173: How exercise can optimize fertility and pregnancy prep with Dr. Hannah Ryles

In today's episode, I sit down with OB-GYN Dr. Hannah Ryles to explore how exercise and movement can powerfully boost fertility for both men and women. We dive into tailored exercise guidelines for preconception, spotlighting the differences for healthy weight versus those managing metabolic or inflammatory conditions, and unpack the benefits of cycle-syncing workouts. Dr. Ryles also shares insights on how men can support their fertility through movement, while highlighting what to avoid. Above all, we discuss how exercise, mindfulness, and stress management can transform reproductive health into a nurturing, empowering journey, even during IVF.

Episode Highlights:

• Discover how Dr. Hannah Ryles, a University of Chicago OB-GYN and advisor for Expect Fitness, is redefining what movement means for women in every stage of their reproductive journey.
• Learn how her early years in Japan shaped her unique perspective on exercise and why her medical training revealed striking differences in how active women experience pregnancy, labor, and recovery.
• Unpacking the myth that exercise has to mean "hard workouts" while also exploring how joyful, everyday movement can transform not just fitness, but fertility.
• Dr. Ryles shares her expert take on how to move intentionally during preconception, what activity levels best support women with conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, and how tuning into your body (and cycle) can guide your energy and intensity.
• You'll also hear how movement can calm inflammation, support hormonal balance, and even play a role in IVF success, plus what men need to know about exercise and fertility (and what to avoid).
• Finally, a powerful client story reminds us that fertility thrives on balance
• Dr. Ryles leaves listeners with a vital message about movement and fertility

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Related Episode Links:

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• For full show notes and guest related links: https://www.naturallynora.ca/blog/173 

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Please Note: The contents of this podcast are for educational and informational purposes only. The information is not to be interpreted as, or mistaken for, clinical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.