Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Period Recovery Podcast

You’re eating more, exercising less, and maybe even gaining weight… so why hasn’t your period returned?

If you’re struggling with a missing period due to functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), you may feel like you’re doing everything you’re supposed to do to get your menstrual cycle back. You’ve increased your food intake, reduced your workouts, challenged food rules, and tried to be patient. Yet every month, you’re still wondering when your period will return.

In this episode of the Period Recovery Podcast, I’m sharing why period recovery can be more complicated than simply eating more and resting more, and why the missing pieces are often difficult to recognize when you’re the one going through it.

As a registered dietitian who has personally experienced hypothalamic amenorrhea and supported women through period recovery, I know how exhausting it can be to question every meal, every workout, and every change in your body.

We’ll explore the nutrition, movement, mindset, and individual factors that can influence your recovery, along with the deeper fears that can make it difficult to give your body what it needs.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

• Why eating more and exercising less may not be enough for every woman with a missing period.

• Why weight gain alone cannot tell you whether your body has everything it needs to restore menstrual function.

• How daily movement, exercise demands, meal timing, food choices, and overall energy availability can affect recovery.

• Why perfectionism, calorie counting, fear of weight gain, and rigid food rules can keep you mentally stuck during recovery.

• Why your previous period weight or a commonly recommended calorie target cannot determine what your individual body needs.

• Why getting one period back is an important milestone, but consistent menstrual cycles matter too.

• How to move beyond constantly analyzing food and exercise decisions and build a more sustainable relationship with your body.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Getting your period back is important, but recovery can also be an opportunity to build a life where food, exercise, and your body no longer dictate every decision.

You deserve to enjoy meals with friends, move your body without feeling compelled to, pursue pregnancy if that’s your goal, and experience life without constantly wondering whether you’re doing enough.

If you’ve been trying to restore your period for months or years and feel like you’re missing something, you don’t have to keep guessing alone.

WORK WITH CYNTHIA

https://www.periodnutritionist.com/applyforcoaching

Recipe for a Period® is my period recovery coaching program for women who want individualized nutrition guidance, support with movement and recovery, and help working through the beliefs and fears that can make recovery so challenging.

#HypothalamicAmenorrhea #PeriodRecovery #MissingPeriod

Learn more:

New to HA? Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Trying +3 months to get your period back? Click here to download the Safety Worksheet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theperiodnutritionist 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Have you been told you're in perimenopause, experiencing early menopause, or running out of time to have children because your period has disappeared? Before accepting that diagnosis, it's important to look at the full picture.

In this episode of The Period Recovery Podcast, I'm joined by Jenn Huber, registered dietitian, menopause nutritionist, and author of Eat to Thrive During Menopause, to discuss the differences between hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), perimenopause, and menopause.

One of the most frustrating things I see in my work with women who have lost their periods is how quickly the conversation can turn to declining fertility, hormone replacement therapy, or medication without fully investigating what might be contributing to their missing cycles.

Hypothalamic amenorrhea can occur when the body isn't getting the energy or recovery it needs to support reproductive function. And while HA and perimenopause can share symptoms, they are not the same thing. Getting the right evaluation matters, especially when your long-term health, bone health, and fertility may be affected.

We also talk about something that often gets overlooked: your relationship with food, exercise, and your body. You can regain your period and still feel trapped by calorie counting, rigid food rules, and the pressure to control your weight. Recovery is about more than getting a bleed. It's about creating a life that no longer revolves around those rules.

A reminder: This conversation is educational and isn't intended to diagnose or replace individualized medical care. Missing periods warrant medical evaluation, and several conditions—including HA, thyroid disorders, and premature ovarian insufficiency—may need to be considered. Perimenopause is primarily assessed through age, symptoms, and menstrual history, while hormone tests may help investigate specific questions. No single result should be used in isolation.

Learn more about period recovery and working with Cynthia Donovan, MS, RDN: periodnutritionist.com.

If you're navigating a missing period, have been told you're entering early menopause, or feel stuck trying to figure out what your body needs, you don't have to keep guessing. Learn more about working with Cynthia and the Recipe for a Period® program at periodnutritionist.com.

Cynthia's past episode with Kayla as referenced: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/she-was-told-she-had-diminished-ovarian-reserve-but/id1623840946?i=1000787582492

Resources mentioned:

www.menopausenutritionist.ca

https://themidlifefeast.buzzsprout.com/

Find Jenn Huber on Instagram: @menopause.nutritionist

Jenn's book: Eat to Thrive During Menopause

Dr. Jenn Salib Huber is a registered dietitian, naturopathic doctor, intuitive eating counselor, and author of Eat to Thrive in Menopause. Blending science, storytelling, and a healthy dose of humor, Jenn’s work challenges the belief that health and happiness are measured on a scale. Jenn’s message is clear: your midlife body is not a problem to fix, it’s a partner to nourish!

What happens after you get your period back?

For years, I thought that getting my period back would be the end of the story.

After years of a missing period, fertility struggles, being told I had PCOS, and eventually discovering that hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) was behind my absent cycle, getting my period back felt like the finish line.

But it wasn't.

This is Part 4 — the final chapter of my hypothalamic amenorrhea story.

In this episode, I share what happened after period recovery: becoming a mother, struggling with postpartum anxiety and control, navigating my husband's devastating diagnosis, and eventually finding myself on a much deeper spiritual and personal path.

Looking back, I can see that my HA recovery prepared me for much more than having a menstrual cycle.

It taught me how to:

• Nourish myself even when life feels uncertain
• Stop trying to control every outcome
• Listen to my body instead of constantly overriding it
• Build self-trust
• Tolerate uncertainty and difficult seasons
• Let go of perfectionism
• Live my life instead of waiting for the next thing to happen

Your period is a goal. Your fertility may be a goal. But neither one has to become the thing your entire life revolves around.

Because sometimes period recovery itself can become another project for the Type A, high-achieving woman.

Another thing to perfect.
Another thing to monitor.
Another thing that has to happen before you can finally feel okay.

But what if the deeper work is learning how to live fully while you're waiting?

That's the work I now bring into Recipe for a Period® — not just helping women eat more, exercise less, and get their periods back, but helping them build the self-trust and flexibility to actually live differently.

If you're struggling with a missing period or hypothalamic amenorrhea, I hope this four-part story gives you a glimpse into what recovery can really look like — and what can become possible on the other side.

START HERE:

If you haven't listened to parts 1-3 of my HA story, go back and listen to those first: Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3.

This episode is the continuation and conclusion of that story.

WORK WITH ME:
If you're ready to work toward getting your period back and want support through the process, you can apply for Recipe for a Period®.

CONNECT WITH ME:
Instagram: @period.nutritionist
Website: periodnutritionist.com

If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to the Period Recovery Podcast and leave a review, leaving a review is an amazing way to share your gratitude with me AND could help other women find this life changing resource. 

<3 Cynthia

This is Part 3 of my personal hypothalamic amenorrhea recovery story.

If you haven't listened to Part 1 and Part 2 yet, go back and start there. In those episodes, I share how I lost my period, struggled with infertility, was diagnosed with hypothalamic amenorrhea, and eventually found my way through recovery.

In Part 3, I continue the story into motherhood.

After years of infertility, I eventually got my period back, became pregnant, and later unexpectedly conceived my second son naturally.

But getting my period back wasn't the end of my healing.

I talk about postpartum anxiety, breastfeeding, sleep deprivation, motherhood, and the unexpected realization that my relationship with control had simply changed forms.

I had healed so much of my rigidity around food, exercise, and my body, but I still had a deep need for predictability and control. In motherhood, that showed up through feeding schedules, sleep schedules, routines, and struggling with the uncertainty that comes with having young children.

I also share my experience of asking for help, leaning on friends and family, going to therapy, and eventually using medication to support my mental health.

Most importantly, this episode explores the deeper lesson I took from both period recovery and motherhood:

Maybe safety doesn't come from controlling everything.

Maybe it comes from knowing that whatever happens, you can handle it.

Listen to Part 1 and Part 2 first, then join me for this next chapter of my story—and stay tuned for Part 4, where I share what happened in 2020 when life changed in a way I never could have anticipated.

If you're navigating hypothalamic amenorrhea, missing periods, infertility, body image struggles, food and exercise rigidity, postpartum anxiety, or the deeper layers of recovery, I hope this episode helps you see that recovery can give you so much more than a period.

It can give you your life back.

