Starting a family is an exciting journey, but it can also come with unexpected challenges. For many, infertility—impacting about 19% of American women—leads to exploring options like assisted reproductive technologies (ART). While ART offers hope, there are also ways to support the process with integrative approaches. In this article, we’ll dive into how treatments like acupuncture fertility, guided by a true specialist, can complement ART and help create a more balanced and supportive path to parenthood.
What is infertility?
Infertility is a challenging and personal experience for both men and women, making it difficult to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. It’s diagnosed after a year of trying to get pregnant, or six months for women over 35. Conception involves many delicate steps, from hormone balance to implantation, and infertility can happen if any part of this process is disrupted.
Infertility is typically divided into three categories: primary infertility, where someone has never been able to conceive; secondary infertility, where conception is difficult after having at least one successful pregnancy; and unexplained infertility, where no clear cause is found despite testing. As infertility rates rise worldwide, many couples are seeking medical guidance to help them through this challenging process.
What is assisted reproductive technologies (ART)?
Assisted reproductive technology (ART) refers to fertility treatments involving eggs and embryos. This typically includes retrieving eggs, fertilizing them in a lab, and then placing the embryos back into the woman’s body or donating them. Treatments like insemination or medications to boost egg production without retrieval aren’t considered ART. ART focuses specifically on working with both eggs and embryos to assist with fertility.
Can functional medicine help with infertility?
Absolutely! Functional medicine can be a powerful complement to fertility treatment, offering a more holistic approach that focuses on overall health rather than just one specific issue. By looking at the whole person, it helps create a balanced foundation for fertility.
For example, treatments like fertility acupuncture are often used alongside ART to boost success rates. Other integrative approaches, like personalized supplements and dietary changes, can further support fertility. Managing stress through practices like yoga, meditation, or even hypnosis can also be incredibly helpful, as stress can negatively impact fertility. These methods work together to improve overall well-being and increase the chances of conception.
What kind of lab testing is needed?
The are some common labs you can expect:
Hormone testing
The DUTCH Complete or Comprehensive Female Panel Plus offers a thorough look at a woman’s reproductive hormones, checking important ones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, and cortisol. By understanding your hormone levels, it’s easier to spot imbalances that might be affecting your fertility, such as irregular cycles or ovulation problems. This kind of testing can be a helpful step in uncovering potential challenges and identifying the right support and solutions.
Micronutrient testing
This Micronutrient Test takes a close look at how 31 important vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants are functioning in your body. Nutritional imbalances can sometimes be a hidden factor behind health conditions like chronic diseases or immune problems, which might also impact fertility. By pinpointing these imbalances, the test offers a way to better understand and support your body’s needs.
Thyroid function testing
This test gives a full picture of your thyroid health by looking at TSH, free T3, free T4, and thyroid antibodies. Since thyroid issues can play a big role in reproductive health—leading to things like irregular periods or trouble with ovulation—it’s important to understand what’s happening with your thyroid.
Stool testing
Stool testing can be a useful tool for women struggling with fertility, as it gives a clearer picture of gut health, which is linked to hormone balance and overall well-being. By pinpointing any imbalances or issues in the gut, providers can offer targeted treatments to support gut health and, in turn, improve hormonal regulation, which might boost the chances of conception.
Who is the best fertility acupuncture specialist near me?
Who is the best fertility acupuncture specialist near me?If you’re looking for a more natural, holistic approach to fertility, integrative medicine could be exactly what you need. At Oasis Healing Arts, we offer personalized care that combines traditional fertility treatments with therapies like fertility acupuncture, nutrition support, and stress management to help you on your path to parenthood. Whether you’re just beginning or looking for additional support, we’re here for you. Reach out to Oasis Healing Arts today to learn how we can support you on your journey to growing your family.