As a Woman
- Episodes
- 376
- Released
- weekly
- Latest episode
- Nov 10, 2026
About the podcast
The Fertility, Hormones, and Health Podcast with Dr. Natalie Crawford Navigating your hormones shouldn’t feel like guesswork. Hosted by double board-certified fertility physician Dr. Natalie Crawford, this podcast cuts through the noise to bring you science-backed insights on fertility, hormone health, and reproductive wellness without the overwhelm. Whether you're trying to conceive, managing a diagnosis like PCOS or endometriosis, or simply want to understand your cycle and feel better in your body, you're in the right place. From IVF to perimenopause, egg quality to inflammation, each episode delivers real education and actionable tools plus expert interviews and powerful patient stories. This is your trusted resource for the truth about your body and your roadmap to feeling empowered in your health as a woman. Any and all guest statements and opinions are a reflection of their own experience and do not reflect the views or opinions of Natalie Crawford MD, As a Woman Podcast, or Pinnacle Podcast Network.
Episodes 376
Hormones and Skin: What to Do About Acne, Dryness, and Hair Loss with Dr. Kristina Collins
Your jawline acne keeps coming back, or your hair part is getting wider. When is it time to change what you’re doing, and when is it worth asking what’s behind the change? In this episode of As a Woman, Dr …
Show notes
Your jawline acne keeps coming back, or your hair part is getting wider. When is it time to change what you’re doing, and when is it worth asking what’s behind the change?
In this episode of As a Woman, Dr. Natalie Crawford and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kristina Collins explain what to look for and what you can do as your skin and hair change from puberty through perimenopause. They discuss when acne might point to PMOS (formerly PCOS), what to reconsider in your skincare routine when you’re trying to conceive or pregnant, and how to tell postpartum shedding from the gradual thinning that can show up in midlife.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Meet Dr. Kristina Collins
01:41 What Can Your Skin Tell You About Your Health?
05:19 How Do Stress, Sleep, and Diet Affect Your Skin?
09:38 What Are the Skin Signs of PMOS (formerly PCOS) and Insulin Resistance?
10:35 Can Thyroid Problems Cause Dry Skin and Hair Loss?
11:39 What Does Hormonal Acne Look Like?
13:44 How Do You Treat Teen Acne?
15:29 What Skincare Do Teens Actually Need?
17:19 Can Birth Control or Spironolactone Help Hormonal Acne?
19:03 When Is Accutane Used for Acne?
20:25 What Skincare Do You Need in Your 20s and 30s?
21:46 Is SPF in Makeup Enough?
22:59 How Does Past Sun Exposure Affect Skin Cancer Risk?
24:29 Who Should Get a Skin Cancer Check?
25:20 When Should You Start Using Retinol?
26:44 What Do We Know About Estrogen Cream for the Face?
29:26 What Skincare Ingredients Should You Review Before or During Pregnancy?
32:03 What Is Melasma and Why Does It Show Up in Pregnancy?
34:00 Can You Prevent Pregnancy Stretch Marks?
35:02 Why Does Hair Fall Out After Pregnancy?
39:44 Why Does Hair Thin in Perimenopause?
42:03 What Can Cause Hair Thinning Besides Hormonal Changes?
43:48 Why Does Skin Get Thinner and Bruise More Easily in Menopause?
48:16 How Should Your Skincare Routine Change in Perimenopause?
49:50 Do Collagen Supplements or Creams Help Your Skin?
51:26 Sunscreen Myths and Viral Skincare Trends
54:21 What About Red Light Masks and CO2 Lasers?
GUEST RESOURCES:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkristinacollins
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drkristinacollins
Austin Skin Dermatologists: https://www.austinskinphysicians.com
Foy: https://lovefoy.com
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fertility Q&A: Low AMH, Egg Quality, and Recurrent Miscarriage
Can you get pregnant with low AMH, and what should that result change about your fertility plans? Whether you're trying now or hoping to have children later, understanding what your results can and cannot tell …
Show notes
Can you get pregnant with low AMH, and what should that result change about your fertility plans? Whether you're trying now or hoping to have children later, understanding what your results can and cannot tell you matters.
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Natalie Crawford answers listener questions with Emily Whitlock. Dr. Crawford explains what AMH can and cannot tell you, how egg quality changes with age, and which evaluations to discuss after recurrent miscarriage. She also answers questions about PMOS (formerly PCOS), cervical mucus during letrozole cycles, and medications and immunity testing before pregnancy, helping you prepare for a more informed conversation with your doctor.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Fertility Q&A
00:19 What Causes Low AMH in Young Women?
03:00 Can AMH Levels Fluctuate or Be Temporarily Low?
04:22 Can You Get Pregnant on Letrozole Without Fertile Cervical Mucus?
06:22 When Should You Stop Spironolactone Before Trying to Conceive?
07:50 Can PCOS Increase Miscarriage Risk?
10:00 When Should You Return to a Fertility Doctor After Miscarriages?
10:54 Why Check Chickenpox and Rubella Immunity Before Pregnancy?
14:49 What Tests Should You Have After Recurrent Miscarriages?
16:31 Should You Treat Autoimmune Disease Before Pregnancy?
17:53 Egg Quality vs. Egg Quantity: What Changes With Age?
19:33 Does Fertility Drop Suddenly at 35?
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Alzheimer’s Risk in Women: How to Protect Your Brain with Neurophysiologist Louisa Nicola
Nearly two thirds of people living with Alzheimer’s disease are women, and changes in the brain can begin a decade or more before symptoms appear. What does that mean for the choices you make in your 30s, 40s …
Show notes
Nearly two thirds of people living with Alzheimer’s disease are women, and changes in the brain can begin a decade or more before symptoms appear. What does that mean for the choices you make in your 30s, 40s and 50s, and how can you support your brain health now?
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by clinical neurophysiologist Louisa Nicola, host of The Neuro Experience. Louisa explains how exercise, sleep, and cognitive challenges support brain health, why genetics are only part of the risk picture, and what changes during menopause. They also examine the emerging research on creatine and the questions to bring to your doctor about cardiovascular health and hormone therapy.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Alzheimer’s Risk in Women: What Can You Do Now?
01:19 Why Is Alzheimer’s More Common in Women?
02:13 Is Dementia the Same as Alzheimer’s?
03:48 Can You Get Alzheimer’s If It Doesn’t Run in Your Family?
08:05 What Does Your Brain Need to Work Properly?
11:19 Why Does Menopause Affect Your Memory?
12:42 What Actually Happens in the Brain With Alzheimer’s?
15:34 Can You Lower Your Alzheimer’s Risk?
17:14 How Does Exercise Affect Your Memory?
20:37 Is High Intensity Exercise Good for Your Brain?
22:08 Can Lifting Weights Help Protect Your Brain?
26:44 How Do You Exercise Your Brain?
27:45 Can Relying on Your Phone Affect Your Memory?
29:42 Can Reading and Writing Help Keep Your Brain Sharp?
33:57 What Happens to Your Brain During Deep Sleep?
36:56 What Can Help You Sleep Better?
37:57 How Much Sleep Do You Need for Brain Health?
38:30 Are Sleep Trackers Helping or Stressing You Out?
39:34 How Do Food and Blood Sugar Affect Your Brain?
40:55 Can Creatine Help Your Memory?
44:00 How Does Your Social Life Affect Your Brain Health?
45:49 What Should You Do If You Have the APOE4 Gene?
47:50 Can HRT Help Lower Your Alzheimer’s Risk?
50:57 What Could the Future of Alzheimer’s Treatment Look Like?
