As a Woman
Natalie Crawford, MD
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Hosted by double board-certified fertility physician Dr. Natalie Crawford, this podcast provides science-backed insights on fertility, hormone health, and reproductive wellness. It covers topics such as IVF, perimenopause, egg quality, and inflammation, with expert interviews and patient stories. The show aims to help listeners understand their cycles and feel empowered in their health.
Epizode
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The Biggest Birth Control Myths (and What's Actually True) with Dr. Fran Haydanek 21.07.2026 51minFor 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
The Biggest Fertility Myths That Could Delay Pregnancy 14.07.2026 26minHost 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 07.07.2026 44minHost 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 30.06.2026 32minIf 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
What Nobody Tells You About Bringing Home a Newborn with Dr. Ari Brown 23.06.2026 53minBringing 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 Books: https://www.draribrown.com/books/ 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 16.06.2026 25minNavigating 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 09.06.2026 25minWelcome 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 02.06.2026 50minIn 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 26.05.2026 27minOn 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 19.05.2026 27minIn 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 12.05.2026 43minHigh-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 05.05.2026 23minHost 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 28.04.2026 43minIn 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 21.04.2026 26minWhen 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 This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Fertility Q&A: DHEA, TTC Skincare, Lean PCOS, Semen Analysis and more 20.04.2026 14minDr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. What is your current interpretation of the scientific evidence on DHEA supplementation for women with low ovarian reserve and advanced maternal age who are preparing for IVF? Can you use retinol skincare products while trying to conceive, or should they be avoided during TTC? For someone in their early 30s who has been trying to conceive for over two years with no positive pregnancy tests and has completed multiple IUIs without success, what would you recommend as next steps or further evaluation? What does it mean if someone notices type 4 cervical mucus occurring twice in a cycle, including again right before their period? For a male partner taking finasteride for several years, is there evidence that it affects sperm quality or fertility outcomes, and should it be stopped when trying to conceive? In lean PCOS, what additional steps can be taken before trying to conceive to help regulate ovulation and hormone balance, especially when cycles are irregular and progesterone is being used to induce a bleed? How do varicoceles impact fertility outcomes even when a standard semen analysis appears normal, and what should patients understand about “normal” lab results versus actual sperm quality? Is there anything that can be done to prevent varicoceles, and what causes them to develop in the first place? When a semen analysis is reported as normal, how should patients and clinicians interpret that result, and what deeper factors might still need to be considered? Order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, out now! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want your questions answered on the next episode? Ask them here! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Why Failing First No Longer Works for Fertility 14.04.2026 25minIn this solo episode, Dr. Natalie Crawford pulls back the curtain on why the current fertility system asks women to “fail first” before offering help and why she’s no longer accepting that as the norm. Drawing from both her professional experience and personal journey through infertility and pregnancy loss, she shares the deeper “why” behind her new book, The Fertility Formula. This conversation isn’t about fear, it’s about giving women the information they were never taught and the power to make decisions before time makes them for them. If fertility is finite, then understanding it sooner isn’t optional, it’s essential. What You’ll Learn: The surprising shift in reproductive statistics that makes the traditional "wait 12 months" rule a dangerous relic of the past. The specific 90-day biological window where your daily choices directly influence egg and sperm quality before conception. Why your menstrual cycle is actually a "top vital sign" and what its nuances reveal about your long-term longevity. The invisible biological mechanism where chronic inflammation "hijacks" your reproductive potential and how to lower that burden. The critical difference between genetic "luck" and the metabolic factors you can actually control to change your fertility outcome. 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: Hormones, Male Factor, IVF Challenges & More 13.04.2026 13minDr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. I’ve been on the progesterone-only pill for three years due to other medical concerns, and I recently stopped taking it because my husband and I are ready to start trying to conceive. What should I expect when coming off this type of pill? Are there any body changes to look out for, and how long does it typically take for cycles to regulate after stopping? My husband and I have been trying to conceive for a year. I’m 30 and he’s 32. He was diagnosed with a varicocele, and his only borderline parameter is motility at 36%. I’ve been diagnosed with mild PCOS and had an HSG that suggested possible adhesions in one tube. Our fertility doctor recommended holding off on varicocele surgery and starting a medicated cycle. In cases like this, is surgery worth pursuing, or are treatments like medicated cycles or IUI typically sufficient? I’m 38, have been trying to conceive for nearly two years, and have mild PCOS with regular