EF#46: Navigating Endometriosis and Infertility - A Journey Across Borders with Lizzie Alexander
Release Date: 10/16/2024
Endo Fertility
In Episode 62, I dive into the emotional reality of infertility during UK Infertility Awareness Week. Join me as I share an impromptu recording on the beach of my personal feelings around my journey through both primary and secondary infertility spanning nine years, including my endometriosis diagnosis, fertility treatments, and the emotional toll this journey has taken. I also provide valuable guidance for friends and family members who want to support loved ones experiencing fertility challenges but may not know how to approach these sensitive conversations. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: My personal...
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In honour of Endometriosis Awareness Month (March) today’s episode is a replay from Episode 6, where I talk about nutrition. This is a huge topic, but I wanted to introduce the general nutrition principles related to 1) improving your Endometriosis symptoms and 2) optimising your body so you are ready to get pregnant and then sustain a healthy pregnancy. There are a lot of similarities between these two objectives, but also there can be some conflicting ways of approaching nutrition, meaning that many women with Endometriosis can follow the ‘Endo-diet’ to reduce inflammation but end up...
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Welcome to Episode 61! In this episode, I explore the often-taboo subject of vaginal health and its profound impact on women's overall well-being. Join me, Lizzie Alexander, the host of the Endo Fertility podcast, as I talk about the importance of maintaining a healthy vagina, the role of hormones like estrogen, and how conditions such as endometriosis and infections can affect vaginal health. We provide insights and actionable tips to help you take charge of your reproductive health. EPISODES HIGHLIGHT: The significance of a healthy vaginal microbiome and its role in preventing infections. ...
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In Episode 60, we explore the emotional and practical challenges women face when trying to conceive, especially in the context of endometriosis and secondary infertility. Join us as we discuss Julia Midwinter’s personal journey with endometriosis and the emotional challenges of IVF and miscarriage, along with her insights as a Fertility and Pregnancy Mindset Coach. We talk through the array of valuable coping mechanisms and strategies she uses like NLP, EFT and visualisation to help you navigate your fertility journey with resilience and hope. We also talk about the importance of community...
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Welcome to Episode 59! In this episode, we explore the significant yet often overlooked topic of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and its profound effects on gut health, endometriosis, and fertility. Join us as we discuss the symptoms associated with H. pylori, its connection to inflammation and endometriosis, and the implications for fertility. We provide insights and actionable tips to help you understand this bacterium and its potential impact on your health. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Introduction to H. pylori: Overview of what H. pylori is and its prevalence in the population. Symptoms of...
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Welcome to Episode 58! In this episode, my guest Sarah Holland from Fertile Mindset and I explore the transformative power of the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) in supporting fertility and endometriosis. Join us, as Sarah shares her personal experience of being a fertility practitioner and also her personal fertility challenges, her pioneering work with EFT, and how emotional well-being plays a crucial role in the fertility process. This episode provides insights and actionable tips to help you navigate the emotional rollercoaster of fertility issues. Episode Highlights: Sarah's personal...
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Welcome to the first episode of 2025! In this empowering session, we reflect on our journeys through 2024 and set a powerful vision for the new year. Join us as we navigate the complexities of living with endometriosis while trying to conceive and learn how to become the architects of our own healing journey. WHAT TO EXPECT: - Introduction: A warm welcome and an overview of today’s focus on reflection and vision-setting. - Part 1: Reflection: Guided journaling prompts to honor your victories, learnings, and challenges from 2024. - Part 2: Shifting the Story: Strategies to transform...
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Join me for a special Christmas Day meditation designed specifically for women with endometriosis who are navigating the challenges of trying to conceive. This peaceful session offers a moment of reflection, hope, and healing amidst the holiday hustle. WHAT TO EXPECT: - Guided meditation focused on self-compassion and inner strength - Affirmations to nurture your spirit and foster a sense of community - Techniques to alleviate stress and promote emotional well-being WHY LISTEN This meditation is a gift to yourself during a season that can be both joyful and...
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In this episode, my guest Dr Kasia Kines and I explore the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a common yet often misunderstood virus that affects a significant portion of the global population. Dr. Kasia Kines is an Amazon best-selling author of the Epstein-Barr Virus Solution, a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition from MUIH (Maryland University of Integrative Health), a graduate of the first doctoral functional nutrition program created by Dr. Liz Lipski, PhD and CEO of Holistic Nutrition Naturally LLC and EBV Educational Institute. Join us as we discuss how EBV is contracted, its symptoms including...
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In this episode, we explore surviving the Christmas season while navigating the challenges of endometriosis and fertility issues. Join Lizzie as she discusses emotional resilience, practical strategies for self-care, and tips for enjoying holiday food without completely compromising your health. This episode aims to provide insights and actionable tips to help you find joy and peace during a potentially stressful time. A number of actionable tips were discussed including: Setting boundaries at family gatherings Communicating your needs clearly Preparing nutritious holiday meals that...
info_outlineAfter a two-year break from the podcast, Lizzie returns to share her personal struggle with endometriosis, secondary infertility, and her journey of trying to conceive (TTC) across international borders. This comeback episode offers valuable insights for anyone dealing with fertility challenges with endometriosis.
Episode highlights:
- Lizzie's fertility journey since her last update (Episode 44, May 2022)
- Balancing endometriosis management with trying to conceive
- Exploring IVF and donor egg IVF as fertility treatment options
- Navigating international moves while undergoing fertility treatments
- The impact of environmental factors (like mould exposure) on fertility and overall health
- Coping with failed IVF attempts and the emotional toll of infertility
- The importance of laparoscopic surgery in treating endometriosis
- Managing hormonal imbalances and their effect on fertility
- Addressing immune system issues in relation to implantation failure
- The role of mental health support in a fertility journey
Key lessons for those trying to conceive:
- Embracing change during your fertility journey
- Maintaining positivity while dealing with infertility
- Prioritising self-care and stress management
- Trusting your instincts about your body and health
- Importance of nutrition in fertility and endometriosis management
- Building a support network while dealing with infertility
- Acknowledging the emotional aspects of the TTC journey
- Preparing for setbacks in fertility treatments
- Seeking professional guidance for fertility issues
- The value of persistence in facing fertility challenges
Resources mentioned:
- Episode 44: Postpartum Recovery and Fertility Journey
- Endo Fertility Podcast Goodie Bag 📦 > each week check this out for new goodie’s from Lizzie and her guests.
This episode is sponsored by the Ultimate Endo Fertility Library - sign up HERE to get yourself on the mailing list and started with a Quick Start Endo Fertility E-book, a symptom tracker, delicious recipes, workbooks, guided meditations, and other helpful resources.
Upcoming episodes:
- Episode 47 [Next Episode] - Interview with a psychotherapist on fertility-related mental health
- Deep dives into donor IVF, choosing overseas fertility clinics, and preparing for fertility-related surgeries
- Expert interviews on topics including recurrent miscarriage, Mayan abdominal massage for fertility, and the connection between Epstein Barr Virus, endometriosis and infertility
How to work with me:
- One off 1:1 coaching sessions e.g. blood test reviews and fertility strategy sessions
- Personalised 1:1 Endo Fertility coaching programs
- >>Book your free 30 minutes 1:1 coaching session HERE<<
- Upcoming affordable monthly Endo Fertility Mastery Coaching Membership [wait list open soon - be sure to join my mailing list not to miss the launch].
Get in touch / join my community:
- Follow me on Instagram and Facebook
- Join my Endo Fertility community – find us in the Thrive and Conceive with Endometriosis Facebook Group.
Subscribe now to stay updated on all things related to endometriosis, fertility, and women's health in Season 4!