52:07 Taking Your Brain Health Seriously Before Old Age
GUEST RESOURCES:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisanicola_
Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/theneuroexperience_/
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
How to Get Better Sleep and Support Your Hormonal Health with Dr. Andrea Matsumura
Are you getting enough sleep but still waking up exhausted? Or struggling to fall asleep while your mind won’t switch off? Better sleep starts with understanding what may be getting in the way, including the …
Show notes
Are you getting enough sleep but still waking up exhausted? Or struggling to fall asleep while your mind won’t switch off? Better sleep starts with understanding what may be getting in the way, including the two-way relationship between sleep and your hormones.
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford welcomes Dr. Andrea Matsumura, a physician board-certified in internal medicine and sleep medicine. Dr. Matsumura explains how to build a sleep routine that works with your body and why persistent sleep problems deserve more than another supplement. She discusses melatonin, magnesium, hormonal changes, and overlooked sleep apnea symptoms to help you understand what to try and when to seek medical evaluation.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Why Do I Wake Up at 3 A.M.?
02:47 How Do Hormones Affect Sleep?
07:36 REM vs. Deep Sleep: What’s the Difference?
10:29 How to Fix Your Sleep Schedule
14:44 What Are the Effects of Sleep Deprivation?
17:51 When Should You See a Doctor for Sleep Problems?
21:30 How Do Estrogen and Progesterone Affect Sleep?
25:43 Does HRT Help With Sleep Problems?
28:18 Sleep Apnea Symptoms in Women
31:34 When Should You Take Melatonin for Sleep?
34:52 Bedtime Routines for Adults: How to Wind Down
37:05 Does Magnesium Help You Sleep?
40:17 Bedroom Temperature and Weighted Blankets
40:59 How Long Before Bed Should You Stop Drinking Caffeine?
41:38 How Does Alcohol Affect Sleep?
42:50 Different Sleep Schedules With Your Partner: What Can Help?
44:20 Is Mouth Taping Safe if You Might Have Sleep Apnea?
45:57 Why Should You Make Sleep a Priority?
WATCH NEXT:
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GUEST RESOURCES:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drandreamatsumura/?hl=en
Website: www.andreamatsumuramd.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/andreamatsumuramd,www.andreamatsumuramd.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrAndreaMatsumura
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
#fertilitydoctor #nataliecrawfordmd #asawoman
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Gut-Hormone Connection: How Hormones Affect Your Digestion with Cynthia Thurlow
Why are you feeling more bloated, struggling with digestion, or noticing changes in your metabolism when your usual habits haven’t changed? During perimenopause and menopause, symptoms that seem unrelated may …
Show notes
Why are you feeling more bloated, struggling with digestion, or noticing changes in your metabolism when your usual habits haven’t changed? During perimenopause and menopause, symptoms that seem unrelated may be part of a bigger conversation about hormones and gut health. What should you pay attention to, and where should you start?
In this episode of the As A Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford welcomes Cynthia Thurlow, a nurse practitioner, metabolic health expert, and author of The Menopause Gut. Cynthia explains how hormonal shifts can influence digestion and the gut microbiome, and how gut health intersects with inflammation and estrogen metabolism. She shares practical ways to support your gut, what to consider before trying probiotics or fasting, and why persistent bloating or changes in bowel habits deserve medical evaluation.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 The Menopause Gut with Cynthia Thurlow
04:56 How Do Perimenopause and Menopause Affect Digestion?
07:39 What Is Leaky Gut?
11:07 Can Hormonal Changes and Stress Slow Digestion?
14:51 How Does Gallbladder Removal Affect Digestion?
16:24 How Does Fiber Support Your Gut Microbiome?
18:46 What Are Signs of Poor Gut Health?
20:41 Bloating After Meals vs. All-Day Bloating: What’s the Difference?
23:13 How Does Alcohol Affect Gut Health and Estrogen?
25:45 How Can You Support Gut Health With PMOS (Formerly PCOS) or Endometriosis?
29:52 Is Intermittent Fasting Right for You in Perimenopause?
34:09 How Do Fermented Foods Support Gut Health?
35:14 Prebiotics vs. Probiotics: Do You Need Supplements?
36:34 Do You Need Gut Microbiome Testing?
37:25 How Can You Increase Fiber Without More Bloating?
39:32 What Is Resistant Starch?
41:40 Can GLP-1 Medications Reduce Inflammation?
43:30 Does Hormone Therapy Affect Gut Health?
45:40 How Can You Support Gut Health in Menopause?
46:46 The Menopause Gut Book and Where to Find Cynthia
GUEST RESOURCES:
Website: https://www.cynthiathurlow.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cynthia_thurlow_
Book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/777129/the-menopause-gut-by-cynthia-thurlow-np/
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What PMOS & Endometriosis Reveal About Your Health with Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi & Mary Alice Haney
Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), previously known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis can affect far more than periods or fertility. What can irregular cycles, insulin …
Show notes
Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), previously known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis can affect far more than periods or fertility. What can irregular cycles, insulin resistance, inflammation, pelvic pain, painful sex, digestive symptoms, mood changes, and fatigue reveal about your whole body health, even when pregnancy is not the goal?
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford joins SHE MD hosts Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi, a world renowned OB/GYN, and women’s advocate Mary Alice Haney to explain the PMOS symptoms, testing, and treatment options patients often miss. They also explore why PMOS and endometriosis may coexist, how endometriosis can affect the entire body, why diagnosis is frequently delayed, and what to know about hormonal treatment, surgery, pregnancy planning, and fertility preservation. This conversation will help you recognize important symptoms and advocate for more comprehensive care.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Why Is PCOS Now Called Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)?
02:34 How Is PMOS Diagnosed?
05:59 Which Body Systems Does PMOS Affect?
08:14 What Is the Link Between PMOS and Insulin Resistance?
12:06 How Can PMOS Affect Mood and Inflammation?
17:32 Which Blood Tests Should Be Considered for PMOS?
24:00 What Should You Know About PMOS Before Pregnancy?
29:24 Can Metformin and GLP-1 Medications Help PMOS?
35:19 What Diet and Exercise Strategies Support PMOS?
43:05 What Are the Hormonal Treatment Options for PMOS?
48:55 Can PMOS and Endometriosis Occur Together?
54:04 What Are the Overlooked Symptoms of Endometriosis?
55:46 How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed and Treated?
59:18 What Happens After Endometriosis Surgery?
01:02:05 When Should You Consider Fertility Preservation?
GUEST RESOURCES:
Podcast: https://www.shemdpodcast.com
Website: https://ovii.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shemdpodcast/?hl=en
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fertility Q&A: IVF Add-Ons, Sperm DNA Testing, and More
Which IVF add-ons and fertility tests are actually worth considering, and what should you know before your next embryo transfer? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, fertility doctor Natalie Crawford, MD …
Show notes
Which IVF add-ons and fertility tests are actually worth considering, and what should you know before your next embryo transfer?
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, fertility doctor Natalie Crawford, MD, answers your questions about IVF add-ons, sperm DNA fragmentation testing, ICSI, fresh versus frozen embryo transfers, recurrent pregnancy loss, celiac disease, endometriosis after surgery, and more. She explains what these options can and cannot tell you, and how to think through treatment choices after a setback.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Fertility Q&A
00:22 When Can You Try Again After a Missed Miscarriage?
04:49 How Can You Avoid Gluten Cross-Contamination With Celiac Disease?
06:14 Can Adderall Affect Sperm Health and Fertility?
07:03 What Is ICSI and When Is It Used in IVF?
07:51 Fresh vs. Frozen Embryo Transfer: Which Is Better?
09:55 Should You Change Your Fertility Protocol After Recurrent Loss?
12:51 What Comes Next for Fertility After Endometriosis Surgery?
