Fertility In Focus Podcast – Détails, épisodes et analyse

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 miscarriage
• How medical knowledge helped—but didn’t shield—her from the emotional weight of fertility struggles
• The physical and emotional rollercoaster of multiple failed IVF cycles, D&Cs, and testing
• The complexities of embryo testing, immune protocols, and the shift in medical opinions over time
• What led Andrea and her husband to choose gestational surrogacy—and the hurdles they faced along the way
• How Andrea’s new children’s book is helping represent and empower families of all kinds
  
  
  

Timestamps:
[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 involved

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/hq0nFOo

Join 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/

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 care

• The emotional impact of IUI, IVF, pregnancy loss, ectopic pregnancy and hormone treatments
• Why compassion and validation matter in fertility treatment

The power of mindset, self-advocacy, and community in fertility journeys
Michelle’s inspiring story of becoming a mom—and the unexpected miracle that followed

Timestamps:

[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 everything

Michelle's info:

Welcome to another episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Burns explores the fascinating relationship between jetlag, sleep disruption, and fertility. She dives deep into how maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm is essential for reproductive health and how jetlag can disrupt hormonal balance, impacting fertility outcomes.

Recent research has shown that circadian rhythm disruptions, such as jetlag, can interfere with processes like ovulation, implantation, and menstruation, which are crucial for successful conception. Dr. Burns offers practical advice on managing jetlag to protect your fertility, including tips on sleep, supplements, and lifestyle changes.

In this episode, you will learn:

• How circadian rhythms and sleep impact fertility and early pregnancy outcomes
• The role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in regulating stress and reproduction
• How jetlag and sleep disturbances affect hormonal balance and reproductive health
• Strategies to minimize the negative impact of jetlag on fertility
• Tips for managing jetlag during travel, including supplement recommendations like melatonin and magnesium
• How both men and women are affected by circadian rhythm disruptions

Timestamps:

[00:01:00] Introduction: How jetlag impacts fertility
[00:25:00] Circadian rhythms, hormonal regulation, and fertility
[01:07:00] The effect of jetlag on ovulation, implantation, and menstruation
[03:05:00] Jetlag’s impact on PCOS and hormonal regulation
[05:53:00] Practical tips for managing jetlag and optimizing fertility
[07:32:00] Supplement recommendations for sleep and energy during travel
[08:48:00] Conclusion: The importance of maintaining healthy circadian rhythms for fertility

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."

Tune in for insights on how to manage jetlag and protect your fertility while traveling!


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/hq0nFOo

Join 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/ 

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Christina Burns welcomes Dr. Gabriella Safdieh, an integrative medicine doctor specializing in women's health and fertility. Dr. Safdieh shares her insights on the holistic approach to treating fertility issues, the importance of addressing root causes, and the various tests and treatments used in integrative medicine. Learn how combining natural and conventional medicine can optimize your reproductive health and overall well-being.

In this episode, you will learn:

• What integrative medicine is and how it differs from conventional medicine.
• The importance of understanding and addressing root causes in women's health.
• The various diagnostic tests and treatments used in integrative medicine.
• How lifestyle changes, nutrition, and alternative therapies like acupuncture can optimize fertility.
• Practical steps to start incorporating integrative medicine into your routine.

Timestamps:

• [00:01:20] Welcoming Dr. Gabriella Safdieh and her background in integrative medicine
• [00:03:00] What is integrative medicine?
• [00:05:00] Differences between integrative and conventional medicine
• [00:07:00] Testing and diagnostics used in integrative medicine
• [00:10:00] Personal journey of Dr. Safdieh into integrative medicine
• [00:15:00] Common women's health issues treated with integrative medicine
• [00:20:00] Addressing PCOS and hormonal imbalances
• [00:25:00] Importance of nutrition, stress management, and lifestyle changes
• [00:30:00] Case study: Unexplained infertility and integrative treatments
• [00:40:00] How to start incorporating integrative medicine into your routine

About Dr. Gabriella Safdieh:

Dr. Gabriella Safdieh, an integrative medicine doctor specializing in women's health and fertility, is the founder of Novella Health.

