Egg Meets Sperm

Infertility isn’t always about age or hormones—sometimes the real culprits are hidden, silent root causes that standard medicine rarely investigates. In this powerful conversation, we explore the cutting-edge research and clinical insights that are changing the way we understand fertility struggles and recurrent pregnancy loss.

Joining me on this episode is Dr. Natalie Underberg, a leading voice in functional medicine, women’s health, and fertility. She runs her own private practice, and she is also the founder of FIG Wellness, a faith-based supplement company known for its science-backed formulations and their leading HIS&HERS prenatal vitamins — world-class products that feature industry-leading doses of crucial nutrients like 900 mg of choline, setting a new standard in perinatal nutrition and were formulated specifically by Dr. Natalie and her husban,d Dr. Jake.

Dr. Natalie has helped hundreds of couples achieve natural pregnancies by uncovering and addressing the root causes of hormonal imbalances, PCOS, gut dysfunction, and recurrent pregnancy loss. She is also the creator of The PCOS Collective and The Pregnancy Prep Academy — educational programs designed to empower women to take control of their health and fertility with personalized, root-cause care.

Her work blends clinical expertise, real-life experience, and faith-centered guidance to support couples in stewarding their health and fertility naturally, without unnecessary medications or fertility procedures.

👩‍⚕️ Dr Underberg dives deep into the underlying drivers of infertility, such as:

• Stealth infections (urea plasma, mycoplasma, H. Pylori, chronic UTIs)
• Environmental toxins like glyphosate, BPA, and microplastics that damage sperm and egg quality
• Mold exposure & hidden pathogens that trigger systemic inflammation
• Gut dysbiosis and malabsorption are linked to poor reproductive outcomes
• Chronic stress and nervous system dysregulation as overlooked fertility blockers

🧪 We also uncover game-changing testing breakthroughs you won’t hear about in most OB/GYN offices, including:

• Uterine microbiome testing via menstrual blood (new non-invasive technology!)
• Male fertility testing that goes beyond sperm count to assess DNA fragmentation & toxins
• Comprehensive stool & toxin burden testing for uncovering hidden inflammatory drivers

💡 Key takeaways:

• Early miscarriages (4–8 weeks) are often tied to uterine infections—not just “low progesterone”
• Treating both partners is essential for clearing infections & preventing reinfection
• Fertility can dramatically improve with probiotics, biofilm disruptors, and holistic protocols
• Low pregnenolone levels may be the missing hormonal link keeping couples from conceiving

If you’ve been told “everything looks fine” but are still struggling to get pregnant, this episode will open the door to new answers, advanced solutions, and hope.

✨ Don’t miss this if you’re:

• Experiencing unexplained infertility
• Struggling with recurrent pregnancy loss
• Interested in natural & root-cause approaches to fertility
• A practitioner seeking deeper insights for complex fertility cases

Follow Dr Natalie Underberg on:

In this powerful episode, I was interviewed by Rita De Michele, host of Beyond Diagnosis Podcast and the founder of Beyond Diagnosis Directory, a platform connecting people worldwide with trusted functional, integrative, holistic health professionals and mindset coaches.

With a background in Master-level NLP and emotional empowerment, Rita bridges mindset, innovation, and healthcare to help people discover root-cause solutions and new pathways to healing beyond conventional approaches.

A passionate advocate for “our health, our choice,” she is building a global movement that empowers both practitioners and health seekers to collaborate toward genuine healing and lasting wellbeing.

For too long, couples have been told:

• “You’ve been trying for 12 months. You’re infertile.”
• But what if infertility isn’t a final diagnosis — it’s a symptom?

In this conversation, I break down the truth about fertility testing, hormone cycles, and the deep connection between your body’s sense of safety and your ability to conceive. You’ll discover why so many lab tests are done incorrectly, how toxins and lifestyle play a role, and what your doctor might have missed.

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 – Intro: The Fertility Conversation You Need to Hear

04:12 – Why infertility is often misdiagnosed

09:35 – How most hormone labs are done at the wrong time

13:00 – The truth about IVF and why it’s not the first solution

18:25 – What your fertility labs should actually include (FSH, LH, Estradiol, AMH)

25:10 – Infertility as a symptom, not a diagnosis

30:45 – Environmental toxins that silently affect reproduction (BPA, phthalates, glyphosate)

38:10 – How GMO and seedless foods can harm fertility

45:20 – Lifestyle factors that sabotage fertility without you realizing

52:00 – Thyroid, Hashimoto’s & methylation issues: the hidden root causes

1:03:15 – Male fertility: why sperm health matters just as much

1:15:00 – The 4R Method: Reveal, Remove, Rebalance, Receive

1:25:40 – The “safety signal” that helps your body conceive naturally

1:32:00 – Simple daily fertility practices you can start today

🌸 Key Takeaways:

