Natural Fertility //
Over the last fifty years, it has been well documented that male sperm quality is deteriorating, female gynaecological conditions are on the rise and as a result, the latest statistics are that one in every six couples will be affected by fertility issues within their reproductive lifetime.
While there has been a trend towards starting families later in life, advancing maternal and paternal age are not the only causative factors to consider.
Young women are increasingly presenting with gynaecological conditions such as PCOS or Endometriosis which could hamper their future fertility, while young men are seeing an increase in poorly shaped sperm (morphology) and a decline in the amount of sperm and their ability to swim.
Chronic health conditions, such as obesity and diabetes, which have exploded in recent years, have also been implicated in the rise of fertility issues.
The healthier you are, the more fertile you are likely to be, which is why a natural approach to fertility should be considered whether your aim is to conceive naturally or with the support of assisted fertility methods.
FAQ's //
What does the term 'natural fertility' mean?
It refers to a non-medicated, yet evidence based approach to reproductive health. By availing of specialised lab tests it is possible to ascertain whether there are endocrine, immune or cardiovascular issues making conception or carrying a baby to term difficult.
What is functional medicine?
It is a system of nutritional medicine that seeks to address the root cause of disease, rather than just treat the symptoms. This is achieved by taking a detailed medical case history with comprehensive symptom analysis and making recommendations for laboratory testing. On the basis of your results, you would make specific changes to your diet and lifestyle to positively impact your overall health and improve your fertility status. Professional grade supplements may be recommended to improve your nutrient reserves if necessary.
How can acupuncture support my reproductive health?
The World Health Organisation conducted a detailed review and analysis of acupuncture in an 80 page review, which details all of the conditions that acupuncture is an effective treatment remedy for. Gynaecological & Obstetric conditions are clearly defined as being responsive to acupuncture and recent scientific literature backs this up.
Within the area of fertility, acupuncture has been shown to;
- Reduce pre-menstrual and menstrual pain
- Improve ovulatory function
- Regulate function of the hypothalmic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis), thereby normalising the secretion of hormones such as luteinising hormone and oestradiol.