Endo Fertility

Dr. Lizzie Alexander, PhD
Endo Fertility

Welcome to the Endo Fertility Podcast! I'm Dr Lizzie Alexander, PhD, and I've experienced firsthand the challenges of endometriosis while trying to conceive. This podcast is designed to support you on your journey, combining my personal experiences with chronic pain and fatigue, gut issues, surgeries, and fertility treatments, alongside insights from expert guests and inspiring stories from clients. Each episode offers a blend of professional knowledge and real-life wisdom, covering topics from natural symptom management, functional nutrition on how to get to the root cause of issues to how to support your IVF journey. Whether you're grappling with Endo pain, facing fertility challenges, or exploring holistic approaches to boost your reproductive health, you'll find holistic and evidence-based strategies and practical recommendations here. My goal is to help you navigate the complex world of endometriosis and fertility, empowering you to optimise your health and make informed decisions. Together, we'll work towards your dream of motherhood, transforming your health and reclaiming your life from Endo along the way. Freebies available in the Ultimate Endo Fertility Library: https://endofertilityspecialist.com/free-ultimate-endo-fertility-library/

  1. EF#61: The Importance of Vaginal Health - What You Need to Know

    FEB 4

    EF#61: The Importance of Vaginal Health - What You Need to Know

    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 📦This episode is sponsored by the Ultimate Endo Fertility Library - sign up HERE to get yourself on the mailing list and started with a Quick Start Endo Fertility E-book, a symptom tracker, delicious recipes, workbooks, guided meditations, and other helpful resources.   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 Upcoming affordable monthly Endo Fertility Mastery Coaching Membership [wait list open HERE]. Follow me on Instagram and Facebook Join my Endo Fertility community – find us in the Thrive and Conceive with Endometriosis Facebook Group.   SUBSCRIBE now to stay updated on all things related to endometriosis, fertility, and women's health in Season 4. Links marked with an asterisk (*) are affiliate links. If you buy through these links, I may receive a small commission.

    36 min
  2. EF#60: Breaking Beliefs: Endometriosis, Fertility and Mindset Resilience with Julia Midwinter

    JAN 29

    EF#60: Breaking Beliefs: Endometriosis, Fertility and Mindset Resilience with Julia Midwinter

    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 📦  This episode is sponsored by the Ultimate Endo Fertility Library - sign up HERE to get yourself on the mailing list and started with a Quick Start Endo Fertility E-book, a symptom tracker, delicious recipes, workbooks, guided meditations, and other helpful resources.   HOW TO WORK/CONNECT WITH JULIA: 6 Weeks Release and Restore Programme 2 Week Wait Survival Guide & Journal - available in the Endo Fertility Goodie Bag Instagram: ‌@pineapplefertilitycoaching Email: julia@pineapplecoaching.co.uk Website: www.pineapplecoaching.co.uk   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 Upcoming affordable monthly Endo Fertility Mastery Coaching Membership [wait list open HERE].   GET IN TOUCH: Email Lizzie at lizzie@endofertilityspecialist.com for feedback, questions and to organise your FREE 1:1 session. Follow me on Instagram and Facebook Join my Endo Fertility community – find us in the Thrive and Conceive with Endometriosis Facebook Group.   SUBSCRIBE now to stay updated on all things related to endometriosis, fertility, and women's health in Season 4.

    1h 14m
  3. EF#59: H. pylori - Could this be one of the Hidden Links Between Gut Health, Endometriosis, and Fertility

    JAN 22

    EF#59: H. pylori - Could this be one of the Hidden Links Between Gut Health, Endometriosis, and Fertility

    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 📦This episode is sponsored by the Ultimate Endo Fertility Library - sign up HERE to get yourself on the mailing list and started with a Quick Start Endo Fertility E-book, a symptom tracker, delicious recipes, workbooks, guided meditations, and other helpful resources. 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 Book an Empower Hour here Upcoming affordable monthly Endo Fertility Mastery Coaching Membership [wait list open soon - be sure to join my mailing list not to miss the launch]. GET IN TOUCH Follow me on Instagram and Facebook Join my Endo Fertility community – find us in the Thrive and Conceive with Endometriosis Facebook Group. SUBSCRIBE now to stay updated on all things related to endometriosis, fertility, and women's health in Season 4.

    50 min
  4. EF#58: Overcoming Emotional Blocks When TTC using EFT Tapping with Sarah Holland

    JAN 8

    EF#58: Overcoming Emotional Blocks When TTC using EFT Tapping with Sarah Holland

    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 📦This episode is sponsored by the Ultimate Endo Fertility Library - sign up HERE to get yourself on the mailing list and started with a Quick Start Endo Fertility E-book, a symptom tracker, delicious recipes, workbooks, guided meditations, and other helpful resources. How to work with Sarah: Receive my Daily Seeds emails - and a bundle of free gifts! The Fertile Mindset Podcast  One-to-One Support Fertile Mindset on Instagram Fertile Mindset on Facebook 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 Upcoming affordable monthly Endo Fertility Mastery Coaching Membership [wait list open soon - be sure to join my mailing list not to miss the launch]. Get in touch / join my community: Follow me on Instagram and Facebook Join my Endo Fertility community – find us in the Thrive and Conceive with Endometriosis Facebook Group. SUBSCRIBE now to stay updated on all things related to endometriosis, fertility, and women's health in Season 4.

    1h 2m
  5. EF#57: New Year, New Vision: Creating Your Fertility Journey Map

    JAN 2

    EF#57: New Year, New Vision: Creating Your Fertility Journey Map

    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 Upcoming affordable monthly Endo Fertility Mastery Coaching Membership [wait list open soon - be sure to join my mailing list not to miss the launch]. Get in touch / join my community: Follow Lizzie on Instagram and Facebook Join my Endo Fertility community – find us in the Thrive and Conceive with Endometriosis Facebook Group.   SUBSCRIBE now to stay updated on all things related to endometriosis, fertility, and women's health in Season 4.

    31 min
  6. EF#56: Christmas Special: A Compassionate Meditation For Those With Endometriosis Trying To Conceive

    12/25/2024

    EF#56: Christmas Special: A Compassionate Meditation For Those With Endometriosis Trying To Conceive

    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 Upcoming affordable monthly Endo Fertility Mastery Coaching Membership [wait list open soon - be sure to join my mailing list not to miss the launch]. Get in touch / join my community: Follow Lizzie on Instagram and Facebook Join my Endo Fertility community – find us in the Thrive and Conceive with Endometriosis Facebook Group. SUBSCRIBE now to stay updated on all things related to endometriosis, fertility, and women's health in Season 4.   Wishing you peace, love, and healing this Christmas holiday season. Lizzie xx

    11 min
  7. EF#55: From Fatigue to Fertility: Understanding the Role of Epstein-Barr Virus in Women's Health

    12/18/2024

    EF#55: From Fatigue to Fertility: Understanding the Role of Epstein-Barr Virus in Women's Health

    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 📦This episode is sponsored by the Ultimate Endo Fertility Library - sign up HERE to get yourself on the mailing list and started with a Quick Start Endo Fertility E-book, a symptom tracker, delicious recipes, workbooks, guided meditations, and other helpful resources. 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 Upcoming affordable monthly Endo Fertility Mastery Coaching Membership [join the wait list to be the first to hear about it HERE and get a super low grandfather rate).  GET IN TOUCH / JOIN MY COMMUNITY: Follow me on Instagram and Facebook Join my Endo Fertility community – find us in the Thrive and Conceive with Endometriosis Facebook Group. SUBSCRIBE now to stay updated on all things related to endometriosis, fertility, and women's health in Season 4.  Please please also take a minute to rate the podcast, as this helps share the podcast to those that need it.

    1h 16m
  8. EF#54: Surviving Christmas with Endometriosis: A Guide for Those Trying to Conceive

    12/11/2024

    EF#54: Surviving Christmas with Endometriosis: A Guide for Those Trying to Conceive

    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 📦This episode is sponsored by the Ultimate Endo Fertility Library - sign up HERE to get yourself on the mailing list and started with a Quick Start Endo Fertility E-book, a symptom tracker, delicious recipes, workbooks, guided meditations, and other helpful resources.   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 Upcoming affordable monthly Endo Fertility Mastery Coaching Membership [wait list open now HERE - be the first to know when its open and get a grandfather rate].   Get in touch / join my community: Follow me on Instagram and Facebook Join my Endo Fertility community – find us in the Thrive and Conceive with Endometriosis Facebook Group.   SUBSCRIBE now to stay updated on all things related to endometriosis, fertility, and women's health in Season 4.

    42 min
5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Endo Fertility Podcast! I'm Dr Lizzie Alexander, PhD, and I've experienced firsthand the challenges of endometriosis while trying to conceive. This podcast is designed to support you on your journey, combining my personal experiences with chronic pain and fatigue, gut issues, surgeries, and fertility treatments, alongside insights from expert guests and inspiring stories from clients. Each episode offers a blend of professional knowledge and real-life wisdom, covering topics from natural symptom management, functional nutrition on how to get to the root cause of issues to how to support your IVF journey. Whether you're grappling with Endo pain, facing fertility challenges, or exploring holistic approaches to boost your reproductive health, you'll find holistic and evidence-based strategies and practical recommendations here. My goal is to help you navigate the complex world of endometriosis and fertility, empowering you to optimise your health and make informed decisions. Together, we'll work towards your dream of motherhood, transforming your health and reclaiming your life from Endo along the way. Freebies available in the Ultimate Endo Fertility Library: https://endofertilityspecialist.com/free-ultimate-endo-fertility-library/

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