The Holistic Fertility Show

Mike Berkley

Our holistic fertility podcast explores natural and integrative approaches to fertility. Through expert interviews and thoughtful discussions, we aim to empower listeners with knowledge about optimizing reproductive health through lifestyle, nutrition, acupuncture, and other holistic practices.

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37 episodes
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Episodes 37

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Tuesday · 18 min
How acupuncture helps you get pregnant?
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Can Acupuncture Increase Your Chances of Getting Pregnant? Acupuncture may help support fertility and improve the conditions necessary for a successful pregnancy. Research suggests that acupuncture may help regulate stress responses, influence reproductive hormones, and support blood circulation to the ovaries and uterus. These effects may contribute to improved reproductive function and a more favorable environment for conception and embryo implantation. Some clinical studies have reported higher pregnancy rates when acupuncture is incorporated into fertility treatment, including IVF, although larger, higher-quality studies have not consistently confirmed an improvement in live birth rates. When used alongside conventional reproductive medicine, acupuncture offers a complementary approach to supporting women throughout their fertility journey. Subscribe to our podcast for expert discussions, fertility research, and practical insights into how acupuncture, herbal medicine, and reproductive medicine can work together to support your journey toward parenthood. Support the show
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October 28 · 16 min
Fixing Male Fertility Issues
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Male fertility deserves attention, too. Acupuncture and carefully selected Chinese herbal medicine may help improve certain sperm parameters, including motility—how well sperm move—and, with some herbal treatments, concentration and morphology, and sperm DNA fragmentation. At The Berkley Center for Reproductive Wellness, we offer individualized care to support male reproductive health alongside appropriate medical evaluation and fertility treatment. Take the next step toward understanding your fertility. Schedule a consultation at berkleycenter.com to discuss your semen analysis and treatment options. Support the show
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October 26 · 17 min
Can NAC help you have a baby even with endometriosis?
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a supplement that supports the body’s antioxidant defenses, has shown promising results for women with endometriosis who are trying to conceive. In a 2023 observational study, researchers reported reduced endometriosis-related pain and smaller ovarian endometriomas; 39 of 52 women seeking pregnancy conceived within six months of starting NAC. These encouraging findings warrant further research, because the study lacked a control group and cannot establish that NAC caused the pregnancies. To discuss whether NAC may be appropriate as part of your personalized fertility plan, call The Berkley Center for Reproductive Wellness at 212-685-0985 to schedule your consultation. Support the show
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October 15 · 22 min
Implantation Failure? Help is Available!
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Improving Uterine Health and Supporting Embryo Implantation with Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine A healthy uterus plays an important role in achieving and maintaining a pregnancy. Successful implantation depends on a receptive uterine lining, adequate blood flow, and a supportive hormonal environment. Acupuncture and customized herbal medicine help improve uterine circulation, support hormonal balance, and promote a healthier environment for embryo implantation. At The Berkley Center for Reproductive Wellness, we specialize in helping women optimize their reproductive health through personalized acupuncture and herbal medicine. Call 212-685-0985 to schedule your consultation in New York City. www.berkleycenter.com Support the show
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October 14 · 20 min
Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine & Advanced Maternal Age
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Can Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Improve Egg Quality and Help Prevent Miscarriage? As women age, egg quality naturally declines, making conception more challenging and increasing the risk of miscarriage. But age is only one part of the fertility equation. In this episode, we explore how acupuncture and customized herbal medicine may support reproductive health by influencing ovarian and uterine blood flow, hormonal regulation, and the environment in which eggs develop. We also discuss promising research on how these complementary treatments may support IVF outcomes and early pregnancy, while explaining their limitations, particularly when miscarriage is caused by chromosomal abnormalities. Whether you're trying to conceive naturally, preparing for IVF, or have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss, this episode offers valuable insights into an integrative approach to fertility. Subscribe to our podcast for expert discussions, reproductive medicine research, and practical information to help you on your journey toward a healthy pregnancy. To learn more about personalized fertility care, contact The Berkley Center for Reproductive Wellness in New York City at 212-685-0985 or visit www.berkleycenter.com. Support the show
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October 13 · 24 min
Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine to Help Improve Your Sperm
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Improving Sperm Quality Naturally with Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Male infertility can result from low sperm count, poor motility, abnormal morphology, and elevated sperm DNA fragmentation. Acupuncture and customized herbal medicine may help improve these important sperm parameters by reducing oxidative stress, supporting healthy blood circulation to the testes, and promoting a healthier reproductive environment. Improved testicular circulation may enhance the delivery of oxygen, nutrients, and hormones essential for sperm production and maturation. Additionally, acupuncture and herbal medicine may help regulate inflammation and protect developing sperm from oxidative damage, potentially improving sperm quality and DNA integrity. Although preliminary studies suggest benefits, larger clinical trials are needed to confirm improvements in fertility and pregnancy outcomes. At The Berkley Center for Reproductive Wellness, we take an integrative, individualized approach to male reproductive health. Subscribe to our podcast to learn more about male infertility, sperm health, and how acupuncture and herbal medicine may support your fertility journey. Visit www.berkleycenter.com or call 212-685-0985 to schedule a consultation. Support the show
