Dr. Katie Lee

Certain oral infections can increase your risk of fertility issues by three times, even when you feel no pain or symptoms

Dr. Katie Lee explains that Fusobacterium nucleatum bacteria specifically inhibits ovulation, prevents embryo implantation, and causes stillbirths. Megan, featured in a previous episode, had a 10-year fertility journey with failed IVF, surrogacy, and donor eggs until discovering and treating a raging oral infection.

Oral bacteria don't stay in your mouth - they circulate through your bloodstream and target your reproductive system

Dr. Lee explains that when gums become permeable due to infection, bacteria enter the bloodstream through an enzyme called MMP8 that breaks down protective tissue barriers. This creates 'leaky gums' similar to leaky gut, allowing bacteria to reach reproductive organs.

Male fertility is equally affected by oral bacteria, with specific bacteria killing sperm and decreasing motility

Dr. Lee treated both partners in a young couple struggling with infertility. The husband had bacteria affecting sperm motility, and after treating both partners, they conceived within months. She notes that two specific bacteria directly impact sperm's ability to swim.

Forty percent of pregnant people have some form of gum infection, increasing preterm birth risk by 30-50%

Dr. Lee states that oral bacteria increases risk of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth. Only 10% of women who develop gestational diabetes are prediabetic before pregnancy, suggesting something during pregnancy triggers the condition.

The six-month dental cleaning rule came from insurance companies, not science - bacteria repopulate in 90 days

Dr. Lee explains that bacteria repopulate in the mouth within 90 days, yet insurance only covers cleanings every six months. She recommends cleanings every 3-4 months for optimal oral health, especially during conception and pregnancy.

Simple saliva testing can identify fertility-affecting bacteria from home, followed by targeted treatments

Dr. Lee uses saliva tests to identify specific bacteria like Fusobacterium nucleatum and 3D cone beam CT scans to detect hidden abscesses. Treatments include periodontal cleanings, targeted therapies for specific bacteria, and microbiome rebuilding with probiotics.

Oral bacteria are linked to major diseases including heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer's

Dr. Lee directly links PG gingivalis bacteria to Alzheimer's disease and notes that oral bacteria correlate with pancreatic and colon cancers, heart disease, and diabetes. Seven out of eight leading causes of death in America are caused by inflammation.

Stress and elevated cortisol shut down immune function, allowing harmful oral bacteria to proliferate

Dr. Lee explains that chronic stress releases cortisol, which suppresses the immune system and makes the body more prone to infections. This creates a cycle where bacteria proliferate, causing more inflammation and stress.