Part 1 of a 2-Part Series: Fertility Over 40 Fertility over 40 is becoming more common than ever, but with it comes confusion, fear, and a lot of outdated information. In this episode of Healthy As A Mother, we begin a two-part fertility series focused on conception after age 40. We break down what actually changes with age, what matters most for fertility, and — most importantly — what you can influence. Because chronological age is only one piece of the picture. You’ll learn why egg quality matters more than egg count, how lifestyle and metabolic health impact fertility outcomes, and how women can support ovulation, hormone balance, and mitochondrial health as they age. If you’ve been told your age alone determines your fertility, this episode offers a more nuanced and hopeful perspective. In this episode, we cover: • Why chronological age doesn’t equal ovarian health • The real role of egg quality vs. egg count (AMH explained) • How mitochondrial health impacts fertility • Environmental toxins and hidden fertility stressors • Blood sugar balance and metabolic health after 40 • Inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormone disruption • Ovulation strength and progesterone production • Short luteal phases and why they matter for implantation • Signs of low progesterone you shouldn’t ignore • How lifestyle changes can meaningfully improve fertility outcomes 00:00 — Trailer & Podcast Intro 03:25 — Episode begins: Fertility over 40 overview 05:10 — Chronological age vs ovarian environment 21:30 — Egg quality, lifestyle, and metabolic health 23:58 — Inflammation, stress & nutrient deficiencies explained 24:25 — Progesterone, luteal phase & cycle changes after 40 25:10 — Signs of low progesterone to watch for 48:43 — IVF myths: why optimization matters first 49:12 — Why IVF doesn’t bypass egg or sperm quality 49:42 — Rethinking fertility decisions after 40 50:51 — Fertility as a marker of overall health Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTube Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Instagram Healthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTok Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch Store Find more from Dr. Leah: Dr. Leah Gordon | Website Womanhood Wellness | Website Find more from Dr. Morgan: Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Website Use code HAAM and save 10% at Fond Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at Redmond For 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHER Save $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER