In Episode 62, I dive into the emotional reality of infertility during UK Infertility Awareness Week. Join me as I share an impromptu recording on the beach of my personal feelings around my journey through both primary and secondary infertility spanning nine years, including my endometriosis diagnosis, fertility treatments, and the emotional toll this journey has taken. I also provide valuable guidance for friends and family members who want to support loved ones experiencing fertility challenges but may not know how to approach these sensitive conversations.

• My personal and raw story of nine years trying to conceive

• The emotional impact of both primary and secondary infertility

• The financial and relationship challenges that come with prolonged fertility struggles

• How ageism affects the fertility journey

• The importance of following your gut instinct when seeking treatment

• Just listen without trying to "fix" their situation

• Avoid sharing success stories of people who got pregnant through various means

• Check in regularly, but respect boundaries if they need space

• Be mindful about sharing pregnancy news or complaining about your children

• Don't ask for updates about their fertility journey - let them share when ready

• Remember dates that might be difficult (due dates from losses, anniversary of failed treatments)

• Include them in activities even if other pregnant people or children will be there

• Avoid asking "Do you have children?" as a first question when meeting someone new

• Never respond with silence when someone shares their fertility struggles

• Don't use phrases like "just the one?" about family size

Remember, if you're going through infertility, you are not alone. This episode serves as a reminder that while infertility may be common, the emotional journey is deeply personal, and support from understanding friends and family can make all the difference.

>>Endo Fertility Podcast Goodie Bag 📦>Book your free 30 minutes 1:1 health review HERE

In honour of Endometriosis Awareness Month (March) today’s episode is a replay from Episode 6, where I talk about nutrition.

This is a huge topic, but I wanted to introduce the general nutrition principles related to 1) improving your Endometriosis symptoms and 2) optimising your body so you are ready to get pregnant and then sustain a healthy pregnancy. There are a lot of similarities between these two objectives, but also there can be some conflicting ways of approaching nutrition, meaning that many women with Endometriosis can follow the ‘Endo-diet’ to reduce inflammation but end up under-nourished or further under-nourished, which will not help you in getting pregnant.

So, here are some of the things I talk about are:

• What is a ‘diet’ and what is the ‘endo-diet’?
• What foods could actually be an issue and why?
• Six key principles I recommend to clients to follow

PLUS, three things I always do when working with my Endo Fertility coaching clients

Mentioned links

• Non-coeliac gluten sensitivity: piecing the puzzle together: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4406911/

 Endo Fertility links and resources:

• Join my Endo Fertility community! Find us in the Thrive and Conceive with Endometriosis Facebook Group.
• Follow me on Instagram and Facebook

• Music Credit: Intro/Outro music Optimistic Future

Relevant blogs:

• Environmental Working Group Dirty Dozen: https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php
• Trying to Conceive with Low Iron and Endometriosis: https://www.endofertilityspecialist.com/trying-to-conceive-with-low-iron-and-endometriosis/
• Nourishing Endo Fertility Recipes: https://www.endofertilityspecialist.com/recipes/

This episode is sponsored by the Endo Fertility Resource Library where you can get your 3 amazing freebies: E-Book: 5 Things I Learnt to Drop My Pain & Optimise My Fertility, Your Guide to Super Sperm, and 88 Ways I Dropped My Pain and Got Pregnant.

Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any future episodes – which will be out weekly on Wednesdays!

And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave me a rating and a review? Thanks! 

If you want to be on the podcast or have feedback please email: [email protected]

This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.

Welcome to Episode 61! In this episode, I explore the often-taboo subject of vaginal health and its profound impact on women's overall well-being. Join me, Lizzie Alexander, the host of the Endo Fertility podcast, as I talk about the importance of maintaining a healthy vagina, the role of hormones like estrogen, and how conditions such as endometriosis and infections can affect vaginal health. We provide insights and actionable tips to help you take charge of your reproductive health.

EPISODES HIGHLIGHT:

• The significance of a healthy vaginal microbiome and its role in preventing infections.

• Common types of vaginal infections, including yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and how they can impact fertility.

• Symptoms indicating potential issues with vaginal health, such as itching, burning sensations, and unusual discharge.

• The relationship between hormonal changes, pregnancy, and vaginal health.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• pH Testing Kits: Available at pharmacies or online, these kits help monitor your vaginal pH levels throughout your menstrual cycle. Be sure to buy a pH range of 3.5 up to 6.5+. One example from amazon here.

• Probiotics: Specific strains like Lactobacillus crispatus can be beneficial for maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome - I love to use Invivo Healthcare's FemmeV (oral and vaginal use) - buy from Amrita Nutrition here* to get 10% off (use my practitioner code: B6SV6H).

• N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): A supplement that can help break down biofilms created by bacteria, making it easier to treat recurrent infections. It is also great for supporting endometriosis by reducing lesions and cysts (Bahat et al., 2022), improving fertility outcomes (Anastasi et al., 2023) and supporting detoxification. I love Pure Encapsulations* and Now* (with Selenium).

• Vaginal Microbiome testing: there are a number of examples that I use in my clinic, e.g. Invivo Healthcare Vaginal EcologiX (International but not US), Evvy (US), Juno Bio - if you want to know more or help with testing just contact me (details below).

ACTIONABLE TIPS:

A number of actionable tips were discussed including:

• Regular pH testing to monitor vaginal health.

• The importance of understanding your microbiome.

• Dietary recommendations to support vaginal and gut health.

• Probiotic use for maintaining a balanced vaginal environment.

>>Endo Fertility Podcast Goodie Bag 📦>Book your free 30 minutes 1:1 health review HERE

In Episode 60, we explore the emotional and practical challenges women face when trying to conceive, especially in the context of endometriosis and secondary infertility. Join us as we discuss Julia Midwinter’s personal journey with endometriosis and the emotional challenges of IVF and miscarriage, along with her insights as a Fertility and Pregnancy Mindset Coach. We talk through the array of valuable coping mechanisms and strategies she uses like NLP, EFT and visualisation to help you navigate your fertility journey with resilience and hope. We also talk about the importance of community support, mindset shifts and the importance of gratitude. Find out about a powerful success story of one of Julia’s clients that will provide you with hope and inspiration.

You can watch this episode on YouTube also HERE.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Julia shares her personal story of struggling with endometriosis and IVF.
• The impact of mindset on fertility and how to shift negative beliefs.
• Practical tools such as journaling, meditation, and EFT that can help clients uncover their limiting beliefs.

ACTIONABLE TIPS DISCUSSED:

• The importance of separating beliefs from facts regarding fertility.
• Techniques for managing anxiety and emotional overwhelm during the conception process.
• The role of community support and open communication in navigating fertility challenges.

MENTIONED RESOURCES:

• Sarah Banks IVF Positivity Journal: A supportive tool for those undergoing IVF treatment to maintain a positive mindset.
• Community Support Groups: Julia discusses the importance of finding a community that understands the unique challenges of fertility struggles.

MENTIONED PODCASTS:

• Episode 58 - Overcoming Emotional Blocks with TTC using EFT Tapping with Sarah Holland: A discussion on using Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) to support emotional healing during fertility challenges.

>>Endo Fertility Podcast Goodie Bag 📦>Book your free 30 minutes 1:1 health review HERE

Welcome to Episode 59! In this episode, we explore the significant yet often overlooked topic of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and its profound effects on gut health, endometriosis, and fertility. Join us as we discuss the symptoms associated with H. pylori, its connection to inflammation and endometriosis, and the implications for fertility. We provide insights and actionable tips to help you understand this bacterium and its potential impact on your health.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

• Introduction to H. pylori: Overview of what H. pylori is and its prevalence in the population.

• Symptoms of Infection: Identifying signs such as persistent stomach pain, bloating, and nutrient deficiencies.

• Connection to Endometriosis: How H. pylori contributes to inflammation that exacerbates endometriosis symptoms.

• Impact on Fertility: Discussion on how H. pylori infection correlates with infertility in both men and women.

• The Role of Lipopolysaccharides (LPS): Understanding how LPS from H. pylori can breach gut barriers and trigger systemic inflammation.

• Testing Methods: Examination of various testing options for detecting H. pylori, including stool tests and breath tests.

• Treatment Protocols: Overview of conventional treatments versus natural approaches for managing H. pylori infection.

• Personal Journey: Lizzie shares her own experiences with digestive issues related to H. pylori and her plans for further investigation.

ACTIONABLE TIPS:

• Recognising symptoms that may indicate H. pylori infection.

• Understanding the importance of stomach acid for digestive health.

• Exploring testing and treatment options for H. pylori.

• Stomach Acid Test: A method to assess your stomach acid levels at home.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Nouveau Healthcare: A healthcare provider specialising in histamine, Vitamin D, gut health and H. pylori treatment protocols: https://nouveauhealthcare.com/

• Can I Be Candid Show: https://www.youtube.com/@CanIBeCandidShow

MENTIONED EPISODES

• Episode 10: Exploring gut health fundamentals.

• Episode 12: Understanding the role of inflammation in women's health.

>>Endo Fertility Podcast Goodie Bag 📦>Book your free 30 minutes 1:1 health review HERE

Welcome to Episode 58! In this episode, my guest Sarah Holland from Fertile Mindset and I explore the transformative power of the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) in supporting fertility and endometriosis. Join us, as Sarah shares her personal experience of being a fertility practitioner and also her personal fertility challenges, her pioneering work with EFT, and how emotional well-being plays a crucial role in the fertility process. This episode provides insights and actionable tips to help you navigate the emotional rollercoaster of fertility issues.

Episode Highlights:

• Sarah's personal fertility journey and the challenges she faced.
• The importance of seeking holistic support during fertility treatments.
• The role of EFT in addressing emotional blockages related to fertility.
• How to implement EFT in your own life to manage stress and emotional challenges.
• A short EFT session led by Sarah that listeners can follow along with.

Resources Mentioned

• EFT Tapping Guide: A resource for learning more about Emotional Freedom Techniques and how to apply them is available in the Podcast Goodie Bag (link below).
• Endo Fertility YouTube Channel [NEW]: Watch the EFT session shared in this episode and see how it works in practice.

>>Endo Fertility Podcast Goodie Bag 📦>Book your free 30 minutes 1:1 health review HERE

Welcome to the first episode of 2025! In this empowering session, we reflect on our journeys through 2024 and set a powerful vision for the new year. Join us as we navigate the complexities of living with endometriosis while trying to conceive and learn how to become the architects of our own healing journey.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

- Introduction: A warm welcome and an overview of today’s focus on reflection and vision-setting.

- Part 1: Reflection: Guided journaling prompts to honor your victories, learnings, and challenges from 2024.

- Part 2: Shifting the Story: Strategies to transform negative narratives into empowering affirmations about your fertility journey.

- Part 3: Creating Your Vision: Techniques for developing a holistic vision for 2025, including insights on specific vs. non-specific manifesting styles.

- Special Announcements: Information about upcoming events, including a free webinar on January 8th and a 7-day mini cleanse starting January 14th.

- Part 4: Taking Action: Practical steps to begin implementing your vision immediately.

- Closing: Encouragement to write a personal vision statement and reminders about upcoming events.

WHY LISTEN

This episode is designed to empower you to take control of your fertility journey by reflecting on the past year and creating a meaningful vision for the future. Embrace this opportunity to cultivate hope, resilience, and actionable steps towards your goals.

Join me as we embark on this transformative journey together! If you find this episode helpful, please share it with someone who may benefit. Remember, you are stronger than you know!

MENTIONED RESOURCES

• Endo Fertility Podcast Goodie Bag - Circle of Life Handout
• EF#47: “Healing Beyond the Physical: Therapy for Trauma, Fertility, and Endometriosis”

CONNECT WITH ME

How to work with me:

• One off 1:1 coaching sessions e.g. blood test reviews and fertility strategy sessions, gut health assessments
• Personalised 1:1 Endo Fertility coaching programs
• >>Book your free 30 minutes 1:1 health review HERE

Join me for a special Christmas Day meditation designed specifically for women with endometriosis who are navigating the challenges of trying to conceive. This peaceful session offers a moment of reflection, hope, and healing amidst the holiday hustle. 

WHAT TO EXPECT:

- Guided meditation focused on self-compassion and inner strength

- Affirmations to nurture your spirit and foster a sense of community

- Techniques to alleviate stress and promote emotional well-being

WHY LISTEN 

This meditation is a gift to yourself during a season that can be both joyful and challenging. Take this time to connect with your body, embrace your journey, and cultivate hope for the future.

