IVF and Assisted Fertility

A number of naturopathic options exist for restoring fertility however sometimes assisted reproduction techniques may be required. Generally these should be used as a last option for confirmed infertile couples. The role of the naturopath is vastly different when IVF or similar techniques are being used compared to normal naturopathic fertility protocols. It is, for example, generally far too late to begin a pre-conception program or establish a normal menstrual cycle which are ordinarily quite successful in developing optimal fertility. For these reasons I would strongly suggest that these other options are exhausted first rather than moving straight to IVF.

Naturopathy is a holistic modality, offering the benefits of the latest scientific and empirical evidence to tailor an individual treatment plan for each patient. In IVF naturopathic treatment aims to:

• Reduce inflammation, particularly of uterine tissue. Inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and prostaglandins may reduce the receptivity of the uterus to the fertilised embryo. By reducing these inflammatory mediators we can increase uterine receptivity
• Modulate hormones where appropriate. Clearly most naturopathic treatments will ordinarily be no match for the massive doses often seen in IVF treatment but naturopathic treatment can be useful for ensuring excesses aren’t encountered. Excessive oestrogen, for example, will increase luteolysis and diminish chances of successful pregnancy.
• Relieve the side effects of IVF medication. IVF is a multi-step program. SOmetimes all these steps don’t work together. Clomiphene, used to promote and increase ovulation can ironically result in a condition called “hostile mucus”, where a thick mucus barrier can coat the endometrium inhibiting implantation. A number of naturopathic solutions exist for alleviating this problem
• Reduce stress during the process: Stress is the most common side effect of infertility, and it can have very real physiological ramifications. Nervous support is essential during the IVF process.
• Nourish the reproductive system by improving circulation. The entire body relies on adequate circulation to provide the nourishment it needs to functon properly. Improving circulation to reprodcutive tissue is an important part of naturopathic assistance in IVF
• Support healthy pregnancy in the result of successful treatment

Naturopathic treatments can be individually tailored to fit in with other treatments, including acupuncture, so as not to interfere with desired treatment outcomes.