Exposure to xenoestrogens in the environment, such as BPA, can signal a stress response in the body and can impact egg quality and maturation. Here are some practical tips to best avoid the implications of BPA during conception and beyond:

• Use a stainless steel or glass water bottle.

• Take care when using plastic, even if BPA free, by choosing PP or HDPE plastic and washing by hand.

• Avoid BPA and plastic marked as PC, or with the #7 in the recycling symbol. Safer types include polypropylene (PP / #5) or high density polyethylene (HDPE / #2).

• Say no to receipts when possible.

• Packaging labeled BPA-free can still contain chemical compounds, so be mindful of any plastic-lined packaging.

• If you can't be perfect, the biggest takeaway is to avoid acid, heat, and liquid in plastic.

Expert tip: Folate from natural sources may also help with some of the negative effects of BPA, so think about adding organic berries, oranges, avocado, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and asparagus to your plate.

Fertility challenges can often lead us to feel scattered, fragmented and overwhelmed. There are endless techniques to self-regulate, but the best place to start is with the basics.

The body needs to feel safe to prioritize reproduction. Safety in the body can look and feel like a number of things - and depending on the unique set of biological and emotional circumstances, each person will need a different roadmap and strategy for bringing the reproductive system back online. However, there are basic practices that can universally sooth the adrenals and ease the nervous system, thus bringing more balance to the hormonal body. Overtime, these practices can help the body become more adaptive to future stressors. Here's some tips on how to get back to the basics:

1. Nourish your body daily with high-quality protein, healthy fats, and colorful, fiber-rich vegetables. Adding high quality minerals to your water is also important.

2. Practice good sleep hygiene. This means creating a regular routine, avoiding caffeine after noon, limiting screens and noise, and sleeping in a cold room. This is easier said than done for many, so please reach out for support if you need it.

3. Move your body regularly - and in nature when possible. Find movement practices that feel good for you. Long walks can be very grounding during this time - especially mid treatment cycle.

4. Somatic practices or breathwork. Start small and find a practice that resonates with you. Slow, deep breathing can be a quick way to find center, while leaning into somatic work will help the body to release stored trauma and find safety.