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No Stigma Required for Conception Issues

Anxiety, inadequacy, uncertainty, frustration, sadness and hopelessness are some of the many emotions that make the struggle to conceive a child something many couples would rather keep to themselves. They may wish to be discrete about announcing plans to start a family to relatives, friends and co-workers, but not seeking out help prevents them from getting the support and resources that they need most.

 

       Across the board, there seems to be a lack of awareness about the natural approaches available and just how powerful they can be as a standalone treatment and a complement to conventional fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI). Two of the most effective, evidenced-based, natural approaches to optimizing fertility are acupuncture and nutrition.

       Research has shown that acupuncture can improve success rates of IVF/IUI procedures by almost double. It can also increase sperm motility and count, increase blood flow to the uterus, balance hormones, aid in menstrual cycle regulation and reduce prescription medication side effects.

       Studies show that nutritional deficiencies can be a major contributor to infertility, especially vitamin D, selenium, and folate. Optimum nutrient status is also vital in protecting against some causes of miscarriage and birth defects. Imbalances are identified using specialized lab tests and corrected with therapeutic doses of evidence-based nutrients.

       Food intolerances (especially gluten) also have a significant relationship in the research with hormonal imbalance and decreased fertility. Each couple’s needs are unique, and it takes a united approach to start a family.

 Dr. Kristen Halland is a functional medicine practitioner and founder of Balance Balance Chiropractic and Wellness located at 2500 West Higgins Rd., Ste. 420, Hoffman Estates. For more information, call 847-310-0303 or visit TheBalanceDoc.com. See ad on page 39.