About Dr. Shannon 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. 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.
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Dr. Shannon’s Free Acne Self-Care Guide

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The Latest Videos From Dr. Shannon 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.
Alicia's Journey

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
Danielle's Journey

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
Natalie's Journey

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.
Sarah's Journey

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.

What Patients Say About Dr. Shannon Cavanaugh