The Role of Herbal Medicine and Supplements
Certain herbs and supplements have been shown to support ovarian function and egg quality.
For example:
- Studies suggest that vitex (chaste tree berry) can help regulate menstrual cycles and support ovulation
- Coenzyme Q10 may enhance mitochondrial function within the egg, a key player in maintaining egg quality (3).
- Myo-inositol (a type of B vitamin) supports follicle maturation in the ovaries, improves embryo quality, and increases the likelihood of pregnancy (4). Notably, it can also reduce the amount of gonadotropins (a stimulation drug used during IVF) used in women undergoing IVF (5).
Shop: Fertility & menstrual regularity with Ovasitol.
The Importance of Hormonal Balance in Conception
Hormonal balance is at the core of the female reproductive system & fertility. Imbalances can lead to irregular ovulation, anovulation (lack of ovulation), or menstrual cycle changes, all of which pose significant barriers to a successful pregnancy.
Stress is often an influential factor in hormonal imbalance, affecting the delicate interplay between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries.
How Stress Affects Fertility Hormones
High levels of stress hormones can interfere with ovulation and shorten the luteal phase. Stress hormones may also prevent implantation and early pregnancy success if they interfere with progesterone availability.
This potential hormonal imbalance can disrupt the delicate communication between reproductive hormones, potentially impacting ovulation and egg quality (6).
For example, a study by the National Institute of Health and Oxford University found that 25% of women under stress during their fertile days are 12% less likely to conceive (7). Combatting stress is a pivotal step in restoring hormonal balance and supporting fertility.
Managing Stress and Enhancing Fertility
Integrative and functional medicine therapies provide an array of tools to combat stress, including meditation, yoga, acupuncture, and biofeedback. These techniques aim to reduce the body’s stress response and restore balance to the endocrine system, which is essential for regulating reproductive hormones.
Related: Acupuncture for Fertility
Types of Hormone Testing Available to Evaluate Fertility
Hormone testing helps identify specific hormonal imbalances that could be affecting fertility.
Tests such as the Day 3 FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and AMH (anti-Mullerian hormone) provide insights into ovarian reserve and overall egg quality.
Testing for progesterone levels can confirm ovulation, while thyroid function tests can help rule out thyroid-related reproductive issues.
Evaluate your hormone levels with an at-home test, or contact a patient care coordinator now.
Supporting Fertility through Acupuncture and Other Holistic Therapies
Holistic therapies, such as acupuncture, have gained significant attention in the realm of fertility. Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese healing practice involving the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, is believed to help regulate the flow of energy, or “qi,” as well as blood flow to restore balance and support various physiological processes, including fertility.
Studies have suggested that acupuncture improves outcomes for women undergoing IVF, and many women find it beneficial for natural conception as well (8).
The integrative and functional medicine approach to fertility is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires a personalized, partnership-based model between patient and practitioner to achieve the best results.
A ‘Preconception Physical’
For those considering a natural fertility approach, seeking the guidance of a qualified integrative and functional medicine practitioner is a critical next step. Potential diagnostic tests and therapies may include:
- Hormone imbalance testing (low progesterone, high androgens, thyroid disease, etc.)
- Nutrient deficiency testing
- Methylation markers (which may indicate environmental endocrine-disrupting toxin exposure)
- Gut function analysis
- Underlying autoimmune disorders
An integrative evaluation helps women harness their bodies’ natural potential and increase the chances of conceiving without the need for more invasive treatments like IVF.
Learn more about the benefits of holistic women’s healthcare.
Book a Consultation with Our Integrative Medicine Physicians Specializing in Women’s Health
The decision to pursue natural conception is a significant one, and finding the right support is invaluable. Our team of integrative medicine physicians is dedicated to helping women optimize their fertility through a holistic approach that respects the mind-body connection.
Our mission is to help you unlock your full potential to create the family you desire.