Apply for Recipe for a Period coaching w/Cynthia: https://www.periodnutritionist.com/applyforcoaching

New to HA? Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Trying +3 months to get your period back? Click here to download the Safety Worksheet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theperiodnutritionist 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

What if the diagnosis you've been given isn't the whole story?

Kayla spent years believing her missing period was caused by stress, work, and travel. After developing an eating disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic, losing a significant amount of weight, restricting her food, and continuing to exercise, her menstrual cycle became increasingly irregular and eventually disappeared.

Then doctors told her she had diminished ovarian reserve and was on a trajectory toward early menopause.

She was told she might have only a limited amount of time left to preserve her fertility. She ultimately went through five egg retrieval cycles before a fertility specialist took a closer look at the full picture and diagnosed her with hypothalamic amenorrhea.

Kayla joined Recipe for a Period in January 2026.

Two weeks later, after approximately a year and a half without a period, she got her period back.

In this episode of The Period Recovery Podcast, Kayla shares what happened before, during, and after her hypothalamic amenorrhea recovery—and why getting her period back was only the beginning.

We talk about her history with restrictive eating and an eating disorder, the fear of weight gain, exercise, fertility, diminished ovarian reserve, primary ovarian insufficiency, egg freezing, and the complicated experience of receiving frightening medical information as a young woman.

But we also go deeper.

Kayla explains how recovery changed her relationship with food and exercise, reduced her anxiety, improved her energy, allowed her to be more present in social situations, and helped her build confidence based on who she is rather than what her body looks like.

She also shares why she believes community and accountability were critical to her recovery—and why trying to do everything privately and alone kept her stuck.

This is ultimately a conversation about getting your life back.

Because period recovery isn't just about seeing blood once a month.

It's about being able to eat without fear.

It's about moving your body because you enjoy it—not because you need to earn or burn something.

It's about being present with your friends and family instead of thinking about food.

It's about trusting your body.

And it's about realizing that you are so much more than your body.

If you've lost your period, are recovering from hypothalamic amenorrhea, struggle with restrictive eating or exercise, fear weight gain, or have been given a frightening fertility diagnosis, Kayla's story will give you a very different perspective on what may be possible.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical, nutrition, eating disorder, or fertility care.

Apply for Recipe for a Period coaching w/Cynthia: https://www.periodnutritionist.com/applyforcoaching

New to HA? Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Trying +3 months to get your period back? Click here to download the Safety Worksheet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theperiodnutritionist 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

What happens after you get your period back?

Getting a period after hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) can feel like the ultimate finish line. But as Ali discovered, getting your cycle back is just the beginning.

Ali is back on The Period Recovery Podcast for her second episode—and this time, she has a very different story to tell. During Ali's first episode, she was navigating HA recovery as a personal trainer and struggling with the identity, anxiety, food rules, exercise expectations, and body image concerns that came with it.

Now, she has maintained regular menstrual cycles, gotten married, and is 38 weeks pregnant with her first baby.

In this conversation, we talk about what happens after period recovery: learning to trust your body, maintaining a healthy cycle, navigating body image, changing your relationship with exercise, and eventually becoming comfortable living without constantly trying to control your body.

Ali shares how she went from feeling shackled to hours of exercise and rigid food rules to becoming significantly stronger with a much more manageable approach to fitness.

We also talk about her wedding season, learning to navigate body image when getting fitted for a wedding dress, and how she continued to prioritize her health rather than trying to become the leanest version of herself.

Then we get into fertility.

After previously being told by multiple doctors that she might need IVF to become pregnant, Ali unexpectedly conceived naturally shortly after getting married.

Her story is a powerful reminder that hypothalamic amenorrhea can affect reproductive health—but that recovery can change what is possible.

Most importantly, this conversation goes beyond the physical side of recovery. We talk about the mental work of learning to trust yourself again, recognizing the intention behind your food and movement choices, and understanding that getting your period back doesn't automatically erase every fear or thought that came with HA.

Because the real goal isn't simply to get your period back.

The goal is to get your life back.

If you're recovering from hypothalamic amenorrhea, trying to maintain your period, struggling with exercise and food anxiety, or wondering what life can look like after recovery, this episode is for you.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical, nutrition, or fertility care.

Apply for Recipe for a Period coaching w/Cynthia: https://www.periodnutritionist.com/applyforcoaching

New to HA? Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Trying +3 months to get your period back? Click here to download the Safety Worksheet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theperiodnutritionist 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

What happens when your identity has always been tied to being an athlete?

In this deeply meaningful conversation, Cynthia sits down with former Division I tennis player, author, speaker, and eating disorder advocate Betsy Brenner to discuss how years of perfectionism, athlete identity, and a lifetime of "earning" food eventually led to an eating disorder in midlife.

Betsy shares how returning to competitive tennis in her 40s reignited old beliefs around body image, discipline, and performance. When severe asthma suddenly prevented her from exercising, her fear of weight gain intensified, eventually leading to a diagnosis of anorexia.

Together, Cynthia and Betsy explore why so many women unknowingly carry athlete mindsets long after competitive sports end—and why healing requires so much more than changing what's on your plate.

• Why eating disorders don't only happen to teenagers

• How athlete identity can shape your relationship with food for decades

• The connection between perfectionism, anxiety, and overexercise

• Why many women feel they must "earn" their food

• How movement can become a coping mechanism instead of self-care

• The role vulnerability plays in recovery

• Why aging and body changes can trigger disordered eating

• How parents can model healthier relationships with food and exercise

• Why recovery is about far more than weight restoration

One of the most powerful messages from this episode is that it's never too late to become a work in progress. Betsy's story offers hope for any woman who has spent years believing her worth depends on performance, discipline, or the number on the scale.

Betsy Brenner is the author of The Longest Match: Rallying to Defeat an Eating Disorder in Midlife, a speaker, peer mentor, and advocate helping women find freedom from eating disorders and perfectionism.

Website: www.betsybrenner.com

Instagram: @betsybrennerauthor

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another woman who needs the reminder that healing is always possible.

Apply for Recipe for a Period coaching w/Cynthia: https://www.periodnutritionist.com/applyforcoaching

New to HA? Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Trying +3 months to get your period back? Click here to download the Safety Worksheet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theperiodnutritionist 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Can you recover your period after more than a decade?

Cynthia sits down with former client GNic who shares her remarkable journey from losing her menstrual cycle for 14 years to welcoming her miracle baby.

As a professional dancer, GNic spent years believing that being smaller meant being more successful. The pressure to maintain a certain body led to years of restrictive eating, excessive exercise, and eventually Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (HA). Despite visiting multiple doctors, she was repeatedly dismissed, told to return only when she wanted children, and even informed she was entering early menopause.

Everything changed when she committed to true recovery.

Together, Cynthia and GNic discuss the physical and emotional realities of recovering from HA, overcoming the fear of weight gain, rebuilding trust with your body, and discovering that healing involves far more than simply eating more and exercising less.

The episode ends with the moment neither of them will ever forget: after years of infertility and several recovery cycles, Gnic took one more pregnancy test and it was positive.

• Why Hypothalamic Amenorrhea often goes undiagnosed
• How one comment about body size changed the course of Jeannic's life
• The connection between under-fueling, overtraining, and missing periods
• Why recovering your period isn't simply about gaining weight
• The hidden role perfectionism and athlete identity play in HA
• What recovery actually looks like beyond food and exercise
• Why community and coaching can accelerate healing
• How Jeannic conceived naturally after years without a menstrual cycle
• Why it's never too late to begin period recovery

If you've ever wondered whether recovery is possible even after years without a period—this conversation will leave you feeling hopeful.

Apply for Recipe for a Period coaching w/Cynthia: https://www.periodnutritionist.com/applyforcoaching

New to HA? Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Trying +3 months to get your period back? Click here to download the Safety Worksheet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theperiodnutritionist 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

In this episode, I welcome back Dr. Chrisandra Shufelt, one of the world's leading researchers in Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea, to discuss exciting new findings from the largest HA studies to date.

For years, women with missing periods have been told to simply "go on birth control" or have struggled to find answers from healthcare providers. Now, new research is beginning to uncover what HA is really doing to the body—and why recovery matters far beyond fertility.

Together, we discuss:

• The largest Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea studies to date
• Early findings on heart and cardiovascular health
• Why stress plays a significant role in recovery
• What researchers discovered about eating patterns in women with HA
• Bone health, inflammation, and long-term health risks
• The most common symptoms women report beyond a missing period
• Why HA remains dramatically under-researched
• How you can contribute to future research through the international HA registry

Whether you're currently recovering from HA, supporting someone who is, or you're a healthcare professional wanting the latest evidence, this conversation provides practical insights backed by emerging science.

