Are you struggling with infertility and caught in the wait to see an OB/GYN or the fertility clinic?
You are not alone.
Infertility affects approximately one in six Canadian couples, making it a common challenge for many families.
Being caught in the wait can feel frustrating. In New Brunswick, accessing fertility specialists can involve wait times of approximately eight months.
During this waiting period, you can be proactive in supporting your fertility with targeted, evidence-based support such as optimizing nutrition and incorporating acupuncture.
When creating a fertility optimization plan for folks at Roots to Branches clinic, healthy pregnancy is the goal, but so is supporting your nervous system and finding joy in the present moment (despite the emotional roller coaster that can come with fertility challenges).
Are you looking to take back some control in a scenario that feels very out of your control?
Be proactive and get started with these 3 important considerations if you are navigating infertility or prepping for your next fertility steps:
1. Focus on Antioxidant-Rich Foods
Oxidative stress can negatively impact egg and sperm health, but
antioxidants can be protective. Fill your plate with colourful fruits, veggies, nuts, and seeds. Aim for 6-8 servings of fruits and vegetables and ¼ cup of nuts per day. Key fertility-boosting nutrients include vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and CoQ10. If indicated, supplementation can fill in any gaps – speak with your Naturopathic Doctor for recommendations.
2. Bring in Your Partner
If you are in a mixed-gender partnership, it’s important to remember that fertility struggles aren’t just a women’s health issue. In about 20-30% of cases, there’s a male factor issue. That’s why it’s crucial to have your partner tested, too. A simple semen analysis can check sperm count, motility, and quality. Plus, lifestyle changes like reducing alcohol, quitting smoking, and managing stress can significantly improve sperm health. Often in the clinic, it seems the female is taking the lead, but fertility is a team effort—so bring your partner along for the journey!
3. Try Acupuncture for Fertility ✨
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to support reproductive health, and now some research is starting to back up its effectiveness. Acupuncture helps by improving blood flow to the reproductive organs, and has shown the possibility of enhancing IVF success rates. Plus, it’s a great way to reduce stress—an important factor in your fertility journey.
If you’re looking for personalized fertility support, our clinic is here to help! Book a consult with Dr. Tracy Palmer ND or our acupuncturist, Leah to get started.
Ready for fertility support? Our team at Roots to Branches are thrilled to help. Book an appointment with one of our naturopathic doctors HERE.
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