CONNECT WITH ME

How to work with me:

• One off 1:1 coaching sessions e.g. blood test reviews and fertility strategy sessions, gut health assessments
• Personalised 1:1 Endo Fertility coaching programs
• >>Book your free 30 minutes 1:1 health review HERE

In this episode, my guest Dr Kasia Kines and I explore the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a common yet often misunderstood virus that affects a significant portion of the global population. Dr. Kasia Kines is an Amazon best-selling author of the Epstein-Barr Virus Solution, a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition from MUIH (Maryland University of Integrative Health), a graduate of the first doctoral functional nutrition program created by Dr. Liz Lipski, PhD and CEO of Holistic Nutrition Naturally LLC and EBV Educational Institute.

Join us as we discuss how EBV is contracted, its symptoms including chronic fatigue, the various factors that can trigger its reactivation, how it can trigger endometriosis and impacts fertility. Dr Kines provide insights and actionable tips to help you manage your health in relation to EBV.

A NUMBER OF ACTIONABLE TIPS WERE DISCUSSED INCLUDING:

• Recognising personal stressors that may trigger EBV reactivation.
• Understanding the environmental factors contributing to EBV complications.
• Importance of proper testing for conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis related to EBV.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Understanding Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): Kasia explains that EBV is a herpes virus affecting 90-95% of the global population and is contracted through various means, including saliva and blood.
• Triggers for EBV Reactivation: Stress is identified as the primary reactivating trigger for EBV, with personal and environmental factors playing significant roles in its impact on health and fertility.
• Dioxins and Endometriosis: Kasia discusses how dioxins, which are implicated in endometriosis, can reactivate EBV, highlighting the importance of being aware of environmental toxins.
• Testing for Autoimmune Conditions: The conversation emphasises the need for proper testing for conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, which often goes unrecognized in women with low thyroid symptoms.
• Chronic Fatigue and EBV: Kasia shares insights on the connection between chronic fatigue syndrome and EBV, noting that many individuals experience a decline in their health after an initial EBV infection.
• Importance of Holistic Approaches: The discussion touches on the need for a comprehensive understanding of health that includes emotional, environmental, and physiological factors affecting recovery from EBV.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Epstein-Barr Virus Solution Book: A comprehensive best-selling book by Dr Kines
• Recent Study on Heavy Metals in Tampons: Highlights concerning findings about contaminants in feminine hygiene products:
  • https://publichealth.berkeley.edu/news-media/research-highlights/first-study-to-measure-toxic-metals-in-tampons-shows-arsenic-and-lead
  • Shearston et al. (2024). Tampons as a source of exposure to metal(oids): https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2024.108849 

FURTHER READING:

• Wang et al., (2024). Evodiamine suppresses endometriosis development induced by early EBV exposure through inhibition of ERβ. Doi: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1426660. PMID: 39148548; PMCID: PMC11324466.
• Grabarek et al. (2023). Detection and Genotyping of Human Papillomavirus (HPV16/18), Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV), and Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in Endometrial Endometroid and Ovarian Cancers. https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0817/12/3/397#

>>Endo Fertility Podcast Goodie Bag 📦>Book your free 30 minutes 1:1 health review HERE

In this episode, we explore surviving the Christmas season while navigating the challenges of endometriosis and fertility issues. Join Lizzie as she discusses emotional resilience, practical strategies for self-care, and tips for enjoying holiday food without completely compromising your health. This episode aims to provide insights and actionable tips to help you find joy and peace during a potentially stressful time.

A number of actionable tips were discussed including:

• Setting boundaries at family gatherings
• Communicating your needs clearly
• Preparing nutritious holiday meals that align with your dietary needs
• Creating a morning ritual to ground yourself

Episode Highlights:

• The emotional landscape of Christmas for those facing fertility challenges
• Practical strategies for managing grief and anxiety during the holidays
• Tips for maintaining good nutrition amidst traditional holiday foods

Resources / Products Mentioned:

• NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine): A supplement recommended to support liver health, especially after alcohol consumption.
• Bouja Bouja: Gluten, dairy, soy, and refined sugar-free chocolates that make a luxurious treat during the holidays (no affiliate - though I should as I love these!!)
• Lizzie’s Christmas Recipe Booklet: A forthcoming resource featuring anti-inflammatory, hormone-friendly recipes for the holiday season.

Upcoming Episodes:

• EF#55 - Epstein Barr Virus, Endometriosis and Fertility with Dr Kasia Kines
• EF#56 - Christmas Special Meditation

>>Endo Fertility Podcast Goodie Bag 📦>Book your free 30 minutes 1:1 health review HERE