(646) 760-6627
About Dr. Shannon Iselin (Cavanaugh)
Dr. Shannon is a foremost naturopathic expert in the areas of fertility and women’s health, bringing together the best of naturopathic and functional medicine. Her areas of interest and expertise are preconception, unexplained infertility, menopause/perimenopause, PCOS, hair loss and hormonal acne.
In addition to hormone imbalance, Dr. Iselin (Cavanaugh) is an expert in gut health, which underlies so many health and hormone issues.
She brings enthusiasm and dedication to the individual picture of each of her patients struggling with fertility — and to those seeking to optimize their hormonal health.
Credentials, Education and Achievements:
- Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences and Biochemistry at the University of Arizona
- Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine at Sonoran University of Health Sciences
- Postgraduate General Medicine Residency at Sonoran University of Health Sciences Medical Center
- Board Certified by the North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners
- Licensed Naturopathic Physician by the States of Alaska and Arizona
- Member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Special Training & Emphasis on:
- Advanced Integrative Infertility
- Male Factor Infertility
- Preconception Care
- Women’s Hormonal Health
- Contraceptive Counseling and Education
Why I became a naturopathic doctor:
As a young woman I found myself needing more than what conventional women’s healthcare had to offer. No matter my concerns, it seemed hormonal birth control was my only option. But what I really needed was more time with providers during visits, more access to testing, options besides pharmaceuticals, and more than anything, an investigation into the root cause of my symptoms. Naturopathic medicine was this and I have since set out to provide this high level of care as my standard of practice.
What conditions I love to treat:
- Infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, preconception preparation
- Women’s Health: Irregular periods, amenorrhea, PCOS, endometriosis, PMS, acne, hair loss, thyroid imbalance, transitioning off hormonal birth control
Things you may not know about me:
- I love all things regenerative wellness including regular cold plunges in the nearby river.
- My hobbies include gardening, yoga, and running.
- I am a proud dog mom to a 5-lb chihuahua named Hazel.
- My fiancé and I enjoy long distance backpacking and canoeing in remote backcountry every summer.
Dr. Shannon’s Free Acne Self-Care Guide
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The Latest Articles From Dr. Shannon Iselin (Cavanaugh)
Decoding Ovarian Reserve Testing: What You Need to Know
By Dr. Shannon Iselin (Cavanaugh) The ovarian reserve, a critical aspect of a woman’s fertility, plays a significant role in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like...
Semen Analysis 101
by Dr. Shannon Iselin (Cavanaugh) Infertility is a significant challenge for millions of couples globally, and male factor infertility plays a substantial role, contributing to...
Dr Shannon’s Preconception Checklist
Preparing for pregnancy begins long before conception. At Flora Naturopathics, we emphasize the significance of preconception care in promoting successful conception and long-term health. By...
Nurturing Radiant Skin: Naturopathic Approaches to Acne
By Dr. Shannon Iselin (Cavanaugh) Acne, a common skin condition, can be more than just a cosmetic concern—it often reflects underlying imbalances in the body....
Ovarian Reserve: What Lab Values Really Mean
AMH — if you’re going through a fertility journey, you’re probably very familiar with this lab value. But what does it really mean for your...
Planning a 2024 Pregnancy? Our fertility expert weighs in with top tips.
Flora Naturopathics’ fertility expert Dr. Shannon Iselin (Cavanaugh) shares her top five non-negotiables. As the year winds to a close, we start to think about...
The Latest Videos From Dr. Shannon Iselin (Cavanaugh)
Dr Shannon's Preconception Checklist
Ovarian Reserve: What Lab Values Really Mean
The Treatment Process - From Diagnosis to Wellness
Health is about more than managing symptoms—it’s about addressing root causes and empowering you to take control of your well-being. Using advanced testing, personalized treatment plans, and natural therapies, we focus on helping you achieve lasting results. Everyone’s health journey is unique, which is why we take the time to understand your story and goals. Through telehealth consultations, lab testing, and health coaching, care is delivered in a way that’s convenient, compassionate, and tailored to you, creating a personalized path to vibrant health.
Natalie's Journey
Concern
Infertility, trying to conceive x12 months
Outcome
Conceived after 3 months of working together
Testing
Functional hormone, thyroid, nutrition, inflammation, blood sugar and insulin sensitivity testing, additional functional labs: anti-oxidant status and mitochondrial health assessed
Supplements
Individualized combination of hormone balancing herbs, b-vitamins and antioxidants
Nutrition
Focus on healthy fats and increased protein. Limiting added sugar and refined carbs
Lifestyle
Regular yoga practice to promote circulation and strengthen connection with one’s body.
