Ep 383 A New Way to Freeze Your Eggs: Retreats, Community, and Holistic Care

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by Aliza Virani (@thefertilitycoliving), founder of The Fertility Co-Living, to explore a completely new approach to egg freezing that combines medical care, holistic wellness, and community. Aliza shares her personal journey through egg freezing, including the emotional challenges, high financial costs, and lack of support she experienced. After spending thousands of dollars on a cycle that resulted in only a few eggs, she knew there had to be a better way, which led her to create a retreat-style experience where women can go through egg freezing together while receiving both clinical and holistic support. In this episode, we discuss the true cost of egg freezing in North America, why more women are choosing to go abroad, and how integrating nervous system regulation, nutrition, and community can improve both the experience and outcomes. This is a powerful conversation that brings a more human, supported, and intentional approach to fertility care. Key Takeaways: Egg freezing in North America can cost up to $20,000 per cycle. Many women feel isolated and unsupported during the process. Going abroad can significantly reduce costs and improve access. Holistic practices may support egg quality and overall outcomes. Nervous system regulation plays a key role in fertility health. Community support can transform the emotional experience. Guest Bio: Aliza Virani (@thefertilitycoliving) is the founder of The Fertility Co-Living, a retreat-style experience that merges medical care, holistic wellness, and community for women freezing their eggs abroad. Inspired by her own difficult and costly egg-freezing journey in Canada, Aliza created a new model of fertility care that supports women emotionally, physically, and financially. With a background as a luxury events producer for brands like Prada and Harper's Bazaar, she brings a unique perspective to designing meaningful, elevated experiences. Her work is redefining how women approach egg freezing by combining science, holistic health, and connection. SOCIAL MEDIA / ADDITIONAL LINKS Website: www.thefertilitycoliving.com Instagram: @thefertilitycolivingEmail: [email protected] 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 Fertility Summit on April 21st - https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-fertility-shift-summit-2026  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 Ariane de Bonvoisin (@arianedebonvoisin), author of Spirit Mama, to explore the deeper connection between the mind, body, and spirit in the fertility journey. Ariane shares her personal story from corporate success to navigating fertility challenges including miscarriage and IVF, and how it led her to redefine what it means to become a mother. We discuss the hidden emotional patterns like control, perfection, and self-judgment, and how awareness of these can create powerful shifts. We also dive into reconnecting with the body, trusting your inner voice, and cultivating a relationship with something greater than yourself. This conversation offers a more compassionate, holistic perspective for anyone feeling like something is missing from the conventional fertility approach. Key Takeaways:  Fertility is not just physical; emotional and spiritual factors matter. Control, perfection, and self-judgment can block natural flow. Reconnecting with your body is essential for conception. Awareness and self-compassion create powerful internal shifts. Your relationship with life influences your fertility journey. There are many ways to "mother" beyond physical birth. Guest Bio:  Ariane de Bonvoisin (@arianedebonvoisin) is an author, elite coach, and speaker who lives globally between New York, Switzerland, and Cape Town with her partner Alfie and their 12-year-old son Everest. She specializes in helping people navigate major life transitions and is now bringing that expertise to the fertility and motherhood journey through her Spirit Mama book series. She has spoken and coached at companies such as Google, Twitter, Morgan Stanley, Investec, The IDB, KPMG, L'Oreal, Amazon, Nestle, and Redbull amongst others, and has been a keynote at events including Oprah's Conference and Maria Shriver's Women's Conference. Beyond the corporate world, Ariane works with schools and teachers in the US and worldwide, doing readings and fun workshops with kids and educators, speaking for the ASBO (Association of School Business Officials), and keynoting at Board of Education events. Her TED talk, "The Skills We Need to Teach Our Kids," has resonated with audiences worldwide. Ariane has appeared on dozens of TV and radio shows, including NBC's Today Show, the CBS Early Show, CNN, and ABC News Now. Connect with Ariane: Website: https://www.arianedebonvoisin.com/ Spirit Mama: https://spiritmamabook.com/ Instagram (Spirit Mama): https://www.instagram.com/spiritmamaofficial/ Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/arianedebonvoisin/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arianed1/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Ariane-de-Bonvoisin/100063747638605/   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 Fertility Summit on April 21st - https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-fertility-shift-summit-2026 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 deeply moving episode, I sit down with a former client to share her powerful trying-to-conceive journey, one that began with endometriosis, frustration, and the quiet fear that her body was "failing" her. For nearly two years, she did everything "right." She saw specialists, monitored cysts, adjusted her diet, optimized her lifestyle, and pushed herself to stay positive. But behind the structure and to-do lists was a nervous system under pressure and a heart carrying more than it should. In this conversation, she opens up about the emotional breaking point that changed everything, the moment