The more we understand Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea, the better we can support women in recovering not only their periods—but their long-term health.

Apply for Recipe for a Period coaching w/Cynthia: https://www.periodnutritionist.com/applyforcoaching

New to HA? Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Trying +3 months to get your period back? Click here to download the Safety Worksheet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theperiodnutritionist 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Mayo Clinic Registry Link

Resources Mentioned: Breaking New Ground in HA Research: Dr. Shufelt on the REVEAL Registry & Period Recovery

Dr. Shufelt is Professor and Chair of the Division of General Internal Medicine at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, and Associate Director of Women's Health Research Center at Mayo Clinic Enterprise. She is a women’s health internist with fellowship training in vascular biology and women's health and a certified menopause practitioner. She has several National and International leadership roles in the American College of Physicians, the European Menopause and Andropause Society and the North American Menopause Society where she is the immediate past-President of the Society and on the board of trustees. Dr. Shufelt has over 200 publications in the area of women’s health and has also co-authored several scientific position statements on menopause and hormone therapy. Her NIH-funded research focuses on young women with hypothalamic amenorrhea evaluating the impact on immune and vascular health.

Lauren spent years doing everything she thought was healthy: tracking food, exercising constantly, staying disciplined, and chasing the perfect body.

On the outside, she looked like she had it all together.

On the inside, she had lost her period, her freedom, and much of the joy in her life.

In this episode, Lauren shares her journey through Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (HA) recovery and the surprising realization that getting her period back required more than simply eating more and exercising less.

We discuss the role of nervous system regulation, perfectionism, body image, fear of weight gain, healing disordered eating patterns, and why period recovery often becomes a catalyst for personal growth far beyond the menstrual cycle.

If you've been wondering why your period hasn't returned despite making changes—or if you're afraid of what recovery might require—this episode is for you.

Topics Covered:
• Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (HA)
• Missing periods and fertility
• Recovery beyond food and exercise
• Nervous system healing
• Body image recovery
• Fear of weight gain
• Food freedom
• Personal growth through recovery
• Regaining your period and your life

This episode is a reminder that period recovery isn't just about getting a cycle back—it's about coming back to yourself. 

Apply for Recipe for a Period coaching w/Cynthia: https://www.periodnutritionist.com/applyforcoaching

New to HA? Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Trying +3 months to get your period back? Click here to download the Safety Worksheet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theperiodnutritionist 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Cynthia Donovan sits down with Dr. Jen Gaudiani, physician and author of Sick Enough: A Guide to the Medical Complications of Eating Disorders (https://amzn.to/4waPFVf), to unpack one of the most misunderstood aspects of hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA): you do not need to have an eating disorder to lose your period.

Together, they explore how under-nutrition, over-exercise, stress, and biological individuality can disrupt menstrual cycles, even in women who believe they are eating “healthy” and doing everything “right.” Dr. Gaudiani explains the physiology behind hypothalamic amenorrhea, including how the brain downregulates reproductive hormones when energy availability is too low, and why this can happen across a wide spectrum of body types and lifestyles.

This episode challenges the harmful belief that you are “not sick enough” to deserve help, and reframes missing periods as a critical early warning sign of metabolic and hormonal adaptation, not failure.

You’ll also learn how HA often shows up with invisible symptoms like anxiety, perfectionism, cold intolerance, poor sleep, slowed digestion, and low energy, even when labs appear normal. Most importantly, this conversation highlights what recovery actually requires: not perfection, but physiological safety, nourishment, and nervous system support.

If you’ve ever been told your symptoms “aren’t serious enough,” or you’ve struggled with losing your period while being active, disciplined, or high-performing, this episode will help you finally make sense of what your body is trying to communicate.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why hypothalamic amenorrhea can occur without an eating disorder
• The role of energy availability in menstrual health
• “Sick enough” thinking and why it delays recovery
• Invisible symptoms of under-nutrition (even with normal labs)
• Metabolic adaptation and why the body slows down
• How the brain prioritizes survival over reproduction
• Bone health risks and hormonal suppression in HA
• Why comparison to others is misleading biologically
• The identity shift required for full recovery
• How to talk to providers who may not understand HA
• Supporting adolescents and breaking generational diet culture patterns

Apply for Recipe for a Period coaching w/Cynthia: https://www.periodnutritionist.com/applyforcoaching

New to HA? Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Trying +3 months to get your period back? Click here to download the Safety Worksheet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theperiodnutritionist 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

What happens when you finally get your period back… only to lose it again?

In this deeply honest conversation, Cynthia sits down with Audrey to talk about her experience with hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), exercise obsession, food rigidity, perfectionism, and the identity crisis that can happen during recovery.

Audrey shares how calorie counting, overexercise, and chasing the “healthy girl” image slowly disconnected her from herself — and why getting her cycle back required so much more than simply eating more food.

Together, they discuss:

• Why HA recovery is about more than food and exercise
• The hidden identity piece behind missing periods
• Why getting your period back once doesn’t always mean full recovery
• Exercise addiction, perfectionism, and needing external validation
• Learning to feel safe in your body again
• The emotional side of weight gain during HA recovery
• How hormones impact mood, relationships, joy, and creativity
• Why community and accountability changed everything
• Dating, relationships, and regaining emotional capacity after HA
• The difference between “looking healthy” and actually being healthy
• What helped Audrey keep her period long-term

This episode is for any woman struggling with:

• Hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA)
• Missing or irregular periods
• RED-S
• Exercise obsession
• Food guilt and rigidity
• Fear of weight gain
• Identity loss during recovery
• Fertility concerns
• Overtraining and underfueling

You are not broken. Your body is communicating with you.

Listen in for one of the most powerful recovery conversations yet.

Apply for Recipe for a Period coaching w/Cynthia: https://www.periodnutritionist.com/applyforcoaching

New to HA? Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Trying +3 months to get your period back? Click here to download the Safety Worksheet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theperiodnutritionist

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

If someone you love is recovering from hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), period loss, or disordered eating, this episode is for you. Cynthia Donovan shares what women in HA recovery wish their partners, parents, family, and friends understood about weight gain, food fears, exercise loss, fertility struggles, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm during recovery.

In this episode:

• What NOT to say to someone recovering their period
• Why comments like “you’re eating enough” can hurt recovery
• How HA recovery impacts relationships and mental health
• The emotional side of hypothalamic amenorrhea
• How to truly support a woman recovering from HA

This episode is designed to help women feel seen while helping loved ones better understand the recovery journey.

And, be sure to refer back to Isabelle and Dylan's episode to hear more from a partner's perspective: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-the-partners-perspective-navigating-love-and/id1623840946?i=1000649981061

Apply for Recipe for a Period coaching w/Cynthia: https://www.periodnutritionist.com/applyforcoaching

New to HA? Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Trying +3 months to get your period back? Click here to download the Safety Worksheet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theperiodnutritionist

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

#HypothalamicAmenorrhea #HARecovery #PeriodRecovery #MissingPeriod #FertilityRecovery #AmenorrheaRecovery #WomensHealth #DisorderedEating #HormoneHealth #ThePeriodRecoveryPodcast

If you’ve lost your period, are struggling with hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), or feel like you’re doing everything right but still not seeing results, this episode will open your eyes to a missing piece most women overlook.

In this conversation, Cynthia Donovan, Registered Dietitian and period recovery expert, sits down with breathwork and nervous system coach Sally Davidson to explore how chronic stress, anxiety, and an overactive nervous system can directly impact your hormones, fertility, and ability to get your period back.

Inside this episode, we cover:

• What hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) actually is and why your period goes missing
• How stress and nervous system dysregulation shut down ovulation
• Why food alone isn’t enough to get your period back
• The connection between anxiety, overtraining, and hormone imbalance
• How breathwork supports nervous system regulation and healing
• Simple ways to start slowing down—even if you feel stuck in go-go-go mode

If you’re currently dealing with:

• Missing periods
• Hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA)
• Fertility struggles
• Hormone imbalance
• Overtraining and under-fueling

This episode will help you understand what your body has been trying to tell you all along and give you practical tools to start shifting it.