13:54 Are Antibiotics or Steroids Helpful Before Embryo Transfer?
14:53 Should You Test Sperm DNA Fragmentation or Karyotype?
16:47 Can Stress or Recurrent Yeast Infections Affect Fertility?
17:45 What Can Cause Recurrent Pregnancy Loss With Normal Testing?
19:34 Should You Get Sperm DNA Testing for Low Sperm Morphology?
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Food Toxins & Fertility: What Actually Matters with Nutritionist Courtney Swan
Food labels can make almost anything look healthy, but what is actually in the food we eat? With growing concerns about ultra processed foods, additives, seed oils, and pesticides, many women are left wondering …
Show notes
Food labels can make almost anything look healthy, but what is actually in the food we eat? With growing concerns about ultra processed foods, additives, seed oils, and pesticides, many women are left wondering what truly matters for their hormones and fertility.
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford talks with Courtney Swan, MS, integrative nutritionist and host of Realfoodology. Courtney shares how she and her husband prepared for pregnancy before conceiving at 41, and they discuss how nutrition, inflammation, egg health, and sperm health can shape fertility. Together, they offer practical ways to make informed choices and reduce everyday exposures without fear or perfection.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Food Toxins, Hormones, and Fertility
01:08 Is the American Food System Broken?
05:25 Processed vs Ultra Processed Foods
08:33 Food Additives and Hidden Ingredients
12:05 Seed Oils and Inflammation
15:11 Environmental Toxins, Glyphosate, and Organic Food
18:11 How the Body Handles Everyday Toxin Exposure
19:10 Pregnancy at 41 and Preconception Health
22:43 Male Fertility and Sperm Health
27:42 Fertility After 35 and Metabolic Health
33:03 Where to Start Reducing Toxin Exposure
36:16 Fertility Testing Before Trying to Conceive
38:39 When to Consider a Semen Analysis
39:44 Egg Quality, Mitochondria, and CoQ10
40:23 Courtney Swan and Realfoodology
GUEST RESOURCES:
Website: https://www.realfoodology.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realfoodology
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
How to Get Pregnant After Age 35
Trying to conceive and wondering whether it is too late to get pregnant after 35? Being labeled “advanced maternal age” can make one birthday feel like a fertility cliff. But trying to get pregnant at 35 and 40 …
Show notes
Trying to conceive and wondering whether it is too late to get pregnant after 35? Being labeled “advanced maternal age” can make one birthday feel like a fertility cliff. But trying to get pregnant at 35 and 40 are not the same conversation, so should you keep trying on your own, get tested now, or discuss treatment before more time passes?
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Natalie Crawford explains what actually changes as you move through your late 30s and into your 40s. She breaks down your chances of pregnancy, egg quality and miscarriage risk, when to request a fertility evaluation, which tests to ask for, how to track ovulation, and where egg freezing, IUI, IVF, and PGT may fit, helping you understand your options and use your time intentionally without letting fear make the decision for you.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 What Happens to Fertility After 35?
01:24 Is 35 Too Late to Get Pregnant?
03:19 What Are Your Chances of Getting Pregnant Each Month?
04:17 Egg Quantity vs. Egg Quality After 35
05:26 What Are Your Chances of Getting Pregnant at 38?
06:29 What Are Your Chances of Getting Pregnant After 40?
07:35 How Does Age Affect Chromosomal Abnormalities?
11:04 Does Paternal Age Affect Fertility?
13:01 Can You Carry a Healthy Pregnancy in Your 40s?
14:33 What Does Advanced Maternal Age Mean?
16:00 When Should You Get Fertility Testing After 35?
18:13 What Does an AMH Test Tell You About Fertility?
20:33 Is Egg Freezing Worth It After 35?
22:20 How Can You Get Pregnant After 40?
23:17 How to Track Ovulation When Trying to Conceive
24:50 What Fertility Treatment Is Best After 35?
26:08 Should You Do PGT With IVF After 35?
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Endometriosis: What Nobody Tells You About Symptoms, Treatment, and Fertility with Dr. Mallory Stuparich
Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women, yet diagnosis can still take years. Some women experience debilitating period pain or GI symptoms, while others have little obvious pain and first encounter …
Show notes
Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women, yet diagnosis can still take years. Some women experience debilitating period pain or GI symptoms, while others have little obvious pain and first encounter endometriosis during an infertility evaluation. How do you know when endometriosis could be the cause, and what should happen next?
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford talks with Dr. Mallory Stuparich, a board-certified OB/GYN and fellowship-trained minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon specializing in endometriosis and complex pelvic pain. They explain why endometriosis can be missed even after an ultrasound, how birth control and excision surgery serve different goals, what to consider about fertility before surgery, and how to choose care based on your symptoms and priorities.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Endometriosis Symptoms, Treatment, and Fertility
01:21 Meet Dr. Mallory Stuparich
04:32 What Is Endometriosis?
06:09 What Do the Stages of Endometriosis Mean?
07:33 Why Does Endometriosis Take So Long to Diagnose?
09:03 What Are the Symptoms of Endometriosis?
10:35 Does Endometriosis Run in Families?
11:52 When Is Period Pain Abnormal in Teenagers?
13:01 Can Endometriosis Cause GI Symptoms?
13:58 What Are the Treatment Options for Endometriosis?
16:20 Does Birth Control Treat Endometriosis?
18:45 Can Birth Control Prevent Endometriomas?
21:15 Ablation vs. Excision Surgery for Endometriosis
25:04 When Is Lupron Used for Endometriosis and IVF?
28:00 How Does Endometriosis Affect Fertility?
29:22 Should You See a Fertility Specialist Before Endometriosis Surgery?
32:27 Can Repeat Endometriosis Surgery Improve Fertility?
34:25 How Do You Choose an Endometriosis Surgeon?
36:01 When Is Surgery Used to Diagnose Endometriosis?
37:47 Can Ultrasound Diagnose Endometriosis?
39:26 When Do You Need an MRI for Endometriosis?
41:32 Where Can Endometriosis Grow?
42:31 Endometriosis vs. Adenomyosis: What’s the Difference?
43:50 How Is Adenomyosis Treated Before IVF?
45:21 Can Lifestyle Changes Help Endometriosis?
48:49 Can GLP-1 Medications Help Endometriosis?
50:24 What New Endometriosis Tests Are Being Studied?
51:14 How to Advocate for Endometriosis Care
GUEST RESOURCES:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mallorystuparichmd/
Website: https://internationalendo.com/drmallorystuparich/
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Hypothalamic Amenorrhea: Why Your Period Disappears and How to Get It Back
Your period has disappeared, but pregnancy and menopause are not the reason. Could stress, underfueling, or exercise be disrupting your brain-ovary connection, and what does your body need before your cycle can …
Show notes
Your period has disappeared, but pregnancy and menopause are not the reason. Could stress, underfueling, or exercise be disrupting your brain-ovary connection, and what does your body need before your cycle can recover?
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford explains hypothalamic amenorrhea and the subtler hypothalamic dysfunction that can begin while your period is still arriving. Learn how chronic stress and low energy availability affect ovulation, which symptoms may signal low estrogen, what testing can help rule out other causes, and why recovery requires more than simply eating more.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Why Did My Period Stop?
01:47 What Is Hypothalamic Amenorrhea?
03:30 What Causes Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea?
04:00 How Does the Brain Control Ovulation?
06:04 Can Stress Stop You From Ovulating?
07:33 Can Low Body Fat Stop Your Period?
08:42 Hypothalamic Amenorrhea vs. Hypothalamic Dysfunction
10:28 Can You Lose Your Period Without an Eating Disorder?
