Your Cycle Is a Vital Sign, So Why Isn't It Treated Like One?

Season 2, Ep 25

Welcome to The Chronic Chronicles, I'm SO happy that you're here!

In this episode of The Chronic Chronicles, I'm joined by Lisa Hendrickson-Jack, certified Fertility Awareness Educator, Holistic Reproductive Health Practitioner, and author of the bestselling book The Fifth Vital Sign.

Lisa has spent years helping women understand something most of us were never taught: your menstrual cycle is a vital sign of overall health.

In our conversation, we explore why ovulation and fertility signs matter even if you never plan to have children. We talk about how your cycle provides important insights into hormone balance, metabolic health, inflammation, and overall well-being.

We also dive into the role of hormonal birth control, what it means to truly understand your cycle, and why cycle literacy can be a powerful tool for advocating for your health.

In this episode we discuss:

• Why the menstrual cycle is considered the "fifth vital sign" • Why ovulation matters for long-term health — not just fertility • How fertility awareness can help you understand your body better • The role hormonal birth control plays in symptom management • Why cycle literacy is often missing in traditional health education • How understanding your cycle can empower better health decisions

Whether you're trying to conceive, avoiding pregnancy, navigating chronic conditions like endometriosis or PCOS, or simply trying to understand your body better — this episode will change how you think about your cycle.

Connect with lisa @fertilityfriday on instagram

LETS CONNECT:

The Chronic Chronicles Instagram: @chronicchroniclespod