The Benefits of HRT & Testosterone for Women Undergoing Fertility Treatment with Dr. Kevin Jovanovic, MD, OB/GYN

In this enlightening episode of Fertility in Focus, Dr. Christina Burns sits down with Dr. Kevin Jovanovic, MD, a leading expert in reproductive medicine and hormone optimization. Dr. Jovanovic shares his expertise on the intersection of fertility, hormones, and overall reproductive health, offering practical insights into improving egg quality, addressing hormonal imbalances, and supporting long-term reproductive wellness. This episode is perfect for anyone seeking to understand the science behind fertility and innovative strategies to enhance reproductive outcomes. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:The role of testosterone in reproductive health  Potential uses in fertility treatment The role of testosterone in overall hormonal health and well-being  How HRT got a bad reputation Cosmetic gynecology options for women How low-level hCG may improve IVF outcomes The benefits of peptidesTimestamps:[00:01] Introduction to the podcast and today’s topic [02:10] Meet Dr. Kevin Jovanovic and his background in OB-GYN and innovation [05:30] The history of hormone therapy and the impact of the 2002 WHI study [09:45] What are bioidentical hormones and how do they work? [14:20] Testosterone in women: Myths, benefits, and fertility impact [20:10] Signs of hormonal imbalance and testosterone deficiency [27:30] Birth control and its effects on fertility markers like AMH [35:00] Hormone therapy and its potential to improve ovarian function [42:15] Male fertility: Testosterone therapy and sperm production [48:30] Peptides explained: Benefits, uses, and safety considerations [55:40] Weight loss, metabolism, and fertility optimization strategies [01:05:10] Vaginal rejuvenation and integrative women’s health treatments [01:12:00] Final thoughts and where to find Dr. Jovanovic Connect with Dr. Kevin Jovanovic: Website: Dr.Jovanovic.com Location:  935 Fifth Avenue, East 74th Street, Upper East Side, Manhattan, New York, NY  Phone: (212) 249-6709About Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/Follow along with the Naturna Institute:Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/listInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/

In this insightful episode of Fertility in Focus, Dr. Christina Burns sits down with Dr. Jennifer Kulp-Makarov, MD, FACOG, Board-Certified OB/GYN & REI Specialist, founder of Fleura Fertility. With over 16 years of experience and training at Johns Hopkins and Yale, Dr. Kulp-Makarov shares her patient-centered approach to IVF, individualized protocols, and cutting-edge fertility treatments. Discover how she is transforming the patient experience, optimizing egg quality, and supporting couples, women, and LGBTQIA+ families through a more personalized, stress-free, and effective IVF journey.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:How a boutique, patient-focused approach improves IVF outcomes.The benefits of mini IVF and the Goldilocks method for women over 40 or with low AMH.Why individualized FSH monitoring matters for egg quality and success.The importance of considering sperm quality and male fertility in IVF.Advances in PRP and emerging treatments to enhance egg quality.How to set realistic expectations for IVF cycles, stress management, and long-term family planning.How to assess whether a center has a good labThe scoop on rapamycinIns and outs of IVF for egg quality challengesShould you consider Ovarian PRPTimestamps:[00:01] Introduction: Meet Dr. Jennifer Kulp-Makarov and her patient-first philosophy.[01:48] Moving from large IVF centers to a boutique practice: Why patient experience matters.[03:17] The impact of stress, billing, and communication on IVF success.[05:42] Mini IVF and the Goldilocks approach: Personalized, lower-dose protocols.[14:50] Monitoring FSH levels: How adjusting doses improves egg quality.[19:10] Optimizing outcomes for challenging cases: Sperm quality, egg quality, and individualized care.[29:43] Experimental and promising treatments: Rapamycin, ovarian PRP, and future innovations.[32:43] PRP procedures and how they enhance ovarian function.[35:00] Supporting patients emotionally: The importance of a tailored, long-term IVF plan.Connect with Dr. Jennifer Kulp-Makarov & Fleura Fertility:Website: Fleura Fertility Instagram: @FleuraFertility Location: New York City, NYAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/Follow along with the Naturna Institute:Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/listInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/

Welcome back to another deeply moving episode of the Fertility in Focus podcast. This week, Dr. Christina Burns sits down with Dr. Andrea Ali Panzarella—a pediatrician, mom of three, and author of Every Family is a Tree. Andrea opens up about her emotional journey through infertility, ectopic pregnancy, recurrent loss, and IVF, all while navigating a demanding medical career. Her candid reflections shed light on the physical, emotional, and mental toll of fertility challenges—and how her family came to be with the help of gestational carriers.In this episode, you will learn:Andrea’s experience with ectopic pregnancy and her first encounter with miscarriageHow medical knowledge helped—but didn’t shield—her from the emotional weight of fertility strugglesThe physical and emotional rollercoaster of multiple failed IVF cycles, D&Cs, and testingThe complexities of embryo testing, immune protocols, and the shift in medical opinions over timeWhat led Andrea and her husband to choose gestational surrogacy—and the hurdles they faced along the wayHow Andrea’s new children’s book is helping represent and empower families of all kindsTimestamps:[00:26] Meet Dr. Andrea Panzarella and hear how her fertility journey began[02:16] Ectopic pregnancy and the emotional toll of early loss[06:04] Discovering male factor infertility and beginning IVF[10:45] First IVF cycle, twin pregnancy, and navigating miscarriage[14:06] Exploring embryo testing and transferring genetically normal embryos[20:25] The impact of IVF on the body, environment, and mental health[29:04] Decision to pursue surrogacy and the legal/emotional steps involvedConnect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/Follow along with the Naturna Institute:Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/listInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/

Welcome to another heartfelt episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns.In this episode, Dr. Christina is joined by Michelle Villatoro, a hospitality strategist and founder of Just Think Hospitality, who courageously shares her deeply personal and emotional fertility journey. Together, they explore the emotional highs and lows of trying to conceive, how she struggled with a very low ovarian reserve, multiple IVFs, an ectopic pregnancy, and more. They talk through the suggestions on how to speak to someone going through a fertility challenge and the effects of the medications and process on the mental health of the patient.  As always Dr. Christina is solutions focused and so covers ways to find peace and power in the process. The conversation explores everything from logistical aspects of the fertility journey such as self advocacy and the deeper, very powerful effects of spirituality and manifestation. Michelle happens to have a great sense of humor and brings a lightness to the conversation with her hilarious anecdotes. Whether you're going through fertility treatments or supporting someone who is, this episode offers a powerful mix of vulnerability, wisdom, and inspiration.In this episode, you will learn:How Michelle’s fertility experience shaped her work in improving patient careThe emotional impact of IUI, IVF, pregnancy loss, ectopic pregnancy and hormone treatmentsWhy compassion and validation matter in fertility treatmentThe power of mindset, self-advocacy, and community in fertility journeysMichelle’s inspiring story of becoming a mom—and the unexpected miracle that followedTimestamps:[0:26] Meet Michelle and her work in hospitality and patient experience[2:17] Empathy gaps in fertility care and what to say instead of “I know how you feel”[8:45] Michelle’s fertility journey begins and her first pregnancy loss[15:04] IUI struggles, Clomid side effects, and switching to Letrozole[18:25] Going all in with IVF and lifestyle changes[23:12] Embryo loss, emotional lows, and staying committed[26:41] The B embryo transfer—and the long wait[28:35] The call that changed everythingMichelle's info:https://www.instagram.com/mc_szmajda/?next=%2Fhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleszmajda/https://justthinkhospitality.com/

In this insightful episode of Fertility in Focus, Dr. Christina Burns sits down with Dr. Zaher Merhi, the visionary founder of Rejuvenating Fertility Center (RFC), the first non-conventional IVF center in the U.S. With decades of experience as a top fertility expert, Dr. Merhi shares groundbreaking advancements in fertility treatments, including low-level laser therapy, ozone, PRP, and stem cell-based ovarian rejuvenation. Discover how these non-toxic, non-invasive therapies are revolutionizing fertility care and providing hope to those struggling with egg quality, ovarian reserve, and implantation challenges.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Research on novel (new) options fertility treatments at RFC.The science behind low-level laser therapy and its benefits for egg quality.Why PRP and adipose-derived stem cells are changing the landscape of fertility care.How inflammation impacts fertility and why ozone therapy works.The latest innovations in IVG (in vitro gametogenesis) and how Japanese researchers are leading the way.How RFC is making fertility treatments accessible globally, including its new Bahamas clinic.Timestamps:[00:01] Introduction: Meet Dr. Zaher Merhi and his pioneering work in fertility.[01:31] Low-level laser therapy: How it enhances egg quality and ovarian reserve.[03:02] PRP, stem cell therapy, and ovarian rejuvenation: What you need to know.[05:10] Japanese innovations in fertility: IVG and skin-to-egg technology.[08:48] How inflammation impacts fertility and why ozone therapy works.[11:00] RFC’s global reach: How patients from around the world access their treatments.[27:04] RFC’s new Bahamas clinic: Advancing fertility care beyond FDA regulations.Connect with Dr. Zahir Murhi & RFC:Website: Rejuvenating Fertility CenterInstagram: @RejuvenatingFertilityLocations: Connecticut, Long Island, Westchester, Brooklyn, and Bahamas.About Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/Follow along with the Naturna Institute:Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/listInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/

Welcome back to the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns, an Eastern medicine doctor and holistic fertility expert. In today’s episode, Dr. Christina unpacks an intriguing nutritional topic: how the temperature of the foods you eat can influence your hormones, weight, digestion, and fertility.Drawing from traditional Chinese medicine and modern research, she explains why warm, cooked meals are not just for when you are sick. The temperature of your food will impact your appetite, blood glucose levels and circulation. From an Eastern medicine perspective cooked food is also essential for optimal reproductive health. But take just take our word for it. We have a new study to back up these ancient claims and literally break down the physiology of how different food temperatures affect body and mind. In this episode, you’ll learn:Why food temperature is a critical factor in digestion and fertility.The negative effects of cold foods on digestion, metabolism, and hormonal balance.How warm foods promote better circulation, glucose regulation, and a “warm uterus.”Key insights from scientific studies linking food temperature to satiety and metabolism.Practical tips to adjust your diet for better digestion, energy, and fertility.Timestamps:[00:00:01] Introduction: Why food temperature matters in fertility[00:00:38] Warm food vs. cold food: Insights from traditional Chinese medicine[00:01:58] The digestive benefits of warm, slow-cooked meals[00:03:43] Chewing and mindful eating: A key to better digestion and health[00:05:28] Cold foods, bloating, and modern eating habits[00:07:01] Scientific study: The link between warm foods, satiety hormones, and metabolism[00:09:55] Eastern medicine perspective: Food energetics and the “cold uterus” concept[00:11:04] Practical tips: Transitioning to a warm-food diet for fertilityAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/Follow along with the Naturna Institute:Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/listInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/ 

Welcome to another empowering episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast! Join Dr. Christina Burns as she uncovers how everyday environmental toxins—like formaldehyde and benzene—can lower AMH levels, diminish ovarian reserve, and impact your egg quality. Drawing from research and her background in holistic fertility, Dr. Burns reveals how toxins accelerate ovarian aging and shares easy-to-implement lifestyle tips for detoxification. Discover natural strategies to support your reproductive health through herbs, nutrition, and mindful living.In this episode, you’ll learn:The crucial role of AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) in fertility—and why low levels don’t always signal infertilityHow toxins like formaldehyde and benzene can accelerate ovarian aging and affect egg qualityPractical tips for identifying and reducing your exposure to harmful substances in your daily environmentHolistic methods—nutrition, herbs, supplements, and lifestyle changes—to boost egg count and qualityInsights on IVF success, including how monitoring AMH can inform your fertility journeyTimestamps[00:00] Welcome & Introduction to toxins’ impact on fertility[01:15] AMH: What it is and why it matters[06:00] How formaldehyde and benzene can rapidly diminish ovarian reserve[10:30] Top toxin sources, plus actionable detox tips[16:20] Natural strategies to reduce oxidative stress & support fertility[22:00] Inside Dr. Christina’s Egg Quality Formula[26:00] Key takeaways on limiting exposure and optimizing reproductive healthAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. With experience dating back to 2004, she’s dedicated to helping women and men reach their optimal health and fertility goals. Dr. Burns blends acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, and lifestyle management for personalized, integrative fertility care. She is also the best-selling author of The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook.Connect with Dr. Christina BurnsWebsite: www.christinaburns.comInstagram: @drchristinaburnsOrder The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: AmazonJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: naturna.mn.coOrder Junk Juice: junkjuicemagic.comFollow the Naturna InstituteBook an Appointment: naturna.janeapp.com/#/listInstagram: @naturna_life

