Fertility + Hormones + Health + Lifestyle
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Improving IVF or Egg Freezing Outcomes
Dr. Natalie Crawford explains how individualized protocols can lead to better outcomes in IVF and egg freezing. She breaks down key fertility concepts, including ovarian reserve, AMH levels, follicle counts, and the roles of FSH and LH in egg development. Dr. Crawford also discusses how age affects egg quality, the potential impact of sperm genetics, and why multiple cycles are sometimes needed to achieve a healthy embryo. She emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy and lifestyle changes to support reproductive success.
The Importance of Vitamin D and Fertility
Dr. Natalie Crawford, a board-certified OB/GYN and fertility specialist, breaks down the role of vitamin D in fertility, pregnancy, and overall reproductive health. She explains how deficiency can affect implantation and why optimal levels are especially important during fertility treatments like IVF.
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.
Uterine Factor Infertility
Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses uterine factor infertility, emphasizing the importance of understanding uterine development and potential abnormalities. She explains various uterine anomalies, including unicornuate, bicornuate, and uterine septums, and their impact on fertility. Dr. Crawford highlights the significance of proper diagnostic tools like saline sonograms and MRIs for accurate detection. She addresses common issues such as polyps, fibroids, and adenomyosis, and their effects on fertility.
Infertility Warning Signs
Dr. Natalie Crawford explores the important question of how to know if you might have trouble getting pregnant in the future. While fertility testing can identify current concerns, it cannot guarantee future outcomes, making proactive awareness essential. She outlines six key signs that may indicate a higher risk of infertility and emphasizes the value of early evaluation to make informed reproductive decisions.
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.
Infertility At A Young Age
Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down unexplained infertility in younger couples, addressing common misconceptions and answering your fertility questions. Knowledge is power, and Dr. Crawford's goal is to equip you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your reproductive health—because no one should have to let time or lack of data make the choice for them.
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.
IVF Preparation and Timing
Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down the essential steps to take while waiting to begin your IVF journey and the timing of the process. She guides you through what you can do right now to boost your chances of success as well as understanding your insurance coverage. Dr. Crawford dives deep into the IVF process—unpacking protocols, timing, and embryo development. She also answers listener questions with personalized tips, highlighting the importance of tailoring every IVF plan.
Stopping Birth Control: Do You Need a Detox?
Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down the facts about stopping birth control and debunks the myth that a detox is needed. She explains how the body naturally adjusts once the pill is discontinued and addresses common symptoms like acne and mood swings. With evidence-based insights, Dr. Crawford empowers women to make informed choices about their reproductive health.
Thin Endometrial Lining
Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses what a thin endometrial lining is, what causes it, how it impacts fertility, and what steps you can take to improve it.
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.
Before Fertility Treatments
Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses what you need to know if you are considering or in the midst of fertility treatment. She walks through the key steps in the fertility evaluation process, including testing ovarian reserve, assessing reproductive anatomy, and analyzing semen quality. She explains the treatment options available for those with unexplained infertility, outlining the pros and cons of approaches like intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Are You Ovulating?
Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down everything you need to know about ovulation. She explains how to track ovulation, recognize key signs, and understand the role of hormones in the menstrual cycle. With practical tips and expert insights, this guide helps readers take control of their fertility and make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
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.
PCOS Treatment Questions
Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses PCOS treatment options, emphasizing the importance of understanding the normal ovulation process. Letrozole is a common treatment for PCOS, working by reducing estrogen levels to stimulate FSH production. She advises monitoring with ultrasounds and progesterone levels. For those not responding to Letrozole, Clomid may be considered. Dr. Crawford also highlights the role of lifestyle changes, including diet, exercise, and stress reduction, in managing PCOS. She mentions the potential benefits of GLP-1 agonists for weight loss and insulin resistance, though they should be discontinued before attempting pregnancy.
Understanding Your Ovaries: The Vault and Reproductive Lifespan
Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down the complexities of ovarian function, egg reserve, and the natural process of reproductive aging. By understanding how the ovaries work, you can make informed decisions about your fertility and overall health.
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.