Kathryn's Journey
Concern
Uterine fibroids, heavy periods, and mid-cycle spotting; seeking a natural approach to symptom relief and hormone balance.
Outcome
After six months, three fibroids resolved and the largest reduced in size; mid-cycle spotting stopped and periods became shorter with fewer PMS symptoms.
Testing
Cycle day 3 blood hormone panel, DUTCH Complete, food sensitivity testing, and serum labs including CRP, insulin, Vitamin D, thyroid, iron, and ferritin—all assessed using optimal reference ranges.
Supplements
Herbal tinctures to support fibroid reduction and endometrial health; nutrients targeting estrogen metabolism, detoxification, and inflammation.
Nutrition
Anti-inflammatory diet paired with a 5-day hormone reset detox; focus on supporting methylation and reducing exposure to estrogenic foods.
Lifestyle
Eliminated endocrine-disrupting chemicals from daily products and home; supported detox pathways and hormone balance through gentle lifestyle shifts.
Monica & Eric's Journey
Concern
Unexplained infertility with three failed IUIs; Monica had irregular cycles, and Eric’s semen analysis was below optimal but within standard reference ranges.
Outcome
Improved hormone and inflammation markers for both partners; Eric’s semen quality increased significantly, and Monica’s cycles stabilized. They conceived successfully on their fourth IUI.
Testing
DUTCH Complete for Monica (high cortisol, low progesterone), bloodwork showing elevated inflammation and insulin resistance, male hormone panel showing suboptimal testosterone for Eric, toxin exposure panels for both, and antioxidant status evaluations.
Supplements
Antioxidant and detox support for both partners, targeted supplements to improve cortisol balance for Monica and testosterone for Eric.
Nutrition
Dietary plan focused on insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and supporting hormone health for conception.
Lifestyle
Toxin reduction strategies, stress management techniques, and daily habits to support metabolic and reproductive function for both partners.
Cassidy's Journey
Concern
Poor egg maturation during IVF; two unsuccessful egg retrievals with no mature eggs.
Outcome
After three months of targeted support, Cassidy’s third retrieval yielded 12 eggs—six were mature and successfully fertilized.
Testing
Cycle day 3 hormone panel (FSH, LH, Estradiol, Prolactin, SHBG, DHEA-S, Testosterone, DHT), DUTCH Complete, Metabolomix, food sensitivity panel, and serum labs including CRP, fasting insulin, Vitamin D, thyroid panel, iron, and ferritin—all evaluated against optimal ranges.
Supplements
Targeted antioxidants, mitochondrial support, and anti-inflammatory nutrients tailored to her lab results.
Nutrition
Focused on balancing blood sugar through stable meals, supporting nutrient repletion, and reducing inflammatory food triggers.
Lifestyle
Stress reduction techniques, improved sleep hygiene, and gentle movement to support hormonal balance and recovery.
Amanda's Journey
Concern
PCOS with irregular cycles and significant digestive symptoms; later transitioned into preconception preparation.
Outcome
Regulated cycles with consistent ovulation by mid-cycle; conceived in the third month of trying with her partner.
Testing
DUTCH Complete revealing high androgens and cortisol, SIBO breath test, GI Map identifying dysbiosis, and bloodwork showing deficiencies in B12, folate, and Vitamin D.
Supplements
Targeted herbal blends to support ovulation and reduce testosterone, antimicrobial and supportive supplements for SIBO, and repletion of key nutrients through supplementation.
Nutrition
Gut-supportive diet with SIBO-focused modifications and nutrient-dense meals tailored to restore vitamin and mineral balance.
Lifestyle
Stress-reducing practices and sleep optimization strategies to support hormonal regulation and fertility.
Marissa's Journey
Concern
Hypothyroidism with persistent fatigue, weight challenges, bloating, and minimal support despite being on medication with “normal” lab results.
Outcome
Improved energy, reduced bloating, daily bowel regularity, gradual weight loss, and reduced thyroid antibodies—allowing a lower dose of thyroid medication.
Testing
Thyroid panel (labs within range but not optimal), thyroid antibodies (elevated), food sensitivity testing, and nutrient assessment showing deficiencies in B vitamins and magnesium.
