Fertility + Hormones + Health + Lifestyle
Welcome to the blog
PCOS vs. CAH - Understanding The Difference
Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses PCOS and congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), emphasizing their impact on fertility. She explains the menstrual cycle's hormonal processes and how disruptions in these pathways lead to conditions like PCOS and CAH. Dr. Crawford highlights the importance of thorough evaluations to differentiate between these conditions and avoid misdiagnosis.
Understanding Endometriosis: Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Dr. Natalie Crawford emphasizes that endometriosis is a common yet underdiagnosed condition, often taking years for a proper diagnosis. This inflammatory disease causes endometrial-like tissue to grow outside the uterus, leading to symptoms such as severe menstrual pain, chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, digestive issues, and infertility. Diagnosis often requires surgery, as imaging may not detect the disease, and risk factors include family history, early menstruation, and frequent ovulation.
Is Your Estrogen Normal? Do You Have Symptoms of Estrogen Dominance or Low Estrogen?
Double board-certified OBGYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford, discusses estrogen, what is considered normal, and when you should be concerned. She the different types, how levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, and what symptoms can indicate high or low estrogen. She emphasizes the importance of understanding your own estrogen levels and not just accepting symptoms as something you have to deal with.
Getting Pregnant After Age 40
Dr. Natalie Crawford, a board-certified OB/GYN and fertility doctor, addresses common misconceptions about conceiving at age 40. She highlights that while pregnancy at 40 is possible, fertility rates naturally decline with age, and prior childbirth significantly impacts monthly conception chances. Dr. Crawford emphasizes the importance of early fertility evaluations, healthy lifestyle choices, and understanding individual reproductive health. She also dispels harmful myths, advocating for informed decisions and personalized medical care for those pursuing parenthood later in life.
5 Tips to Improve Egg Quality: What Lifestyle Changes are Recommended for Your Fertility?
Double board-certified OBGYN and REI, Dr. Natalie Crawford, shares 5 lifestyle changes you can make to improve your egg quality and fertility. While your egg quality will naturally decline over time, there are things you can do now that can have an impact.
Should You Have Your Fertility Tested?
Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses the importance of fertility testing and the impact of early testing on reproductive decisions. She emphasizes that while guidelines suggest waiting a year before testing, individual circumstances may warrant earlier evaluation.
Understanding Ovarian Cysts: What's Normal, What's Not?
Ovarian cysts are a common occurrence, but they can also be a source of confusion and concern for many women. Dr. Natalie Crawford, a board-certified OB/GYN and fertility specialist, breaks down the different types of ovarian cysts, what's considered normal, and when they may require further attention. In this informative blog post, she provides a comprehensive overview of ovarian cysts, empowering readers to better understand this aspect of their reproductive health.
Ovarian Reserve Testing - AMH & AFC
Dr. Natalie Crawford takes a deep dive into the science of ovarian reserve testing, exploring key indicators like AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) and antral follicle count. She walks listeners through the process of egg growth, ovulation, and how these tests offer crucial insights into a woman’s fertility potential.
How Many Eggs Do You Need To Get A Normal Embryo?
Dr. Natalie Crawford, a board-certified OB-GYN and fertility specialist, discusses a recent study on the number of eggs needed to produce a normal embryo, published in Fertility and Sterility.
Why Is Your Period Missing?
Dr. Natalie Crawford addresses a listener's question about primary amenorrhea, discussing the absence of periods despite typical puberty signs and normal hormone levels. She explains the difference between primary and secondary amenorrhea, potential causes like ovarian failure, Mullerian aplasia, androgen insensitivity syndrome, and more. Most importantly, she emphasizes the importance of thorough evaluation and testing to determine the underlying cause.
Can You Get Pregnant With One Fallopian Tube?
Dr. Natalie Crawford, a board-certified OB-GYN and fertility specialist, explains that while it is possible to get pregnant with one fallopian tube removed, the success rate depends on the cause of the blockage and the overall health of the reproductive system.
The PCOS Diagnosis
Dr. Natalie Crawford discusses PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome), emphasizing its diagnosis and management. She explains the updated Rotterdam criteria, which include irregular periods, high androgens, and a high follicle count.
Infertility and The Holidays
Dr. Natalie Crawford gives her advice for navigating infertility during the holidays. Whether you are going through infertility or treatment or you have a family member or friend who is, this episode is for you. You deserve support. Don't be afraid to set boundaries, and communicate why they exist. Make a plan and be prepared if you are spending the holidays with family and know they are going to have questions. Give yourself the gift of education. Control what you can.
Low Sperm Counts and Male Fertility
As a fertility doctor, I talk about sperm all the time. It's a topic that many people don't feel comfortable discussing, but it's so important when it comes to fertility and family building. Let’s break down the basics of sperm counts and male fertility so you can be informed and empowered.
Male Fertility Q&A - Morphology, Testicular Cancer, and IUI
Dr. Natalie Crawford answers voicemail questions about male fertility.
Understanding Ovarian Failure, Perimenopause, and Your Hormones
Dr. Natalie Crawford's discusses the complex topics of ovarian failure, perimenopause, and hormonal changes in women's health. She explains the natural decline of egg count over a woman's lifetime and the importance of understanding the warning signs of hormonal shifts, such as irregular periods and changes in follicle stimulating hormone levels. Dr. Crawford emphasizes the vital role of hormone replacement therapy, particularly for women experiencing premature ovarian failure or early menopause, and importance of finding knowledgeable providers to manage your health and fertility.
TTC and Fertility Q&A - Ovulation, Testing, Cycle Tracking, and More!
Dr. Natalie Crawford answers voicemail questions about TTC and fertility.
The Holidays and Infertility
Dr. Natalie Crawford, who has personally experienced infertility, encourages those struggling to be gentle with themselves, set healthy boundaries, and seek out moments of joy during the holidays. She emphasizes the importance of tapping into a strong support system and communicating your needs, while also prioritizing self-care through activities and traditions that nourish the soul.
IVF Q&A - Egg Maturity, Trigger Timing, Protocols, and Egg Freezing
Dr. Natalie Crawford answers voicemail questions about various aspects of IVF.