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October 13 · 21 min
The Gut-Testis Axis: SIBO and Male Fertility Health
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when excessive or abnormal bacteria build up in the small intestine, where relatively few bacteria should normally be present. This imbalance can interfere with digestion and the absorption of important nutrients, including vitamin B12, folate, iron, zinc, and other nutrients involved in healthy sperm production. SIBO may also contribute to increased intestinal inflammation and oxidative stress, which can potentially affect sperm count, movement, shape, and DNA integrity. For men experiencing infertility—particularly unexplained infertility or elevated sperm DNA fragmentation—digestive symptoms such as bloating, excessive gas, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, or constipation may therefore deserve attention. Treating an underlying gastrointestinal problem such as SIBO may help improve nutritional status and reduce inflammatory and oxidative stress, creating a healthier biological environment for sperm development. Support the show
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September 30 · 17 min
If you have PMOS...
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. For a patient with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), myo-inositol may help improve insulin sensitivity, which can support more balanced hormone signaling and more regular ovulation. By improving the way the body responds to insulin, it may help lower excessive androgen activity, promote more predictable menstrual cycles, and support normal ovarian function and egg development. For women trying to conceive, these effects may improve the likelihood of ovulation and create a more favorable metabolic and hormonal environment for fertility. Support the show
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September 22 · 20 min
How to approach unexplained infertility.
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. At The Berkley Center for Reproductive Wellness, unexplained infertility is approached by looking beyond standard fertility testing to identify factors that may be interfering with conception even when conventional results appear normal. Treatment is individualized and may combine fertility-focused acupuncture, customized herbal medicine, low-level light therapy, nutritional guidance, and targeted nutraceuticals. The goal is to optimize the reproductive environment by supporting ovarian and testicular function, improving blood flow to the ovaries and uterus, reducing excessive inflammation and oxidative stress, supporting healthy hormone function, and improving egg and sperm quality. Male-factor contributors, including sperm DNA fragmentation, are also considered because abnormalities may exist even when a routine semen analysis appears acceptable. By evaluating both partners and addressing potentially overlooked reproductive factors, The Berkley Center works to improve the conditions necessary for natural conception and to complement IUI or IVF when assisted reproduction is needed. Support the show
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September 18 · 20 min
Targeted nutritional supplements to support sperm.
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Targeted nutritional supplements may help support sperm count, motility, morphology, and DNA integrity by promoting healthy cellular energy production and reducing oxidative stress. Nutrients such as CoQ10, L-carnitine, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, selenium, and vitamins C, D, and E are commonly used in male fertility programs. Purchase high-grade nutraceuticals from The Berkley Center’s Supplement Shop and receive 10% off. https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/mberkley1668106663 Support the show
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September 15 · 23 min
Acupuncture, low-level light therapy, & customized herbal medicine can improve egg quality.
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Acupuncture, customized herbal medicine, and low-level light therapy support egg quality and improve the conditions needed for a healthy pregnancy by addressing several important aspects of reproductive health. Acupuncture enhances blood flow to the ovaries and uterus, helps regulate stress responses, and supports hormonal function; carefully selected herbal medicine provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support while addressing each patient’s individual reproductive needs; and low-level light therapy stimulates mitochondrial activity and energy production within ovarian cells. Together, these therapies help create a healthier environment for follicle development, fertilization, embryo implantation, and pregnancy. Be sure to subscribe! Support the show
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September 10 · 22 min
The Propper Fertility Nutrition Plan
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Eating well when trying to conceive helps create the healthiest possible environment for egg and sperm development, hormone regulation, ovulation, fertilization, and early pregnancy. A balanced diet emphasizing vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, lean proteins, healthy fats, and low-mercury fish supplies the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein, and essential fatty acids required for reproductive health. It can also support stable blood sugar, a healthy body weight, lower inflammation, and a more balanced gut microbiome—all of which may influence fertility. At the same time, limiting highly processed foods, excessive sugar, trans fats, processed meats, and excess alcohol may reduce metabolic and inflammatory stress. Good nutrition cannot guarantee pregnancy or correct every cause of infertility, but it is an important part of preparing both partners for conception and supporting a healthy pregnancy. Support the show
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September 9 · 19 min
Dad's B12 & Folate Deficiency Can Lead to Birth Defects.
