Alternative and complementary medicine isn’t a new concept when treating chronic conditions or even in treating the common cold. In fact a recent survey found 38% of US adults use some form of alternative and complementary therapies when treating a whole host of different conditions.
The term alternative medicine describes the use of some form of medical treatment instead of what doctors consider traditional and mainstream. Those therapies considered alternative could be acupuncture, herbal supplementation, massage and chiropractic, relaxation and breathwork and dietary changes. Integrative and complementary are two of the other terms you may hear that describe alternative medicine.
Even though there are plenty of caveats you should observe when using alternative and complementary therapies for a medical condition you will find substantial research supporting the use of alternative and complementary therapies when used under the observation and knowledge of your doctor. When used in conjunction with fertility treatment some of these therapies enhance and improve the outcome.
Popular Alternative and Complementary Therapies
Along with your doctor’s expertise, alternative and complementary therapies offer a natural way to help you and your partner address any fertility issues you have. Here we explore a variety of alternative and complementary therapies that, used during fertility treatment, may increase the odds for a successful outcome.
Acupuncture
The ancient Chinese practice of acupuncture shows remarkable results when used in the treatment of conditions such as high blood pressure, migraines, chronic pain, anxiety and depression and as a complementary treatment for infertility. Here’s how:
In a study published by the NIH researchers found that regular acupuncture during fertility treatment improved ovarian function. By balancing your hormones and regulating the endocrine system both men and women benefit. Sperm quality and production improve as does ovarian function.
Acupuncture may help those who suffer from PCOS, ovarian insufficiency, fibroids and endometriosis. Males benefit from improved sperm quality.
Herbal Medicine
There are many valid herbal supplements that complement fertility treatment. Teas, tinctures and supplements in pill form contain nature’s own remedies for many medical conditions including infertility. However, here’s one of those caveats we mentioned above. Many of these remedies are not FDA-approved nor validated for efficacy in clinical trials. Please discuss any supplements for fertility with your doctor. Some of these may interact with medication you currently take or produce unwanted side effects.
If you and your doctor determine there’s no harm in taking an herbal medicine, please consult a qualified herbalist.
Yoga, Mindfulness, Meditation
Stress is one of the biggest impediments to fertility treatment success. Human beings are hard-wired with the “fight or flight instinct”. When you experience stress, your body responds by increasing cortisol which signals the brain that it isn’t a good time for conception which may, in turn, disrupt ovulation. Although a useful function when you were potentially being stalked by a saber tooth tiger, your body may respond the same way when you’re working on a deadline or dealing with family drama.
There are many studies affirming the efficacy of yoga, mindfulness and meditation in helping manage stress. Moreover, a regular yoga practice strengthens your body, promotes flexibility and increases circulation to the pelvic region. Mindfulness combats stress by keeping you focused and in the moment rather than imagining all that you have to deal with in the future. And meditation is a powerful tool that quiets your mind, calms your body, reduces anxiety and aids in overall health and wellness.
Diet Approach for Fertility
Feed your body a balanced diet that’s rich in nutrients and it responds with good health. Nutrition plays a key role in fertility as well. The diet you maintain influences egg health and sperm health, hormonal balance for menstrual regularity and whether you have a nurturing environment for conception.
A diet that’s rich in leafy greens, a variety of colorful and healthy vegetables and low-fat protein like chicken, tofu or beans and legumes is optimal for your reproductive health. And studies show a reduction in caffeine, alcohol and processed or fast foods has a positive impact on your fertility, especially when used in conjunction with fertility treatment.
Chiropractic Care for Fertility
You may associate chiropractic care as a viable treatment for conditions affecting your musculoskeletal health. In recent years, chiropractic care has gained attention for use in fertility treatment. Spinal alignment and function of your nervous system may impact reproductive health. The spine, if misaligned, may disrupt the nerve signals controlling your reproductive function. Chiropractic adjustment may promote normal nervous system function. Chiropractic care may complement traditional fertility treatments.
Please Contact Us to Discuss Alternative and Complementary Therapies
Alternative and complementary therapies aren’t meant to take the place of assisted reproductive technology or any other type of treatment for infertility. Before you try any of the alternative and complementary therapies, we’ve listed you need to discuss them with your doctor. Your reproductive health and overall wellness depend on it. For more ways you can complement your fertility treatment with alternative therapies please contact LA IVF.
