EP 194 Should You Rely on OPK's to Track Ovulation?

What if the most powerful tool for boosting fertility has been inside you all along? In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle reveals five science backed truths that prove your thoughts, emotions, nervous system, and energy hold far more influence over your fertility than you may realize. Drawing from research in psychoneuroimmunology, HeartMath studies, quantum biology, and epigenetics, Michelle explains how your mind and body work together to shape hormonal balance, ovulation, and overall reproductive health. You will learn why your inner dialogue affects your cells, how stress disrupts the HPO axis, why a regulated nervous system improves conception rates, and how intention can shift your biology at the energetic level. If you have been feeling discouraged or disconnected from your body, this episode will help you reconnect to your innate wisdom and remind you that your fertility is not just physical. It is influenced by your emotional wellbeing, your beliefs, and the energy you bring to your healing journey. Tune in and discover how powerful you truly are. Key Takeaways:  Your thoughts create real, measurable physical change in the body Emotions communicate with every cell and shape your hormonal landscape The nervous system is the master conductor of reproductive health Your energy and intention influence biological responses You are capable of rewriting your genetic and emotional patterns ________________________ Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

In this eye-opening episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle sits down with Kim Rogers (@mrsrogers.hood), also known as "The Worm Queen," to have the parasite conversation no one's having but absolutely should. A seasoned Western medicine professional turned holistic wellness educator, Kim shares her journey from battling endometriosis, mold toxicity, and Lyme disease to founding RogersHood Apothecary and developing the viral ParaFy Parasite Cleanse Kit. Together, Michelle and Kim dive into the hidden world of parasites, mold, and heavy metals, and how these often-overlooked culprits could be affecting your digestion, mood, skin, and even fertility. You'll learn how exposure happens, why binders and biofilm-busting herbs are key, and when cleansing is safe and beneficial, especially if you're trying to conceive or preparing for IVF. If you've ever felt unwell despite "normal" labs, this episode will change how you see your body's internal ecosystem and empower you to take charge of your health from the inside out. Key Takeaways:  Discover how hidden parasites and toxins could be silently impacting your fertility, mood, and digestion. Learn why "cleaning your soil" may be the missing piece in your preconception or IVF journey. Find out the surprising everyday sources of parasites, from pets to produce, and how to protect yourself. Understand why binders and biofilm-busting herbs are essential for safe and effective detoxing. Hear how Kim's viral ParaFy cleanse is helping thousands reclaim their energy, clarity, and overall wellness. Guest Bio:  Kim Rogers (@mrsrogers.hood) is a seasoned wellness professional with over 20 years of experience in Western medicine. After facing her own health challenges including endometriosis, parasites, Lyme disease, and mold poisoning, Kim transitioned from pharmaceuticals to natural healing. She co-founded RogersHood Apothecary in 2021, where she now serves as CEO and creator of the globally recognized ParaFy Parasite Cleanse Kit. Her viral success on TikTok and Instagram brought global attention to parasite cleansing and holistic detoxification. Through transparency and education, Kim continues to inspire millions to take control of their health and become their own advocates. She also hosts the podcast What's Eating U?!, where she explores the intersections of wellness, environmental toxins, and personal empowerment. Use coupon code FERTILITY for 10% off at rogershood.com/ref/3077 Links and resources: Visit Kim's website: rogershood.com/ref/3077 Follow Kim on Instagram: @mrsrogers.hood Connect with Kim on Facebook: Kim Rogers Watch Kim's podcast What's Eating U?! on YouTube: youtube.com/@Whatseatingupodcast _____________________________ Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm joined by Rita Black (@shiftweightmastery), a clinical hypnotherapist and weight management expert, to explore how self hypnosis can transform your habits, health, and overall mindset. Rita shares her personal journey of quitting smoking and breaking free from emotional eating through hypnosis and how she has helped thousands do the same. We dive into the science behind the subconscious mind, the difference between hypnosis and meditation, and how identity shapes your habits, beliefs, and even your physical health. Whether you are trying to change a behavior, reprogram limiting beliefs, or shift your mindset around fertility and well being, this episode will show you how to harness your mind's power to create lasting change. Key Takeaways: How hypnosis works to bypass the conscious mind and rewire habits at the subconscious level. The difference between meditation and self hypnosis and why the latter is "meditation with a mission." Why identity is the foundation of transformation and how it shapes behavior and physiology. How subconscious beliefs can affect fertility, weight, and other health outcomes. Simple daily self hypnosis and gratitude techniques to prime your brain for positive change. Why quitting smoking or vaping is less about willpower and more about identity and subconscious programming. Guest Bio: Rita Black, C.Ht. (@shiftweightmastery), is a clinical hypnotherapist and renowned expert in smoking cessation and weight loss. She is the author of the best-selling From Fat to Thin Thinking: Unlock Your Mind for Permanent Weight Loss and the host of the Thin Thinking podcast. Through her signature online programs, Shift Weight Mastery Process and Smokefree123, Rita has guided thousands to harness the power of their subconscious mind to create lasting, healthy transformations. She also offers two free resources to help you begin your own transformation journey: Free Weight Loss Masterclass: How to Stop the "Start Over Tomorrow" Weight Struggle Cycle and Start Releasing Weight for Good - a 75-minute session that includes a light hypnosis experience to help you identify and remove subconscious barriers to weight loss. Join here - https://shiftmonthlymasterymembership.mykajabi.com/shiftevergreenwebinar Free Smoking Cessation Masterclass: How to Stop Smoking Without Withdrawal, Cravings, or Weight Gain — a practical, empowering approach to quitting for good. - Join Here - https://www.smokefree123.com/stop-smoking-masterclass-registration-page2 Links and resources: Visit Rita's website hereYOU, the Non-Smoker? Yes, it's Possible - learn more hereFollow Rita on Instagram _____________________________ Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

In this solo episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle Oravitz, fertility acupuncturist and holistic fertility coach, breaks down the most common misconceptions she encounters in her clinic. Drawing on nearly a decade of experience supporting couples on their fertility journey, Michelle sheds light on the myths that can hold people back from conceiving, from misunderstanding the fertile window and fearing healthy fats, to overdoing green juices and neglecting stress management. You'll learn why fertility is about more than just timing or diet, how mindset and nervous system health play a pivotal role, and why it's essential to approach conception as a shared journey between partners. Whether you're just beginning your fertility path or seeking to fine-tune your approach, this episode will empower you with knowledge and clarity to support your reproductive health naturally. Key Takeaways:  Many women miscalculate ovulation and the fertile window, it's not always mid-cycle. Healthy fats like avocado, ghee, and full-fat dairy support hormone production. Too much raw food and cold drinks can create a "cold womb," affecting fertility. Over-focusing on "doing all the right things" can increase stress and hinder conception Fertility is a shared responsibility, sperm health is just as crucial as egg health. Seeking professional and emotional support can make the journey smoother and less isolating. Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey Join me inside The Wholesome Fertility Collective: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewholesomefertilitycollective For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus

What if your fertility journey didn't have to feel like constant striving? What if ease, joy, and trust could actually create the space for conception to unfold naturally? In this episode, Lauren Enright,  a mind-body fertility coach, birth doula, and former neuroscientist,  shares how to move from overthinking and perfectionism to deep embodied trust. She explains how nervous system regulation, breathwork, and mindfulness practices can awaken your body's innate fertile energy and transform how you experience your path to motherhood. Key Takeaways:  Why perfectionism and overplanning can block your natural fertile flow. How regulating the nervous system helps balance the yin and yang of fertility. The simple breathwork technique Lauren uses to activate the parasympathetic response. The science behind visualization and how it reprograms the mind for healing. How mindfulness and slowing down reconnect you to your body's innate wisdom. Guest Bio: Lauren Enright is an internationally sought-after mind-body fertility coach, birth doula, and expert in fertility yoga, meditation, and mindfulness. With a unique background as a former neuroscientist and science teacher, Lauren blends evidence-based understanding with spiritual insight to help women release perfectionism and overthinking on their fertility journey. Through her signature mind-body approach, she guides women to reconnect with their body's innate wisdom, regulate their nervous systems, and awaken the fertile energy within. Her mission