Apply for Recipe for a Period coaching w/Cynthia: https://www.periodnutritionist.com/applyforcoaching

New to HA? Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Trying +3 months to get your period back? Click here to download the Safety Worksheet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theperiodnutritionist 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Sally Davidson is a Conscious & Embodiment Leadership Coach, Registered Nurse with over 30 years of clinical experience, Shamanic Reiki Master, and trauma-informed breathwork and somatic healing practitioner with a focus on the nervous system. She is the founder of Rooted Soul, co-founder of Rooted & Radiant Retreats, and host of The Connection Project podcast.

Sally works with clients virtually and in-person through private 1:1 coaching, group containers, transformational retreats, and immersive corporate experiences , and is based in Remsen, NY.

Connect with Sally Davidson:

Website: sallydavidsoncoach.com

Email: Sally@Sallydavidsoncoach.com

Instagram @sallydavidsoncoach  https://www.instagram.com/sallydavidsoncoach_breathwork/

Facebook: sallydavidson
Linkedin: Sallydavidson 

In this episode of The Period Recovery Podcast, Cynthia talks with Julia about her journey through hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), being told IVF was likely her next step, and how she got her period back naturally before going on to become a mom.

Julia shares what life looked like when she was over-exercising, under-fueling, and being praised for looking “healthy” while her period was missing. She opens up about the fear of body changes, the pressure to keep up her identity around fitness, and the internal dialogue that made recovery feel overwhelming.

Together, they talk about:
 what it was like to be told she may need IVF
 how HA recovery helped her get her period back naturally
 the mindset shift from control to surrender
 why support made all the difference
 how period recovery changed her relationship with food, movement, and motherhood

If you have hypothalamic amenorrhea, a missing period, or have been told IVF is your only option, this episode will show you that recovery may be more possible than you think.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

If you feel like you are doing everything “right” in period recovery but still do not have your period back, this episode is for you.

In today’s episode, I am talking about something so many women experience during hypothalamic amenorrhea recovery but rarely say out loud: living in your head during recovery.

Maybe you are eating more, resting more, cutting back on exercise, and trying so hard to follow all the “rules” of HA recovery… but mentally, you are exhausted. You are constantly checking symptoms, questioning if you are doing enough, worrying that it is not working fast enough, and wondering if your body is the exception.

In this episode, I break down why overthinking, perfectionism, fear, and constant mental checking can keep your body stuck in urgency even when you are making changes with food and exercise. I also share simple tools to help you feel safer in your body, regulate your nervous system, and stop treating recovery like a problem to solve.

We also talk about:
 • why period recovery is often the first place women hit the limits of over-functioning
 • the connection between stress, body safety, and missing periods
 • why you cannot overachieve your way into getting your cycle back
 • how nervous system support matters in hypothalamic amenorrhea recovery
 • signs you may be stuck in timeline anxiety during HA recovery
 • practical tools to stop spiraling and come back to the present moment
 • a real client story about what changed when she stopped living in constant urgency

If your missing period recovery feels mentally exhausting, this episode will help you understand what is happening beneath the surface and why recovery is about more than just food and rest.

If this episode resonated with you and you want support, you can apply for my Recipe for a Period program through the link in the show notes.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

 What do you wear when your body is changing in missing period recovery?

In this conversation, Cynthia Donovan and Nicole Garfunkel talk about the part of hypothalamic amenorrhea recovery that no one really prepares you for: getting dressed in a changing body. From cleaning out your closet to shopping for clothes that actually fit, to handling summer clothes, swimsuits, and body image triggers, this episode is a real and practical conversation for women in period recovery.

Inside this episode:
 missing period recovery and body image
 how to dress a changing body
 shopping for clothes during hypothalamic amenorrhea recovery
 summer outfit struggles in HA recovery
 how clothes can support confidence, comfort, and nervous system safety

If you’ve been avoiding shopping, holding onto clothes that no longer fit, or feeling stuck in your body during period recovery, press play.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this episode, Cynthia Donovan, period nutritionist and women’s health advocate, sits down with Laura Ligos, RDN, a registered dietitian with 14 years of experience in women’s health, fertility, and hormonal health.

Together, they unpack the reality many women face when navigating fertility treatments like IVF and IUI — including dismissal by healthcare providers, rushed timelines, and a lack of focus on nutrition and lifestyle foundations.

If you’ve ever felt unheard in your fertility journey, this conversation will validate your experience and equip you with tools to advocate for yourself.

We discuss:

• The critical role of nutrition in fertility and hormonal health
• Why lifestyle factors matter before IVF or IUI
• The emotional impact of tracking ovulation
• How fertility treatments can sometimes overlook underlying issues
• Why women’s health advocacy is essential in today’s healthcare system
• The importance of self-care during fertility treatments
• How community support changes outcomes

Laura shares practical insight into how hormonal health affects fertility and why women deserve comprehensive care — not just a prescription or procedure.

Whether you’re preparing for pregnancy, considering IVF or IUI, or simply want to optimize your women’s health, this episode offers grounded, evidence-based insight rooted in both nutrition science and real clinical experience.

You deserve to be listened to.
 You deserve informed care.
 You deserve community.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Connect with Laura Ligos, RDN

Website: https://thesassydietitian.com/

Email: laura.t.ligos@gmail.com

Instagram: @thesassydietitian https://www.instagram.com/thesassydietitian

TikTok: @thesassydietitian https://www.tiktok.com/@thesassydietitian

Cookbook 1: https://amzn.to/4bDgI3D
Cookbook 2: https://amzn.to/4bzgiez

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this episode of The Period Recovery Podcast, I’m sitting down with Sarah, a registered dietitian and former D1 swimmer, to talk about what it looks like when you “technically never really had a period,” get placed on birth control as a teenager, and then come off the pill years later… only to realize your body still isn’t ovulating.

Sarah shares what it was like being told “it’s normal” because she was lean, athletic, and stressed, how intense training and under-fueling quietly shaped her hormones over time, and why she refused to go back on birth control when her doctor suggested it. We also go deep into the part women don’t expect: how period recovery isn’t just about getting bleeding back — it’s about safety in the body, identity, nervous system regulation, and learning how to let go when your brain is wired for discipline.

If you’re dealing with hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), missing periods after stopping birth control, or you’re “doing all the things” (eating more, resting more) but still stuck in your head… this one will land.

What we cover:

• “I never really had a period” — primary amenorrhea, birth control, and the confusion it creates
• D1 training, under-fueling, and why your nervous system may never feel “safe”
• Missing periods after stopping the pill (post-pill amenorrhea vs HA)
• Why doctors often recommend the pill (and what that misses)
• Estrogen, bone health, and cardiovascular risk when cycles are absent
• The discipline trap: when athlete mindset becomes food control
• The hardest part of recovery: uncertainty, identity, and weight gain fears
• Why some women get their period back right after committing to support
• How life can feel “fine” and still get bigger, deeper, and more beautiful in recovery
• What to do when you get 1–2 cycles and the next one doesn’t show up

If you want support restoring your cycle while keeping an active lifestyle (without living in your head), apply for coaching here:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Have you been eating more, resting more, doing all the “right” things for period recovery and still feel anxious, stuck, or mentally exhausted?

You’re not crazy. And you’re not alone.

In this episode of The Period Recovery Podcast, Cynthia Donovan, registered dietitian and period recovery expert, speaks directly to the woman who feels like she traded one obsession for another  from food and exercise to constant overthinking about getting her period back.

We explore:

• Why period recovery can feel mentally harder than the physical changes
• Why eating more and resting more doesn’t always feel calming at first
• How anxiety, overthinking, and guilt are linked to your nervous system
• The difference between intuition and old programming
• Simple nervous system tools to help you get out of your head and back into your body

This episode is not about what to eat or how to exercise, it’s about understanding why your thoughts feel so loud, why food can feel “unsafe,” and how to create real safety in your body so hormones can heal.

If you’re recovering from hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), missing your period, or struggling with anxiety during period recovery, this episode will help you feel seen, grounded, and supported.

 Listen now and remind yourself: your body knows exactly what it’s doing.

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Cynthia and Leslie discuss body image, diet culture, and the importance of body trust and diversity. They explore the journey of intuitive eating, the generational influences on body image, and the necessity of setting boundaries in a culture that often promotes unhealthy ideals. The discussion emphasizes the significance of accepting your new normal, self-compassion, values-based living, and the need to navigate social pressures while fostering a healthy relationship with food and body.

