Why IVF Isn’t Fixing the Fertility Crisis (and What Actually Will) | Dr. Ann Shippy

Mark Hyman

Mar 11, 2026

Episode description

Fertility struggles are often treated as a problem to solve only after they appear. But what if they’re actually a signal from the body that something deeper needs attention? On this episode of The Dr. Hyman Show, I sit down with functional medicine physician Dr. Ann Shippy, author of The Preconception Revolution, to talk about why the months—even years—before conception may shape not only your health, but your future child’s long-term health as well.

Watch the full conversation on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts.

In this conversation, we explore:

• What fertility challenges may be signaling about your health, and why infertility may be the body’s “check engine light”

• Why the 3–36 month preconception window can shape fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and your child’s long-term health

• How just three weeks of ultra-processed food can change sperm quality, and what that reveals about fertility

• What couples can start doing now to improve fertility, from strengthening metabolic health to reducing toxic exposures

• How preparing your body before pregnancy may reduce your child’s risk of chronic disease later in life

Preparing for pregnancy isn’t just about fertility. Many of the factors that influence fertility are within your control, and your body often responds in remarkable ways.

View Show Notes From This Episode

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Mindsip insights from this episode:

Utilize SpermQT test to uncover deeper health issues

The SpermQT test measures the epigenetic markers of sperm, revealing deeper health problems than a traditional sperm analysis can.

#epigenetics

#sperm

Reframe infertility as a protective body signal

Infertility can be viewed as the body sensing it's not a safe or good time to have a baby, rather than as a failure.

#infertility

Nourish future generations through mindful nutrition and toxin management

The state of your nutrition and toxins at conception is like a time capsule that can epigenetically impact not just your child, but also your grandchildren.

#epigenetics

#nutrition

Reverse autoimmune markers by addressing root causes

Contrary to conventional medical training, autoimmune markers can be reversed by addressing root causes and do not have to be permanent.

#autoimmunity

Limit processed food intake to protect sperm quality

A study found that eating highly processed foods for just three weeks can negatively change sperm quality and hormone levels.

#processed-food

#sperm

Enhance fertility with phosphatidylcholine supplement

If one supplement could be given to everyone to enhance fertility, it would be phosphatidylcholine, which helps build cell and mitochondrial membranes.