11:53 What Are the Health Risks of Hypothalamic Amenorrhea?
13:26 What Are the Symptoms of Low Estrogen?
15:35 How Can You Track Ovulation and Cycle Changes?
16:48 How Is Hypothalamic Amenorrhea Diagnosed?
18:52 What Hormone Tests Are Needed for a Missing Period?
21:44 Do You Need a Bone Density Scan for Hypothalamic Amenorrhea?
22:34 How Do You Recover From Hypothalamic Amenorrhea?
23:38 What Should You Eat to Get Your Period Back?
24:41 Does Hormone Replacement Therapy Help Hypothalamic Amenorrhea?
25:58 Can Reducing Stress Help You Get Your Period Back?
26:26 How Long Does It Take to Get Your Period Back?
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fertility Q&A: Failed IVF Transfers, IUI, Embryo Banking, and More
How do you know when to continue the same fertility treatment and when it is time to change course? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, fertility doctor Natalie Crawford, MD, answers your questions about …
Show notes
How do you know when to continue the same fertility treatment and when it is time to change course?
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, fertility doctor Natalie Crawford, MD, answers your questions about failed IVF transfers, IUI, embryo banking, low AMH, thin uterine lining, progesterone levels, sperm morphology, pregnancy after methotrexate, and recurrent implantation failure. She explains what your results can tell you, what they may miss, and when a different protocol or second opinion deserves a conversation.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Fertility Q&A
00:14 What Causes a Thin Uterine Lining After Surgery?
03:21 What Progesterone Level Is Needed for Embryo Transfer?
05:42 How Many Embryos Do You Need for 2 or 3 Children?
08:09 Can IUI Help With Low Sperm Morphology?
09:52 How Many IUI Cycles Should You Try?
11:06 Can AMH Change From Month to Month?
11:42 Do You Need Estrogen or Progesterone After IUI?
12:37 Can High Cholesterol Affect Fertility and Pregnancy?
13:54 When Should You Repeat a Semen Analysis?
14:46 What Is a Pregnancy of Unknown Location?
15:30 Why Should You Wait After Methotrexate to Conceive?
15:49 Do You Need an HSG After an Ectopic Pregnancy?
16:08 Can IUI Help With a Varicocele?
16:48 What Should You Do After Pregnancy Loss With a Euploid Embryo?18:15 What Are the Different Embryo Transfer Protocols?
19:19 What Testing Can Help After Failed Implantation?
20:20 When Should You Get a Second Opinion?
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Perimenopause Symptoms: The Early Signs You May Not Recognize with Dr. Alicia Robbins
Your periods are still regular and your labs may even look “normal.” So why aren’t you sleeping? Why has your mood changed? And why do you suddenly feel like a different version of yourself? In this episode of …
Show notes
Your periods are still regular and your labs may even look “normal.” So why aren’t you sleeping? Why has your mood changed? And why do you suddenly feel like a different version of yourself?
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford talks with Dr. Alicia Robbins, a board-certified OB/GYN, certified Menopause Society Practitioner, and founder of The Elm. They discuss why sleep and mood can change before hot flashes or irregular periods begin, how cycle tracking may reveal patterns, and how progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone are considered in individualized perimenopause care. They also explain the connection between fertility and perimenopause, what else should be ruled out, and how to advocate for better care when your symptoms are dismissed.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 What Is Perimenopause and When Does It Start?
03:20 Why Dr. Alicia Robbins Changed Her Approach to Perimenopause
09:55 Perimenopause vs. Menopause: What’s the Difference?
11:23 Fertility and Perimenopause
12:22 How Do You Know if You’re in Perimenopause?
14:47 How to Track Perimenopause Symptoms
16:02 Hormone Therapy During Perimenopause
17:38 Symptoms of Low Progesterone
18:11 Hormone Therapy, Birth Control, and Pregnancy
20:17 Testosterone and Pregnancy
21:21 Testosterone for Women
23:43 Symptoms of Low Estrogen
25:12 When to Start Hormone Therapy
27:04 Estrogen Patches vs. Pills
27:40 Do You Need Hormone Testing for Perimenopause?
30:01 Is It Perimenopause or Something Else?
32:13 How to Advocate for Better Perimenopause Care
GUEST RESOURCES:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aliciarobbinsmd/
Website: https://www.theelmgreenwich.com/
Podcast: https://www.draliciarobbins.com/podcast
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Egg Quality: Can You Improve It Naturally in 90 Days? What Actually Helps?
Your eggs begin developing months before ovulation. So what can you actually do during that window to improve your egg quality? In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, reproductive endocrinologist Dr …
Show notes
Your eggs begin developing months before ovulation. So what can you actually do during that window to improve your egg quality?
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Natalie Crawford explains the 60-to-90-day process of egg development and why age is only one part of the egg-quality conversation. She explores how nutrition, inflammation, mitochondrial health, blood sugar, sleep, stress, exercise, supplements, and environmental exposures may shape the ovarian environment during this critical window.
You cannot reverse age-related changes, but understanding how an egg develops can help you focus on the factors that may be within your control. Whether you are trying to conceive, preparing for IVF, freezing your eggs, or thinking about your future fertility, this episode offers a science-backed place to start.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Can You Improve Egg Quality Naturally in 90 Days?
01:45 How Many Eggs Are Women Born With?
02:23 Is Egg Quality Determined by Age?
03:32 Egg Quality vs. Egg Quantity: What Is the Difference?
03:13 How Long Does an Egg Take to Develop Before Ovulation?
04:50 When Should You Start Preparing for IVF or Egg Freezing?
05:30 What Causes Chromosomal Abnormalities in Eggs?
06:55 How Does Mitochondrial Health Affect Egg Quality?
08:04 How Are Estrogen and Progesterone Connected to Egg Health?
08:47 What Can Follicular Fluid Reveal About Egg Quality?
10:36 What Foods Help Support Egg Quality?
11:15 Do Healthy Fats Support Fertility and Hormone Health?
12:02 Which Protein Sources Are Best for Fertility?
12:47 Can Omega-3 Fatty Acids Support Egg Quality?
13:33 How Does Oxidative Stress Affect Egg Quality?
13:55 Should You Take CoQ10 for Egg Quality?
14:42 Does Vitamin D Affect Egg Quality and Implantation?
15:21 Can Melatonin Support Egg Quality?
16:22 How Do Blood Sugar and Insulin Affect Egg Quality?
17:41 How Can You Improve Insulin Sensitivity?
18:30 Can Strength Training Support Egg Quality?
19:00 Can Inositol, Metformin, or GLP-1 Medications Support Egg Quality?
19:40 How Do Sleep and Stress Affect Egg Quality?
21:02 Do Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals Affect Egg Quality?
21:44 How Can You Reduce Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical Exposure?
23:02 What Should You Do 90 Days Before Conception, IVF, or Egg Freezing?
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Will You Ever Want Sex Again? Low Libido, Hormones & Desire with Dr. Kelly Casperson
Low libido in women is often blamed on stress, aging, or relationship problems, but changes in desire may begin years before menopause and can involve hormones, medications, pain, sleep, blood flow, and the …
Show notes
Low libido in women is often blamed on stress, aging, or relationship problems, but changes in desire may begin years before menopause and can involve hormones, medications, pain, sleep, blood flow, and the difference between spontaneous and responsive desire.
Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with board-certified urologist Dr. Kelly Casperson, author of “You Are Not Broken” and “The Menopause Moment,” to explain why women may stop wanting sex, how testosterone and estrogen affect sexual health, and what to discuss with a clinician when something feels different. They also examine birth control and SSRI side effects, hormone therapy, vaginal estrogen, and why women’s sexual health deserves greater attention.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Why Women Can Lose Desire Before Menopause
02:10 Can Your Hormones Change While You Still Have a Period?
03:38 Why Testosterone Matters in Women
05:41 Can Birth Control Lower Your Libido?
08:04 How Estrogen Affects Desire, Arousal, and Vaginal Health
10:02 What Does Low Libido Actually Mean?
10:56 When Low Libido Is Really Painful Sex
13:15 Spontaneous vs. Responsive Desire
15:25 Are You Having Sex Worth Desiring?
16:53 What Causes Arousal Problems in Women?
17:20 How SSRIs Can Affect Sexual Function
17:50 How Couples Can Navigate Mismatched Sex Drives
21:05 Why Perimenopause Can Make You Feel Unlike Yourself
21:24 How Sleep, Estrogen, and Progesterone Affect Desire
21:50 Testosterone’s Role in the Brain, Mood, and Motivation
24:40 How Is Testosterone Prescribed to Women?
27:15 What Happens When Testosterone Is Too High?
30:30 Can Testosterone Affect More Than Libido?
32:00 Testosterone, Wound Healing, and Bone Health
33:25 Could Testosterone Support Hip-Fracture Recovery?
34:00 Can Hormone Therapy Still Help Women Over 60?
36:00 Systemic vs. Vaginal Estrogen
37:00 Why Hormone Treatment May Begin Before Menopause
39:55 Can You Get Pregnant During Perimenopause?
41:41 When Vaginal Estrogen May Help
46:12 How to Talk to Your Doctor About Hormones
48:25 Where to Find Dr. Kelly Casperson
GUEST RESOURCES:Website: https://kellycaspersonmd.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellycaspersonmdPodcast: https://kellycaspersonmd.com/you-are-not-broken-podcastYou Are Not Broken: https://kellycaspersonmd.com/you-are-not-broken-bookThe Menopause Moment: https://kellycaspersonmd.com/the-menopause-moment-book
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
FERTILITY Q&A: Ovulation, Recurrent Loss, IUI, PMOS, and More
When your cycles are regular, your ultrasound looks normal, or you have been pregnant before, how do you know when it is time to look deeper? Fertility testing does not always give you the whole picture. An LH …
Show notes
When your cycles are regular, your ultrasound looks normal, or you have been pregnant before, how do you know when it is time to look deeper?
Fertility testing does not always give you the whole picture. An LH surge is not the same as the day you ovulate, a normal ultrasound cannot rule out every uterine issue, and previous pregnancies do not protect you from secondary infertility or recurrent loss.
In this Fertility Q&A, Dr. Natalie Crawford answers your questions about ovulation tracking, recurrent chemical pregnancies, PMOS (formerly PCOS), low sperm motility, failed embryo transfers, Hashimoto’s, unexplained infertility, IUI, and when to pursue a more complete fertility evaluation.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Fertility Q&A
00:20 When Do You Actually Ovulate After an LH Surge?
02:00 What Should Be Tested After Recurrent Chemical Pregnancies?
03:58 Should You Fast or Exercise Fasted With PMOS (PCOS)?
06:15 What Does Low Sperm Motility Mean for Fertility?
08:43 When Should You Schedule a Saline Sonogram or HSG?
09:35 What Should You Do After Multiple Failed Embryo Transfers?
11:49 Can Creatine Make Endometriosis Worse?
12:50 How Should You Prepare for Pregnancy With Hashimoto’s?
14:48 When Does Recurrent Loss Require a Fertility Evaluation?
17:42 When Should Both Partners Get Karyotype Testing?
18:41 Is IUI Worth Trying for Unexplained Infertility?
21:41 Who Is the Best Candidate for IUI?
22:32 How Long Can Fertility Be Affected After IUD Removal?
23:50 How to Submit Your Fertility Questions
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk
HOST RESOURCES:
Order The Fertility Formula: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NatalieCrawfordMD
Become a patient: https://www.forafertility.com
Earn FREE CE/CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/education
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
ABOUT DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, and author of The Fertility Formula. She helps women understand their hormones, fertility, and reproductive health so they can make informed decisions about their bodies.
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Biggest Birth Control Myths (and What's Actually True) with Dr. Fran Haydanek
For decades, women were handed a birth control prescription and sent home. Side effects were minimized. Questions were met with reassurance instead of real information. That left a vacuum, and into that vacuum …
Show notes
For decades, women were handed a birth control prescription and sent home. Side effects were minimized. Questions were met with reassurance instead of real information. That left a vacuum, and into that vacuum poured a wave of claims that hormonal birth control is toxic, wrecks your hormones, causes infertility, and takes years to recover from.
The truth? Birth control isn't as simple as "good" or "bad." It's nuanced, and nuance is exactly what the algorithm can't deliver in a 60-second video.
In this episode, Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by Dr. Fran Haydanek, a board-certified OB/GYN, residency faculty member, and one of the most trusted physician voices in women's health on social media. Together, they unpack the biggest birth control myths and viral health claims, separating what's supported by evidence from what's misunderstood, oversimplified, or simply untrue.
No agenda. No fear. Just evidence-based medicine and two physicians who believe women deserve honest information to make the best decisions for their own bodies.
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN:
* Whether hormonal birth control is actually harming your hormones or fertility
* Why so many birth control myths continue to spread online
* Which viral hormone claims are backed by evidence and which aren't
* How different birth control methods affect fertility, PMOS, and egg freezing
* What every woman should know before choosing, stopping, or changing birth control
* Why better conversations with your doctor can completely change your care
Whether you're choosing a birth control method, planning for pregnancy, managing PMOS, or simply trying to separate fact from fiction online, this episode will help you better understand your body and make more informed decisions with confidence.
Topics covered: hormonal birth control, birth control myths, birth control pill, fertility, infertility, PMOS, post birth control syndrome, hormonal IUDs, IUD insertion pain, Depo-Provera, Nexplanon, tubal ligation, salpingectomy, egg freezing, Dutch Test, estrogen dominance, adrenal fatigue, women's hormones, reproductive health.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Why birth control misinformation spread so fast
05:13 The list of doctors who will tie your tubes
08:52 Can you get your tubes untied later?
10:13 Does removing your tubes lower your ovarian cancer risk?
11:32 Does the pill treat PMOS or just mask it?
15:40 Does the pill ruin your hormones?
17:10 Do you need to detox from the pill?
17:50 When to stop the pill if you want to get pregnant
19:30 Annual visit vs problem visit, and why it changes your care
22:05 Does birth control cause infertility?
23:15 Does the pill save your eggs for later?
27:00 Does Depo-Provera cause brain tumors?
29:47 Two doctors disagree about progestin IUDs
32:48 How patients changed IUD insertion pain
36:10 When to take out your IUD before trying
39:56 How your birth control affects an egg freezing cycle
41:50 Do blood draws cause miscarriage?
43:44 Do you need supplements for adrenal fatigue?
45:40 Is estrogen dominance real?
46:34 What is the Dutch test, and why won't most OB/GYNs order it?
FOLLOW DR. FRAN HAYDANEK:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pagingdrfran/?hl=en
Website: https://www.pagingdrfran.com/
You can listen to Dr. Haydanek’s podcast, I Did My Own Research, wherever you get your podcasts. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-did-my-own-research/id1879906055
AS A WOMAN WITH DR. NATALIE CRAWFORD:
* Earn FREE CE Credits: https://learnatpinnacle.com
* Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLveZDgg3_HZ9m7Wy3C6Vvyrj_NtEOwj_l&si=1zAekOjCpsCdOgJN
* Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-woman/id1449553339
* Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12IYOLH9liu60gk5D0bRPk?si=b1bfdc1998994e7f
* Follow Natalie on Substack: https://nataliecrawfordmd.substack.com
* Follow Natalie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecrawfordmd
* Follow Natalie on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nataliecrawfordmd
Dr. Natalie Crawford's book, The Fertility Formula, is a science-backed, compassionate guide that helps women understand their hormones, optimize their health, and take charge of their fertility. Get your copy here: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
You can learn more about Dr. Natalie Crawford’s practice here: https://www.forafertility.com
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network!