Chapters

00:00 The Evolution of Body Image and Diet Culture
04:30 Understanding Body Trust and Nutrition Intelligence
09:22 The Impact of External Validation on Body Image
15:27 Navigating Weight Loss and Health Pursuits
20:10 Finding a Neutral Relationship with Food and Body
23:13 Reality Check: The Influence of Social Media on Body Image
25:19 Navigating Conversations Around Food and Body Image
27:36 Breaking Free from Diet Culture
30:39 Setting Boundaries with Family and Friends
33:26 Reparenting Ourselves: Cultivating Self-Compassion
35:47 Redefining Health Beyond Numbers
37:48 Intentional Movement: Aligning Actions with Values
42:49 Challenging Diet Culture Thoughts
47:09 Finding Freedom from the Life Thief of Diet Culture

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Meet our Guest: 

Leslie Schilling, MA, RDN, CSCS, CEDS-C, owns a Las Vegas-based private practice specializing in nutrition counseling for disordered eating and performance nutrition for professional athletes, performers, and military personnel. In her more than twenty years in the field of sport nutrition, eating disorders, and strength and conditioning, Leslie has served in many settings including as performance nutrition consultant for Cirque du Soleil and the NBA, and an expert contributor to U.S. News & World Report. One of her favorite things to do is support registered dietitians, coaches, and other professionals working at the intersection of eating disorders and sport through professional supervision and mentorship in the Dietitian Development Hub Mighty Network Community. Check out Leslie’s latest book, Feed Yourself, about how diet culture shows up in our safest places, which is available anywhere books are sold.

www.LeslieSchilling.com

email: leslie@schillingnutrition.com

Instagram @LeslieSchilling https://www.instagram.com/leslieschilling

Feed Yourself Book - https://a.co/d/3F6wtBT
Born To Eat (second edition) - https://a.co/d/7NGeznS

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

For our first episode of the year Cynthia has invited Caitie Corradino to discuss the importance of slowing down in life, particularly in relation to body image and self-care, even though it is very uncomfortable. Caitie compares slowing down in this way to what it might feel like to sit in fire. This is a very painful thing to overcome. They explore the challenges of making time for oneself, the emotional aspects of slowing down, and the role of healing practitioners in supporting this journey. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentionality in creating space for mindfulness and self-reflection, as well as the benefits of allowing oneself to feel a range of emotions. The episode concludes with practical tips for integrating these practices into daily life.

Takeaways:

• Slowing down is a choice that must be made daily.
• Self-care practices should not feel forced or like another task.
• Experiencing discomfort is part of the process of slowing down.
• Creating buffers in your schedule can help reduce stress.
• It's important to have a supportive space when practicing mindfulness.
• Body avoidance can be a cozy place, but it's not healthy.
• Feeling emotions is essential for personal growth and healing.
• Practicing mindfulness can help improve body image.
• You don't need to achieve anything to deserve relaxation.
• Healing practitioners can provide valuable support in the journey of self-discovery.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

You don't have to DIY period recovery. In this podcast episode, Gemma Atkinson shares the journey of regaining her period, discussing the challenges she faced over 10+ years, the importance of support, and the transformative power of self-acceptance. She reflects on how her life has changed since embracing a more flexible and nourishing approach to health, emphasizing the significance of rest, community, and letting go of control. Gemma's story serves as an inspiration for others navigating similar struggles, highlighting that recovery is possible and that life can be fulfilling and joyful again.


Takeaways

Life has been good post-recovery, with new opportunities.
Recovery has led to unexpected gains in work and personal life.
The importance of community support during recovery.
Letting go of control is essential for healing.
Rest is a crucial component of recovery.
Body image issues can fluctuate during recovery.
High achievement does not equate to health or happiness.
Nutrition education is vital for understanding health needs.
Surrendering to the process can lead to freedom.
It's okay to seek help and support from others.


Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Today's episode is a message from the heart to all the women who haven't gotten their period back yet. Yes the year is coming to a close, but let's shift away from focusing on time and instead focus on the life you're building. You're learning to eat, sleep, work and think in new ways. It's ok to ask for help. It's ok to rest. It's ok to give your body time to heal. 

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this heartfelt interview, Cynthia talks with Eme about her journey through period recovery, fertility challenges, and embracing a balanced lifestyle. Eme shares her experiences of overcoming societal pressures, finding peace with her body, and the joy of natural pregnancy after years of IVF. The conversation highlights the importance of support, self-acceptance, and the transformative power of small lifestyle changes.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Mark your calendars for November 21st!

I'm hosting my Welcome to the Science of Getting Your Period Back Live Training and I hope to see you there!

In today's episode I'm talking about my multifaceted approach to recovering a regular menstrual cycle, regaining confidence in managing your own nutrition, valuing rest, and and cultivating mental well-being. I'm sharing insights from my personal journey and from my experiences working with my amazing clients. I've worked with so many wonderful women to regain their periods, and it's never just one thing that moves the needed. We take a holistic approach to hormonal health and we do it together!

Takeaways

• Eating breakfast first thing in the morning is crucial.
• Avoid exercising or walking on an empty stomach.
• Fuel your body with plenty of carbs and fats.
• Slow down mentally and physically to listen to your body.
• Building a relationship of trust with your body is key.
• Recovery is about what is enough, not more than before.
• Hormones thrive in safety, not hustle mode.
• Stress hormones impact sex hormones and overall health.
• Rest is not weakness; it's essential for recovery.
• Trusting your body is vital for hormonal health.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this episode, Cynthia Donovan welcomes Allison to discuss her journey through HA and period recovery. Everyone's situation is so unique, but there is power in hearing shared experiences. Allison talks about what it felt like to have so much mental energy focused on food and food rules. She also talks about her perspective as a medical student and cross fit athlete, and how she ultimately learned to find work-outs and eating plans that were right for her body. Whether your goal is pregnancy, fitness, overall health, or all of the above Allison's story will motivate you to keep trying to put your longterm health first.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this episode, Cynthia welcomes guest Greta Jarvis to discuss the challenges and misconceptions they've experienced surrounding Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (HA) in both athletes and active women. They are dedicated to education and advocacy for athletes, coaches, and parents to give as much healthy support as possible to girls and women of all ages. Cynthia and Greta explore the broader cultural issues related to body image including doctor visits, athlete and coach dynamics, and the vital importance of regular periods. They also talk about the need for systemic change in how we view health and athleticism.

Sign up for my LIVE training: 

October 24 2025 

The Recipe for a Period®
The Science of Getting Your Period Back

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Contact Greta Jarvis:

Check out her website: centerforactivewomen.com

DM Greta on IG @centerforactivewomen

Greta Jarvis, MS, MPH earned her Master of Public Health in Health Promotion from the OHSU-PSU School of Public Health, Master of Science in Nutrition from the National University of Natural Medicine, and Bachelor of Arts summa cum laude in Latin American Studies and Public Health from Occidental College.

Additionally, Greta holds certifications as an Intuitive Eating Counselor, an Integrative Health Coach with Duke Integrative Medicine, and a Spinning Instructor with Mad Dogg Athletics®. 

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Today's episode covers part 2 of Cynthia's journey with Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (HA). Cynthia recounts the difficult decision to give up cross fit, her extreme discomfort in gaining weight, fertility treatments, finally becoming pregnant, giving birth and ultimately getting her period back. Along the way she took every opportunity to learn about meditation, rest, and intuitive eating.

If you want to start at the beginning check out part 1 from episode 90.

Sign up for my LIVE training: 

October 24 2025 

The Recipe for a Period®
The Science of Getting Your Period Back

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this podcast episode, Eva shares her experience with Hypothalamic Amenorrhea, detailing her struggles with irregular periods and the emotional toll of HA-related health challenges. She discusses the shift from performance-focused training to prioritizing recovery and self-care. 

Eva found a real freedom in overcoming her fears of losing her athletic identity. This is so important to highlight because we are so much more than our physical appearance or our personal best stats. Eva learned how to be a high performing athlete AND still live a fulfilling life. She's even preparing for the Masters World Championships in swimming!

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this conversation, Cynthia and Silba break down the reasons for pleasure feeling like such a taboo topic for many women. They explore the ties between body connection and true intimacy with yourself or with a partner. 

Pleasure not just as a fleeting experience; it's a natural state of being that arises from alignment with oneself. Silba shares her personal journey of reconnecting with her body. The discussion also delves into the distinction between real pleasure, which nourishes and satisfies, and hijacked pleasure, which offers temporary satisfaction but leaves one feeling empty. The conversation emphasizes the significance of mindfulness and self-awareness in cultivating a deeper sense of pleasure and intimacy in relationships, but also deconditioning societal norms that disconnect individuals from their bodies. They discuss the importance of reconnecting with one's body the way that babies and children innocently do so we can get back to the ongoing nature of personal growth and self-acceptance.

Silba is a behavioural scientist, somatic coach, and sensuality educator passionate about helping ambitious women with a big heart reconnect to their bodies, rekindle their pleasure, and reclaim their full feminine expression so they can safely be themselves.

With eleven years of experience in human fulfilment—first as a consultant for organizations in London and for the past six years working 1:1 with clients and leading talks and workshops worldwide, Silba brings a unique blend of science, storytelling, and accessible strategies. Her approach is warm, creative, and playful, making personal growth feel deeply enjoyable.

Silba's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silbastaffler

Silba's substack: https://silbastaffler.substack.com/

Silba's website: silbastaffler.com

Bites of Pleasure Podcast - find it on Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/caitie-corradino0

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this episode, we delve into the transformative journey of turning 40, a milestone that often prompts deep self-reflection and reevaluation of life's priorities. 

I’m here to say that perfect fitness, elite athleticism and the all-consuming obsession of thinness are potential hazards on any health journey. I’m also here to say that I’ve done it alone and I’ve done it in community, and it’s MUCH more effective to overcome HA with help.

Whether you're approaching this milestone or reflecting on your own journey, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective on growth and self-discovery. 

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Maintaining personal health can often feel like a secondary priority, especially if you have a physically demanding job. Sophie, a former military personnel, shares her transformative journey from strict discipline to a balanced lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of personal well-being.

Sophie’s story begins with her rigorous routine of intense exercise and strict dieting, driven by the pressures of military expectations. She recalls, "I was so committed to working out, maybe even three times a day, always getting my run in." This relentless pursuit of fitness, however, led to a disconnection from her own body and health.

The turning point came when Sophie realized the need for a mindset shift. She began to view food as fuel and exercise as an opportunity rather than an obligation. "I was able to see food as fuel and exercise as something I got the opportunity to do," she reflects. This change not only helped her regain her health but also enriched her personal relationships and overall life satisfaction. She began to enjoy life so much more. She wanted to be around other people more and that's what really made her feel like she'd come back to herself. 

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Imagine living in a world where your body feels like it's constantly on high alert, even when there's no immediate danger. This is the reality for many experiencing nervous system dysregulation. In a recent conversation with Kelly Burnett, a nervous system coach, we explored how this condition affects women, particularly those dealing with anxiety, chronic symptoms, and burnout.

Kelly shared her personal journey of battling severe health issues, from chronic pain to brain fog, which she later discovered were rooted in a dysregulated nervous system. This condition often goes unnoticed, as symptoms are mistakenly attributed to other health issues. For many women, especially high achievers, the pressure to excel can exacerbate these symptoms, leading to hormonal imbalances and menstrual health issues.

Healing isn't just about diet and exercise; it's about compassion and connection. Kelly emphasizes the importance of self-love and acceptance in the healing process. Simple practices like journaling, gentle movement, and spending time in nature can significantly support recovery. These practices help individuals reconnect with their bodies and recognize patterns that contribute to their stress.

Kelly suggests starting with small, manageable changes. Somatic tracking, a practice of observing bodily sensations without judgment, can be a powerful tool. Additionally, creating rituals like applying lotion before bed can foster a sense of safety and self-care. These practices, though simple, can make a profound difference in calming the nervous system.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Kelly Burnett is a nervous system coach and the founder of Kelly Burnett Health, where she helps women self-heal from chronic pain, anxiety, and fatigue by teaching them the A-Z roadmap to rewiring their brains and regulating their nervous systems. She is a graduate of the renowned Institute for Integrative Nutrition and has spent the last seven years specializing in nervous system regulation and brain retraining.

After overcoming her own struggles with anxiety and chronic illness, Kelly discovered that many unexplained chronic symptoms are actually linked to a dysregulated nervous system—a connection often overlooked in traditional medicine. Now, she is bridging the gap between chronic symptoms and true healing through brain retraining, somatic practices, nervous system regulation and more. By helping women shift out of survival mode and teaching them how to cultivate safety in their brains, Kelly empowers them to reclaim their health and finally feel at home in their bodies again.

Follow Kelly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellyburnetthealth/

Check out Kelly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KellyBurnettHealth

Email: kelly@kellyburnetthealth.com

Kell

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Today we are so excited to have Dr. Nicola Sykes revisit the podcast! She's here to encourage women with a missing period to get the care they need by clearing up some all-too common misunderstandings. 

Dr. Sykes also shares insights from her article Where AI Gets it Wrong: https://www.noperiodnowwhat.com/post/where-ai-gets-it-wrong

HA Studies referenced in the podcast:

Amenorrhea-Related Cardiovascular Health (ARCH) study: http://noperiod.info/ARCH - intake questionnaire

https://www.mayo.edu/research/clinical-trials/cls-20538611

This study aims to evaluate heart health in young women with missed menstrual periods. It is a non-interventional, observational study that hopes to further understand how young women with Hypothalamic Amenorrhea may be at a greater risk for developing cardiovascular disease through a non-invasive test that assesses blood vessel health. In addition to exploring heart health, the study also aims to measure the patterns of psychosocial stress (patient reported questionnaires), physical activity (Fitbit Versa 4 watch), and caloric nutrition (3-day food diary) that contribute to the development of the condition. Participation involves two in-person visits in a three-month period to Mayo Clinic Florida with a study-provided travel stipend. 

Registry of Very Early Estrogen Loss and AnovuLation (REVEAL): http://noperiod.info/REVEAL - intake questionnaire

https://www.mayo.edu/research/clinical-trials/cls-20570285

This study involves completely remote participation, where we hope to build a registry of women with Hypothalamic Amenorrhea to understand the prevalence, racial and ethnic diversity, underlying causes, risk factors, prognosis, and recurrence of this condition.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Dr. Sykes has a PhD in computational biology from MIT. After graduating she worked for a biotechnology company while pursuing her dreams of a family, which were thwarted by a diagnosis of hypothalamic amenorrhea. She spent the next 18 months trying to conceive and immersed herself in research to learn how to recover from hypothalamic amenorrhea. Concurrently, she tried the medical route to pregnancy, with mul

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Our conversation today is so relatable. In this episode, Cynthia interviews Kaitlin Feda about her journey recovering her menstrual cycle after experiencing period loss due to restrictive eating and exercise habits. Kaitlin shares her struggles with body image, the impact of societal pressures, and the importance of community support during her recovery. She discusses the emotional challenges of repairing relationships on the other side of HA. The conversation emphasizes the significance of self-acceptance, the benefits of recovery, and the transformative power of prioritizing health over appearance.

Takeaways:

• DIY period recovery vs. having the guidance and support of providers, practitioners and a community. 
• Diet restriction and body obsession before a big event like a wedding can cause HA.
• Kaitlin was diagnosed with PCOS after not getting her period for six months.
• She experienced a binge-restrict cycle that controlled her life, but Kaitlin found support in a community of women going through similar experiences.
• The comments from others about her body were difficult to navigate during recovery. Positive body comments can perpetuate an eating disorder.
• Kaitlin found joy in life after letting go of body obsession, following the example of her sister and many in the Period Recovery Community. 
• Kaitlin's relationships improved significantly after recovery.
• The journey to recovery was not easy, but it was worth it.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this podcast episode, Cynthia Donovan and Stephanie Lauri discuss the critical role of nutrition during pregnancy. They explore the gaps in prenatal nutrition education, the importance of balanced meals, and how to manage food aversions and nausea. 

Stephanie shares practical tips for expecting mothers to optimize their nutrition while maintaining a realistic and flexible approach to eating. Cynthia and Stephanie emphasize the importance of hydration, managing constipation, and the need for a balanced diet. The conversation also touches on the significance of trusting one's body during pregnancy, especially regarding weight management and the individual nature of pregnancy experiences. Practical tips for symptom relief and meal planning are provided, making it a valuable resource for expectant mothers.