cycles. I’ve had two chemical pregnancies and recently moved forward with IVF with PGT-A. I’m currently in the two-week wait after transfer but am experiencing brown spotting again during the luteal phase. With normal labs and no structural issues, what could be causing this recurring spotting? I’m 33 with a history of severe endometriosis and large fibroids. I’ve had surgery that resulted in the loss of one ovary and tube. My AMH is 0.38, and there may be tubal blockage, though I haven’t had an HSG yet. I also froze eggs five years ago. How do you approach decision-making between continuing to try naturally, completing further testing, or moving directly to IVF in a case like mine? I’m 43 and hoping to have a child through IVF. I have regular cycles, a history of miscarriage, ovarian cysts, and fibroids—one of which protrudes into the uterine cavity. My doctor has recommended laparoscopic surgery with a six-month recovery. Would you recommend pursuing egg retrieval and fertilization before surgery? And what are your thoughts on PRP for ovarian or uterine rejuvenation after surgery? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now!https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want your questions answered on the next episode? Ask them here!https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Fertility Q&A: Inflammation, Hormones, Cycle Tracking & More 07.04.2026 36minWhether you’re just starting to think about your future family or you’ve been navigating the frustrating "one out of eight" (now one out of five) statistics for years, this conversation is for you. Host Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with Emily Whitlock to peel back the curtain on the science of conception and the launch of Natalie’s new book, The Fertility Formula. This episode is all about moving past the "eyes glazed over" medical jargon to give you a clear, actionable roadmap for your reproductive health - because you can’t make empowered decisions on data you don’t actually have. We talk about: • What the first chapter is about and why it is the start of the book • Important study findings • Why infertility rates are increasing • My personal favorite way to track my cycle And more! What You’ll Learn: The Weather and the Runway: Why a specific "biological hailstorm" might be the hidden culprit behind communication breakdowns between your brain and your ovaries. The Modern Inflammatory Storm: Exploring the shift in infertility rates and how our current environment dictates everything from sperm counts to miscarriage risk. The 20% Accuracy Trap: Why relying solely on a period tracking app might be leading you astray and the "gold standard" combinations for fertility awareness. The Biotin Blindspot: The surprising reason this common "hair, skin, and nails" supplement could be completely sabotaging your hormone lab results. Kitchen-First Detox: The high-impact strategy for reducing endocrine disruptors and forever chemicals by changing how you handle heat and storage in your own home. Resources: Pre-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: Endometriosis, PCOS, Ectopic Pregnancy & More 05.04.2026 10minDr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. I’m on Lupron for suspected endometriosis and have been on suppression for almost two months, but I’m noticing vaginal cramping, ovarian pain, shooting rectal pain, and increased pain with intercourse. Is it normal to have increased pain during Lupron suppression, or does this suggest something else is going on? How long, on average, should someone with PCOS and insulin resistance stay on metformin, especially when trying to conceive or undergoing fertility treatment? I recently had an ectopic pregnancy located on my ovary. Is this typically just bad luck, or are there underlying risk factors that increase the likelihood of this happening again? After experiencing an ectopic pregnancy, is there anything specific I should do as soon as I get a positive pregnancy test in the future to ensure everything is progressing safely? When trying to conceive, when should retinol be discontinued? Is it safe to continue using it up until a positive pregnancy test, or should it be stopped earlier? I regularly take creatine (about 5–10 grams per day). Is it safe to continue using creatine while trying to conceive or during pregnancy? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want your questions answered on the next episode? Ask them here! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Why Thyroid Treatment Isn’t Working | McCall McPherson PA-C 31.03.2026 49minThe medical system often reduces your thyroid—the engine of your metabolism, mood, and fertility—to a single number: TSH. In this episode, Dr. Natalie Crawford sits down with thyroid expert and Modern Thyroid Clinic founder McCall McPherson to discuss why "normal" lab ranges are leaving millions of women debilitated. McCall shares her own harrowing journey of being gaslit by the medical community while struggling to function, and together, they provide a roadmap for how you can take agency over your hormones and demand better care. What You’ll Learn: The critical distinction between "crude oil" and "gasoline" hormones and why TSH testing alone fails to identify hypothyroidism in many symptomatic women. The surprising 10-year gap between the onset of thyroid symptoms and a formal diagnosis, and how frequent full thyroid panels can change your health trajectory. How subclinical hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s disease directly impact unexplained infertility and double the risk of miscarriage during the fertility journey. The specific role of low dose Naltrexone (LDN), selenium, and gut health in reducing thyroid antibodies and achieving long-term autoimmune remission. Why conventional levothyroxine and Synthroid treatments often leave patients "stockpiling" hormones they can't use, and the importance of thyroid optimization over simple replacement. Find McCall McPherson McCall McPherson, PA | Modern Thyroid Clinic Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa Resources: Pre-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
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