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43. Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Fertility with Nicole Lange
Episode 43 • 27th October 2025 • The Birth Link • Colette Wagholikar, RN
00:00:00 01:15:03

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In this episode, Colette Wagholikar and Nicole Lange discuss the intricate relationship between trauma, mental health, and fertility. They explore how acupuncture can aid in fertility treatments, the importance of open communication with partners, and the emotional challenges faced during the journey to parenthood. The conversation emphasizes the need for a supportive community and the significance of celebrating small victories along the way. Nicole shares her insights on navigating pregnancy after fertility struggles and the impact of IVF on pregnancy outcomes, advocating for a holistic approach to women's health.

Nicole Lange is an acupuncturist and thought leader who's pioneered trauma-informed fertility care since 2006. She's leading the conversation around the shocking reality that nearly 50% of people in fertility treatment develop PTSD—regardless of whether they get pregnant. Nicole's revolutionary salutogenesis approach focuses on preventing treatment-induced trauma while improving conception odds through her evidence-based integration of nervous system science and Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Find Nicole:

https://lifehealinglife.com

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

https://www.instagram.com/notafixer/

Takeaways

  • Trauma can significantly impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes.
  • Acupuncture can help reset the body's hormonal balance and improve fertility.
  • Mental health is crucial during fertility treatments and pregnancy.
  • Open communication with partners is essential for navigating fertility struggles.
  • IVF can lead to increased risks in pregnancy, but informed consent is key.
  • Building a supportive community can alleviate feelings of isolation during fertility journeys.
  • Celebrating small victories during the fertility process is important for mental well-being.
  • Understanding the interconnectedness of physical and mental health can enhance fertility outcomes.
  • Women often carry the emotional burden of fertility struggles, impacting their relationships.
  • Education and awareness can empower women to make informed decisions about their fertility.


Chapters

00:00. Introduction to Fertility and Trauma

08:33. The Role of Acupuncture in Fertility

22:29. Understanding Trauma's Impact on Fertility

28:38. Understanding Salutogenesis in Fertility

30:54. Navigating IVF and Fertility Solutions

32:13. The Importance of a Holistic Approach

34:06. Emotional Challenges During Fertility Treatments

35:48. Radical Acceptance in Pregnancy After Infertility

39:01. Celebrating Small Wins in the Fertility Journey

43:19. Processing Emotions and Staying Present

46:17. Communicating with Partners During Fertility Challenges

52:39. Navigating Postpartum Challenges

54:45. Communicating Needs in Relationships

57:11. Setting Expectations for Parenting

59:15. Understanding Partner Dynamics

01:01:01. The Impact of IVF on Pregnancy

01:05:45 Balancing Evidence and Compassion in Care

01:08:25 Building a Supportive Environment for Parenthood

01:14:31 Outtro new edit.mp3


Keywords: fertility, trauma, acupuncture, mental health, IVF, pregnancy, women's health, support, community, holistic care

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