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Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC

This is a vulnerable one - an update on my conception journey

Published about 21 hours ago • 3 min read

This email is going to be a more vulnerable one. I want to chat about my preconception (preparing for pregnancy) and now conception (TTC) journey. In most circumstances, people don’t take or don't have the time to actually prepare their body before they start to try to conceive. I feel fortunate to have the knowledge that I do - that this time is so important for my health and any future children’s health.

A recap - the past 1.5 years, I’ve been focusing more on my health as my husband and I start to think about growing our family. Then, we both got bloodwork done to see where labs are at in July 2025 . My labs were some of the best my midwife had seen BUT I had a couple markers that were concerning. My thyroid was showing signs that it was not too happy. So my midwife and I developed a plan of action to try and lower those markers, and that I would retest in October. Unfortunately, the retest came back even more elevated. Which was honestly, hard news to receive. Thyroid health is so important for conception, and my thyroid health directly impacts my future child’s health.

I worked on improving my thyroid health and in the end of 2025/​beginning of 2026, we tried for 5 cycles to get pregnant. Which didn't happen, and really sucked - but I had some peace that I was starting midwifery school and that it just wasn't our time. I started working with a PA colleague (shout out Danielle Kepics) who I trust immensely in May + June 2026. I had more bloodwork done - and unfortunately things were looking worse. I had a lot of markers of inflammation elevated. It shouldn't have been surprising with my work and stress levels with running my business, being in school full time, and just "life". But it really sucked and honestly, just felt dissonant with who I am and what I believe in.

Danielle helped me create a plan moving forward, and I'm about to retest my blood to see where things are at. Fingers crossed that my efforts at doing less, eating balanced meals, sleeping as much as I can when I can - pay off. I'm really hoping we can start trying again in 2027 - I will be wrapping up clinic numbers for midwifery by summer 2027 - and I would love to have a baby before I graduate school in December 2027 so I can have some time before stepping into life as a midwife and chiropractor.

I love walking with other women on their preconception journeys. It clearly is a journey of ups and downs. It’s one of the many reasons women choose to work with me for 1:1 coaching. We get to deep dive into exercise, building fitness, nourishing their bodies, focusing on their social support and mental health. I’m grateful for that knowledge on my own journey, and grateful for the healthcare providers that are walking with me on this journey. If anything, it makes me relate even more to my clients. Its never easy to hear that your health isn’t where you want it to be - especially when you put a lot of effort into your health. ​

For those curious - I am focusing heavily on:
- Strength training but lessening volume
- Enough cardio to maintain health but not overdo it
- Eating plenty of nourishing foods
- SLEEP (between all of the births)
- A targeted supplement regimen based on my needs (is anyone else also the worst about taking supplements consistently)
- Taking time to slow down and rest (also not great at this)
- Getting into nature more. This year was so busy and I didn’t get on the trails nearly enough ​
​
Let me know if you need more guidance or have questions. I know this is a vulnerable topic for many, one that I’m passionate about and diving even more into as I work to support my preconception health.

With peace and love,

Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC, Doula, Coach
​Doc Halley Solutions​

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In person chiropractic care! You can find me at 1500 Green Bay St, La Crosse WI 54601 within the same space as the Parenting Place and The Motus Project. I am excited to offer in person care to women in the Coulee Region, and offer hybrid care - in person + online. You can book your first appointment or schedule a consult below!

If you're looking for an "all in one" program that includes a prenatal exercise program, birth education, pelvic prep + mobility, nutrition information, and more - combined with regular support + check ins - I have you covered. Check out my Empowered Pregnancy program for incredible prenatal support.

Looking for more support around exercise, pelvic health, and nutrition (and birth prep if you're pregnant!)? Apply for 1:1 coaching with me:

**Disclaimer: The content in this email is not intended to be medical advice. The content here is for informational purposes only. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.

2172 Diagonal Rd, La Crosse, WI 54601
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Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC

Empowering women through all of life's transitions.

Chiropractor, coach, student midwife.

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