Disclaimer: Natalie Crawford, MD is a doctor but she is not your doctor. Infertility is trying to conceive for 1 year or more without pregnancy (if under age 35) and trying for 6 months or more if you are over the age of 35. If your periods are not regular, you should seek medical evaluation with your gynecologist or fertility doctor regardless of how long you have been trying to conceive.
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The Biggest Fertility Myths That Could Delay Pregnancy
Host Dr. Natalie Crawford dives straight into the heavy cloud of misinformation surrounding reproductive health to uncover the real science behind your body. In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, she …
Show notes
Host Dr. Natalie Crawford dives straight into the heavy cloud of misinformation surrounding reproductive health to uncover the real science behind your body. In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, she unmasks the pervasive, everyday myths that quietly delay testing and cause unnecessary self-blame for individuals trying to conceive. By breaking down outdated medical timelines and complex hormonal shifts, Dr. Crawford shifts the narrative from panic to proactive power. It is a candid, truth-first guide designed to strip away the guesswork, optimize your cellular health, and put you firmly back in the driver's seat of your own fertility journey.
What You’ll Learn:
The outdated timeline constraint that routinely delays essential reproductive insights and why early diagnostic data changes everything.
The biological reality of maternal age milestones and how metabolic vitality dictates your family planning window far more than a specific birthday.
The intricate relationship between hormonal contraceptives and cellular markers that temporarily alters ovulation indicators without permanently depleting your ovarian reserve.
Why relying on advanced reproductive technology as a safety net overlooks the strict biological boundaries governing egg and sperm quality.
The critical impact of lifestyle modifications on a three-month microscopic timeline that debunks the idea of fertility being a solo endeavor.
TIMESTAMPS:
0:01:45, Myth: “You have to wait 12 months before seeing a fertility doctor”
0:03:19, Myth: “Your fertility falls off a cliff at 35”
0:04:48, Myth: “Birth control causes infertility”
0:07:13, Myth: “IVF guarantees a baby”
0:08:58, Myth: “Most fertility problems are the woman’s fault”
0:11:00, Myth: “If you already had one baby, getting pregnant again will be easy”
0:11:56, Myth: “Men should save up sperm for ovulation day”
0:13:15, Myth: “If your periods are regular, you don’t need to track ovulation”
0:15:30, Myth: “There’s nothing you can do to improve egg quality”
0:17:29, Myth: “AMH tells you exactly how fertile you are”
0:21:00, Myth: “You need to keep sperm in, don’t get up or pee after sex”
0:22:15, Myth: “You can’t get pregnant on your period”
Host Resources:
Order The Fertility Formula! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD
Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility
Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What Pregnancy Reveals About Your Hormonal Future with Dr. Amanda Horton
Host Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with Double Board certified maternal-fetal medicine specialist Dr. Amanda Horton to unpack the hidden biological reality behind pregnancy complications. This episode cuts …
Show notes
Host Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with Double Board certified maternal-fetal medicine specialist Dr. Amanda Horton to unpack the hidden biological reality behind pregnancy complications. This episode cuts through the standard postpartum noise to explore how conditions like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes act as critical indicators for a woman's future health. By framing pregnancy as the ultimate physiological stress test, the conversation reveals why these nine months provide a vital window into long-term cardiovascular and metabolic wellness. It is a direct, eye-opening discussion on why the medical system’s failure to connect these dots is one of the most consequential gaps in women’s healthcare, and how you can advocate for your own future history.
What You’ll Learn:
The hidden physiological stress test that unmasks underlying vascular and metabolic vulnerabilities before they manifest later in life.
How a specific plumbing problem in the placenta triggers systemic high-pressure signals that permanently alter cardiovascular health.
The critical timeline for postpartum preeclampsia risk that catches new parents off guard after they leave the hospital.
Why a routine first-trimester clinical reading can mask pre-existing essential hypertension and cause missed opportunities for medical intervention.
The specific hormonal mechanism produced by the placenta that dictates insulin resistance and elevates long-term type two diabetes risk.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 – How pregnancy acts as a full body “stress test” and window into future health
08:21 – What pregnancy related high blood pressure can reveal about long term heart and blood vessel health
18:30 – How gestational diabetes, baby growth, and timing of birth offer clues about metabolic and vascular health
33:05 – Why birth complications like heavy bleeding or placenta problems matter for future fertility and pregnancies
38:46 – The importance of postpartum follow up and preconception visits to turn pregnancy history into a health roadmap
Guest Resources:
Instagram: @amandahortonmd
Host Resources:
Order The Fertility Formula! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD
Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility
Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sperm Health and Male Fertility
If you have ever assumed that navigating fertility is a journey meant solely for the female body, this conversation is here to completely change your perspective. Host Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down the stark …
Show notes
If you have ever assumed that navigating fertility is a journey meant solely for the female body, this conversation is here to completely change your perspective. Host Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down the stark biological reality of male reproductive health, focusing on why waiting a full year before checking a semen analysis is a massive, time-wasting mistake for hopeful couples. By pulling back the curtain on what actually happens in the embryology lab, this episode highlights the deep connection between everyday lifestyle choices and the genetic integrity of sperm. Ultimately, it emphasizes that a successful pregnancy requires an absolute "army of sperm" and shifts the narrative toward proactive, mutual preparation well before entering the conception window.
What You’ll Learn:
The Myth of the Single Cell: Why the common phrase "it just takes one" is a dangerous misconception for natural conception and the mechanical reason an egg requires a massive collective effort to crack open.
The Calculated Total Motile Sperm Threshold: How multiplying specific volume and movement parameters dictates your eligibility for an IUI, and why dropping "injured players" on the 50-yard line rarely bypasses structural damage.
The Day Three Embryonic Halt: The specific genetic window inside the IVF lab where an unaddressed DNA fragmentation issue causes development to completely stall out as the paternal genome takes over.
The Tingly Shampoo Interruption: How common personal care ingredients hidden in daily routines mimic female hormones, risking physical changes like gynecomastia and suppressed testosterone production.
The Invisible Lab Consequences of Cannabis: Why a standard semen analysis can look completely normal on paper while active toxic exposure is simultaneously driving up partner miscarriage rates behind the scenes.
Topics covered in this episode include: sperm production and how it’s made, semen analysis and what it shows, hormones and medical issues affecting sperm, lifestyle and environmental impacts on sperm, when to use IUI versus IVF, advanced sperm testing and procedures, practical sperm health recommendations
00:00 sperm production and how sperm is made
03:35 hormones, testosterone, and what semen analysis can reveal
11:25 semen analysis details: count, volume, movement, and shape
14:59 lifestyle and environmental factors that impact sperm
18:51 when IUI helps, when IVF is needed, and why “it just takes one sperm” is misleading
22:35 advanced sperm testing (DNA fragmentation) and testicular sperm extraction
26:42 practical recommendations to support sperm health and next steps for testing
Host Resources:
Order The Fertility Formula! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD
Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility
Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
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What Nobody Tells You About Bringing Home a Newborn with Dr. Ari Brown
Bringing home a newborn can feel like stepping into a world you are completely unprepared for, whether your road to parenthood was seamless or shaped by years of fertility treatments. In this episode, host Dr …
Show notes
Bringing home a newborn can feel like stepping into a world you are completely unprepared for, whether your road to parenthood was seamless or shaped by years of fertility treatments. In this episode, host Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with board-certified pediatrician Dr. Ari Brown, author of Baby 411, to dismantle the steep learning curve and massive knowledge gap that hits the moment you leave the hospital. They open up about the raw, humbling realities of the postpartum period, the exhaustion of early feeding hurdles, and why even medical professionals find themselves completely overwhelmed by a new baby. This conversation is all about replacing midnight panic with evidence-based confidence so you can navigate the early weeks of parenthood without losing your mind.
