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In many nations, traditional and complementary medicine, or T&CM, refers to a wide range of medical procedures that fall beyond the scope of common medicine. Users characterize them as preventive and holistic because they resonate with traditions, cultural customs, personal beliefs, and the desire to treat sickness and improve health and well-being. Acupuncture, naturopathy, and manual and physical therapy like yoga and massage are examples of standard therapies. The Therapeutic Goods Act of 1989 regulates complementary medicines offered in pharmacies and health food stores, such as vitamins, minerals, herbal remedies, and nutritional supplements. There isn't much excellent research on T&CM's impact on fertility.

Acupuncture

The Chinese medicinal practice of acupuncture involves inserting tiny, sterilized metal needles into specific body parts, called acupuncture areas. An alternative to traditional acupuncture, auricular acupuncture, involves inserting needles into particular locations on the outer ear. Acupressure, which consists of applying consistent pressure to acupuncture sites, is another similar therapy.

How does acupuncture work in fertility?

Acupuncture is a safe and effective method of stimulating nerve endings below the skin surface. It is beneficial for fertility to place needles along acupuncture points related to reproductive organs and the nervous system. Acupuncture improves blood flow to the ovaries by inhibiting sympathetic nervous system activity, which is triggered by stress. This can disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, which is crucial for reproductive health. Stress also causes ovarian arteries to constrict, reducing blood flow to the ovaries. Acupuncture can also increase the thickness of the endometrial lining, aiding in implantation.

Benefits of acupuncture for fertility

balancing the levels of male and female hormones enables the body to create the reproductive hormones required for conception.

Improving brain-ovular communication is critical in controlling a woman's menstrual cycle since it encourages ovulation and regular hormone production.

increasing the uterine and ovarian blood flow may increase the likelihood of implantation.

enhancing motility and sperm count to maximize sperm health.

Relaxation and a decrease in stress hormones can lower men's testosterone levels and sperm quality, while stress and anxiety can have a detrimental effect on reproductive hormones, altering a woman's menstrual cycle and ovulation.

Yoga

Fertility yoga poses can help lower stress and lower the chance of infertility while maintaining physical and mental health, according to research.

Yoga tries to keep the body fit, especially the pelvic and uterine tissues, which increases the likelihood of getting pregnant. It incorporates postures that reduce tension, slow movement, and relaxation without producing heat or sweat.

Fertility yoga poses

The pressures of professional success make stress and related health problems more significant. Stressful schedules, tight deadlines, and late nights can harm physical and emotional well-being. Stress and irregular lifestyles are frequent causes of infertility. Many couples struggle to conceive naturally, even with the best attempts and medical assistance. Yoga helps provide a good perspective and increase fertility by enhancing the health of the mind, body, and soul. Taking yoga classes can support both fertility and general well-being.

Best fertility yoga poses

Bhramari pranayama: Bee breath is another name for it. This pose is effective in reducing stress. Research indicates that anxiety and stress contribute to infertility. This posture helps release tension, stress, and anxiety by calming the body. Women can significantly boost their chances of getting pregnant by maintaining mental and physical calmness.

Paschimottanasana: Another name for this pose is the sitting forward bend. This asana helps to strengthen the tissues of the uterus and ovaries, which are the primary organs involved in pregnancy. It might also make you feel better mentally.

Supta Baddha Konasana: This pose helps tone the muscles in your inner thighs and groin area. It also benefits menstrual cramps, a healthy reproductive cycle, and stress-related IVF symptoms.

Bhujangasana: Known as cobra pose as well. One of the most incredible poses for increasing fertility is this one. It attempts to improve blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, aids in balancing hormones and promotes the generation of cervical mucus.

Setu Bandhasana: This position facilitates pelvic opening and expansion. It encourages the thyroid gland to operate better and pump more blood through it. This pose is beneficial for relieving sadness, tension, and anxiety. The yoga poses for fertility are excellent.