Supplements
Herbal support for thyroid function, vitamins for nutrient repletion, and supplements to repair gut lining and reduce autoimmune triggers.
Nutrition
Elimination of food sensitivities with a focus on gut-healing foods and nutrient-dense meals to support thyroid and metabolic function.
Lifestyle
Increased daily movement and exercise as energy improved, reduced reliance on caffeine, and a renewed sense of physical comfort and wellbeing.
Danielle's Journey
Concern
Perioral dermatitis, frequent allergy flares, constipation, bloating after every meal
Outcome
Skin cleared, decreased in severity and frequency of allergy related symptoms, decreased use of antihistamine medication, bloating resolved, regular daily bowel movements
Testing
Ggut microbiome testing revealed bacterial overgrowths and numerous food sensitivities causing inflammation
Supplements
Antimicrobials, probiotics, gut building and supporting nutrients and amino acids
Nutrition
Low FODMAP combined with limiting food sensitivities and alcohol, focus on whole foods
Lifestyle
Strengthening the parasympathetic nervous system through regular breathwork. Limiting distractions at mealtime + setting consistent and regular mealtimes while avoiding snacking between meals to optimize digestion
Sarah's Journey
Concern
Preconception Preparation
Outcome
Improved sleep, energy, and conceived second month trying
Testing
Functional hormone, thyroid, nutrition, blood sugar and insulin sensitivity testing, additional functional labs: anti-oxidant status and mitochondrial health assessed
Supplements
Individualized prenatal, fish oil, adaptogens, and antioxidants to support egg quality
Nutrition
Increasing protein, fiber, and omega rich fats
Lifestyle
Tracked cycle with Dr. to accurately determine fertile window, optimized light exposure and limited blue light to regulate circadian rhythm. Regular strength training with low impact steady state exercises.
Alicia's Journey
Concern
PCOS
Outcome
Able to stop taking metformin, improved insulin sensitivity, regular periods, periods are lighter and less painful
Testing
Functional testing found elevated blood glucose and decreased insulin sensitivity. Stool tests showed candida overgrowth and dysbiotic gut microbiome. Several inflammatory markers were elevated.
Supplements
Vitamins and minerals to support healthy blood sugar, antimicrobials to address gut dysbiosis, gut building and supporting probiotic, nutrients, and amino acids
Nutrition
Whole foods diet, limited added sugar and refined carbohydrates, increase in dietary fiber
Lifestyle
30 minute low intensity steady state exercises in the morning 3-5 days weekly, mindfulness meditation practice using the Calm app, intentionally aiming to get 8 hours of sleep nightly
Julia's Journey
Concern
PCOS with irregular cycles, acne, digestive issues, and numerous ovarian cysts; seeking support for conception.
Outcome
Conceived in the third month of trying after six months of care; regulated cycles, resolved gut issues, and optimized nutrient status for a healthy pregnancy.
Testing
Cycle day 3 hormone panel, DUTCH Complete, GI Map, food sensitivity testing, and comprehensive serum labs including CBC, CMP, insulin, Vitamin D, B12, thyroid, iron, folate, homocysteine, and MMA—all reviewed against optimal ranges.
Supplements
Anti-fungal protocol, targeted antioxidants, vitamins for deficiency correction, and support for ovarian and gut health.
Nutrition
Elimination of food sensitivities, support for a diverse microbiome, and increased intake of nutrient-dense foods to balance hormones and blood sugar.
Lifestyle
Focused on daily bowel regularity, reduced inflammatory triggers, and overall preconception wellness to lower risk of gestational complications and PCOS inheritance.
Rebecca & Cody's Journey
Concern
Unexplained infertility after 18 months of trying; hesitant to begin IUIs without identifying a root cause.
Outcome
Successfully conceived after four months of targeted support and accurately timed intercourse based on improved cycle tracking.
Testing
Hormone panels for both partners, semen analysis (low testosterone and suboptimal sperm parameters for Cody), DUTCH test (high cortisol for Rebecca), food sensitivity panels, toxin screening, antioxidant and mitochondrial function assessments.
Supplements
Antioxidant and mitochondrial support, supplements to improve testosterone and sperm quality for Cody, and adrenal support to lower cortisol for Rebecca.
Nutrition
Elimination of food sensitivities and nutrition strategies to support hormone balance, energy production, and fertility.
Lifestyle
Cycle tracking education, sleep and stress optimization for Rebecca, and lifestyle modifications to support Cody’s hormone health and overall reproductive wellness.