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/hq0nFOo

Join 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/ 

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Christina Burns explores the incredible benefits of royal jelly for fertility. Learn how this bee product can enhance hormonal balance, improve egg and sperm quality, and support overall reproductive health. Dr. Burns provides practical tips on how to incorporate royal jelly into your daily routine for optimal fertility outcomes.

In this episode, you will learn:

• The health-promoting properties of royal jelly and how it supports fertility.
• How royal jelly can help balance hormones and improve egg and sperm quality.
• Practical tips for sourcing and incorporating royal jelly into your daily routine.
• The importance of consistency in using royal jelly for fertility enhancement.

Timestamps:

• [00:01:20] Overview of royal jelly and its benefits
• [00:03:00] Health-promoting properties of royal jelly
• [00:05:00] Royal jelly's impact on hormonal balance
• [00:07:00] Research on royal jelly and fertility
• [00:10:00] Effects on egg quality and sperm health
• [00:15:00] Practical tips for incorporating royal jelly into your routine
• [00:20:00] How to source high-quality royal jelly

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/hq0nFOo

Join 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/ 

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Christina Burns delves into the critical role of sleep in enhancing fertility. Discover how the amount and quality of sleep can impact your reproductive health, and learn practical tips to optimize your sleep for better fertility outcomes.

In this episode, you will learn:

• How sleep affects hormone production and menstrual cycles.
• The ideal amount of sleep for boosting fertility.
• The risks of sleep deprivation and oversleeping on reproductive health.
• Practical lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments to improve sleep quality.
• Natural remedies that can enhance your sleep and, in turn, your fertility.

Timestamps:

• [00:01:20] Overview of sleep and its importance for overall health
• [00:03:00] Research on sleep and fertility
• [00:07:00] Effects of sleep deprivation on reproductive health
• [00:15:00] Impact of oversleeping on fertility
• [00:20:00] Ideal amount of sleep for optimal fertility
• [00:25:00] Practical tips for improving sleep quality
• [00:30:00] Lifestyle changes to enhance sleep
• [00:35:00] Natural remedies for better sleep

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/hq0nFOo

Join 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/ 

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Christina Burns explores the incredible benefits of goji berries for enhancing fertility. Learn how this ancient superfood can improve both egg and sperm quality through its powerful antioxidant properties. Dr. Burns delves into the research behind goji berries, their traditional uses in Chinese medicine, and practical ways to incorporate them into your daily routine for optimal reproductive health.

In this episode, you will learn:

• The history and traditional uses of goji berries in Chinese medicine.
• How goji berries' powerful antioxidant properties can enhance fertility.
• The specific benefits of goji berries for both male and female reproductive health.
• Practical tips on how to incorporate goji berries into your diet for optimal results.
• Age-related fertility challenges and how goji berries can help combat them.

Timestamps:

• [00:01:20] Overview of goji berries and their historical significance
• [00:03:00] The science behind goji berries' antioxidant properties
• [00:07:00] Research on goji berries' effects on male fertility
• [00:15:00] Practical tips for men: Avoiding heat damage to sperm
• [00:20:00] Goji berries and female fertility: Benefits and studies
• [00:25:00] Practical advice on consuming goji berries
• [00:30:00] Addressing age-related fertility challenges
• [00:35:00] Summary and daily dosage recommendations
• [00:40:00] Closing remarks and community engagement

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/hq0nFOo

Join 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/ 

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Christina Burns welcomes Lori Metz, a therapist specializing in fertility, to discuss the journey of becoming a donor parent. Lori shares her insights on the emotional aspects, the impact of donor conception, and the importance of transparency and support. This episode provides valuable information for anyone considering donor conception and navigating the complexities of the fertility journey.

In this episode, you will learn:

• The importance of early conversations about donor conception options.
• The emotional and psychological aspects of becoming a donor parent.
• How epigenetics plays a role in donor conception.
• Strategies for addressing societal judgments and family opinions.
• The importance of transparency and support for donor-conceived children.
• Practical tips for preparing to be a parent of a donor child.

Timestamps:

• [00:03:00] Discussing the importance of early conversations about donor options
• [00:10:00] Emotional aspects and challenges of donor conception
• [00:20:00] The role of epigenetics in donor conception
• [00:30:00] Addressing societal judgments and family opinions
• [00:40:00] Preparing to be a parent of a donor child
• [00:50:00] The importance of transparency and support for donor-conceived children
• [01:00:00] Lori's resources and contact information

About Lori Metz:

Lori Metz, LCSW, CCM, BC-TMH. Therapist Specializing in Fertility: Lori works with individuals, couples, and groups on their journey to conception, offering workshops and therapy sessions. Author: Lori wrote "I Dreamed of You," a story about an egg donor baby. Podcast Host: Lori hosts the podcast "Life, Love, Insight, Fertility Experience." Initiative Advocate: Lori is working on including donor conception and adoption in the medical intake process.

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/hq0nFOo

Join 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/ 

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Christina Burns discusses six effective ways to reverse PCOS naturally. Drawing from personal experience and clinical practice, Dr. Burns provides actionable steps to manage and overcome PCOS symptoms. Learn about the role of exercise, nutrition, herbs, acupuncture, stress management, and toxin reduction in reversing PCOS. In today’s episode, Dr. Christina Burns delves into PCOS—a common but often underdiagnosed condition affecting women. Drawing from her own journey and extensive clinical experience, Dr. Burns discusses top natural strategies for managing PCOS, from diet and exercise to herbal remedies and acupuncture.

In this episode, you will learn:

• Understand the critical role of exercise and nutrition in managing PCOS symptoms and enhancing fertility.
• Learn how Chinese herbs and acupuncture can naturally regulate your cycle and improve reproductive health.
• Discover the importance of managing stress and reducing toxin exposure for better hormone balance and overall well-being.

Timestamps:

• 00:02:10 - Introduction to PCOS and why it’s underdiagnosed.
• 00:15:30 - The role of exercise in managing insulin resistance and inflammation.
• 00:25:45 - How tailored nutrition can positively impact PCOS and fertility.
• 00:35:00 - The benefits of Chinese herbs and acupuncture for fertility.
• 00:45:30 - Managing stress and reducing toxin exposure to improve hormone balance.

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/hq0nFOo

Join 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/ 

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Fertility in Focus Podcast with your host, Dr. Christina Burns. In this episode, Dr. Christina Burns is joined by licensed mental health counselor Justine Carino to discuss the critical topic of anxiety and trauma during the fertility journey. Learn about the physiological effects of anxiety, the impact of trauma on fertility, and practical strategies to manage these challenges. Justine shares her expertise on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), group support, and other therapeutic methods to help you navigate the emotional complexities of fertility treatment.

In this episode, you will learn:

• Understanding Anxiety: Justine explains the physiological basis of anxiety and how our fight or flight response, which once protected us from danger, can now be triggered by modern stressors like fertility challenges.
• The Role of Trauma in Fertility: Discover how trauma, particularly related to past fertility experiences, can impact your mental health and your fertility journey.
• Coping Strategies: Justine shares effective ways to manage anxiety, including communication techniques with your partner, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and the benefits of group support.
• Impact on Relationships: Explore how anxiety and trauma can strain relationships during fertility treatments, and learn strategies to improve communication and understanding with your partner.

Timestamps:

• 00:01:15 - Introduction to anxiety and its physiological effects on the body.
• 00:10:20 - Understanding trauma and its impact on the fertility journey.
• 00:20:45 - Strategies for managing anxiety and improving communication with your partner.
• 00:35:30 - Therapeutic approaches: CBT, EMDR, and group support.
• 00:50:00 - Justine’s advice on maintaining mental health during fertility challenges.

About Justine Carino:

Justine Carino is a licensed mental health counselor with a private practice in New York. She specializes in treating anxiety and has a wealth of knowledge and experience in helping individuals manage their mental health. Justine is also the host of the "Thoughts from the Couch" podcast, where she discusses various mental health topics and shares strategies for emotional well-being.

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/hq0nFOo

Join 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/&