she shifted from "What's wrong with me?" to "What do you need from me?" We talk about boundaries, reconnecting with joy, meditation, surrender, and the unexpected spiritual signs that preceded her pregnancy, including vivid dreams, intuitive moments, and a powerful final act of letting go. This episode is a reminder that fertility is not just physical. It is relational. It is emotional. It is deeply personal. And sometimes, the shift that changes everything isn't another supplement or protocol, it's a transformation in how we relate to ourselves. If you've ever felt ashamed, behind, exhausted, or like you're carrying this alone, this story will meet you exactly where you are. You are not broken. And you do not have to walk this journey alone. Key Takeaways: Fertility journeys often involve emotional highs and lows, and learning to shift from self-blame to self-compassion can be a powerful turning point. Nervous system support through practices like meditation, boundaries, and reconnecting with joy can play a meaningful role in supporting fertility. Lifestyle changes such as nutrition, stress reduction, sunlight, and movement can help create a more supportive environment for conception. Letting go of control and embracing surrender can open the door to deeper trust in the body and the fertility process. Many women experience intuitive or spiritual moments on their fertility journey, reminding them they are not alone in the process. 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 am joined by Marta Han and Zsofia Jamieson, founders of The Fertility Class @thefertilityclass and teachers of the Aviva Method, a pelvic centered movement practice designed to support hormonal balance and fertility. In this conversation, we explore how targeted rhythmic movement can improve circulation to the reproductive organs, support communication between the brain and ovaries, and help regulate the menstrual cycle. Marta shares her personal story of recovering from hypothalamic amenorrhea after years of overtraining and undernourishing her body, while Zsofia talks about overcoming PCOS symptoms and restoring her cycles through fertility focused movement. We also discuss how gentle, intentional movement can reduce pelvic stagnation, calm the nervous system, and create a sense of safety in the body, which is essential for ovulation and reproductive health. Marta and Zsofia explain how the Aviva Method works, why it is different from traditional workouts, and how many women notice improvements in ovulation, cervical mucus, PMS symptoms, and overall hormonal balance. If you are trying to conceive naturally, navigating irregular cycles, or simply looking for a supportive way to reconnect with your body and reproductive health, this episode offers a powerful perspective on movement as medicine for fertility. Key Takeaways: The Aviva Method uses rhythmic pelvic focused movement to improve blood flow to the uterus and ovaries and support reproductive health. Gentle and intentional movement can help regulate the nervous system and create the sense of safety the body needs for ovulation. Pelvic stagnation from long hours of sitting and chronic stress may impact fertility and hormonal balance. Movement that targets the pelvic region can support communication between the brain and reproductive organs. Many women report improvements in cycle regularity, ovulation timing, PMS symptoms, and cervical mucus after consistent practice. Guest Bio: Marta is a health coach, certified yoga teacher, and Aviva Method instructor. After navigating infertility and hormonal imbalance herself, she restored her health naturally through movement, nutrition, and holistic practices. With over a decade of experience and a background as a competitive ballroom dancer, Marta combines specialized knowledge with deep body awareness to help women restore hormonal balance and support fertility naturally. Zsofia is a certified Aviva Method teacher, entrepreneur, and former fashion executive. Diagnosed with severe PCOS as a teenager and told she might never conceive, she healed naturally through movement and nutrition. After leading global strategy for brands like Net-A-Porter, she introduced the Aviva Method from Hungary to the UK and US. Today, she dedicates her work to helping women worldwide reconnect with their bodies and reproductive health. Connect with Marta Han and Zsofia Jamieson: Visit their website: https://thefertilityclass.com  Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefertilityclass/ Fertility class: Use coupon code MICHELLE for a discount https://myclass.thefertilityclass.com/a/2148088258/B7vhx2Qo 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 am joined by Ch-a Mosley (@pregnancyoverforty), the inspiring voice behind Pregnancy Over 40. Cha shares her incredible story of naturally conceiving at 46 and welcoming her daughter at 47 after being told that motherhood later in life was unlikely. In this conversation, we talk about the realities of fertility after 40, the mindset shifts that can support a fertility journey, and how lifestyle factors such as nutrition, movement, emotional health, and reducing environmental toxins can influence reproductive health. Cha opens up about her experience with miscarriage, finding hope again, and why she believes women deserve more empowering messages about fertility and age. We also explore holistic fertility support, including how acupuncture can improve blood flow, regulate the nervous system, and support overall reproductive health. This episode is a powerful reminder that statistics do not define your fertility journey and that there are many factors that can influence fertility and natural conception.  