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast! Join Dr. Christina Burns as she explores how viral infections—including COVID-19, flu, and other common illnesses—can influence fertility outcomes, from egg quality to sperm health and IVF success. Discover why certain viruses, like COVID-19, may have a particular affinity for reproductive tissues and learn how to protect your fertility through holistic approaches, natural remedies, and key supplements that combat oxidative stress and inflammation.In this episode, you’ll learn:The impact of viral infections on fertility, including egg and sperm qualityThe role of inflammation and oxidative stress in failed implantation and poor embryo qualityHow to decide whether to delay fertility treatments, such as IVF, after an illnessThe most effective natural remedies, supplements, and lifestyle tips to recover quickly and optimize reproductive healthTimestamps[00:00] Welcome & introduction to viral infections and fertility[01:20] How flu, COVID-19, and fevers affect sperm and egg health[06:30] Understanding inflammation, oxidative stress, and their effect on fertility outcomes[10:45] Deciding whether to delay fertility treatments after illness[14:20] Top supplements & natural remedies for illness recovery and fertility[19:00] Lifestyle adjustments to support recovery and create a fertility-friendly environmentAbout Dr. Christina BurnsDr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. With a practice dating back to 2004, she’s committed to helping both women and men achieve their optimal health and fertility goals through natural medicine, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy, and she is also the best-selling author of The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook.Connect with Dr. Christina BurnsWebsite: www.christinaburns.comInstagram: @drchristinaburnsOrder The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: AmazonJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: naturna.mn.coOrder Junk Juice: junkjuicemagic.comFollow the Naturna InstituteBook an Appointment: naturna.janeapp.com/#/listInstagram: @naturna_life

Welcome to another episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast! In this episode, we are joined by actress and singer-songwriter Lenne Klingaman, who shares her deeply personal and powerful journey through fertility challenges, including pregnancy loss, IVF, and finding hope along the way.Lenne, who recently launched her album Phoenix, tells her story of resilience and healing through music, exploring how creativity and support helped her navigate the emotional complexities of fertility struggles. Her story is both inspiring and comforting for anyone on a similar path.In this episode, you will learn:The importance of finding mental health support during fertility challenges.How personal passions, like music, can offer healing and connection.The emotional impact of pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages.Lenne’s experience with IVF and overcoming an ectopic pregnancy.The powerful role of hope and resilience in her journey to becoming a mother.Timestamps:[00:01] Introduction to Lenne Klingaman and her background in music and acting[01:03] Lenne’s early fertility journey and her first pregnancy loss[06:08] Navigating grief and finding support during the pandemic[09:57] Impact of multiple miscarriages and the toll on mental health[12:20] Lenne’s experiences with IVF and an unexpected ectopic pregnancy[18:40] The creation of Phoenix and using music as a path to healing[21:15] Finding faith, resilience, and a support network during the journey[24:37] How Lenne’s story helps bring light to the emotional aspects of infertility[28:53] Advice and encouragement for others on their fertility pathListen to Lenne Klingaman album and connect with her on social media for more updates on her journey and music. https://lenneklingaman.bandcamp.com/album/phoenixAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/Follow along with the Naturna Institute:Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/listInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/ 

Welcome to another episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast! In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Rachele Pojednic, Director of Scientific Research and Education at Restore, who shares her expertise on the therapies offered at Restore and how they can support fertility.Dr. Pojednic dives into the science behind Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), red light therapy, and IV nutrient therapies, explaining how these innovative treatments can improve fertility by enhancing cellular regeneration, improving egg quality, and boosting overall health.In this episode, you’ll learn:The benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for fertility and how it can improve egg quality.How red light therapy enhances mitochondrial function and supports reproductive health.The role of NAD and IV nutrient therapies in optimizing cellular energy and reducing oxidative stress.Dr. Pojednic's insights into the safety and effectiveness of these therapies and when they can be most beneficial for fertility.Timestamps:[00:00] Introduction to Dr. Rachele Pojednic and her work at Restore[01:49] Exploring Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) and its impact on fertility[12:06] Red light therapy: Benefits for fertility and overall health[18:40] Understanding NAD therapy and its role in cellular energy production[22:45] IV nutrient therapies: Vitamin C, glutathione, and their role in fertilityAbout Dr. Christina Burns:Dr. Christina Burns is the founder and Doctor of Chinese Medicine at the Naturna Institute. Committed, compassionate, and highly skilled in multiple disciplines, Dr. Burns has been in practice since 2004. She empowers both women and men to achieve their optimal life and health goals through natural medicine practices, integrative nutrition, lifestyle management, and personalized mind-body programs. Dr. Burns holds advanced certifications in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, life coaching, and yoga therapy. She is also the best-selling author of "The Ultimate Fertility Guidebook."Connect with Dr. Christina Burns:Website: https://www.christinaburns.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinaburns/ Order the Ultimate Fertility Guidebook: https://a.co/d/hq0nFOoJoin the Eating for Optimal Fertility Course: https://naturna.mn.co/ Order Junk Juice: https://junkjuicemagic.com/ Follow along with the Naturna Institute: Book an Appointment: https://naturna.janeapp.com/#/list Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturna_life/