• Infertility is often misdiagnosed — true fertility issues are multifactorial and reversible
• Testing at the wrong point in your cycle gives inaccurate results
• Lifestyle, toxins, and stress directly impact fertility hormones
• The body must feel safe before it will allow conception
• Male fertility contributes to nearly 50% of conception challenges
• Real healing happens when both partners rebalance together

🧘‍♀️ Natural Fertility Boosting Tools Mentioned:

• Circadian syncing (go to bed & wake up at the same time daily)
• Gentle body scanning meditation (reduces stress hormones by 23%)
• Oxytocin-boosting practices (eye-gazing, long hugs, women’s circles)
• Reducing plastic, fragrance, and pesticide exposure
• Seed cycling & fermented foods for gut and hormone health

💬 Join the Conversation

Do you believe infertility is a symptom, not a diagnosis? Share your thoughts!

Follow Rita De Michele on:

Are you on your fertility journey and wondering how your workout routine might be affecting your ability to conceive?

🌱 In this empowering conversation, we’ll break down exactly how movement, stress, and recovery play a vital role in optimizing your fertility naturally.

So many women are told that being “fit” automatically means being fertile—but the truth is more nuanced. Overtraining, high-intensity workouts, and chronic stress can actually work against your hormones and reproductive health.

This episode is here to help you reconnect with your body, find balance, and feel empowered through movement that supports—not sabotages—your fertility.

Esther is a health industry veteran with 20 years of experience, passionately helping people stop starting over so they can build the consistency and confidence to create the kind of life they want — starting with their health. In her 20s, despite being a personal trainer and nutrition coach, she wrestled with an all-or-nothing approach—swinging between strict diets, overexercising, and overeating, pouring energy into her health without seeing the results she felt she deserved. That struggle taught her the value of consistency and balance, a middle ground she now lives daily, juggling a business, family, and health goals while prioritizing mental, physical, and emotional well-being over the scale. Through her work, Esther shares practical tools and new ways of thinking to help audiences focus on what matters, lean on those who can help, and take compassionate ownership of the process. Her audiences leave empowered and motivated to build sustainable habits that enhance every part of life.

💬 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

• 💡 How exercise affects your fertility hormones (and what types of workouts to prioritize)
• 💪 The best fertility-friendly workout structure — including walking, strength training, and low-impact cardio
• ⚖️ Why rest and recovery are just as important as movement
• 🧘‍♀️ How to tune into your body’s signals instead of following generic fitness trends or cycle-syncing charts
• 🚶‍♀️ Why walking is the unsung hero of fertility-friendly movement—and how a simple walking pad can change your life
• 💬 How to make movement enjoyable again by pairing it with joy, podcasts, or mindful rituals
• 🤰 Practical tips for exercising safely during pregnancy and postpartum recovery
• ❤️ The mindset shift that will transform how you view your body before, during, and after pregnancy

🕒 Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction: Taking charge of your fertility through movement

03:10 – The connection between stress and conception

07:25 – Building your foundation: daily movement and step goals

12:50 – Why HIIT workouts might be doing more harm than good

16:45 – The power of strength training for hormone balance

20:15 – Rest days: why they’re a fertility essential

25:30 – Listening to your body, not Instagram trends

30:40 – Postpartum recovery & redefining your strength

36:20 – A mindset of self-compassion and progress over perfection

🌼 Fertility Fitness Framework:

1. Move daily, but gently — Aim for 7,000–10,000 steps, not exhaustion.
2. Lift weights 2–3 times per week — Build strength and improve metabolic health.
3. Limit HIIT to 1–3 short sessions weekly — Keep intensity moderate.
4. Prioritize recovery — Include yoga, stretching, and full rest days.
5. Track your movement & energy — Notice patterns, adjust gently.
6. Support your hormones through nourishment and sleep.

🌸 Real Talk:

If you’ve been feeling like you need to “do more” to conceive, this episode is your reminder that sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is slow down.

Your body thrives on balance, nourishment, and rest—not punishment or perfection.

You are already doing enough. You are enough. 💖

📲 Follow Esther on:

If you’re trying to conceive and want to prepare your body naturally, this video is your essential guide to preconception detoxification. 🌿

I’ve been a fertility specialist for nearly 15 years and have helped thousands of couples conceive naturally. This is Part 4 of our Detox for Fertility series — where we dive deep into the “how”: the exact supplement protocols, timing strategies, and research-backed phases that safely support your body before conception.

Before you start, I recommend watching Parts 1–3 to understand the why and what behind detoxing before pregnancy. This video focuses on practical application — the step-by-step breakdown of supplements, timing, and safe strategies to help you detox effectively while protecting your reproductive health.

💡 In This Video You’ll Learn:

0:00 – Intro: Why Preconception Detox Matters

2:15 – Foundational Principles for Detox Before Conception

4:30 – Phase 1: Preparation Phase — Supporting Elimination Pathways

10:45 – Phase 2: Active Detox — Mobilizing & Binding Toxins Safely

17:25 – Phase 3: Restoration Phase — Replenishing Nutrients & Supporting Fertility

24:50 – Timing Your Detox for Optimal Fertility

30:40 – What to Avoid During Detox (Common Mistakes!)