Key Takeaways:  Pregnancy after 40 is possible and fertility statistics do not define your personal fertility journey. Mindset, hope, and emotional resilience can play an important role in supporting fertility. Lifestyle choices such as whole foods, regular movement, and reducing toxins may support egg quality and hormonal health. Acupuncture may improve circulation to the uterus and ovaries which can support reproductive health. Creating a supportive emotional and physical environment may help support conception and pregnancy Guest Bio:  Ch-a Mosley (@pregnancyoverforty)  is the inspiring voice behind Pregnancy Over 40, a platform she created after naturally conceiving at 46 and giving birth at 47. Her journey challenges societal norms around age and motherhood, offering hope to women who are being told it's too late. Through her empowering content on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, Ch-a shares personal insights on fertility, hormonal health, miscarriage, and motherhood over 40. She speaks candidly about her lived experience, including managing stress, nutrition, and healing after loss—and emphasizes a holistic, hope-filled approach to wellness and conception. Her mission is to uplift, inform, and empower women to trust their bodies, embrace their timing, and know that motherhood later in life is possible and beautiful. Connect with Ch-a: Visit Ch-a website www.pregnancyoverforty.com  Follow her on Instagram @pregnancyoverforty (IG, TT, YT) 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 sits down with Aimee Raupp (@aimeeraupp) to explore the latest breakthroughs in fertility science and ovarian rejuvenation. From PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy and rapamycin to senolytics, peptides, and low-dose naltrexone (LDN), this conversation dives into emerging tools that may support egg quality, ovarian function, and fertility after 35. They also challenge long-standing scientific dogma around ovarian aging and discuss whether women are truly born with all the eggs they'll ever have. If you're navigating diminished ovarian reserve, PCOS, endometriosis, insulin resistance, or age-related fertility concerns, this episode offers cutting-edge insights and practical hope grounded in evolving research. Key Takeaways: PRP ovarian rejuvenation may improve ovarian function and support natural conception in some women. Emerging research questions the belief that women are born with all their eggs, opening new conversations about ovarian aging and regeneration. Rapamycin and senolytics (like fisetin) are being studied for their potential role in delaying ovarian aging and reducing inflammation. Peptide therapy may support hormonal balance, egg quality, insulin sensitivity, and conditions like PCOS. Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) may help regulate immune function, reduce inflammation, and support fertility outcomes in certain cases. Guest Bio: Aimee Raupp (@aimeeraupp) , MS, LAc, is a leading fertility expert, licensed acupuncturist, women's health advocate, and bestselling author dedicated to helping women improve egg quality, balance hormones, and optimize their ability to get and stay pregnant, naturally or with IVF. She is the author of Chill Out & Get Healthy, Yes, You Can Get Pregnant, Body Belief, and The Egg Quality Diet, a clinically proven 100-day fertility program designed to reduce inflammation and enhance reproductive health. With over 20 years of clinical experience, Aimee works with clients worldwide through virtual fertility coaching and treats patients at her New York and Connecticut clinics. She is the founder of Aimee Raupp Beauty and co-founder of Rejoova, a science-backed fertility supplement company supporting egg and sperm health. Her work has been featured on The View and in Glamour, Allure, Shape, Well + Good, MindBodyGreen, and GOOP, with endorsements from leaders in wellness and personal development. Connect with Aimee Raupp: Visit her websiteFollow her on Instagram Follow her on Tiktok Learn more Healthgevity here For more information on working with Aimee and her team of fertility coaches and acupuncturists, email [email protected] 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 Jay Campbell (@jaycampbell333), health optimization expert, author, and founder of BioLongevity Labs, to explore the powerful intersection of peptides, metabolic health, and fertility. Jay shares how therapeutic peptides like HCG, HMG, and GLP compounds can support male fertility, insulin resistance, and metabolic balance when used correctly. We discuss the rise of GLP-1 medications, why microdosing matters, and how inflammation and visceral fat are major contributors to declining fertility rates. Beyond the physical, we also dive into mindset, consciousness, and how belief systems impact healing and reproductive outcomes. This conversation bridges cutting-edge science with empowered awareness, and offers a new perspective on fertility optimization in the modern world. Key Takeaways: Therapeutic peptides such as HCG and HMG can help stimulate FSH and LH to support male fertility. Chronic inflammation and visceral fat are major drivers of insulin resistance and declining fertility. GLP-1 medications can be helpful tools when microdosed and combined with proper lifestyle habits. Insulin-controlled living and metabolic flexibility are foundational for hormonal balance. Sustainable fat loss requires resistance training, adequate protein intake, and hormonal optimization. Environmental toxins and endocrine disruptors contribute to the global fertility decline. Mindset and consciousness play a significant role in healing, longevity, and reproductive success. Guest Bio:  Jay Campbell (@jaycampbell333) is a global authority in hormone optimization, peptides, and human longevity, a five-time international bestselling author, and the co-founder of BioLongevity Labs—often called "the Amazon for biohackers." For more than two decades, he has led the field of metabolic health and anti-aging science, helping millions enhance vitality, repair their biology, and take control of their health. Known for cutting through misinformation, Jay translates complex biomedical research into practical, real-world strategies with integrity and no-BS clarity, blending cutting-edge science with a consciousness-driven