Fertility + Hormones + Health + Lifestyle
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How Does Your Doctor Choose an IVF Protocol? What Questions Should You Ask Before Doing IVF?
Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OBGYN and REI, breaks down everything you need to know about how your IVF protocol is chosen—from ovarian reserve and hormone levels to prior cycle outcomes and diagnoses like PCOS or endometriosis. IVF is not one-size-fits-all, and understanding how your plan is personalized can empower you to ask the right questions and feel confident on your journey.
Progesterone: Improve Progesterone Levels Naturally to Support Ovulation and the Luteal Phase
Dr. Natalie Crawford, double board-certified OBGYN and REI, explains how to naturally support healthy progesterone levels. She discusses common causes of low progesterone, how to recognize the signs, and why simply taking progesterone isn’t always the answer. She shares evidence-based tips on diet, supplements, stress management, and lifestyle changes that can improve ovulation and hormone balance.
Cervical Mucus: How Wet is Normal? What Does It Reveal About Your Hormones and Fertility?
Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OBGYN and REI, breaks down everything you need to know about cervical mucus. She explains how cervical mucus changes throughout the menstrual cycle, what those changes reveal about your hormones—especially estrogen—and how to use this information to better understand your fertility. Dr. Crawford walks you through through how to check cervical mucus, what the different types mean, and how to identify signs that something might be off.
Are You Fertile? 10 Fertility Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
10 important signs that could indicate a fertility issue—many of which are often overlooked or dismissed. Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB/GYN and REI, breaks down what irregular periods, painful cycles, missing periods, or sudden changes in weight might be telling you about your reproductive health. She explains how your period is a vital sign and how issues like PCOS, endometriosis, thyroid problems, and even past infections can impact fertility. Whether you are trying to conceive now or planning for the future, this video provides essential insight into when to seek help, what symptoms shouldn’t be ignored, and why early evaluation matters.
Can You Get Pregnant on Your Period? - Fertility Doctor Explains
Double board certified OBGYN an REI breaks down the common myth that having sex during your period is always “safe,” and explains why that’s not true for everyone. Dr. Crawford explains the menstrual cycle, how ovulation actually works, and why understanding your cycle length and regularity is essential—whether you’re trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy naturally. She also covers what happens during irregular cycles, what the luteal and follicular phases really mean, and how hormone patterns impact your fertility.
Chemical Pregnancy Loss: 8 Possible Causes of a Chemical Pregnancy
Double board-certified OBGYN, Dr. Natalie Crawford, discusses eight possible causes of chemical pregnancy loss. She emphasizes that while chromosome abnormalities, often due to age-related aneuploidy, are the most common cause, other factors like poor embryo quality, low progesterone levels, endocrine issues, autoimmune diseases, clotting disorders, inflammation, and uterine issues can also contribute. She stresses the importance of thorough evaluation, including hormone testing, karyotype analysis, and uterine cavity evaluation. Dr. Crawford advises patients to advocate for themselves and seek specialized care for recurrent pregnancy loss.
TWW: 9 Things to Do During the Two-Week Wait
Double-board certified OBGYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford, shares 9 practical tips to help you support implantation and manage stress during the two-week wait. From the importance of progesterone to how nutrition, sleep, movement, and hydration can impact your body, Dr. Crawford breaks down what’s happening hormonally and how you can support the process. Whether you're trying to conceive naturally or with fertility treatments, this video will help you focus on what you can control during the two-week wait.
No Embryos After IVF? What To Do After A Failed IVF Cycle
Double board-certified OBGYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford, discusses he challenges and considerations for patients undergoing IVF when no embryos are produced. She explains that age, ovarian reserve, and even inflammation can all impact egg quality. She emphasizes the power of personalized tweaks, like adjusting meds or targeting specific follicle sizes, to boost egg maturity. While younger women often have better fertilization and blastocyst rates, everyone can benefit from reviewing outcomes with their doctor and making lifestyle changes to improve future cycles.
Heavy Periods: 6 Causes of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Double board-certified OBGYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford, discusses six causes of heavy periods that require medical evaluation. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing abnormal bleeding, such as passing clots or feeling exhausted, as heavy periods can indicate underlying issues. The six causes include uterine polyps, which are often benign but can be malignant if untreated; uterine fibroids, which can cause heavy bleeding and require surgical removal; adenomyosis, an inflammatory condition affecting the uterus; endometrial cancer, particularly in women with irregular periods; anovulation, which disrupts the menstrual cycle; and retained products of conception, which can cause heavy bleeding post-pregnancy. Dr. Crawford advises seeking medical evaluation for any significant changes in menstrual patterns.
Progesterone: Should You Take Progesterone For A Short Luteal Phase?
Double board-certified OBGYN/REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford dives into the topic of the luteal phase and progesterone. She explains what the luteal phase is, what it means to have a short luteal phase, and why simply taking progesterone isn’t always the right answer. Dr. Crawford clarifies how the menstrual cycle works, how to track ovulation accurately, and the common mistakes patients are told about hormone levels especially when trying to conceive. This video is a must-watch for anyone looking to better understand their hormones, fertility, and cycle health.
Cycle Tracking: How to Get Pregnant FAST Using Fertility Awareness Methods
Dr. Natalie Crawford, a board-certified OB/GYN and REI, gives a comprehensive guide to cycle tracking. During National Fertility Awareness Week, Dr. Crawford breaks down the complex world of reproductive health, explaining how your body's hormonal signals work and providing practical methods to understand your fertility window.
Can GLP-1 Medications Improve Fertility? Is Ozempic Safe If You Are TTC?
Double board-certified OBGYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford, discusses GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, their role in weight loss, and how they may impact fertility. She explains how these medications work, what the current research says about safety, and when they may be appropriate to use. She breaks down the connection between obesity, PCOS, and fertility outcomes in an easy-to-understand way. She emphasizes the importance of personalized care and understanding your body before starting any new medication. This video is a must-watch for anyone navigating fertility and considering GLP-1 therapy.
Hormones, Gut Health, and Fertility: How Are They Connected? Can a Leaky Gut Cause Infertility?
Double board-certified OBGYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford, explores the link between gut health, estrogen metabolism, and fertility. Chronic inflammation in the gut, commonly referred to as “leaky gut”, can alter your microbiome and disrupt how your body processes estrogen. From exploring the connection between diet and gut bacteria to discussing how stress and environmental factors influence hormone regulation, Dr. Crawford provides a comprehensive guide to optimizing your gut health.
Testosterone in Women: What Does Testosterone Do? How Do Testosterone and Hormones Impact Fertility?
Double board certified OBGYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses testosterone in women, its role in hormone balance, and its impact on fertility. She explains how testosterone interacts with estrogen and progesterone, why random testosterone level measurements can be misleading, and how conditions like PCOS and liver function affect hormone levels. Dr. Crawford also highlights the risks of testosterone therapy, including the use of pellets, and how they can disrupt the menstrual cycle and hinder conception. Understanding the function of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and the body's natural checks and balances is essential for hormone health. If you are trying to conceive or looking to optimize your hormone levels, this video will provide the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your reproductive health.
How does exercise impact fertility and your hormones? What is safe during fertility treatments?
Double board-certified OBGYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford, discusses exercise, how it impacts your reproductive health, and what is safe while doing fertility treatments like IVF. She breaks down the complex relationship between exercise, metabolism, hormones, and reproductive health. Dr. Crawford also offers evidence-based insights into how different types of physical activity can impact fertility, explaining the nuanced balance between exercise, stress, and reproductive wellness.
Why Did Your IVF Cycle Fail? What Should Be Changed?
Double board certified OBGYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses the failed IVF cycle, why it can happen, and what is considered a failed cycle. She explains the typical expected outcomes at each stage of the IVF process, from egg retrieval to embryo transfer. Dr. Crawford also provides guidance on how to approach a canceled cycle, no eggs retrieved, no embryos formed, abnormal embryos, negative pregnancy tests, and pregnancy losses. You should understand the specific reasons behind each outcome and your fertility team should make appropriate changes to the protocol for the next cycle if necessary.
5 Things You Should Do Before Trying To Get Pregnant - Advice From a Fertility Doctor
Double board-certified OBGYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford, reveals the top 5 essential steps every woman should take before trying to conceive. She emphasizes the importance of making key lifestyle changes, stopping birth control at the right time, and tracking your menstrual cycle to ensure regularity. Dr. Crawford also recommends starting a prenatal vitamin with adequate folic acid, and scheduling a preconception visit with your OBGYN to review important bloodwork.
What Can An Ultrasound Reveal About Your Fertility and Reproductive Health?
Double board-certified OBGYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford, discusses the importance of vaginal ultrasounds in fertility evaluations by providing a closer look at your uterus, ovaries, and surrounding anatomy. She dives into what these ultrasounds can (and can’t) detect, shedding light on their limitations and why they're so important for your fertility journey. Dr. Crawford also shares must-ask questions for your healthcare provider to help you feel empowered and informed during your visit.
IVF Tips: Top Questions To Ask Before Starting IVF
Double board-certified OB-GYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford, provides top tips for starting IVF, emphasizing the importance of preparation and understanding the process. She explains IVF involves stimulating a month's group of eggs, with success rates influenced by age and ovarian reserve. Dr. Crawford highlights the importance of understanding the IVF process, setting realistic expectations, and being an advocate for oneself to navigate the IVF journey more effectively.
How Do Inflammation and Your Environment Impact Your Hormones and Fertility?
Double board-certified fertility OBGYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford, discusses the impact that the environment can have on your hormones. She gives a thorough explanation of the connection between your brain and ovaries and how that connection can be disrupted. Dr. Crawford provides a comprehensive list of symptoms that may indicate chronic inflammation, emphasizing the importance of addressing these underlying issues rather than solely focusing on hormone levels. Finally, she encourages you to be proactive in monitoring their health, documenting any concerning symptoms, and working with your healthcare provider to identify and address the root causes of hormone imbalances.