35:00 – Real Case Studies & Success Stories

🧬 Key Takeaways:

• Gentle > Aggressive: Slow, sustained detox is safer and more effective — especially when preparing for conception.
• Personalization is Essential: Genetics, nutritional status, and toxin load all influence what works best for your body.
• Phases Matter: Preparation, Active Detox, and Restoration — each phase supports fertility in a unique way.
• Both Partners Count: Male detoxification directly affects sperm quality and embryo health.
• Timing is Critical: Start your detox 3–6 months before trying to conceive for optimal results.

🌱 Research-Backed Supplements Mentioned:

Preparation Phase:

• Fiber (psyllium husk, flaxseed, modified citrus pectin)
• Probiotics (L. rhamnosus, B. longum, S. boulardii)
• Liver support herbs: Milk thistle, Dandelion root, Artichoke extract
• Lymphatic support: Red root, Burdock root
• Electrolytes, mineral water, and hydration tips

Active Detox Phase:

• Glutathione & N-acetylcysteine (NAC)
• Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA)
• Methylation support (Methylfolate, B12, TMG)
• Binders (Activated charcoal, Bentonite clay, Modified citrus pectin, Chlorella)
• Antioxidants (Vitamin C, E, Selenium, CoQ10)
• Sulfur compounds (DIM, Calcium D-glucarate, Sulforaphane)

Restoration Phase:

• Essential minerals (Magnesium, Zinc, Selenium)
• Mitochondrial support (CoQ10, PQQ, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, D-ribose)
• Adaptogens (Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Holy Basil)
• Omega-3 fatty acids & high-quality prenatals

⚠️ Important Warnings:

🚫 Avoid detoxing while actively trying to conceive or during IVF treatment phases.

🚫 Skip harsh detoxes, unsupervised chelation, fasting, or extreme cleanses.

✅ Always consult a qualified practitioner to personalize your protocol.

❤️ For Both Partners:

Detoxing together ensures healthier sperm, stronger eggs, and a more resilient environment for conception and pregnancy.

🔗 Listen to the Full Detox for Fertility Series:

What if the fertility crisis of today is not just biological—but ecological?

In this transformative episode, we uncover a revolutionary idea: your body has its own internal climate, and just like the planet, it’s suffering from imbalance.

Modern life has pushed us to live like “solar beings”—overstimulated, overproductive, overheated, and dried out. The result? Hormonal chaos, emotional depletion, and a global fertility decline. But when we remember that our bodies are microcosms of the Earth, everything begins to make sense.

Join me for this amazing interview with Nidhi Bhanshali Pandya.

Nidhi is an Ayurvedic Doctor, international speaker, educator, and bestselling author based in NYC. She's become widely known for her unique approach to health, healing, and longevity, the Inner Climate Method®. This pioneering approach, blending ancient wisdom with modern science, is the culmination of her 15 years of dedicated practice.

Growing up in India, Nidhi was steeped in Vedic traditions from an early age, inspired by her grandfather, an esteemed Ayurvedic healer. Her formal education in holistic health led her to become an Ayurvedic Doctor.

Today, Nidhi shares her groundbreaking method worldwide, guiding women to embrace self-awareness and intuitive living. Her teachings focus on achieving Mind-Body Balance, actively realigning both their mind and body, and fostering Radical Transformation in their lives.

🌏 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How our intellectual and technological evolution disconnected us from natural rhythms
• Why our obsession with control, speed, and productivity disrupts hormonal balance
• How circadian misalignment affects your endocrine and reproductive systems
• Why “warm and moist” is the biological climate of fertility
• How simple shifts—like honoring sleep, breath, nourishment, and lunar rhythms—can restore vitality

🌙 The Science of Your Inner Climate:

Just as life on Earth thrives in a warm, moist atmosphere, our bodies depend on similar conditions. Stress, caffeine, lack of sleep, and constant stimulation dry out the system—literally. From dry skin and eyes to irregular cycles, your body is signaling an imbalance. By rehydrating your inner world—emotionally, nutritionally, and spiritually—you recreate the perfect environment for life to grow.

💫 Practical Steps to Reconnect with Nature’s Blueprint:

• Reclaim your circadian rhythm by syncing your sleep and sunlight cycles
• Prioritize nourishing, hydrating foods (think coconut, sweet potatoes, ghee, avocados)
• Practice slow, elongated exhales to activate your body’s repair system
• Reintroduce warmth and moisture through oil massages and soothing rituals
• Embrace your lunar nature—your cycles mirror the moon’s cycles for a reason

This is not just a conversation about fertility—it’s a reawakening to the truth that life wants life, and your body is designed to create it when it’s in rhythm with nature.

Follow Nidhi Bhanshali Pandya on: