Naturopathic In Oakville Articles

Naturopathic Approach to Improving Fertility
Dr. Samantha Ristimaki, BSc, ND (Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine)

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive a child after having regular unprotected intercourse for a full year. In North America, about one in every five or six heterosexual couples is infertile. If you are having difficulty conceiving, naturopathic medicine may be of help.

The naturopathic approach is to determine and treat the root cause of the problem. The first thing that a couple must determine is where the problem lies.

There are a number of factors that can influence a women’s ability to conceive. Infection, endometriosis, congenital defects, inflammation, trauma, tumors or disease may cause structural or hormonal problems in the reproductive system. Determining and treating any of these conditions with nutrition, supplements and acupuncture can dramatically improve conception ability.

Other factors such as stress, emotional well being, weight, diet, sleep, smoking and alcohol are just as important to address. They can influence the body’s hormone balance which can influence the ability to ovulate. It’s essential that a woman prepare herself for conception physically, environmentally, nutritionally, emotionally and spiritually.

In one study where 106 non-ovulating women were treated with acupuncture and supplements, 41 conceived after adhering to a series of acupuncture treatments and a supplement regime.

Infertility is tied to male factors in 35% of cases. Once physical reproductive abnormalities are ruled out, semen analysis will help to rule out potential causes of infertility. Low sperm count and reduced sperm motility can be assessed. Lifestyle factors in men are just as important because male hormone imbalances can alter sperm production.

Couples should address fertility together. Naturopathic medicine will help open the door to new ideas about treating infertility that will help couples obtain what they desire most – a healthy baby.