Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses the importance of cycle tracking for reproductive health, emphasizing its relevance in the current political climate. She explains the menstrual cycle, including the roles of FSH, LH, estrogen, and progesterone. Various cycle tracking methods are detailed, such as the calendar method, rhythm method, standard days method, basal body temperature (BBT), cervical mucus monitoring, and urinary LH tests. Effectiveness rates for perfect and typical use are provided, highlighting the need for consistent tracking. Dr. Crawford also addresses the impact of hormonal birth control and IVF on cycle tracking accuracy.

Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses the impact of the recent election on reproductive health, focusing on IVF and contraceptive options. She reassures listeners that current IVF practices remain unchanged and emphasizes the importance of understanding one's reproductive health. She also advises against making immediate changes but highlights the need to be informed and prepared for potential future restrictions.

Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses the emotional and practical challenges of unexpected outcomes in fertility treatments, emphasizing the importance of preparation and understanding. She highlights the need for clear expectations and the role of various treatments like ovulation induction, IUI, and IVF. Dr. Crawford shares a case study of a 31-year-old woman with low AMH levels who experienced a failed IVF cycle, explaining the potential causes and next steps. She also addresses common questions about fertility treatments, such as estrogen dosing for frozen embryo transfers and the impact of lifestyle changes on sperm count.

Dr. Natalie Crawford answers common questions about the uterus. 

Questions answered:

1. What are the implications of having uterine scarring now that I am done having children?

2. What are your thoughts about finding fluid in your uterus after beginning your IVF cycle? 

3. How long does it take for the body recover and go back to its normal period after hysteroscopy?

4. Could having a tight uterus be a factor in unexplained infertility?

5. Should I consider surrogacy after multiple failed transfers?

Dr. Natalie Crawford provides a comprehensive overview of egg and embryo donation options for those looking to grow their families. She delves into the basics of egg donation, including the IVF process, success rates, and reasons why someone may choose to use donor eggs. Dr. Crawford also explores the complex world of embryo donation, addressing the challenges and misconceptions surrounding this path to parenthood. She introduces Era Embryos, a new program, to bring more transparency and medical soundness to embryo donation.

Dr. Natalie Crawfords answers fertility questions. 

Questions Answered:

Will slightly elevated prolactin levels impact fertility?

If you are married and ready to start a family NOW is it a good idea to freeze eggs for the second and third child, or can freezing eggs interfere with natural fertility?

I have an embryo transfer scheduled for next week. What are things I can do to help the embryo “stick”?

Dr. Natalie Crawford answers fertility questions from newsletter subscribers

Dr. Natalie Crawford addresses a question from an OB/GYN colleague about managing patients with unexplained infertility and high AMH levels. She explains that unexplained infertility is often due to undiagnosed issues, and a full workup is necessary to understand the underlying causes. The episode delves into the mechanisms of ovulation induction medications like Clomid and Letrozole, which are commonly used to induce ovulation in patients with conditions like PCOS. Throughout the episode, Dr. Crawford emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy and education, encouraging patients to ask questions, understand the reasons behind treatment recommendations, and seek a second opinion if they feel their current treatment plan is not effective or appropriate.

Dr. Natalie Crawford answers voicemail questions about cycle tracking and fertility.

Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses the complex relationship between IVF and reproductive rights in the current political landscape. She provides an overview of IVF technology and its importance in helping people build families. She addresses misconceptions about abortion and fetal personhood, and how these issues directly impact the practice of IVF. The episode explores the potential dangers of restricting access to IVF and other reproductive healthcare services, highlighting personal stories and the need for informed decision-making.

Dr. Natalie Crawford answers a question from a listener about what the next steps are after freezing your eggs when you are ready to use them. She covers the nuances of the egg freezing process, debunking the misconception that it is an "insurance policy" for fertility. Dr. Crawford then goes through the step-by-step protocol for thawing, fertilizing, and potentially transferring the frozen eggs, including the importance of sperm quality and genetic testing of embryos. The episode emphasizes the need to understand one's long-term family building goals and consider strategies like additional egg retrievals to increase the chances of success.

In this exclusive Q&A episode, Dr. Natalie Crawford answers subscriber questions on a variety of fertility topics, including recurrent pregnancy loss, diet for conception, IVF and implantation issues, CoQ10 supplements, second trimester losses, and hirsutism treatment.

Dr. Natalie Crawford answers voicemail questions about hormones.

Questions answered:

Should FSH, LH, and progesterone be tested during a fertility evaluation?

I have hypo hypo. Why is my period starting 12 days after my trigger shot, even though she is taking progesterone supplements? Is this normal or a concern?

Is breastfeeding once a day enough to impact fertility?

Dr. Natalie Crawford dives deep into ovarian failure, perimenopause, and hormones. We explore how ovarian function can cease at any age, even before puberty, and discuss the natural decline in ovarian reserve as women age. She highlights the significance of estrogen, its role in overall health, and how its decline impacts women during menopause. Dr. Crawford also covers essential tests like AMH and antral follicle count, providing insights into a woman's egg supply and reproductive potential.

Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses the topic of unexplained versus undiagnosed infertility. Unexplained infertility is an official diagnosis when the standard fertility tests do not reveal a clear cause for the infertility. Many cases of "unexplained" infertility may actually be due to underlying issues like low ovarian reserve, endometriosis, autoimmune disorders, or other factors that are difficult to diagnose. She emphasized the importance of advocating for thorough testing and not accepting the "unexplained" label without further investigation into the root causes. Even with an "unexplained" diagnosis, there are often ways to uncover and address the underlying factors impacting fertility.

Dr. Crawford answers voicemail questions about endometriosis including surgery, medication, IVF, and more!

Dr. Natalie Crawford answers voicemail questions about natural fertility and TTC.

Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses the various protocols and considerations surrounding embryo transfers in IVF treatment. She explains the key differences between fresh and frozen embryo transfers, the types of protocols, add ons, and what you should ask your doctor. Taking an active role in your fertility journey and asking questions and pushing for the approach that is best suited to their individual needs and goals is so important.

Dr. Natalie Crawford answers your fertility questions sent to the voicemail. Topics include AMH, luteal phase, tubal disease, and IVF cycles!

Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses testing your fertility and if and when it's something that you should do. She explains the different types of fertility testing including testing of ovarian reserve like AMH levels, anatomy like HSG tests of the fallopian tubes and uterus, and semen analysis for male partners. She also discusses how fertility and chances of pregnancy decline with age and the implications for family planning and choices around fertility preservation.