Season 3 Episode 1

Optimizing Fertility: Your Complete Guide to Preconception Health

WITH YOUR HOSTS: Monica Grohne & Norah Candito, RD

In this comprehensive episode of The Flow State Podcast, hosts Monica Grohne and Norah Candido break down the essential aspects of preconception health and fertility optimization. Whether you're actively trying to conceive or planning for the future, understanding these fundamentals can help support your reproductive health journey.

Essential Preconception Nutrients

The hosts detail key nutrients for optimizing fertility:

  • Methylated folate (not folic acid) for neural tube development
  • Choline for implantation support
  • Vitamin D for hormonal health
  • Iron (when needed) in bisglycinate form
  • Omega-3s for inflammation management
  • CoQ10 for egg quality
  • Myo-inositol for ovulation support

Understanding Your Fertile Window

The episode emphasizes the importance of cycle tracking:

  • The fertile window spans 5-6 days per cycle
  • Basal body temperature tracking confirms ovulation
  • Cervical mucus changes indicate fertility
  • LH strips can predict ovulation
  • Tracking for several months helps identify patterns

Lifestyle Factors for Fertility

Key lifestyle considerations include:

  • Stress management techniques
  • Balanced exercise routine
  • Quality sleep habits
  • Moderate alcohol consumption
  • Environmental toxin reduction
  • Partner health optimization

Beyond the Basics

Important considerations often overlooked:

  • Male partner's role in conception
  • Importance of preconception appointments
  • Relationship maintenance during TTC
  • Mental health support
  • Building a healthcare team

Common Misconceptions

The hosts address several fertility myths and emphasize that while optimization is helpful, there's no guarantee of immediate success. They stress the importance of maintaining perspective and seeking support when needed.

Whether you're in the early stages of family planning or actively trying to conceive, focusing on these foundational elements can help create an optimal environment for conception while supporting overall health.

This episode underscores that while we can't control everything about fertility, we can take meaningful steps to support our reproductive health through proper nutrition, lifestyle choices, and mindful preparation.

This episode is brought to you by:

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About YOUR

HOSTS

Monica Grohne
Founder & CEO of Marea
Monica founded Marea after healing her own struggles with PMDD. She's on a mission to support women in feeling their best and stop dealing with hormonal symptoms through lifestyle and nutritional support.
Norah Candito, RD
Marea Medical Advisor & Founder of Nutrition with Norah
Norah is a Functional Registered Dietitian that specializes in Gut Health and Hormone Health. She is on a mission to spread menstrual empowerment to menstruating people of all ages. Her goal is to help you improve quality of life.