Whenever there is a diagnosis of unexplained fertility endometriosis, PCOS, poor sperm quality, or whatever the story that’s presented is, the most common reactions I encounter from my client is panic and feelings of powerlessness. That the doctor or experts’ opinion must be absolutely conclusive. They are medical experts after all - no? IVF is a growing industry, one of which I do support, but only when there really is no possible way of conceiving naturally, and of course, this is where IVF is invaluable and life changing. However, I’ve witnessed the most amazing journeys by couples who have been given a low percentage outcome for natural conception and gone on to succeed. I continually find myself in awe of the determination and commitment they demonstrate to overcome their initial predicted outcome. And that’s just it! With the right mind set in place and an unwavering approach to setting themselves firmly onto a fresh and healthy new course, they increase their chances considerably.
Perhaps it’s time for you to take your power back, and consider a new approach. Reading the many books on the market about infertility, will give you knowledge, but without actual experience, it remains information only. I’ve looked after many couples in their forties for example, and seen persistently, that they remain fertile and go on to have healthy pregnancies and babies once they have embarked on a healthy lifestyle. I always remind clients that we have two ages – one is chronological – our actual birth date, and the second is all about how healthy and youthful our blood stream is – and to a degree, that’s within your control! Perhaps you’ve been told for example, that you have the cholesterol of a 23 year old at the age of 40? Of course, women have only so many eggs and therefore a reducing number of chances to get pregnant, but you can improve the likelihood of having healthier ovulation and cycles and make the most of this time. Without making false promises, and acknowledging that not everyone succeeds for various reasons, here are some things to try over the next twelve months – then measure your progress.
From experience, I always advise that both partners follow the same lifestyle change, even if there are no apparent issues with sperm quality. Here are some of the key things to consider:
Ø Consuming an optimum, healthy, fresh diet for cellular nourishment and ensuring that you're not over or underweight - both will affect hormonal balance
Ø Having regular focused reflexology
Ø Check for any un-diagnosed conditions such as hypo/hyperthyroidism and addressing hormonal imbalances (oestrogen dominance, progesterone deficiency)
Ø Improving gut health
Ø Controlling blood sugar
Ø Learning to read body signs instead of depending on ovulation sticks etc.
Ø Using the Barnes Basal temperature charting
Ø Eliminating key toxins, sugars and inflammatory foods/substances
Ø Taking appropriate supplements, herbs and foods (will vary depending on symptoms)
Ø No alcohol consumption or smoking
Ø Taking moderate, regular exercise
Ø Keeping a healthy mind set
Ø Controlling stress using meditation or techniques such as EFT, hypnosis etc.
Ø Eliminating xenoestrogens/plastics
Ø Getting adequate sleep
Ø Getting out for some fresh air
Ø Spring cleaning social circles (including social media!) to stay positive
Ø Laughter – keep things light and never compare yourself with others on the fertility journey
These are generally the key areas that need to be addressed and your therapist will be able to help you identify what your priorities are. If necessary, it may be worth considering seeing a nutritional therapist to tailor your diet, supplements and set up more diagnostic tests that perhaps the NHS may not cover. Functional medicine is sometimes required to address more complex situations and reflexology works as a very useful and supportive treatment alongside this approach. Recommendations are always a great starting place when looking for an experienced functional doctor or nutritionist.
However long it is that you’ve been trying to get pregnant, there is no way around the elephant in the room! If your diet and lifestyle are compromised, then so is your biochemistry, your cellular health, your hormones and ultimately your fertility. Take heart, take back control, bag the gremlins and if you remain focused for long enough (and it doesn’t necessarily take more than a few months to see the first improvements), you may very well realise your dream!
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