is to empower women to trust their intuition, break free from stress cycles, and welcome conception with ease, joy, and love. Links and Resources Mentioned: Follow Lauren Enright on Instagram Learn more about Lauren's work on her website  Free Mind-Body Fertility Toolkit – Download Here ______________________ Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle dives into one of the most emotionally challenging topics on the fertility journey,  repeated miscarriages and failed embryo transfers. While these experiences can feel devastating, Michelle explains that they're not always inevitable. With the right testing and deeper understanding of hidden factors like thyroid health, uterine microbiome, immune responses, and even sperm compatibility, many pregnancy losses and failed transfers can actually be prevented. This episode sheds light on overlooked tests, lifestyle changes, and integrative approaches that can make all the difference in achieving a healthy pregnancy. If you've been through multiple losses or are preparing for a transfer, this conversation is filled with empowering insights and practical next steps that could change your path forward. Key Takeaways: Discover why thyroid imbalances and undiagnosed autoimmune issues can silently sabotage implantation. Learn how the uterine microbiome and inflammation might be the missing piece in your fertility journey. Find out which antioxidant-rich supplements and lifestyle shifts can boost egg and sperm quality. Understand how immune or clotting factors can interfere with pregnancy — and what tests can uncover them. Explore how emotional healing and nervous system regulation can prepare your body to receive new life. Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Join me inside The Wholesome Fertility Collective. https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewholesomefertilitycollective  Vaginal Microbiome test: https://www.fertilysis.com Use coupon code WHOLESOMEFERTILITY Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus

In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle Oravitz,  shares the only fasting approach she recommends for those trying to conceive, and why most intermittent fasting methods can actually harm fertility. Drawing from both modern research and Ayurvedic principles, Michelle explains how to sync your eating habits with your body's natural circadian rhythm to support balanced hormones, stable blood sugar, and optimal digestion. She breaks down how to determine if fasting is right for you (hint: it depends on insulin resistance and PCOS type), the best time of day to eat your biggest meal, and how the ProLon fasting-mimicking diet can help restore metabolic balance without depleting your energy or fertility. If you've ever wondered whether fasting could fit into your fertility journey, this episode offers a grounded, fertility-safe way to approach it. Key Takeaways: Not all fasting methods are fertility-friendly, skipping breakfast can increase stress hormones and harm reproductive balance. Those with insulin resistance or insulin-resistant PCOS may benefit from specific, gentle fasting approaches. Your largest meal should align with your body's strongest digestion period (midday, when the sun is highest). Finishing dinner 2–4 hours before bed supports better sleep, hormone repair, and digestive rest. ProLon's fasting-mimicking protocol can enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce stubborn weight safely. Always test, not guess, consult your healthcare provider before starting any fasting or supplement plan. Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Use this code and get a discount on PROLON: https://prolonlife.com/thewholesomelotus Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm joined by Rose McKenzie, fertility awareness educator and clinician trainer at Mira, to explore a simpler, smarter way to track your cycle, without the stress of daily temperature checks. We dive into how continuous hormone monitoring can reveal what's really happening in your body each month, why a single lab test can miss crucial shifts in your hormones, and how lifestyle factors like sleep, stress, and nutrition affect ovulation. Rose breaks down the science behind Mira's lab-grade hormone tracking technology and shares how it's helping women and practitioners move beyond guesswork to truly understand their cycles. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by charting, or you're ready to move past "BBT burnout," this conversation will help you see your hormones in a whole new way. Key Takeaways:  Tired of charting every morning? Discover a stress-free way to confirm ovulation. Learn why LH strips only tell part of the story, and what you're really missing. See how Mira's lab-grade tech brings clarity to hormone tracking from home. Find out how stress, sleep, and nutrition can delay or disrupt ovulation. Learn why continuous data gives a clearer picture than one-time lab tests. Understand how your insulin sensitivity shifts across your cycle (and how that affects cravings). Get empowered to interpret your hormone data and take control of your fertility journey. Sponsored by MIRA; opinions are our own. Guest Bio:  As the Clinical Manager at Mira, Rose assists healthcare professionals and providers to successfully use Mira with their patients. Through webinars, case reports, and one-on-one assistance she educates providers to effectively and confidently implement hormone monitoring in their practices. With over 10 years of experience as a natural family planning instructor trained in the Marquette Method and Sympto-Thermal Method, Rose has extensive experience assisting women using the Mira monitor for hormone monitoring and health promotion including women tracking their hormones in regular cycles, irregular cycles, postpartum amenorrhea, chemo-induced menopause, and perimenopause. Learn more about Mira and follow their socials: https://www.miracare.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mirafertility/ https://www.facebook.com/mirafertility/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS5Z-P55EpyB-eAnwZsvOdg https://www.tiktok.com/@mirafertility  Study link that we spoke about:  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10421863/ Get 20% off of any MIRA products by using this link: https://shop.miracare.com/discount/WHOLESOMEFERTILITY20?redirect=%2Fcollections%2Fhealthcare-experts-choice Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Join me inside The Wholesome Fertility Collective: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewholesomefertilitycollective   Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, host Michelle Oravitz breaks down one of the most common fertility myths, the belief that pregnancy can only occur on the exact day of ovulation. Popular culture and even many fertility apps often portray conception as a single-day event, but science tells a different story. The truth is, sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for up to five days, creating a much wider fertile window than most people realize. Michelle explains what the 5-day fertile window really means, why the "Day 14 ovulation" rule is misleading, and how women can better understand their unique cycles. She also shares practical guidance on tracking ovulation accurately using basal body temperature (BBT) charting, cervical mucus observation, LH strips, and hormone-monitoring devices. Key Takeaways:  How cervical mucus supports sperm survival and why hydration is essential. The impact of irregular cycles caused by thyroid health, PCOS, stress, or travel. Why fertility apps often fail to predict ovulation accurately. The best timing and frequency of intercourse to increase the chances of conception How intercourse during the luteal phase may help prime the immune system to receive an em Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. MIRA at home hormone testing: https://mira-fertility.pxf.io/Gm4AXV Use coupon code: WHOLESOMEFERTILITY FOR 15% OFF! Tempdrop Fertility Monitor – discounted link: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/AFWHOLESOMELOTUS Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

Should you really stay in bed after an embryo transfer? For years, many fertility clinics recommended 24–48 hours of strict bed rest, but research now reveals surprising insights: movement may actually support better outcomes. In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I explore what the latest studies say about bed rest versus gentle movement after transfer. I also share holistic, evidence-based practices from both Western research and Traditional Chinese Medicine that can help create the most supportive environment for implantation. You'll learn about the role of acupuncture before and after transfer, nourishing foods and supplements that enhance blood flow and uterine receptivity, and mind-body practices, from meditation to laughter therapy, that ease stress and boost outcomes. Whether you're preparing for an IVF cycle or supporting someone on this journey, this episode is packed with practical, compassionate guidance to empower you with knowledge and ease during this important stage. Key Takeaways: Extended bed rest after embryo transfer may not improve success rates and could reduce them. Gentle movement supports circulation and aligns with TCM principles for reducing stagnation. Acupuncture before and after transfer can significantly enhance implantation success. Warm, nourishing foods like bone broth and circulation-supporting foods like beets are beneficial. Supplements such as CoQ10, vitamin E, omega-3s, and L-arginine may support uterine health (always consult your clinic). Stress management, meditation, time off work, and even laughter therapy can positively impact outcomes. Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Join The Wholesome Fertility Collective here -https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewholesomefertilitycollective To get 20% off of MIRA products, click here: https://shop.miracare.com/discount/WHOLESOMEFERTILITY20?redirect=%2Fcollections%2Fhealthcare-experts-choice  Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus