Handling Infertility
Did you know that stress can prevent you from falling pregnant and that a large number of small stresses are far worse than that one big problem? Did you also know you can test for stress by testing the levels of Cortisol in the body?
Latest studies show that reducing stress can restore normal ovulation. Amenorrhea is a lack of monthly periods and ovulation. It is caused by stress, poor nutrition and sometimes too much exercise. The hormone Cortisol increases when a person is stressed.
A recent study showed that cognitive behavior therapy increased fertility in 80% percent of women and that their Cortisol levels also dropped. Almost 5-10% of women suffer from amenorrhea at some stage and there are many natural supplements to assist.
The definition of infertility applies really only after one year of ‘normal’ marital relations without contraceptives or if the woman conceives but aborts naturally and repeatedly. There are many causes which in females can range from nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, infections, endometriosis which can lead to blockage of the Fallopian tubes or tumors and developmental anomalies of the organs. Sometimes this is caused by endocrine atrophy after oral contraceptives have been discontinued but this may correct itself in time.
In males causes can be due to sperm deficiencies (low sperm count, impaired motility or other abnormalities). Males are usually involved in 40% of infertility cases. A combination of factors is common and it is also related to anxiety and fatigue.
It is possible that high numbers of natural supplements usually make the body more fertile. These can be stopped once pregnancy occurs and both partners need lifestyle and dietary changes to improve their levels of fitness, lose weight if obese, eliminate tobacco and alcohol, avoid refined carbohydrates such as sugar, soft drinks, chocolate, white four, ice-cream and processed foods.
It is good to have a high vegetable and fruit intake with reasonable amounts of seeds and yogurt. Nuts and seeds are high in kilojoules though so watch how many you eat and a multivitamin is essential.
Natural supplements for females can range from herbs such as golden seal, raspberry, red clover, sarsaparilla and sweet violet. All infections need to be treated as well as Candida albicans and it is a good idea to avoid coffee. An increase in protein, vitamin E and iron is also a good idea.
Males would benefit from Ginseng, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc and a multivitamin. Also it is not a good idea for them to wear tight fitting underwear or pants or to take too hot baths or showers.
If you have had a repeated number of miscarriages herbs such as alfalfa, golden seal, raspberry leaf and sarsaparilla are good. These prior to pregnancy strengthen the uterus but you must also adjust your diet. Tissue salts such as Kali Phos or Nerve 5 are good for nervous strain.
On the no list is too much chocolate, margarine, processed oils, cows milk, tea, coffee, soft drink, cordial and yeast. Swimming and walking are good exercises in moderation.
If you are having problems with fertility or miscarriage though don’t try and do it alone. Contact your natural therapist and follow their instructions. There is lots of natural help around.
