Functional medicine is a personalized, patient-centered approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of chronic illness. It considers a patient's uniqueness to create a customized treatment plan that addresses the underlying causes of their health issues.

Traditional medicine typically focuses on treating symptoms rather than identifying and addressing the root causes of illness. Functional medicine, on the other hand, takes a more integrative approach, looking at the whole person rather than just the disease. It also emphasizes the importance of diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors in promoting optimal health. Both hold importance in different ways.

The amount of time it takes to see results with functional medicine varies depending on the individual and the specific health issues being addressed. Some patients may see improvements in their symptoms within a few weeks, while others may take several months to see significant changes. The important thing to remember is that functional medicine is a long-term approach to health and wellness, and it often takes time and patience to achieve lasting results.

Functional medicine can address a wide range of health issues, including digestive disorders, metabolic and endocrine diseases, hormonal imbalances, chronic pain, and many others such as challenges with fertility. It's particularly effective for chronic and complex health conditions that have not responded well to traditional medical treatments.

No, you do not need to have a specific diagnosis to work with a functional medicine practitioner. In fact, functional medicine is often particularly effective for patients who have not been able to get a clear diagnosis or who have been told that their symptoms are "normal" or "in their head". Functional medicine practitioners are trained to look at the underlying causes of your symptoms, regardless of whether you have a specific diagnosis.

Yes – I recommend that you do! Accurate fertility tracking often relates to precise hormone measurements of more than one cycle. By measuring quantitatively, you will be able to understand your unique hormone baseline levels, and how your hormone surges correlate to ovulation. You will have fewer missed peaks which are commonly seen by existing OPKs, learn more about your cycle, and know exactly when you should try to conceive.

Mira measures 3 key fertility hormones through urine: LH (luteinizing hormone), E3G (estrogen) and PdG (progesterone). It quickly identifies your 6 most fertile days and predicts your ovulation so you can make informed fertility decisions.

I guide my patients on how to use the Mira so we can get an inside look, manage irregular cycles, and track your progress as you incorporate interventions. You will be able to watch how things change month to month.

We will decide if the Mira is needed for your specific needs. The use of this device is not mandatory, but I do recommend it for those who are pursuing unassisted conception. This is separate from the DUTCH Hormone Test included in the program.

The sooner the better!Timely Health Assessment: Starting early allows for a thorough evaluation of health status through comprehensive diagnostic testing, which is crucial for identifying underlying imbalances or deficiencies that may affect fertility.

Personalized Plan Development: The insights from the initial assessments inform the creation of a tailored nutrition and lifestyle plan. This individualized approach ensures that interventions are aligned with each woman's unique needs.

Implementation and Adjustment Period: Implementing dietary and lifestyle changes can take time, and the body needs time to adjust and respond to these changes. The sooner these interventions begin, the more time there is for these adjustments to take effect and improve fertility outcomes.

Monitoring and Optimization: Early engagement also allows for ongoing monitoring and fine-tuning of the nutrition plan. This iterative process helps to ensure that the interventions remain effective and responsive to the evolving needs of the individual.

Cumulative Benefits: The benefits of nutritional interventions can be cumulative. The longer the body is supported with the right nutrients and lifestyle adjustments, the more profound the potential impact on fertility health.

Stress Reduction: Knowing you have a plan in place and are actively working towards improving your fertility can reduce stress and anxiety, which in itself can be beneficial for fertility.

Preconception Health: Fertility is not just about conception but also about supporting a healthy pregnancy. Early improvements in nutritional status can contribute to better preconception health, which is vital for both maternal and fetal outcomes.

Everyone’s journey to fertility is distinct, and the insights we gain from our collaborative work will be tailored specifically to your situation. Initiating this journey early is key to optimizing your body's readiness for fertility and ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Even though you might notice the difference shortly after we start working together, ideally, a window of three (at least) to six months is recommended to allow for comprehensive assessments, personalized plan adaptations, and your body's full response to the changes.

I wish!! While the outcome of pregnancy can be influenced by various factors we will be addressing, I cannot offer guarantees. However, I can assure you that through our work together, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of your health and its connection to fertility. I provide tailored guidance to help you make informed changes that could positively impact your fertility journey. Remember, your active participation in this process is crucial, and the dedication you show to implementing these changes is a significant step towards your goal.

Not directly but services may be covered by out-of-network insurance reimbursement. Since I am not directly contracted with your insurance company, you will have to reach out to them to find out what and if they will reimburse you for the cost of Medical Nutrition Therapy services. For detailed information and how to possibly get the most reimbursement, please click here. You can also use a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) to pay for functional medicine services, depending on your plan and I offer convenient payment plans.

Yes, each program has a distinct expiration date from the completion of the initial assessment as well. This is stated clearly in the office policies. We want you to get the most out of your program. Changes are created by committing to a process and gaining momentum over time. Leaving large time gaps between sessions will not support you in the best way. Your success is largely based on what you put into the program and how you show up to your commitments.

We are helping you to keep your commitments by upholding my policy. We want you to achieve your goals.In some cases, treatment plans may require adjustments or modifications based on ongoing assessment. We are dedicated to making necessary revisions to ensure your progress toward your health goals. If a woman gets pregnant before the end of her fertility optimization program (it happens!), the remaining sessions can be used for support during her pregnancy and/or postpartum.

We require 24 hours' notice upon canceling an appointment.  If prior notice is not given, you will be charged the fee and forfeit that session.  If any sessions are not used in the allotted time of the program, you will forfeit those sessions – unless Kathy has agreed otherwise.

Yes. Supplement recommendations are personalized for each individual’s needs. There is a lot of time and analysis that goes into my recommendations. I also use a convenient online dispensary, which offers healthcare’s best supplements and wellness products shipped right to your door. Products are safer and more effective with higher ingredient, storage, and shipping standards. You can stay on track with refill reminders timed and personalized to recommended dosages. I also pass along my savings as a clinician to my patients. You will receive 15% off any time you order any products. The cost of supplements is not included in your program. You can click on the Fullscript icon below to create your account and start saving immediately.