It can be so devastating and frustrating to hear from your doctor that you have "unexplained infertility"... but what if it isn't actually "unexplained"?

In this episode, I sit down with natural fertility specialist Dr. Mark Sklar to discuss why so many couples are given this diagnosis, why conventional fertility testing often misses important root causes, and the functional medicine approach to optimizing fertility before jumping straight to IVF.

We dive into the critical role of gut health, inflammation, thyroid function, blood sugar regulation, environmental toxins, stress, sleep, and nutrition in reproductive health—and why supporting the whole body can dramatically improve fertility outcomes for both women and men.

Whether you're currently trying to conceive, planning for pregnancy in the future, or simply want to better understand your reproductive health, this conversation is full of practical insights and hope for your journey.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE:

• Why "unexplained infertility" often means more investigation is needed—not that there's no cause.
• How functional medicine looks beyond conventional fertility testing.
• The surprising connection between your gut health and fertility outcomes.
• Why blood sugar, thyroid health, inflammation, and adrenal function are foundational for conception.
• The overlooked role that male fertility plays in conception.
• How environmental toxins, mold, pesticides, plastics, and heavy metals may impact fertility.
• Why endometriosis is often missed—and what new testing options are becoming available.
• The fertility labs Dr. Sklar recommends beyond standard testing.
• Supplements that may support fertility, including CoQ10, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.

LINKS:

• Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE
• Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free!
• Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off
• Listen to Episode 39 - How to Eat for Optimal Fertility with Lily Nichols RDN
• Listen to Episode 42 - Gut Health x Fertility: What Every Woman Should Know
• Listen to Episode 48 - Your Period is Your Fifth Vital Sign with Lisa Hendrickson-Jack

CONNECT WITH HANNAH:

Instagram | Website

CONNECT WITH DR. MARC:

Instagram | Linktree | Youtube

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