parenting + reproductive health media • Buy books by LST guests (your purchase supports the show!) • Website: longestshortesttime.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
349: Conceiving naturally is a hot topic in this day and age, and IVF has skyrocketed as the go-to method of conceiving for couples. But is that the best option? And should we be looking at other variables before spending our time and money on IVF? Natalie Crawford is here with me today to talk all things infertility, biomarkers, “healthy habits” we may be doing that are actually hindering a woman's chances to conceive, and so much more. Natalie is a double board certified fertility doctor and has helped thousands of patients and followers learn about their bodies and their fertility, empowering them with education and learning to advocate for themselves in their own fertility journeys. Today's discussion is an eye opener for anyone trying to conceive naturally or via IVF. Topics Discussed: → Getting pregnant when you don't have a period→ Infertility causes and how to fix them→ Hormonal birth control's effects on fertility→ How our mothers' habits while pregnant affect our fertility→ AMH, what is it and why should we get tested→ “Healthy habits” sabotaging our fertility (including men) As always, if you have any questions for the show please email us at digestthispod@gmail.com. And if you like this show, please share it, rate it, review it and subscribe to it on your favorite podcast app. Sponsored By: → Manukora | Head to https://manukora.com/DIGEST to get $70 off the Starter Kit → Ollie | Ollie. Feed the Obsession. Go to https://ollie.com/digest and use code digest to get 60% off your first box! → Kasandrinos | Go to https://www.kasandrinos.com/digest and use code DIGEST for 25% off Timestamps: → 00:00:00 - Introduction → 00:05:52 - Rapid fire questions → 00:07:01 - Pregnancy without a period → 00:10:14 - Pregnancy postpartum → 00:11:51 - Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea → 00:15:01 - Infertility + IVF → 00:20:20 - Common IVF scenarios → 00:22:41 - THC products + fertility → 00:24:13 - Infertility as a symptom → 00:30:03 - Health + infertility → 00:36:43 - Detox pathways → 00:38:09 - Nutrient deficiencies → 00:40:22 - AMH + fertility → 00:45:28 - Inherited fertility factors → 00:48:22 - Birth control + fertility → 00:55:27 - Common fertility barriers Further Listening: → Foods That Help & Harm Hormones, Infertility, Inflammation, + The Key to Hormone Balance Check Out Dr Natalie Crawford: → Instagram → Website → Her book, The Fertility Formula Check Out Bethany: → Bethany's Instagram: @lilsipper → YouTube → Bethany's Website → Discounts & My Favorite Products → My Digestive Support Protein Powder → Gut Reset Book → Get my Newsletters (Friday Finds) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”The dream was simple: marry young, welcome children, and let love grow. Then biology didn't cooperate. Author and radio host Leigh Fitzpatrick Sneed joins us to unpack the hidden landscape of infertility—the grief, the pressure to “just do IVF,” the awkward silences at church, and the slow work of finding a path that honors both conscience and desire. Her story moves from clinic waiting rooms to a newborn domestic adoption that arrived in weeks, then to twins and another son, and finally to a broader truth: fruitfulness is more than pregnancy. It's the overflow of spousal love into family, parish, and community.We talk candidly about restorative reproductive medicine, the Creighton Model, and NaProTechnology—real care that seeks root causes without severing the unitive and procreative meanings of marriage. Leigh is clear-eyed: medicine can be hopeful and still hard, full of injections, surgeries, and timing that tests intimacy. Yet humor, friendship, and shared conviction can keep a couple together when the calendar takes over. We explore how to resist the glossy promises of IVF by understanding why it divides what belongs together and can treat children as products, not gifts.Purchase Infertile But Fruitful! Visit Leigh's WebsiteOn the Radio: Conversations with ConsequencesOr on Substack! https://catholicassociation.substack.com/If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs courage today, and leave a review so others can find these stories of faithful fruitfulness.Contact Jack: info@jp2renew.orgSupport the show
You are invited to our Feb 17th Misconceptions of Conception Masterclass. You can reserve your spot here!Do you want 2026 to be the year your womb finally feels safe enough to receive your baby?Most women focus on tracking, supplements, labs, timing. They never address the nervous system wounds sitting inside the womb. You do not have a productivity problem. You have an unhealed safety wound.If you have been overworking your fertility and under-healing your emotional roots, and you are ready to move from a hostile womb to a welcoming womb, hit play and let's walk through the exact steps.Send a text Liked this episode? Share it with your TTC friends! Love the show? Say thanks in true podcasting style by leaving a review. Join the FREE Make A Baby Community to see exactly where you are blocked in your fertility and learn what healing can help you. Follow Carolina for more fertility & womb healing tips: Website | TikTok | Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook This podcast is for informational and spiritual purposes only and does not constitute medical or any professional advice. Review our full Privacy Policy here and Disclaimer here.
286. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Natalie Crawford, a board-certified fertility doctor with a nutrition background, to talk about what women aren't being taught about fertility and hormonal health. She breaks down how to understand your menstrual cycle, and explains the benefits of learning this even before you're ready to have kids. We also talk about how mindset, lifestyle, exercise and sleep can contribute toward fertility, especially if you're in your late 30s and 40s. This conversation shifts the narrative away from fear and age and back to the health of the woman. Topics Discussed: → How does hormonal birth control impact fertility and the menstrual cycle? → Why should you track your cycle naturally? → When does health matter more than age when trying to get pregnant? → What is AMH and when should you check your levels? → What is the biggest factor impacting fertility? Sponsored By: → Cowboy Colostrum | Get 25% Off Cowboy Colostrum with code REALFOODOLOGY at https://www.cowboycolostrum.com/realfoodology. → Just Thrive | Get your health in check and save 20% on your first order at https://www.justthrivehealth.com/realfoodology. → Yayas EVOO | YAYA'S is offering 15% off your order, and it even stacks on subscriptions. Go to https://www.yayasevoo.com/realfoodology. → Manukora | Head to https://www.manukora.com/realfoodology to save up to 31% plus $25 worth of free gifts with the Starter Kit, which comes with an MGO 850+ Manuka Honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook! → Timeline | Support your cells and how you age with Mitopure® Gummies from Timeline. Visit https://www.timeline.com/realfoodology and save up to 39% off your Mitopure® Gummies. → MASA | Ready to give MASA a try? Go to https://www.masachips.com/realfoodology and use code REALFOODOLOGY for 25% off your first order. You can also find MASA Chips at your local Sprouts supermarket! Timestamps: → 00:00:00 - Introduction → 00:04:43 - Understanding Fertility Earlier → 00:19:44 - Fertility: Health, Diet & Lifestyle → 00:32:47 - Health Tips to Improve Fertility → 00:46:02 - Preparing to Conceive → 00:54:10 - Diets for Fertility → 00:01:33 - Fight For Your Health Show Links: → The Fertility Formula | Book → As a Woman | Podcast → Dr. Natalie Crawford | Website Check Out: → Instagram Check Out Courtney: → LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE → Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide! → @realfoodology → www.realfoodology.com → My Immune Supplement by 2x4 → Air Dr Air Purifier → AquaTru Water Filter → EWG Tap Water Database Produced By: Drake Peterson
Our culture and systems have failed many women who want to be mothers, not through malice, but through neglect, misalignment, and outdated priorities.In this episode, we explore how education, feminism, medicine, and career culture shaped a generation of women who were never truly prepared for motherhood. This is a nuanced, honest conversation about how our culture and systems have failed many women who want to be mothers.We want to say this clearly up front: this conversation reflects our lived experiences and what we see in our work. It is not meant to invalidate women who had supportive, empowering paths to motherhood, nor does it represent every experience across different socioeconomic or cultural backgrounds.What we explore here is a pattern. For decades, women were encouraged to prioritize education, career, and productivity, often with little to no preparation for health, fertility, or motherhood. Feminism brought women freedom, opportunity, and choice, and we honor that deeply. But like all cultural movements, there were unintended consequences that many women are only now grappling with.In this conversation, we discuss:• Why motherhood was treated as an afterthought rather than a life path• How feminism empowered women — and where systems failed to evolve alongside it• The lack of reproductive and health education for young women• How birth control often masked dysfunction instead of addressing root causes• Why so many women feel blindsided by fertility struggles in their 30s• The cost of prioritizing weddings, careers, and productivity over preparation for motherhood• Maternal burnout, postpartum strain, and the lack of systemic support• What a more integrative, honest, and compassionate approach could look likeThis is not about blame. It's about awareness because we can't change what we don't acknowledge. Our hope is that by having these conversations openly, we can support women now and create better systems for future generations. If this episode resonated with you, please consider subscribing, sharing, or leaving a review. These conversations matter. 00:00 — Why We're Having This Conversation02:45 — This Isn't Everyone's Experience But It's a Real Pattern05:30 — Feminism Gave Women Choice... And Then the Pendulum Swung09:45 — When Motherhood Became an Afterthought13:20 — Career First, Motherhood “On the Side”17:40 — The Lie We Were Sold About Fertility & Birth Control22:10 — Why So Many Women Are Struggling to Conceive in Their 30s27:15 — “Our Society Is Not Set Up for Women to Become Mothers”31:00 — We Prepare for College & Sports — But Not Health34:30 — Imagine a World Where Girls Are Taught About Their Bodies38:20 — The Cost of Ignoring Motherhood (Burnout, Infertility, Trauma)42:45 — Weddings, Nurseries & Misplaced Priorities47:30 — What the Medical System Gets Wrong About Fertility52:10 — How This Could Change for the Next Generation56:00 — This Isn't About Blame, It's About What's Broken59:00 — Final Thoughts, Hope & Why These Conversations Matter