What You’ll Learn:
The unexpected hourly timeline that triggers a sudden behavioral shift in your newborn's appetite right after leaving the hospital.
A specific mathematical benchmark for infant weight loss that dictates when parental instincts must shift to medical intervention.
The biological explanation behind why your four-month-old is suddenly awake all night and how to decode their new environmental expectations.
A critical, time-sensitive boundary for infant swaddling and the hidden safety risks associated with modern sleep gadgets.
The exact physical markers of respiratory distress and inconsolable irritability that mean it's time to bypass Google and call your pediatrician.
Topics covered in this episode include: early parenthood expectations, preparing for newborn care and choosing a pediatrician, newborn feeding and weight loss, newborn sleep and routines, reflux and colic, safe sleep and when to call the pediatrician
00:00 – early parenthood expectations
03:00 – preparing for newborn care and choosing a pediatrician
11:30 – newborn feeding and weight loss
30:40 – reflux and colic
35:20 – newborn sleep and routines
42:20 – safe sleep and when to call the pediatrician
Guest Resources:
Website: https://www.draribrown.com/
Instagram: @aribrownmd
Host Resources:
Order The Fertility Formula! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD
Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility
Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fertility Q&A: PMOS (Formerly PCOS), Endometriosis, IUI vs IVF & More
Navigating the complex world of reproductive health can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to sort through the confusion alone. In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford and Emily …
Show notes
Navigating the complex world of reproductive health can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to sort through the confusion alone. In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, Dr. Natalie Crawford and Emily Whitlock answer listener questions about secondary infertility, PMOS (formerly PCOS), endometriosis, ovarian reserve, fertility supplements, and treatment options like IUI and IVF. Together, they break down the science behind common fertility concerns, address persistent myths and misconceptions, and provide practical, evidence-based insights to help you better understand your body, your options, and your fertility journey.
What You’ll Learn:
The most frequently overlooked genetic blood work that could explain recurrent pregnancy loss and chemical pregnancies.
How a progressive inflammatory disruptor can silently trigger secondary infertility as you age.
The truth behind a massive social media myth regarding oral contraceptives and underlying ovarian function.
Why a specific non-medication supplement option is a game-changer for cellular health and insulin resistance.
The critical timeline rules and clinical nuances of utilizing a GLP-1 receptor agonist when planning a pregnancy.
Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility and reproductive health questions.
4:04 If someone conceived their first two children naturally but is now struggling to get pregnant, could a condition like endometriosis have developed later and be contributing to secondary infertility?
05:06 Why are so many women being diagnosed with PCOS today, and why does there seem to be so much confusion about how to diagnose and manage it? Can birth control cause PCOS to develop?
8:32 Are there different stages or levels of PCOS, similar to how endometriosis is staged, or is PCOS simply a diagnosis you either have or do not have?
10:15 Prenatals contain nutrients like folic acid and choline that are considered critical for fetal development. If they are so important, why are these supplements not routinely prescribed during pregnancy?
12:05 A 34-year-old with diminished ovarian reserve but a normal antral follicle count is considering treatment. How many IUI cycles would you typically recommend before moving to IVF?
13:26 Who is considered a good candidate for IUI, and what factors help determine whether IUI is likely to be successful?
14:24 If a partner has excellent sperm parameters, does IUI still offer meaningful benefit, or are there situations where it may not be worth pursuing?
16:12 What are your thoughts on using myo-inositol or D-chiro-inositol to support fertility? If recommended, where do they fit into a supplement regimen?
19:43 Can myo-inositol or D-chiro-inositol be taken alongside a prenatal vitamin? If someone becomes pregnant while taking myo-inositol or D-chiro-inositol, should they continue or stop supplementation?
Can GLP-1 medications help improve symptoms associated with PCOS? And is difficulty losing weight or unexplained weight gain considered a symptom of PCOS?
22:12 For someone who has successfully lost weight, whether through lifestyle changes, medication, or both, what strategies are most effective for maintaining that weight loss long term?
Host Resources:
Order The Fertility Formula! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD
Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility
Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sleep and Fertility: How Rest Shapes Your Reproductive Health
Welcome back to the As a Woman podcast, where host Dr. Natalie Crawford dives deep into a fundamental health pillar that many of us are guilty of sacrificing: sleep. In this episode, Dr. Crawford is joined by …
Show notes
Welcome back to the As a Woman podcast, where host Dr. Natalie Crawford dives deep into a fundamental health pillar that many of us are guilty of sacrificing: sleep. In this episode, Dr. Crawford is joined by her own clinical experience to unpack the direct, profound connection between the hours you spend in bed and your body's ability to regulate hormones and optimize fertility. By shifting the perspective from viewing sleep as a luxury to treating it as a critical medical intervention, this conversation serves as an essential guide for anyone looking to naturally lower inflammation and reclaim their reproductive well-being.
What You’ll Learn:
The silent internal communication breakdown between your brain and your ovaries that occurs when your nightly rest drops below a critical threshold.
How a specific daily hormonal tug-of-war directly impacts your natural circadian rhythm and stalls the release of essential antioxidants.
The surprising role of acute inflammation in reproductive pathways and why standard over-the-counter remedies might actually hinder your cycle goals.
How everyday predictability and minimizing sleep variability serve as a major, controllable variable for accelerating your timeline to conception.
Why reproductive wellness is ultimately a team sport, detailing how a partner's late-night habits can inherently lower overall pregnancy rates.
Host Resources:
Order The Fertility Formula! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD
Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility
Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Rise of Breast Cancer in Young Women with Dr. Sangeetha Kolluri
In this episode, reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with board-certified breast surgeon Dr. Sangeetha Kolluri to unpack a vital conversation around the rising rates of breast cancer …
Show notes
In this episode, reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with board-certified breast surgeon Dr. Sangeetha Kolluri to unpack a vital conversation around the rising rates of breast cancer diagnoses in young women. Moving past generic, one-size-fits-all medical advice, they dive deep into the absolute necessity of personalized screening and risk assessments to ensure no woman slips through the cracks. By highlighting how true self-advocacy and early action save lives, this episode serves as a critical blueprint for young women looking to take control of their own breast health and reproductive futures.
What You’ll Learn:
The surprising intersection of the peripartum period and an elevated baseline risk that every postpartum woman needs to understand.
Why standard age-based screening guidelines might fail young women, and the specific diagnostic gaps that occur before age 40.
The hidden relationship between a customized hereditary cancer gene panel and navigating complex results like variants of unknown significance (VUS).
How a specific, free online tool uses your detailed family history and imaging data to completely personalize your preventative screening schedule.
The critical timeline linking urgent fertility preservation, chemotherapy, and protecting your ovarian reserve after an unexpected diagnosis.
Guest Resources:
Instagram: @breasttexas
Tiktok: @wildflowerbreastcenter
Website: wildflowerbreast.com
Host Resources:
Order The Fertility Formula! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD
Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility
Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fertility Q&A: Low AMH, Cycle Syncing Workouts, Overcoming Hypothalamic Amenorrhea, and More
On this week’s episode of the As a Woman podcast, host Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by special guest Emily Whitlock for a rapid-fire Fertility Q&A session. Together, they dive deep into the often …
Show notes
On this week’s episode of the As a Woman podcast, host Dr. Natalie Crawford is joined by special guest Emily Whitlock for a rapid-fire Fertility Q&A session. Together, they dive deep into the often misunderstood and frustrating complexities of reproductive health, answering real questions from listeners navigating everything from unexpected cycle changes to the emotional rollercoaster of IVF. By breaking down the complex science into digestible, human terms, they shed light on why understanding your unique hormonal blueprint matters, whether you are actively trying to conceive or simply advocating for your long-term wellness.
What You’ll Learn:
The hidden relationship between a specific ovarian marker and the unexpected timelines of reproductive aging.
Why standard workout routines fail female physiology and how tracking your cycle phases can optimize physical performance.
The critical uterine evaluation required after experiencing a late-stage pregnancy loss before moving forward with future embryo transfers.
How a common, overlooked hormone elevation could be the secret culprit behind abnormal luteal phase spotting.
The biological "famine" response that causes the brain to halt ovulation for years, and the specific limitations of traditional fertility pills in restoring it.
Host Resources:
Order The Fertility Formula! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD
Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility
Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Failed IVF Cycles
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, host Dr. Natalie Crawford dives deep into the devastating reality of failed IVF cycles to explain why a negative result is not a personal failure, but rather a …
Show notes
In this episode of the As a Woman podcast, host Dr. Natalie Crawford dives deep into the devastating reality of failed IVF cycles to explain why a negative result is not a personal failure, but rather a critical piece of biological data. By shifting the perspective from self-blame to scientific empowerment, Dr. Crawford provides listeners with a comforting yet highly informative roadmap on how to navigate the aftermath of an unsuccessful cycle and prepare for what comes next.
What You’ll Learn:
The overlooked biological distinctions between the IVF retrieval process and embryo transfer success rates.
How specific milestones in egg maturity stages directly influence your overall embryonic potential.
The critical timeline phase where poor sperm quality halts development, even with a normal semen analysis.
Why maternal age and metabolic health dictate the mathematical odds of genetic normalcy in a blastocyst.
The five distinct frozen embryo transfer protocols used to optimize the uterine implantation window.
Host Resources:
Order The Fertility Formula! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD
Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility
Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Can You Have It All? Ambition, Identity, and the Fertility Timeline with Brooke Taylor
High-achieving women often have everything on paper: the prestigious title, the corner office, the growing family, yet still feel a haunting emptiness inside. In this episode, Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down …
Show notes
High-achieving women often have everything on paper: the prestigious title, the corner office, the growing family, yet still feel a haunting emptiness inside. In this episode, Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with Brooke Taylor, a transformational career coach and former Google marketing lead, to uncover why so many women are running on a “success wound” that confuses production with self-worth. By looking at the human element of ambition, Taylor explores how we can stop treating our lives like a high-stakes chess game and start finding a truer, more sustainable source of power that does not lead to burnout.
What You’ll Learn:
The silent epidemic of the success wound and why high-achieving women often use professional significance as a coping mechanism for a "soul sickness."
The two distinct power sources for ambition and how one leads to a frantic, frenzied lifestyle while the other fosters genuine collaboration.
Why society rewards the "Justin" archetype and the cultural trap of assigning high morals to those who appear to struggle the most in their productivity.
The "mental gymnastics" of family building and how to navigate the anxiety of a ticking clock when you are used to controlling every outcome.
A breakdown of the five archetypes of high achievement from the grinder to the hider and how to diagnose your specific response to professional pressure.
Guest Resources:
Website: Brooke Taylor Coaching
Instagram: @brookevtaylor
Order The Success Wound by Brooke Taylor https://brooketaylorcoaching.com/successwound/
Host Resources:
Order The Fertility Formula! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD
Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility
Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Top Mistakes When Trying to Conceive
Host Natalie Crawford, MD, dives deep into the gap between being "educated" and being "informed" when it comes to your own body. This episode is a direct response to the heartbreaking phrase she hears most in …
Show notes
Host Natalie Crawford, MD, dives deep into the gap between being "educated" and being "informed" when it comes to your own body. This episode is a direct response to the heartbreaking phrase she hears most in her clinic: "If only I had known this sooner." By breaking down the most common misconceptions that stall the path to parenthood, Natalie shifts the focus from reactive waiting to proactive empowerment, explaining why understanding your unique biology is the ultimate way to reclaim control over your reproductive future.
What You’ll Learn:
The hidden discrepancy between population-based averages and your personal timeline for seeking a fertility evaluation.
Why regular cycles aren't always the definitive marker of hormonal health and what your apps are likely missing.
The biological reality of how chronic inflammation and metabolic health act as silent gatekeepers to egg quality.
A breakdown of the essential diagnostic data points - from semen analysis to ovarian reserve - that move you beyond the "IVF-only" narrative.
The strategic difference between viewing egg freezing as an insurance policy versus a long-term investment in biology.
Resources:
Order The Fertility Formula! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD
Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility
Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Mental Load of Trying to Conceive and Infertility | Dr. Pooja Lakshmin
In this episode, host Natalie sits down with board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Pooja Lakshman to dismantle the toxic "wellness" culture that leaves women feeling more exhausted than when they started. They …
Show notes
In this episode, host Natalie sits down with board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Pooja Lakshman to dismantle the toxic "wellness" culture that leaves women feeling more exhausted than when they started. They explore the hidden architecture of burnout - moving past the superficial world of bubble baths and meditation apps to address the systemic pressures and internal "tiny dictators" that dictate our worth. This is a conversation about why "doing more" isn't the cure and how to reclaim your agency when life feels like a burden you’re carrying alone.
What You’ll Learn:
The critical neurobiological distinction between everyday stress and the psychological collapse of meaning found in true burnout.
Why your inner critic might actually be a "tiny dictator" and the simple naming exercise that helps you reclaim your mental autonomy.
The "Pause, Yes, No, or Negotiate" framework for setting boundaries that account for the real-world costs of saying no.
How to use the "Check Engine Light" metaphor to separate structural guilt from your actual moral compass.
Why psychological integrity is the only resource that truly matters when navigating high-stakes health journeys like infertility.
Resources:
Order The Fertility Formula! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD
Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility
Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5 Fertility Non‑Negotiables
When we face challenges with getting pregnant, it’s easy to feel like a passenger in a car with no control over the destination. In this episode, Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down why fertility isn't just a …
Show notes
When we face challenges with getting pregnant, it’s easy to feel like a passenger in a car with no control over the destination. In this episode, Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down why fertility isn't just a matter of luck or age, but a reflection of your body’s fundamental physiologic foundations. By shifting the focus from quick fixes to the biological "radio static" that disrupts our hormones, Dr. Crawford empowers you to take the wheel through five non-negotiable lifestyle pillars. This conversation is for anyone who has ever felt like the fertility industry simplified their body down to a single number and wants to reclaim their agency.
What You’ll Learn:
The hidden "radio static" within your internal environment that causes the brain and ovaries to misfire.
The critical metabolic distinction between chronological age and the cellular competency of your reproductive system.
How a specific type of physical resistance serves as a "secret key" for glucose transport and hormonal balance.
The physiological domino effect of chronic stress that triggers a survival-mode fuel dump in the bloodstream.
The profound connection between the "vault" of eggs you are born with and the modern environmental triggers that accelerate genetic wear and tear.
Resources:
Order The Fertility Formula! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book
Newsletter: nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Youtube Channel: Natalie Crawford MD
Interested in becoming a patient?: Fora Fertility
Earn FREE CE/CME: Learn at Pinnacle App
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