S3 E132 3 Functional Tests That Reveal Why You’re Not Getting or Staying Pregnant

Have you been told your labs are “normal” but you still aren’t pregnant—or staying pregnant?

In this empowering episode, Dr. Katie interviews registered dietitian and functional nutritionist Hannah Davis to break down why your conventional fertility labs may be missing critical information. They dive into the root-cause power of functional testing—from hormones to minerals—and how these tests can uncover the real blocks that are stopping you from conceiving.

In this episode, you'll...

-Learn the 3 functional lab tests that can reveal hormonal, mineral, and gut imbalances

-Discover why “normal” bloodwork doesn’t mean optimal fertility

-Get 3 easy and foundational nutrition & lifestyle shifts you can start today to support ovulation, hormone balance, and a healthy pregnancy

▶️Listen now to learn what your OB may be missing—and how functional testing can help you get pregnant naturally, confidently, and with clarity.

Conventional vs. Functional Testing

Conventional lab tests are standard in most doctor's offices. They might involve basic blood work to evaluate nutrient status and hormones. While useful, these tests often paint an incomplete picture of your fertility health. On the other hand, functional lab testing delves deeper, uncovering imbalances in your microbiome, signs of inflammation, or hormone dysregulation. These tests enable healthcare providers to create tailored plans targeting the root causes of your struggles rather than just addressing symptoms superficially.

Functional Testing Explained

Functional testing takes an under-the-hood look at what's happening inside your body. One of the popular tests is the Dutch test—Dried Urine Testing for Comprehensive Hormones. Unlike conventional tests that rely solely on blood or saliva, the Dutch test provides insights into how hormones are produced, broken down, and metabolized in the body. This deeper insight is crucial in identifying root causes of hormonal imbalances, offering personalized solutions for fertility challenges.

The Importance of HTMA Testing

Another essential tool in functional testing is the Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA). This test examines tissue mineral levels to provide a long-term view of your body's mineral utilization. It helps identify stress patterns, mineral imbalances, and how these affect hormone production, nervous system function, and thyroid health. Understanding these patterns can be key in managing fertility issues effectively.

Personalized Nutrition and Lifestyle Changes

Functional testing does more than reveal underlying issues; it offers actionable insights into dietary and lifestyle adjustments. Tailoring your nutrition plan based on functional test results can promote hormone balance, regulate blood sugar levels, and enhance overall fertility health. The team at Pivot Nutrition Coaching, for instance, provides a versatile seven-day meal plan designed to balance blood sugar—an essential component for those with or without PCOS.

The Power of Foundations

Before diving into advanced testing, it's vital to establish fertility foundations. Create a nourishing and safe environment for your body. Ensure you're consuming adequate calories, balancing macronutrients, and practicing regular physical activity. Additionally, mindfulness practices and stress-reduction techniques support nervous system regulation, promoting an optimal hormonal balance.

Simple Steps to Optimal Fertility

Improve Food Quality: Focus on whole foods and minimize processed carbs and sugars. Opt for starchy vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
Incorporate Exercise: Start with increasing daily movement, like walking. Gradually add resistance training for further metabolic benefits.
Manage Stress: Evaluate stressors and introduce daily calming activities. Sleep is a crucial aspect of stress management—prioritize it.
 

Conclusion

Functional testing offers a personalized and in-depth approach to understanding and improving fertility. By combining knowledge from functional tests with lifestyle changes, you can enhance your fertility journey. For those seeking a structured start, consider signing up for a meal plan or consultation with professionals specializing in functional fertility coaching.

Connect with Hannah:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rooted.with.hannah

Website: https://pivotnutritioncoaching.com/

Freebie: 7-Day PCOS Diet Plan

Take the Ultimate Fertility Blueprint Quiz HERE⚡

Follow and connect with me on Instagram @the_wellness_pharmacist to fast-track your fertility so you can finally get and stay pregnant naturally!⁠

Finally Get Pregnant Naturally is your go-to TTC podcast for holistic fertility support to help you get pregnant naturally by addressing the root cause of unexplained infertility, secondary infertility, and recurrent miscarriage. Hosted by Dr. Katie Wood, a pharmacist and holistic fertility practitioner, this show offers natural fertility solutions for those on a fertility journey struggling to conceive, navigating miscarriage, or dealing with endometriosis, PCOS, low sperm count, or failed IUI or failed IVF. Whether you're trying to conceive, increase egg quality, optimizing sperm health, or healing after a miscarriage, each episode delivers practical guidance to support your fertility journey. Learn how to improve fertility, balance hormones, regulate your fertile window, and conceive naturally through root cause healing, emotional wellness, and mind-body tools—because true fertility starts from within.

DISCLAIMER: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use it as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others. This podcast offers information to help the listener cooperate with physicians, mental health professionals or other healthcare providers in a mutual quest for optimal well-being. We advise listeners to carefully review and understand the ideas presented, and to consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. Under no circumstances shall Pharm to Wellness LLC, any guests or contributors to the Finally Get Pregnant Naturally podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of Pharm to Wellness LLC be responsible for damages arising from the use of the podcast. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.