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. 5D AGO

    Fertility Treatments vs. Root Causes: Hormones, Nutrition & Getting Real Support

    In this episode, Cynthia Donovan, period nutritionist and women’s health advocate, sits down with Laura Ligos, RDN, a registered dietitian with 14 years of experience in women’s health, fertility, and hormonal health. Together, they unpack the reality many women face when navigating fertility treatments like IVF and IUI — including dismissal by healthcare providers, rushed timelines, and a lack of focus on nutrition and lifestyle foundations. If you’ve ever felt unheard in your fertility journey, this conversation will validate your experience and equip you with tools to advocate for yourself. We discuss: The critical role of nutrition in fertility and hormonal healthWhy lifestyle factors matter before IVF or IUIThe emotional impact of tracking ovulationHow fertility treatments can sometimes overlook underlying issuesWhy women’s health advocacy is essential in today’s healthcare systemThe importance of self-care during fertility treatmentsHow community support changes outcomesLaura shares practical insight into how hormonal health affects fertility and why women deserve comprehensive care — not just a prescription or procedure. Whether you’re preparing for pregnancy, considering IVF or IUI, or simply want to optimize your women’s health, this episode offers grounded, evidence-based insight rooted in both nutrition science and real clinical experience. You deserve to be listened to.  You deserve informed care.  You deserve community. 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 Connect with Laura Ligos, RDN Website: https://thesassydietitian.com/ Email: laura.t.ligos@gmail.com Instagram: @thesassydietitian https://www.instagram.com/thesassydietitian TikTok: @thesassydietitian https://www.tiktok.com/@thesassydietitian Cookbook 1: https://amzn.to/4bDgI3D Cookbook 2: https://amzn.to/4bzgiez For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    56 min

  2. FEB 19

    “I Was Told It Was Normal” — D1 Swimmer, 10 Years on Birth Control, and the Real Work of Period Recovery

    In this episode of The Period Recovery Podcast, I’m sitting down with Sarah, a registered dietitian and former D1 swimmer, to talk about what it looks like when you “technically never really had a period,” get placed on birth control as a teenager, and then come off the pill years later… only to realize your body still isn’t ovulating. Sarah shares what it was like being told “it’s normal” because she was lean, athletic, and stressed, how intense training and under-fueling quietly shaped her hormones over time, and why she refused to go back on birth control when her doctor suggested it. We also go deep into the part women don’t expect: how period recovery isn’t just about getting bleeding back — it’s about safety in the body, identity, nervous system regulation, and learning how to let go when your brain is wired for discipline. If you’re dealing with hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), missing periods after stopping birth control, or you’re “doing all the things” (eating more, resting more) but still stuck in your head… this one will land. What we cover: “I never really had a period” — primary amenorrhea, birth control, and the confusion it createsD1 training, under-fueling, and why your nervous system may never feel “safe”Missing periods after stopping the pill (post-pill amenorrhea vs HA)Why doctors often recommend the pill (and what that misses)Estrogen, bone health, and cardiovascular risk when cycles are absentThe discipline trap: when athlete mindset becomes food controlThe hardest part of recovery: uncertainty, identity, and weight gain fearsWhy some women get their period back right after committing to supportHow life can feel “fine” and still get bigger, deeper, and more beautiful in recoveryWhat to do when you get 1–2 cycles and the next one doesn’t show upIf you want support restoring your cycle while keeping an active lifestyle (without living in your head), apply for coaching here:  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

    58 min

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
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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
    106
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Period Recovery Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Period Recovery Podcast

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