Hypnosis

Pre-conception hypnosis, commonly referred to as fertility hypnosis or hypnotherapy, is a relaxing method that aids in preparing individuals for natural or assisted conception. It lowers chemicals and stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which are thought to play a role in infertility. Deep relaxation balances hormones and controls the autonomic nervous system by raising endorphin and oxytocin levels. Hypnosis also aids mental control, enabling inner transformation that may enhance reproductive and physical well-being. Hypnosis is a valuable technique for increasing fertility overall.

Nutritional therapy

Eating a balanced diet is essential for general health, especially throughout the reproductive process. In addition to supporting a healthy child and helping to generate healthy sperm and eggs, it also enhances sperm quantity and quality, IVF results, and weight control. Fertility depends on a balanced diet, a wide range of healthful foods, and a healthy lifestyle. Specific nutrients crucial for fertility include zinc, selenium, vitamin D, omega 3, and antioxidants. Since the ideal quantity might change, avoiding taking large dosages of a single vitamin without first testing levels is crucial.

Fertility nutrients:

Omega 3 fatty acid

Folic acid and other B vitamins

Vitamin D

CoQ10

Zinc

Selenium

Vitamins C& E

How to boost fertility through nutrition

Eat foods rich in antioxidants:

Men and women can have more fertility by using antioxidants like folate and zinc, which work by neutralizing free radicals that damage egg and sperm cells. Research indicates that 75 grams of walnuts, which are highly antioxidants, might enhance sperm quality. The odds of implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth are all increased in those who consume more folate. Antioxidant-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains.

Proper breakfast:

According to research, women with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) might have better fertility by eating a substantial breakfast. The majority of their calorie intake at breakfast resulted in lower insulin and testosterone levels, which aided in infertility. But eating a more extensive breakfast without cutting back on nighttime meals might make you gain weight.

Avoid trans fat:

Consuming healthy fats daily boosts fertility and overall health, but trans fats, found in hydrogenated vegetable oils and processed foods, are linked to increased ovulatory infertility risk. Studies show higher trans fats and lower unsaturated fats are linked.

Herbal medicines for fertility

For ages, people have turned to herbs as a natural means of boosting fertility and increasing the likelihood of pregnancy. The most often utilized herbs for fertility include maca, red clover, black cohosh, and chasteberry. Herbs have the potential to be an effective tool for supporting general reproductive health when used in conjunction with a nutritious diet and lifestyle choices like regular exercise and stress management practices.

Please consult a doctor before taking herbs for fertility treatments, as they may interact with other medications or have unintended effects—research and work with a qualified expert for safe use.

Best herbs for fertility:

Vitex (chaste berry):

Chasteberry, a medicinal herb, has improved fertility in both women and men. It restores normal progesterone levels and increases sperm count and motility.

Black cohosh:

Black cohosh, a popular herb with fertility-enhancing properties, contains phytoestrogens and nutrients like zinc and magnesium. It improves ovulation and promotes regular menstruation, making it a popular choice for women in their fertility plans.

Red clover:

Red clover is a popular herb for improving fertility in men and women due to its rich nutrient profile. Its primary nutrients are magnesium, which boosts sperm count and motility in men, and phytoestrogens, which help women maintain hormonal balance.

Evening primrose oil:

Evening Primrose oil, rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, has been used for centuries as a natural fertility remedy. It can balance hormones and promote ovulation and can be safely combined with fertility medications.

Maca:

Maca, a natural plant extract, is gaining popularity as a fertility aid due to its ability to improve male and female reproductive health, boost conception rates, and protect against oxidative stress-related infertility issues.

Cinnamon:

Cinnamon, rich in cinnamaldehyde and antioxidants, is believed to enhance fertility by stimulating the reproductive system and improving hormonal balance, thus promoting healthy blood flow to the uterus.

Dong Quai:

Dong Quai, also known as Angelica Sinensis, is a traditional Chinese remedy for infertility. It boosts blood flow and hormone levels, improving sperm count, egg health, and motility and potentially preventing pregnancy-related complications like miscarriage or pre-eclampsia.

MMC IVF is a leading fertility clinic in Dubai, helping couples worldwide complete their families with world-class fertility specialists. If you require support or guidance in navigating your fertility journey, contact the experts at MMC IVF. Our team of experienced professionals can help guide you through the process and provide personalized care to help you achieve your family planning goals.