How do you know when to seek help for fertility? What’s actually “normal” when it comes to your cycle? And is egg freezing only for women in their late 30s? What about male factor causing infertility - the shocking statistics.

In this episode of the Hormones & Hope Podcast, Dr. Chhaya Makhija is joined by reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Carolina Sueldo for a deep dive into all things fertility. From understanding your menstrual cycle as a vital sign to knowing when to seek help, this episode sheds light on what’s normal, what’s not, and why early action matters.

They also discuss lifestyle factors, fertility preservation options like egg and embryo freezing, and how to feel more in control of your reproductive health—whether you're trying to conceive now or planning for later. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by fertility advice, this is your safe space.

Key Takeaways:

- Irregular, painful, or excessively heavy periods are not normal.

- Egg freezing is not just for women in their late 30s.

- Male factor for infertility - needs evaluation.

- Nutrition, sleep, exercise, and stress management all affect your reproductive health.

- It’s important to know what, why, and where you’re getting your supplements from.

- You don’t need a referral to see a fertility specialist.

- Seeing a fertility specialist doesn’t mean you’re committing to IVF.

- Fertility preservation allows you to make informed decisions on your timeline.

- The right doctor-patient relationship can change the course of your fertility journey.

Follow Dr. Chhaya Makhija here:

https://www.instagram.com/chhayamakhijamd/

https://www.facebook.com/unifiedendocrine

https://unifiedendocrinecare.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@chhayamakhijamd

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chhayamakhijamd/

Follow Dr. Carolina Sueldo here:

https://www.instagram.com/drcarolinasueldo/?hl=en

https://www.drcarolinasueldo.com/

https://www.facebook.com/drcarolinasueldo

https://www.instagram.com/ceibofertility

https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolina-sueldo-46b179ba

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. It’s not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to the Hormones & Hope Podcast for more expert insights, real conversations, and science-backed strategies to help you feel your best—inside and out.

Can you truly thrive with rheumatoid arthritis—not just survive? In this empowering episode of Hormones and Hope Podcast, endocrinologist and lifestyle medicine specialist Dr. Chhaya Makhija connects with world-renowned rheumatologist and telehealth pioneer Dr. Diana Girnita to explore that very question.

Drawing from her clinical experience and her book Thriving with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Dr. Girnita shares how science-backed lifestyle changes can complement traditional treatment. From busting common myths (like “RA only affects older people”) to discussing the impact of sugar, sleep, and mindset, this conversation brings clarity and hope to anyone living with or at risk for Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Whether you're newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or looking to delay the onset of autoimmune symptoms, this episode offers practical, science-based tools to help you feel more in control of your health journey.

Follow Dr. Chhaya Makhija here:

instagram.com/chhayamakhijamd

facebook.com/unifiedendocrine

unifiedendocrinecare.com

https://www.youtube.com/@chhayamakhijamd

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chhayamakhijamd/

Follow Dr. Girnita here:

https://rheumatologistoncall.com/

https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/?hl=en

https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncall

Buy Thriving with Rheumatoid Arthritis here:

https://www.amazon.com/THRIVING-RHEUMATOID-ARTHRITIS-Science-Backed-Conquering/dp/B0DPC3GNKV

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. It’s not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to the Hormones & Hope Podcast for more expert insights, real conversations, and science-backed strategies to help you feel your best—inside and out.

Welcome to Hormones & Hope Podcast!

I’m your host, Dr. Chhaya Makhija — triple board-certified in Internal Medicine, Diabetes, Endocrine & Metabolism, and Lifestyle Medicine. For over 20 years, I’ve helped thousands navigate hormonal health challenges—from diabetes and thyroid issues to fatigue, weight changes, and fertility concerns.

In this episode, I share why this podcast exists: to cut through the confusion, fear, and frustration around hormonal health with clear, science-backed insights and compassionate guidance. You’re not alone, your body is not broken, and there’s always something we can do.

Join me for expert interviews, patient stories, and practical lifestyle strategies designed to empower you to take control of your health with confidence and hope.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. It’s not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.