Natural Treatment for Female Infertility

Naturopathy looks at treatments and supplements that have been proven in traditional and modern medicinal use for their ability to relax and de-stress a woman's body, balance hormonal changes, nourish and tone the uterus and create optimum fertility and resilience for the rest of the body.

Recommended Naturopathic Tesing

The following tests can reveal adrenal stress and other hormone imbalances.

• Saliva Adrenal Hormone test measuring cortisol and DHEA
• Saliva female hormone panel including estrone, estradiol, estriol, progesterone, and testosterone
• Serum (blood) expanded female hormonal panel, including testosterone and LH to FSH ratio
• Glucose tolerance test
• Thyroid panel
• Blood lipid profile (cholesterol and triglycerides).

These results combined with charting (text to come) can reveal:

• Early ovulation
• Anovulation (no ovulation)
• Problems with the phasing of the cycles, such as a short luteal phase (second half of the cycle)
• Problems with sagging progesterone levels.

Supplements for Infertility

• Folic acid (folate) supplementation is routinely recommended prior to and during the first trimester of pregnancy. This is testimony to the growing support for preconception nutrient supplementation. Folic acid reduces the risk of congenital diseases such as spina bifida and may prevent miscarriages. Many common household foodstuffs are now also fortified with this nutrient. Folic acid is essential for the formation of genetic material (DNA, RNA). Supplementation of 400mgs per day in early pregnancy may reduce the incidence of neural tube defects by 48-80%.

• Vitamin B6 has been found to increase progesterone levels and inhibit the excessive production of prolactin.

• Chromium may also assist weight management and contribute to addressing the underlying causes of a lack of ovulation.

• Iodine is necessary for healthy thyroid gland function and the development of the baby's nervous system. Many countries routinely provide iodine supplements for the duration of the pregnancy.

Herbs for Infertility

• Chaste tree (Vitex agnus castus) can enhance progesterone levels which lengthen the menstrual cycle and enhances the function of the corpus luteum, improving the environment in the uterus for the fertilised ovum (egg). Chaste tree has also been shown to improve fertility due to its effects on decreasing oestrogen and androgens which, when elevated, are responsible for ovulation-free cycles. Chaste tree is useful for high prolactin because it stimulates the proper functioning of the pituitary gland, which controls the hormones. In summary, chaste tree helps to:

  - Regulates periods

  - Restarts periods which have stopped

  - Helps with heavy bleeding

  - Increases the ratio of progesterone to oestrogen by balancing excess oestrogen.

• Kelp/Bladderwrack is a herb traditionally used to treat an underactive thyroid gland. It contains high amounts of iodine which may be responsible for stimulating production of thyroid hormones.

• Other herbs often prescribed by practitioners include Shatavari, Dong Quai, False Unicorn Root and adrenal herbs such as Withania and Siberian Ginseng.

More Natural Alternatives for Female Infertility

• Homoeopathic medicines prescribed by your homeopath or naturopath can have positive effects on your fertility.

• Acupuncture can help balance hormones and facilitate the free flow of energy through the body.

• Aromatherapy can assist and support the reproductive system, and gently contribute to rebalancing your hormones.

Always consult a registered practitioner.

Lifestyle and Infertility

The introduction of a regular exercise program to improve fitness and maintain a healthy weight is important, as is addressing other lifestyle factors such as stress management.

For a personalised appointment and prescription for healthy fertility, click here to make a booking for phone and online consultations.

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