Takeaways:

• Nutrition is often overlooked in prenatal care.
• Many women have questions about nutrition during pregnancy.
• Balanced meals and eating frequently help with nausea and energy levels.
• Full-fat products are important for nutrient absorption.
• Different nutrients are important at different pregnancy stages.
• Food aversions are common and can be managed.
• Comfort foods can be made more nutritious.
• Smoothies are a great way to add nutrition.
• It's important to focus on what to add, not restrict. Constipation is common in pregnancy due to slowed motility.
• Hydration is crucial, but can be challenging due to nausea.
• Spacing out water intake can help reduce nausea.
• Trial and error is essential for symptom management during pregnancy.
• Leaving snacks at bedside can help with morning nausea.
• Slowly increasing fiber intake is important for digestion.
• Movement, like walking, can aid in digestion and bowel movements.
• A variety of foods should be incorporated for balanced nutrition.
• Trusting your body is vital during pregnancy and postpartum.
• Weight gain varies greatly among individuals and does not determine baby health.
• 
  

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In today’s episode, Cynthia Donovan, MS RD & Lindsey Cortes MS RD CSSD, dive into the overlooked connection between nutrition, cortisol, and period recovery—especially for active women and female athletes. If you’ve ever wondered why your workouts feel harder, your period is missing, or your sleep is off, this episode is for you.

Cynthia & Lindsey explore:

• Why female athletes have unique nutritional and hormonal needs
• The impact of body image and restrictive eating on menstrual health
• How high cortisol disrupts hormone balance and period regulation
• The role of carbohydrates in lowering cortisol and promoting recovery
• Why pre- and post-workout fueling matters more than you think
• The power of nighttime snacks in supporting hormone health
• How to approach intentional eating post-recovery
• The real difference between a rest day and active recovery
• Why hydration, sleep, and fun with food are hormone boosters
• What exercise periodization really means for female bodies
• Tips to shorten fasting windows and optimize morning workouts
• How to tune into your cycle and adjust training accordingly

Plus: Why caffeine may be sabotaging your hormones, and how resting more is often the missing piece in your healing journey.

This episode is packed with real talk, clinical insights, and mindset shifts to help you recover your period, manage hypothalamic amenorrhea, and feel strong, nourished, and hormonally healthy again.

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Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Lindsey Elizabeth Cortes is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics with over 12 years of experience consulting competitive, collegiate, high school, recreational, elite, military, and Olympic athletes. She specifically helps female athletes use food as fuel to perform at their highest level addressing overcoming disordered eating and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDS). As a former Division 1 Track and Field athlete herself, and later obtaining a Master’s degree specializing in Sports Nutrition, using nutrition to optimize performance was always Lindsey’s specialty. As a Sports Dietitian, she worked at 3 different NCAA universities: University of Georgia, Florida State University, and University of Texas San Antonio prior to establishing her own business. She is the host of the popular Female Athlete Nutrition podcast available on all major listening platforms and YouTube.

Connect w/Lindsey: 

IG: @female.athlete.nutrition
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@femaleatheltenutrition
FB: Female Athlete Nutrition facebook group
LinkedIN: Lindsey Cortes MS RD CSSD
Podcast: The Female Athlete Nutrition Podcast

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this episode of the Period Recovery Podcast, Drew shares her experience working with Cynthia to regain her period. From conditioning to fixate on thinness to the misconceptions of healthy living, Drew discusses how her experiences led her to seek support and the importance of accountability in the recovery process. The conversation highlights the complexities of women's health and the need for a holistic approach to recovery. 

Drew shares her journey of period recovery, discussing the fears and challenges she faced, particularly around identity and nutrition. She emphasizes the importance of eating enough calories and how shifting her mindset about food helped her regain her health. Drew reflects on the freedom and happiness she has found post-recovery, highlighting the confidence she gained and the ability to embrace life without the constraints of diet culture. The discussion also touches on the emotional aspects of recovery and the encouragement she offers to others on a similar journey.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Today Cynthia welcomes Caitie Corradino, the founder of Full Soul Nutrition to talk about the best ways to care for our bodies.​

Caitie is a Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist, Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, eating disorder recovery coach, body image expert, Certified Personal Trainer, Registered Yoga Teacher, breathwork facilitator, and reiki healer.

​She combines nutrition counseling with body image counseling and a toolkit of somatic healing modalities to help you feel more alive.

Today Cynthia and Caitie talk about healing from food anxiety in its many forms so that you can trust your body to find its own natural set point for weight. 

Learn more about Caitie:

fullsoulnutrition.com
@caitie.c.rd

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this conversation Cynthia and Dr. Morgan Francis discuss the complexities of body image and its profound impact on mental health. They emphasize the importance of understanding body image beyond eating disorders, highlighting its influence on various aspects of life, including relationships and sexual health. The discussion also covers the role of family dynamics in shaping body image perceptions, the distinction between body neutrality and body positivity, and the unique challenges faced during pregnancy and postpartum. Dr. Francis provides practical advice for improving body image and stresses the importance of therapy and self-compassion in this journey.

Takeaways:

• Body image affects mental health and relationships.
• Struggles with body image are common and widespread.
• Body image is shaped by personal experiences and societal influences.
• Family dynamics play a crucial role in body image perceptions.
• Body neutrality is a more attainable goal than body positivity for many.
• Pregnancy and postpartum are vulnerable times for body image issues.
• Self-awareness and education are critical in addressing body image concerns.
• Therapy can provide essential support in improving body image.
• Practicing kindness towards oneself is a vital step in healing.
• Social media can help individuals realize they are not alone in their struggles.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Dr. Morgan Francis is a Doctor of Clinical Psychology and a Licensed Mental Health Therapist. She is the owner of Scottsdale Premier Counseling, in Scottsdale, Arizona. At her private practice she treats young adults, individuals, couples, and families. Her mission is to break through the mental health shame game. With over 20 years of experience specializing in the treatment of Body Image and Eating Disorders, Dr. Francis can empower you to make peace with your body and food. She is the Mental Health Expert for 12 News Arizona and you can find her on Wellness Wednesdays to discuss all things related to mental health. She has also been a guest on Fox News Phoenix, she has been featured in local and national publication, she is a public speaker and consultant on mental health helping churches, schools, and community organizations. You can work with Dr. Francis by accessing her online courses or attending her webinars. Dr. Francis lives in Scottsdale, Arizona with her three children and husband.

https://www.scottsdalepremiercounseling.com/

IG: @drmorganfrancis 

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Silba is a behavioral scientist, somatic coach, and sensuality educator passionate about helping ambitious women with a big heart reconnect to their bodies, rekindle their pleasure, and reclaim their full feminine expression so they can safely be themselves.

With eleven years of experience in human fulfillment—first as a consultant for organisations in London and for the past six years working 1:1 with clients and leading talks and workshops worldwide, Silba brings a unique blend of science, storytelling, and accessible strategies. Her approach is warm, creative, and playful, making personal growth feel deeply enjoyable.

In this conversation, Cynthia and Silba explore the profound connection between women's emotional health and their physical well-being, particularly focusing on the experience of period loss. Silba shares her personal journey of losing her period, the impact of family dynamics, and the struggle with body disconnection. They discuss the societal pressures that lead women to suppress their emotions and the importance of reconnecting with one's femininity. 

The conversation also touches on the role of medical diagnoses like PCOS and the journey towards self-discovery and healing through practices like the Love Protocol. 

In this conversation, Silba and Cynthia explore the importance of nourishment, self-awareness, and pleasure in women's health and healing. They discuss the need for honesty in assessing one's relationship with their body, the significance of rest and energy management, and the transformative power of pleasure as a guiding force in life. The dialogue emphasizes the journey of self-discovery and the importance of being curious and playful in one's healing process.

Takeaways

• Period loss can be linked to emotional repression.
• Disconnection from the body often starts in adolescence.
• Family dynamics can significantly impact emotional health.
• Reconnecting with femininity is crucial for healing.
• Medical diagnoses can sometimes mislabel women's experiences.
• Inner wisdom is key to understanding one's body.
• Practices like the Love Protocol can aid in self-discovery.
• Building a friendly relationship with the body is essential. There's got to be a better way to nourish ourselves.
• We must look inward to connect with our bodies.
• Getting honest about our relationship with our body is crucial.
• Desires are sacred and guide us towards our true selves.
• Rest is essential for energy and pleasure.
• Pleasure emerges when we align with our inner and outer worlds.
• Life is happening for you, not to you.
• Be a scientist of your own experience.
• Nourishment is a key pillar in healing.
• Curiosity and playfulness enhance the healing journey.

Silba's instagram: instagram.com/silbastaffler

Silba's substack: silbastaffler.substack.com

Silba's website: silbastaffler.com

Bites of Pleasure Podcast - find it on Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/caitie-corradino0

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Cynthia welcomes back the wonderful Elena Kunicki, RD to discuss trying to get your period back as an athlete or as an active person. We know it's a hard pill to swallow but we're big believers in rest days. We want to encourage you to build up your nutrition and your hormonal health in recovery from hypothalamic amenorrhea. We're also talking about cardiovascular health, finding joy beyond exercise, and the importance of building a strong foundation for future performance.

