Acupuncture for fertility and optimal health
Optimum Health for Conception
More people are becoming aware of the importance of lifestyle issues for both men and women prior to conception. More importantly, the impact of maternal lifestyle on a developing embryo and foetus during pregnancy is significant to the birth of a healthy child.
Both parents should be brought to optimum health prior to conceiving. Chinese Medicine holds the view that this period of time will determine the health of the sperm and the egg. Optimising the health of both parents during this period will endow maximum constitutional health to a newborn child.
Preparation is the key to having a trouble free pregnancy, birth and a healthier baby. Traditionally women have taken their health more seriously prior to conception therefore it is important to regulate hormones and the menstrual cycle. However as the male is responsible for half the genetic makeup, it is vital that he is also in optimum health prior to conception.
Diet and lifestyle are important factors in reaching optimum health. Eating for two begins long before conception for both men and women. While there is no scientific evidence that eating any particular foods will enhance fertility, it is important to maintain a good balance of nutrients in order to keep organs and the hormonal system healthy and ready to conceive.
From a Western medical perspective, it is still not fully understood how acupuncture enhances fertility. However, numerous studies have demonstrated that acupuncture has the ability to regulate the menstrual cycle and bring in to balance female hormonal imbalances.
Acupuncture also reduces the negative biological effects of stress. Fertility issues are stressful in themselves, triggering the release of excess amounts of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Excess amounts of these hormones have a direct effect on the menstrual cycle and the relationship between the hypothalamus and pituitary glands.