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. A father’s vitamin B12 and folate status may influence the health of a developing baby. Low levels around the time of conception have been associated with a higher risk of certain birth defects, possibly because these nutrients help produce healthy sperm, support normal DNA formation and repair, and regulate gene activity during early development. Men who are trying to conceive should eat foods rich in B12 and folate and ask their healthcare provider about blood testing and appropriate supplementation if a deficiency is suspected. Support the show
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September 8 · 22 min
When IUI, IVF, or Donor Eggs Are Not Enough: The Potential Role of Acupuncture, Low-Level Light Therapy, and Customized Herbal Medicine
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. When IUI, IVF, or donor-egg treatment does not lead to pregnancy, patients may explore complementary therapies such as acupuncture, low-level light therapy, and customized herbal medicine as part of a fertility plan. These approaches reduce inflammation, improve impaired pelvic circulation, regulate hormones, improve endometrial receptivity, and improve egg or sperm quality. Acupuncture supports nervous-system regulation and blood flow; low-level light therapy promotes mitochondrial activity and cellular energy; and carefully customized herbal medicine may be used to address each patient’s specific reproductive needs. Support the show
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September 3 · 19 min
Your Stomach Affects your Fertility
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Gut dysbiosis—an unhealthy imbalance in the microorganisms living in the digestive tract—may contribute to fertility challenges by disrupting hormone metabolism, increasing inflammation, affecting insulin sensitivity, and altering immune-system regulation. Because gut bacteria help process estrogen, absorb nutrients, and maintain the intestinal barrier, an imbalance may influence ovulation, egg development, endometrial receptivity, and the environment needed for implantation. Dysbiosis has also been associated with conditions such as PCOS and endometriosis. Support the show
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September 2 · 11 min
Acupuncture Pre & Post Embryo Transfer: Is it worth it?
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. This 2022 study looked back at 2,330 patients who had frozen embryo transfer (FET) at Vios Fertility Institute in Chicago between 2018 and 2021, comparing those who received individualized acupuncture just before and after their transfer. Support the show
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September 1 · 22 min
Male Factor Infertility & How to Overcome It.
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Sperm abnormalities can include low sperm concentration, poor motility, abnormal morphology, and increased DNA fragmentation, all of which can reduce the likelihood of natural conception and may also affect IVF outcomes. In men without a correctable genetic or structural problem, acupuncture may help improve the reproductive environment by supporting blood flow to the testes, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and influencing nervous-system and hormonal regulation involved in sperm production. Because sperm development takes roughly 2½ to 3 months, a consistent course of treatment over several months may improve semen parameters and contribute to healthier sperm and a better fertility outlook. Support the show
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August 31 · 21 min
The Hidden Male Factor Contributing to Infertility
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Sperm DNA fragmentation occurs when the genetic material inside sperm is damaged or broken. Even when a standard semen analysis shows normal sperm count, movement, and shape, high DNA fragmentation can reduce the sperm’s ability to fertilize an egg properly, impair embryo development, lower implantation potential, and increase the risk of early pregnancy loss. For this reason, sperm DNA fragmentation can be an important hidden contributor to unexplained infertility, particularly when routine male fertility testing appears normal. Support the show
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August 27 · 19 min
Customized Herbal Medicine for Enhanced Ovarian and Uterine Health
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Herbal medicine may support people facing fertility challenges by promoting healthy circulation to the ovaries and uterus, helping regulate menstrual and ovulatory patterns, supporting hormonal balance, and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation that can affect egg, sperm, and endometrial health. When prescribed by a qualified practitioner and coordinated with fertility treatment, individualized herbal formulas may help create a healthier reproductive environment and complement natural conception, IUI, or IVF care. Support the show
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August 26 · 20 min
Endometriosis & Trying to Conceive?
We’re happy to respond to your emailed questions. Acupuncture and individualized herbal medicine may help patients with endometriosis conceive by reducing residual endometriosis-related inflammation and supporting healthier blood flow to the ovaries and uterus. Creating a less inflammatory reproductive environment may support better egg development and a more receptive uterine lining for implantation. These therapies can be used alongside natural conception, IUI, or IVF to support reproductive health, although they should complement—not replace—appropriate medical and fertility care. Support the show
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