Fertility Docs Uncensored is hosted by Dr. Carrie Bedient from the Fertility Center of Las Vegas, Dr. Susan Hudson from Texas Fertility Center, and Dr. Abby Eblen from Nashville Fertility Center. In this episode, they are joined by Ravi Agarwal, MD, from Reproductive Science Center of the San Francisco Bay Area in San Ramon. In this episode, they discussed the unique fertility challenges for women over 40 trying to conceive. Challenges include changes in egg number and egg quality that can affect their chances of conception and carrying a pregnancy. The hosts and their guest discuss how age impacts fertility, how testing guides treatment decisions, and why a personalized approach is essential. During this episode, the docs answered the following questions: What are the biggest fertility challenges women face after age 40? Women over 40 commonly experience both a decreased number of eggs and declining egg quality. As eggs age, they are more likely to have genetic abnormalities, which can make conception more difficult and increase the risk of miscarriage. Why does egg quality decline with age? Egg quality declines due to age-related genetic changes. A higher percentage of eggs become chromosomally abnormal over time, making it harder to achieve a healthy pregnancy. What fertility testing is recommended for women over 40? Testing often includes: AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) to estimate ovarian reserve. Antral follicle count via ultrasound to assess how many eggs are present in the ovaries. These tests help predict treatment response and guide next steps. Can having more eggs help offset poor egg quality? In some women over 40, a higher egg number may partially compensate for reduced egg quality, increasing the likelihood of finding a genetically healthy egg. Do all women over 40 need IVF? No. Not every woman over 40 requires IVF. Some women can conceive without treatment, some are good IVF candidates, and others may not benefit from IVF at all. How do doctors decide which treatment is best after age 40? Treatment decisions are individualized and based on age, egg reserve, egg quality, medical history, and personal goals. This podcast was sponsored by U.S. Fertility.
High-performing women experience the fertility journey differently—and the kind of support we need is radically different from what generic fertility spaces provide. In this episode, world-renowned Fertility Mindset Strategist Rosanne Austin explains why fertility support for high-achieving women must be intentional, curated, and emotionally intelligent. You'll discover the unique psychological, emotional, and identity-level challenges ambitious […] The post EP360: Conceive with the Cool Chicks: Surround Yourself with Women Who Say Yes appeared first on Rosanne Austin.
What is a fertility support community and why does it matter? A fertility support community is a curated group of women navigating the fertility journey together, providing emotional safety, mindset support, and nervous system regulation. Research shows that women in a fertility support community experience lower stress, healthier hormone balance, and improved fertility-related quality of […] The post EP358: Miracle Mamas Don’t Conceive In Isolation appeared first on Rosanne Austin.
We're back for our 3rd call-in episode! How to handle religious differences in dating? How long should I try to conceive naturally before looking at adoption? And how should I go about dating when I already have children? These are the questions we're wrestling with LIVE from members of our show. NEW: Check out our Merch store! https://shop.lilaroseshow.com/Join our new Patreon community! https://patreon.com/lilaroseshow - We'll have BTS footage, ad-free episodes, and early access to our upcoming guests.A big thanks to our partner, EWTN, the world's leading Catholic network! Discover news, entertainment and more at https://www.ewtn.com/ Check out our Sponsors:-Covenant Eyes: http://covenanteyes.sjv.io/Kjngb9 Sign up to grow in purity and gain traction over sexual addiction: use code “LILA” for a free month!-EveryLife: https://www.everylife.com Buy diapers from an amazing pro-life diaper company and use code LILA to get 10% off!-Presidio Healthcare: Healthcare and doctors who share your values. If you're in TEXAS visit: https://www.presidiocare.com/ If you're NOT in Texas, visit: https://www.prolifeproviders.com/-Covenant Eyes: http://covenanteyes.sjv.io/Kjngb9 Sign up to grow in purity and gain traction over sexual addiction: use code “LILA” for a free month!
Your health is being secretly destroyed by everyday items in your home, directly attacking male fertility and hormones. A shocking one in ten people are metabolically healthy, and this episode reveals how your diet and environment impact sperm quality and testosterone levels. In episode 844 of the Savage Perspective Podcast, host Robert Sikes and fertility expert Rachel Swanson expose the hidden dangers of microplastics and chemicals in our food and household products. They provide a vital roadmap to reclaim your health, optimize your body's core functions like mitochondrial energy production, and understand the true impact of your lifestyle on your family's future with simple, actionable steps.Ready to build a powerful physique and optimize your health? Join Robert's FREE Bodybuilding Masterclass to learn the proven system for building muscle and achieving your goals. Sign up here: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Follow Rachel on IG: https://www.instagram.com/rachelsrx/Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQChapters:0:00 - The Biggest Fertility Mistake You're Making 0:50 - Introducing Rachel Swanson: Author & Fertility Expert 2:13 - Why Is Traditional Fertility Advice Failing Women? 5:05 - How A Pro Bodybuilder Optimized for a Healthy Pregnancy 7:10 - Is the Male Fertility Crisis Real? The Alarming Statistics 11:16 - The Man's Role: How Your Health Impacts Her Pregnancy 13:40 - The Shocking Link Between a Father's Health and Miscarriage 17:42 - The 5 Pillars of Maximum Fertility 19:02 - Pillar 1: How to Optimize Your Metabolic Health 20:44 - Pillar 2: Is Your Gut Health Destroying Your Fertility? 22:20 - Pillar 3: Do Everyday Plastics Make You Infertile? 26:17 - The Best Diet for Optimal Health and Fertility 29:05 - How to Avoid Hormone-Disrupting Chemicals (The Easy Way) 33:18 - A Message from the Host, Robert Sikes 35:03 - The 5 Pillars of Fertility (Full Breakdown) 37:05 - How to Supercharge Your Mitochondria for More Energy 40:01 - Why We Ignore the Fundamentals for Advanced Treatments 44:04 - What is The Optimal Diet for Conception? 49:31 - Can You Get Pregnant on a Keto or Carnivore Diet? 54:01 - What Blood Tests Should You Get Before Trying to Conceive? 58:37 - Does TRT (Testosterone Replacement) Affect Male Fertility? 1:02:20 - Is Infertility a Litmus Test for Your Overall Health? 1:08:03 - The Surprising Link Between Oral Health and Nitric Oxide 1:09:38 - Where to Find Rachel Swanson's Book
Was Jesus really born miraculously to a virgin? Today, R.C. Sproul explains that the virgin birth of Christ is far from a matter of debate or personal interpretation—it's an essential truth of Scripture and the Christian faith. Request R.C. Sproul's devotional book The Advent of Glory, plus lifetime digital access to his teaching series Coming of the Messiah, with your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4514/offer Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Get the digital teaching series with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global Renewing Your Mind has a YouTube channel. Subscribe now and receive each day's episode: https://www.youtube.com/@rymradio Meet Today's Teacher: R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
SEASON 4 EPISODE 41: COUNTDOWN WITH KEITH OLBERMANN The president of the United States is celebrating the murder of Rob Reiner and his wife. It is at first impossible to believe that what follows isn’t satire. Then it becomes heart-breaking that it isn’t satire. Then it becomes infuriating. Finally it becomes more evidence that every minute this man is permitted to REMAIN president – the rest of us – the rest of us in the WORLD – are in mortal danger. Trump really believes that Rob Reiner “passed away… due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with… Trump Derangement Syndrome.” Trump’s ability to make everything about HIM – his need to be, as the old dark joke goes, the bride at every wedding and the corpse at every funeral – is not some kind of act. You will recall his reaction to 9/11 – that it made HIM the owner of the SECOND tallest building in downtown Manhattan, not just the third. It crested when he publicly speculated that a baseball player broke his ankle because he sold his apartment in a Trump building. It is called Shallow Affect and it means in essence that you do not KNOW how actual normal humans interact nor what causes the events in THEIR lives. You cannot CONCEIVE of their lives. You look at a picture of the world and you see only you. You look in a mirror and you correctly see YOU but you are firmly convinced that when OTHERS look in THEIR mirrors… they ALSO see only you. Human beings do not believe these things. Trump does. It means he can believe - and do - anything.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.