Defining the preconception window

Fertility struggles are often treated as a problem to solve only after they appear. But what if they’re actually a signal from the body that something deeper needs attention? On this episode of The Dr. Hyman Show, I sit down with functional medicine physician Dr. Ann Shippy, author of The Preconception Revolution, to talk about why the months—even years—before conception may shape not only your health, but your future child’s long-term health as well. Watch the full conversation on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. In this conversation, we explore: • What fertility challenges may be signaling about your health, and why infertility may be the body’s “check engine light” • Why the 3–36 month preconception window can shape fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and your child’s long-term health • How just three weeks of ultra-processed food can change sperm quality, and what that reveals about fertility • What couples can start doing now to improve fertility, from strengthening metabolic health to reducing toxic exposures • How preparing your body before pregnancy may reduce your child’s risk of chronic disease later in life Preparing for pregnancy isn’t just about fertility. Many of the factors that influence fertility are within your control, and your body often responds in remarkable ways. View Show Notes From This Episode

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(0:00) Introduction to fertility issues and Dr. Hyman's personal health journey

(3:48) The Preconception Revolution and the current fertility crisis

(7:03) Dr. Ann Shippy's career and personal health journey

(9:18) The functional medicine approach to fertility and conception

(11:01) Biological vs. chronological age and older women conceiving

(13:02) Sperm quality, infertility signals, and lifestyle changes

(17:07) Strategies for preconception health and diet's role in fertility

(22:05) Environmental toxins, endocrine disruptors, and detoxification

(26:13) Supplements and patient examples in enhancing fertility

(33:02) Neurodevelopmental issues in children and foundational health for fertility

(37:37) Postpartum recovery and reducing toxin exposure

(38:30) Tests and biomarkers for assessing fertility

(43:02) Addressing autoimmune issues to improve fertility

(48:52) NAD's role in longevity and reproductive health

(52:02) The impact of stress and stress management on fertility

(56:43) Holistic fertility treatments and the importance of neurofeedback

(59:27) Introduction to Food Fix Uncensored and engagement strategies

(1:01:46) Acknowledgment of sponsors and closing remarks