approach that elevates biology, mindset, identity, and purpose. He is also the author of the upcoming book Metabolic Awakening, which addresses the global misuse of GLP drugs and introduces the first responsible, science-aligned framework for microdosing GLP peptides to support long-term metabolic repair rather than temporary weight loss. Connect with Jay: Follow him on InstagramVisit his website  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 Dr. Nathan S. Bryan (@drnathansbryan), a leading scientist and world-renowned expert in nitric oxide research. We explore why nitric oxide is foundational for fertility, blood flow, hormone health, and longevity, and how poor nitric oxide production impacts egg quality, uterine lining, sperm motility, insulin sensitivity, and mitochondrial function. Dr. Bryan also breaks down common misconceptions around beet supplements, mouthwash, fluoride, and medications that can quietly block nitric oxide production. This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to conceive, navigating hormonal imbalances, or looking to support long-term reproductive and metabolic health by addressing root causes. Key Takeaways: Why blood flow to the uterus, ovaries, and testes is essential for conception and IVF success How nitric oxide supports cellular energy, oxygen delivery, and reproductive function The connection between nitric oxide, blood sugar regulation, and PCOS Why nitric oxide is critical for energy production, aging, and cellular repair How sugar, fluoride, mouthwash, and acid-blocking medications impair nitric oxide production Guest Bio: Dr. Nathan S. Bryan @drnathansbryan is a leading scientist, biotech entrepreneur, and expert in nitric oxide research. With over 100 peer-reviewed publications and numerous patents, his groundbreaking work has revolutionized the understanding of human health, longevity, and performance. A former professor of molecular medicine, Dr. Bryan left academia to challenge Big Pharma and misinformation, creating science-backed solutions for optimizing health. He is the author of The Secret of Nitric Oxide and founder of drnathansbryan.com, where he empowers individuals to reclaim their health and defy aging. Dr. Bryan's mission is to educate and lead a health revolution focused on nitric oxide's powerful benefits for longevity and peak performance. Connect with Dr. Nathan: Follow him on Instagram for more updates Click here to check out Dr. Bryan's Nitric Oxide Supplements: Use coupon code FERTILITY10 to get a 10% discount! 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 episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle explores the powerful connection between creativity and fertility, revealing the science behind why women often feel more inspired during their fertile window. Drawing from a 2022 study published in Frontiers in Psychology, she breaks down research showing that originality peaks during ovulation and explains how fertility hormones influence creativity, brain chemistry, and emotional openness. Michelle also asks a deeper question: could creativity itself support fertility? Blending neuroscience, nervous system regulation, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and hormonal health, she explains how creative flow can reduce stress, activate the parasympathetic nervous system, and support reproductive function. This episode offers a fresh, holistic perspective for anyone trying to conceive, recovering from burnout, or seeking to reconnect with their natural life force through creativity and flow. Key Takeaways: Creativity naturally peaks during ovulation, especially in originality and novelty Creative states calm the nervous system and reduce fertility-disrupting stress hormones From a TCM perspective, creativity and fertility are governed by the same principle: flow Engaging in creativity can help regulate hormones, emotions, and reproductive energy Fertility is not just biological, it is energetic, emotional, and expressive 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  

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women worldwide, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and frequently misdiagnosed hormonal conditions. In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle is joined by Megan Stewart, Founder and Executive Director of the PCOS Awareness Association, to unpack why PCOS can look so different from person to person and why so many women struggle for years before receiving real answers. Megan shares her powerful personal journey, from experiencing symptoms as young as nine years old to navigating years of medical dismissal, a PCOS diagnosis at sixteen, and later cervical cancer. Together, Michelle and Megan explore how PCOS impacts fertility, mental health, metabolism, and the nervous system, including insulin resistance, elevated testosterone, anxiety, depression, and cycle irregularity. This conversation also offers hope, highlighting supportive approaches such as acupuncture, lifestyle rhythm, nervous system regulation, and holistic care that can help restore balance and empower women to trust their bodies again. Key Takeaways: PCOS symptoms and why they vary so widely Misdiagnosis and common PCOS myths Hormones, insulin resistance, and fertility challenges The overlooked mental health impact of PCOS Acupuncture, holistic care, and nervous system support Building community, advocacy, and real-world resources Guest Bio: Megan Stewart is the Founder and Executive Director of PCOS Awareness Association, one of the leading organizations dedicated to education, advocacy, and support for people with PCOS. She works to close the diagnosis gap, improve healthcare equity, and empower individuals to understand and advocate for their own bodies. Through community programs and nationwide initiatives, Megan champions compassionate, evidence-based PCOS care. Connect with Megan: Visit their websiteFollow them on Instagram for more updates 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