Elena is a Registered Dietitian who helps women heal their relationship with food, their bodies, and exercise. Through her own journey to food freedom after 4 years struggling with binge eating and amenorrhea, she developed a passion for helping other women overcome similar struggles. Elena now provides nutrition coaching and counseling services to clients in her private practice and as part of a group practice in New York City. Her specialty is helping fitness and health conscious women stop binging, get their periods back and prioritize fitness goals in a healthy and sustainable way.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Reach out to Elena via email at: elena@elenakunicki.com

Check out Elena's podcast The Binge Eating Dietician Podcast 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenakunickird/

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this episode, Cynthia and Jayden discuss Jayden's inspiring journey through period recovery, her struggles with an eating disorder, and the joy of becoming pregnant. They explore the fears and challenges faced during recovery, the importance of supportive people, and the transformative changes that come with embracing a healthier lifestyle. So many insights into what it's like to have this newfound freedom!

Takeaways

• Jayden had always dreamed of having a baby girl and the fear of not being able to conceive was a significant concern.
• Jayden started her period recovery journey well before her wedding and support from her fiancé was crucial in her recovery journey.
• Jayden's life was controlled and routine before recovery, but she experienced a transformation in her mental health and happiness post-recovery.
• The fear of weight gain was a major barrier to starting recovery, but Jayden learned to honor her hunger and cravings, which has been crucial during her pregnancy.
• Recovery allows Jayden to enjoy life, vacationing, socializing,  eating and spontaneity. 

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Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this episode of the Period Recovery Podcast, Cynthia welcomes Beckah Sims, who shares her personal journey of recovery from Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (HA) and her experiences with disordered eating and body image issues. 

Beckah discusses her struggles with maintaining a healthy relationship with food and exercise, particularly during the pandemic, and how these challenges impacted her ability to conceive a baby. 

The conversation delves into the emotional and physical toll of HA, the importance of seeking help, and the fears associated with making lifestyle changes to regain health. The conversation highlights the transformative power of taking steps towards health and the lasting impact it can have on one's life.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

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A Recipe for a Period® Info Session on Feb 21, 2025 at 12:30 AM EST https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/QdPiG_SfS4eB8klEmqjVBQ#/registration

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Welcome back! Today we have Dr. Chrisandra Shufelt rejoining us to celebrate the launch of the REVEAL registry! This tool will help gather date worldwide from women, improve treatment, and spread awareness of Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (HA), a condition characterized by the absence of menstruation due to various factors including stress, exercise, and eating patterns. 

The discussion also touches on the implications of HA on fertility and brain health, highlighting the need for ongoing research and education in this area of women's health.

Dr. Shufelt is Professor and Chair of the Division of General Internal Medicine at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, and Associate Director of Women's Health Research Center at Mayo Clinic Enterprise. She is a women’s health internist with fellowship training in vascular biology and women's health and a certified menopause practitioner. She has several National and International leadership roles in the American College of Physicians, the European Menopause and Andropause Society and the North American Menopause Society where she is the immediate past-President of the Society and on the board of trustees. Dr. Shufelt has over 200 publications in the area of women’s health and has also co-authored several scientific position statements on menopause and hormone therapy. Her NIH-funded research focuses on young women with hypothalamic amenorrhea evaluating the impact on immune and vascular health.

____________________________________________________________________________________

REVEAL Registry

Participate in-person

Pre-screening questionnaire

E-MAIL the mayo clinic with any questions

DLREVEAL@mayo.edu

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Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

A Recipe for a Period® Info Session on Feb 21, 2025 at 12:30 AM EST https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/QdPiG_SfS4eB8klEmqjVBQ#/registration

____________________________________________________________________________________

In this conversation, Cynthia and Tamara delve into the intricate relationship between constellation work and body image issues. Tamara explains the concept of constellation work, likening it to a theatrical play where participants embody family dynamics. 

Cynthia and Tamara explore how body image concerns often stem from deeper emotional patterns, including trans-generational trauma and societal pressures. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding these underlying issues to foster healing and self-acceptance. 

Tamara shares insights from her practice, emphasizing that many body image struggles are not about the physical body but rather about unresolved emotional conflicts. The conversation concludes with reflections on personal recovery journeys and the role of control in shaping body image perceptions. 

In this conversation, Cynthia and Tamara explore the complex relationship women have with their bodies, emphasizing the journey from body image fixation to self-love and authenticity. They discuss the importance of befriending one's body, and the necessity of addressing underlying emotional pain. 

Takeaways:

• Constellation work is an experiential process that reveals family dynamics. Trans-generational trauma can influence current body image concerns.
• Body image issues often stem from deeper emotional patterns and so healing involves understanding and addressing underlying emotional conflicts.
• Control issues are common in body image struggles.
• Many women feel societal pressure regarding their appearance. Self-worth is often tied to external validation and appearance.
• Constellation work can help untie systemic knots related to body image.
• Recovery journeys are unique and require self-compassion. Body image is often a symptom of deeper emotional issues.
• Self-love begins with befriending your body, but it’s normal to have days when you don't like your body.
• The journey to self-acceptance is ongoing and requires patience.
• Societal standards of beauty can distort our self-perception.
• Education about body diversity can empower women.
• Authenticity is more fulfilling than the pursuit of happiness.
• Navigating uncomfortable emotions is part of the healing process.
• We are the first generation with the resources to address these issues.

Connect with Tamara https://pushparanihealing.com/

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Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this conversation, Kelsi shares her journey from living for athletic achievement to finding joy in so many new areas of her life including motherhood, friend and family relationships and higher education. She discusses her struggles with disordered eating, the absence of her menstrual cycle, and the challenges of seeking help from medical professionals. 

Along the way therapy was an important part of Kelsi's recovery to help her build a life out of more than just exercise. In this conversation, Kelsi shares her journey of recovery from hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) and the emotional and physical challenges she faced. She discusses the importance of community support, the gradual process of regaining her menstrual cycle, and the transformative power of self-acceptance. 

Kelsi reflects on her dreams of motherhood and how her perspective shifted during recovery. The conversation emphasizes the significance of balance in life, the ongoing nature of recovery, and the encouragement for others facing similar struggles.

• Medical professionals often misunderstand HA and overexercising goes unnoticed.
• Therapy played a crucial role in Kelsi's recovery journey so she could gradually learn to be honest with herself.
• Community support is crucial for accountability and encouragement because there's nothing that can matched feeling understood.
• Learning about your body and its cycles is empowering.
• Dreams can shift during recovery, revealing deeper desires.
• Life after recovery can be fulfilling and rich with experiences.
• It's okay to have hard days; recovery is not linear.
• Women have much more to contribute beyond physical appearance.
• Recovery can lead to unexpected joys and opportunities.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://p.bttr.to/3ybjfOb 

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Celebrating her three-year anniversary of getting her period back, in this episode of the Period Recovery Podcast, Grace shares her inspiring journey of recovering her menstrual health. 

Grace reflects on the challenges she faced over years of struggle, the importance of support from family and community, and the transformative power of self-reflection. She discusses the fears she encountered during recovery, the significance of celebrating small victories, and how her life has changed for the better. 

Today you’re going to hear us emphasize the importance of understanding one's body, the role of nutrition and exercise, and the joy of living a fulfilling life free from the constraints of diet culture.

Takeaways

• Recovery is a journey that takes time and patience.
• Support from family and community is crucial during recovery.
• Self-reflection helps in understanding harmful behaviors.
• Celebrating small victories is important for motivation.
• It's essential to prioritize health over rigid routines.
• The journey of recovery can lead to a more fulfilling life.
• Understanding the root causes of disordered eating is vital.
• It's okay to seek professional help during recovery.
• Embracing flexibility in life can lead to greater happiness.
• 
  

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://p.bttr.to/3ybjfOb 

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In this episode of the Period Recovery Podcast, Cynthia discusses the challenges women face during the holiday season while recovering their periods. 

She addresses family dynamics, the emotional toll of weight gain, and the longing for pregnancy, providing actionable tips for navigating these sensitive topics. 

Cynthia emphasizes the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and maintaining a flexible routine to support recovery during the holidays. She encourages listeners to focus on progress rather than perfection and to seek support when needed.

Learn how to redirect the conversation when someone tries to talk to you about your body, compliment you on your body, talk to you about what you’re eating or not eating, etc. 

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://p.bttr.to/3ybjfOb 

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com