IVF support
IVF SUPPORT & ASSISTED REPRODUCTIVE TREATMENT (ART)
Working in the field of infertility and IVF/ART support, I have assisted countless couples successfully through this process. A naturopathic approach works particularly well in both improving the outcome and reducing any negative side effects for those couples using IVF and/ or other ART treatments.
The aim is to integrate with and complement your medical treatments in a holistic manner and in co-operation and consultation with your other health professionals. Always, for all concerned, the aim will be to ensure a healthy conception, pregnancy, birth process and general well being for yourselves and your child.
ART – what does it do?
It is important to keep in mind that the Assisted Reproductive Technologies (IUI, IVF, ICSI etc) deal mostly with a ‘transport problem’. The focus is on getting the sperm and ova together (in the case of ICSI actually injecting the sperm into the ova) so that a conception can take place (in a Petri dish) and then the small embryo is implanted in to an area where it is hoped it will implant and grow (the uterus). It does not address the QUALITY of the sperm or ova or the QUALITY of the environment in which the embryo is to implant, grow and thrive.
Naturopathic ART and IVF support improves the health of your whole system including ova and sperm so that when conception does occur, the healthiest of cells are coming together and then implant into a lusciously healthy uterine lining. A recent study in the UK, conducted by Foresight the Association for Preconceptual Health Care, found that 3-4 months of preconception health care preceding IVF treatment more than doubled the success rates for IVF.
Christine finds that many couples undertaking the preconception health care program prior to a planned IVF cycle for ‘unexplained infertility’ often conceive by themselves, naturally. This is because many of the underlying nutritional, lifestyle and sub-clinical health issues preventing them from conceiving had been overcome. However, for those who do require ART treatments, taking the time to do the preconception health care program can end up being time and money saved in the long run as the chances of success at the first attempt are increased. This applies even for older couples.
How can naturopathic treatment help the outcome for us?
- Improving sperm count, motility, morphology (shape) and DNA integrity
- Improving egg quality – cell membrane, receptors, ability to accept sperm and energy to begin division
- Modulate FSH production which may be elevated in those having difficulty conceiving
- Improve response to IVF drugs and reducing negative side effects via improving cell membrane integrity and receptor response and improving the liver’s processing of the drugs
- Support of the nervous system and adrenal function before during and after procedures
- Support and modulation of the immune system to reduce antibody production or immune rejection of the embryo as well as reducing inflammation or potential for infection due to the procedures
Will the naturopathic treatment interfere with our ART procedures and drugs or vice versa?
Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and a naturopathic preconception program are not incompatible. In fact, a naturopathic approach will significantly improve your chances of becoming pregnant and will support pregnancy health as well as reducing any negative side effects from the drug regime as well as the inherent risks associated with ART.
Hormonally active herbs are not used during ART cycles. However, due to the stressful nature of ART cycles, it is possible that herbs that support the nervous system and adrenal function may be prescribed but only with the consent of your medical practitioner.