Show Notes
If you’ve been trying to start a family for months — or even years — you’ve likely heard the same generic advice over and over again. But what if there’s more to the story? In this episode, Ask Lively host Nathalia sits down with Dr. Nirali Jain (@eggspert_md) — board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist — to uncover the real science, the hidden factors, and the conversations no one is having about fertility. From understanding what a healthy ovulatory cycle actually looks like, to how stress, nutrition, and conditions like PCOS or endometriosis can impact conception, this conversation is all about clarity and empowerment. Whether you’re actively trying to conceive, planning for the future, or just want to better understand your body, this episode breaks down the truths every woman deserves to know.
What you'll learn in this episode Why relying on period-tracking apps alone can cause women to miss their fertile window. The difference between traacking your period and tracking ovulation What "egg quality" really means and how it changes over time. Surprising lifestyle and health factors that may be preventing conception. What early signs, labs, and overlooked causes women (and men!) should be paying attention to. How to advocate for yourself in the fertility space when you feel dismissed. Practical next steps to feel more in control of your journey
Guest Spotlight: Dr. Nirali Jain Dr. Jain is a reproductive endocrinologist and OB/GYN based in NYC/NJ who’s passionate about bringing science-based fertility education to women everywhere. She combines her deep expertise with approachable, relatable teaching to help women understand their bodies — and take charge of their fertility with confidence. Follow Dr. Jain on Instagram: @eggspert_md Resources & Links Download the Lively App to start tracking your cycle and gain insights into how your body shifts through each phase. Lively gives you personalized tips on what to eat, move, and do — whether you’re cycle syncing, navigating pregnancy, or trying to conceive. Link to download App StoreLively ~ Period Tracker, Cycle Stay connected with Ask Lively: Subscribe, follow, and leave us a review so we can keep more episodes coming your way! Join the conversation on Instagram: @livelycycle
Final Takeaway Your cycle is not just about your period — it’s your monthly report card. Understanding it can transform how you approach fertility, health, and life. Don’t settle for confusion or dismissal; you deserve answers and support. Tune in, track your cycle, and take the guesswork out of your health with Lively. ✨ Don’t forget to hit Follow on Spotify or Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. One tap helps us bring on more experts, grow the Lively community, and give you the tools you deserve to thrive.
More from Ask Lively
How to Exercise in Sync With Your Cycle (and Why Most Fitness Advice Gets It Wrong)
Pelvic Health, Hormones & the Power of Self-Advocacy
The Holistic Pregnancy Guide: Supplements, Science, and What Actually Works Staring at dozens of prenatal bottles and trying to figure out what your body actually needs? Between viral TikTok advice and labels promising miracles, the supplement aisle feels like a total minefield. In this episode of Ask Lively, Nathalia sits down with Dr. Mary Ella Wood, Medical Director at Northwestern Medicine’s Osher Center, to separate real reproductive science from clever marketing. We are stripping away the guesswork so you can nourish your pregnancy with complete clarity. In this episode, we cover: 5 non-negotiables to look for on any prenatal label Folic acid vs. methylfolate: what the evidence actually says How to spot heavy metals and verify third-party testing Extra supplements worth your money (and the ones to skip) Clinical remedies for nausea, heartburn, fatigue, and insomnia Smart ways to blend holistic care with your regular doctor visits Meet Dr. Mary Ella Wood Dr. Mary Ella Wood is a triple board certified integrative medicine physician and Medical Director of the Osher Center for Integrative Health at Northwestern Medicine. With extensive training in general surgery, family medicine, osteopathic manipulative medicine, and integrative care, she seamlessly bridges the gap between conventional medicine and evidence-based holistic health. Her clinical practice focuses on whole-person care across every stage of a woman's life, specializing in fertility, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, hormone balance, gut health, and stress physiology. She is also the host of The Trip Lab, a podcast exploring integrative health, psychedelic science, and the future of medicine. Find Dr. Mary Ella Wood 🌐 Website: drmaryellawood.com 🎙️ Podcast — The Trip Lab: The Trip Lab 📱 Instagram: @drmaryella A note from Lively Pregnancy is not the time to chase every wellness trend. Focus on the core fundamentals first: a nutrient-rich diet, a reliable prenatal, and continuous guidance from your doctor. Remember that more is not always better. Labeling a product "natural" does not automatically mean it is safe during pregnancy, and supplements should always be tailored to your unique body, lab results, and medical history. If this episode gave you clarity, share it with a friend who is pregnant or trying to conceive. Make sure to hit Follow on Spotify or Apple Podcasts so you never miss a new conversation on Ask Lively. Ready to navigate your body and pregnancy with confidence? Download the Lively app and start tracking today.
The Truth About Breast Implant Illness No One Is Talking About w/ Dr. Robert Whitfield Millions of women have breast implants, yet many have never been told about the growing conversations surrounding breast implant illness (BII). For some, symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, autoimmune issues, and chronic inflammation can appear years after surgery, leaving them searching for answers while being told that everything looks "normal." Join host Nathalia Levterova as she sits down with Dr. Robert Whitfield, board-certified plastic surgeon and one of the leading experts in breast implant illness and explant surgery, to unpack the latest research, common misconceptions, and what women should know if they suspect their implants may be affecting their health. Together, they explore why BII is often overlooked, what emerging evidence is revealing, and how a comprehensive approach can support healing before and after explant surgery. In this episode, you will discover: What breast implant illness is and why its symptoms are often misunderstood or dismissed. What recent research has uncovered about bacterial contamination in implant capsules and why it matters. Why healing involves more than simply removing implants, and the importance of preparing the body before and after explant surgery. Practical first steps to take if you suspect your breast implants may be contributing to your symptoms. Remember: you know your body better than anyone. If something doesn't feel right, you deserve to ask questions, seek evidence-based care, and find healthcare providers who take your concerns seriously. Try the Lively App for Free:https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634 Lively Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/livelycycle Learn more about Lively:https://livelycycle.com/ Connect with Dr. Robert Whitfield: Website: https://breastimplantillnessexpert.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drrobertwhitfield/ Learn more about the SHARP Method: https://breastimplantillnessexpert.com/sharp-method/ Stay connected with Ask Lively: Subscribe, follow, and leave us a review so we can continue bringing you thoughtful conversations that empower you to better understand your body, advocate for your health, and make informed decisions about your care. 💛 Resources & Links
Trusting Yourself Through Labor: A Doula’s Guide to Birth Prep Birth rarely goes exactly as planned, but that doesn't mean you can't prepare for it. The most empowering birth plans aren't about controlling every outcome; they're about understanding your options, communicating your preferences, and feeling confident enough to adapt when the unexpected happens. Join host Nathalia Levterova as she sits down with birth doula, nutritionist, and birth educator Victoria Wagner of Soully Nourished to break down what every expecting parent should know before labor begins. From creating a birth plan to preparing your body, mind, and support team, this conversation is packed with practical guidance to help you approach birth with confidence instead of fear. In this episode, you will discover: Why a birth plan is about preparation, not perfection or control. The key decisions and conversations to have before labor, including induction, cervical checks, pain management, and delayed cord clamping. How partners can become confident advocates throughout pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Practical ways to prepare physically, mentally, and emotionally for a positive birth experience, regardless of how your birth unfolds.