The Period Recovery Podcast

Cynthia Donovan
  • 4.9 (54)
  • NUTRITION
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to the Period Recovery podcast. Here is where your host Cynthia Registered Dietitian Period Recovery expert, will discuss the reality, ups & downs & life-changing journey of getting your period back and finding balance with food, body & exercise. After overcoming missing period issues of her own, Cynthia started to help women across the world get their periods back for good & restore their health & fertility through her unique methodology for period recovery. Cynthia breaks down the science into simple-to-follow ways so that you can understand why your period is missing (still) and what you can do to get your period back every month (or get pregnant if that's your goal). It's time to stop stressing & guessing & get your period & your life back! Tune in every other Thursday & feel empowered to take action to get your period back for good with all the tips, information & stories Cynthia is sharing. Follow Cynthia on Instagram @period.nutritionist or visit her website www.periodnutritionist.com.

  1. FEB 5

    Why You’re Still Missing Your Period Even Though You’re Eating More and Resting

    Have you been eating more, resting more, doing all the “right” things for period recovery and still feel anxious, stuck, or mentally exhausted? You’re not crazy. And you’re not alone. In this episode of The Period Recovery Podcast, Cynthia Donovan, registered dietitian and period recovery expert, speaks directly to the woman who feels like she traded one obsession for another  from food and exercise to constant overthinking about getting her period back. We explore: Why period recovery can feel mentally harder than the physical changesWhy eating more and resting more doesn’t always feel calming at firstHow anxiety, overthinking, and guilt are linked to your nervous systemThe difference between intuition and old programmingSimple nervous system tools to help you get out of your head and back into your bodyThis episode is not about what to eat or how to exercise, it’s about understanding why your thoughts feel so loud, why food can feel “unsafe,” and how to create real safety in your body so hormones can heal. If you’re recovering from hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), missing your period, or struggling with anxiety during period recovery, this episode will help you feel seen, grounded, and supported.  Listen now and remind yourself: your body knows exactly what it’s doing. For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    34 min

  2. JAN 22

    The Overlooked Cause of a Missing Period: Diet Culture, Body Trust, and Stress

    Cynthia and Leslie discuss body image, diet culture, and the importance of body trust and diversity. They explore the journey of intuitive eating, the generational influences on body image, and the necessity of setting boundaries in a culture that often promotes unhealthy ideals. The discussion emphasizes the significance of accepting your new normal, self-compassion, values-based living, and the need to navigate social pressures while fostering a healthy relationship with food and body. Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of Body Image and Diet Culture 04:30 Understanding Body Trust and Nutrition Intelligence 09:22 The Impact of External Validation on Body Image 15:27 Navigating Weight Loss and Health Pursuits 20:10 Finding a Neutral Relationship with Food and Body 23:13 Reality Check: The Influence of Social Media on Body Image 25:19 Navigating Conversations Around Food and Body Image 27:36 Breaking Free from Diet Culture 30:39 Setting Boundaries with Family and Friends 33:26 Reparenting Ourselves: Cultivating Self-Compassion 35:47 Redefining Health Beyond Numbers 37:48 Intentional Movement: Aligning Actions with Values 42:49 Challenging Diet Culture Thoughts 47:09 Finding Freedom from the Life Thief of Diet Culture Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist Meet our Guest:  Leslie Schilling, MA, RDN, CSCS, CEDS-C, owns a Las Vegas-based private practice specializing in nutrition counseling for disordered eating and performance nutrition for professional athletes, performers, and military personnel. In her more than twenty years in the field of sport nutrition, eating disorders, and strength and conditioning, Leslie has served in many settings including as performance nutrition consultant for Cirque du Soleil and the NBA, and an expert contributor to U.S. News & World Report. One of her favorite things to do is support registered dietitians, coaches, and other professionals working at the intersection of eating disorders and sport through professional supervision and mentorship in the Dietitian Development Hub Mighty Network Community. Check out Leslie’s latest book, Feed Yourself, about how diet culture shows up in our safest places, which is available anywhere books are sold. www.LeslieSchilling.com email: leslie@schillingnutrition.com Instagram @LeslieSchilling https://www.instagram.com/leslieschilling Feed Yourself Book - https://a.co/d/3F6wtBT Born To Eat (second edition) - https://a.co/d/7NGeznS For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    52 min

  3. JAN 8

    Why Slowing Down Feels So Hard (And Why Your Body Needs It In Getting Your Period Back) With Caitie Corradino

    For our first episode of the year Cynthia has invited Caitie Corradino to discuss the importance of slowing down in life, particularly in relation to body image and self-care, even though it is very uncomfortable. Caitie compares slowing down in this way to what it might feel like to sit in fire. This is a very painful thing to overcome. They explore the challenges of making time for oneself, the emotional aspects of slowing down, and the role of healing practitioners in supporting this journey. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentionality in creating space for mindfulness and self-reflection, as well as the benefits of allowing oneself to feel a range of emotions. The episode concludes with practical tips for integrating these practices into daily life. Takeaways: Slowing down is a choice that must be made daily.Self-care practices should not feel forced or like another task.Experiencing discomfort is part of the process of slowing down.Creating buffers in your schedule can help reduce stress.It's important to have a supportive space when practicing mindfulness.Body avoidance can be a cozy place, but it's not healthy.Feeling emotions is essential for personal growth and healing.Practicing mindfulness can help improve body image.You don't need to achieve anything to deserve relaxation.Healing practitioners can provide valuable support in the journey of self-discovery. Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    51 min

  4. 12/26/2025

    Missing Periods for Active Women: Gemma's Story of Surrender, Rest, and Real Health

    You don't have to DIY period recovery. In this podcast episode, Gemma Atkinson shares the journey of regaining her period, discussing the challenges she faced over 10+ years, the importance of support, and the transformative power of self-acceptance. She reflects on how her life has changed since embracing a more flexible and nourishing approach to health, emphasizing the significance of rest, community, and letting go of control. Gemma's story serves as an inspiration for others navigating similar struggles, highlighting that recovery is possible and that life can be fulfilling and joyful again. Takeaways Life has been good post-recovery, with new opportunities. Recovery has led to unexpected gains in work and personal life. The importance of community support during recovery. Letting go of control is essential for healing. Rest is a crucial component of recovery. Body image issues can fluctuate during recovery. High achievement does not equate to health or happiness. Nutrition education is vital for understanding health needs. Surrendering to the process can lead to freedom. It's okay to seek help and support from others. Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    46 min

  5. 12/12/2025

    What to Do if Your Period Still Hasn’t Returned: 2026 Recovery Mindset + Intentions

    Today's episode is a message from the heart to all the women who haven't gotten their period back yet. Yes the year is coming to a close, but let's shift away from focusing on time and instead focus on the life you're building. You're learning to eat, sleep, work and think in new ways. It's ok to ask for help. It's ok to rest. It's ok to give your body time to heal.  Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    38 min

  6. 11/27/2025

    From IVF to a Surprise Natural Pregnancy: Eme's Journey to Period Recovery

    In this heartfelt interview, Cynthia talks with Eme about her journey through period recovery, fertility challenges, and embracing a balanced lifestyle. Eme shares her experiences of overcoming societal pressures, finding peace with her body, and the joy of natural pregnancy after years of IVF. The conversation highlights the importance of support, self-acceptance, and the transformative power of small lifestyle changes. Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    51 min

  7. 11/13/2025

    5 Reasons Why Your Period Isn't Back Yet

    Mark your calendars for November 21st! I'm hosting my Welcome to the Science of Getting Your Period Back Live Training and I hope to see you there! In today's episode I'm talking about my multifaceted approach to recovering a regular menstrual cycle, regaining confidence in managing your own nutrition, valuing rest, and and cultivating mental well-being. I'm sharing insights from my personal journey and from my experiences working with my amazing clients. I've worked with so many wonderful women to regain their periods, and it's never just one thing that moves the needed. We take a holistic approach to hormonal health and we do it together! Takeaways Eating breakfast first thing in the morning is crucial.Avoid exercising or walking on an empty stomach.Fuel your body with plenty of carbs and fats.Slow down mentally and physically to listen to your body.Building a relationship of trust with your body is key.Recovery is about what is enough, not more than before.Hormones thrive in safety, not hustle mode.Stress hormones impact sex hormones and overall health.Rest is not weakness; it's essential for recovery.Trusting your body is vital for hormonal health. Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    50 min

  8. 10/30/2025

    From HA to Baby: A Doctor’s Story of Period Recovery and Pregnancy

    In this episode, Cynthia Donovan welcomes Allison to discuss her journey through HA and period recovery. Everyone's situation is so unique, but there is power in hearing shared experiences. Allison talks about what it felt like to have so much mental energy focused on food and food rules. She also talks about her perspective as a medical student and cross fit athlete, and how she ultimately learned to find work-outs and eating plans that were right for her body. Whether your goal is pregnancy, fitness, overall health, or all of the above Allison's story will motivate you to keep trying to put your longterm health first. Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    48 min
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About

Welcome to the Period Recovery podcast. Here is where your host Cynthia Registered Dietitian Period Recovery expert, will discuss the reality, ups & downs & life-changing journey of getting your period back and finding balance with food, body & exercise. After overcoming missing period issues of her own, Cynthia started to help women across the world get their periods back for good & restore their health & fertility through her unique methodology for period recovery. Cynthia breaks down the science into simple-to-follow ways so that you can understand why your period is missing (still) and what you can do to get your period back every month (or get pregnant if that's your goal). It's time to stop stressing & guessing & get your period & your life back! Tune in every other Thursday & feel empowered to take action to get your period back for good with all the tips, information & stories Cynthia is sharing. Follow Cynthia on Instagram @period.nutritionist or visit her website www.periodnutritionist.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Cynthia Donovan
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    104
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Period Recovery Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Period Recovery Podcast

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