Preparing Your Body For Pregnancy
Link copied! Preparing for pregnancy is a meaningful step that can have a big impact on your fertility and overall health as a couple. Taking time to get ready helps create the best environment for conception and ensures you are both physically and emotionally prepared for the journey ahead. With a proactive approach, you can increase your chances of conceiving, catch and address potential health concerns early, and build healthy habits that benefit both parents and your future child. Effective preparation depends on your unique body types and goals as a couple. Since fertility tends to drop sharply after age 35, it’s important to start early[1]. Preparation can take anywhere from three months to a year, giving you enough time to make important lifestyle adjustments and plan for this new chapter[1]. It is best for both partners to be involved in fertility efforts since male and female factors are equally important. Research shows that male infertility contributes to about 40–50% of fertility challenges, highlighting why both partners should be proactive[2]. Getting professional guidance before trying to conceive can be very helpful. Medical check-ups, like hormone tests for women and semen analyses for men, can pinpoint any reproductive issues. Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or thyroid problems can also impact pregnancy outcomes, so it is key to visit your doctor to make sure these are well-managed. If any health concerns come up, addressing them with the right treatments can get your body ready and boost your chances of a healthy, successful pregnancy[3]. Nourishing your body Supporting your fertility journey with appropriate supplements can play a vital role in ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Key supplements include folic acid, iron, and DHA: Folic Acid: This essential B vitamin significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects, such as spinal cord and brain abnormalities, in newborns. It is generally recommended to start taking 400–800 mcg of folic acid daily at least three months before conception and continue through the first 12 weeks of pregnancy[4]. Iron: Regular iron supplementation helps increase red blood cell production and prevents anemia, which can impact both maternal health and fetal development. The recommended daily dosage is 100–200 mg, depending on individual needs and medical advice[5]. DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid): An omega-3 fatty acid, DHA supports the development of your baby’s brain and eyes. A daily dosage of 300 mg of DHA is typically recommended for pregnant women to ensure optimal fetal development[5]. Traditional Chinese Medicine From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, herbal remedies, acupuncture and moxibustion can further support fertility. These treatments work by improving blood circulation to the womb and balancing hormone levels, helping to create an optimal environment for conception. Following a consultation with a TCM practitioner, personalised treatment plans—including tailored herbal prescriptions and specific acupuncture points—may be recommended. Herbal medications Research suggests that herbal medicine may double pregnancy rates[6]. Commonly used herbs in TCM to enhance fertility include sangjisheng (桑寄生), duzhong (杜仲), shudihuang (熟地黄干), nuzhenzi (女贞子), and danggui (当归). These herbs work by strengthening kidney essence and promoting blood flow, which are believed in TCM to play a significant role in boosting fertility. Acupuncture Specific acupressure points such as sanyinjiao (SP6), zusanli (ST36), shenshu (BL23), qihai (CV6), guanyuan (CV4), and zigong (EX-CA-1) can be beneficial for enhancing Qi and blood circulation while stimulating kidney function, supporting reproductive health. Moxibustion Moxibustion involves the combustion of moxi-sticks to warm the body and boost circulation to the womb area, helping to prepare the body for pregnancy. Research supports that moxibustion can increase endometrial thickness, which is crucial for enhancing implantation rates and improving pregnancy outcomes[6]. Tech-enhanced therapies Electro-Lymphatic Therapy (ELT) Electro-Lymphatic Therapy (ELT) is a gentle, non-invasive technique designed to enhance the flow and drainage of the lymphatic system. By supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes, ELT helps to efficiently eliminate toxins, creating a healthier internal environment.The lymphatic system plays a vital role in female reproductive health, influencing hormonal balance and various gynaecological processes that are essential for conception[7]. Improved lymphatic flow can promote hormonal balance, a key factor in optimising fertility, and may enhance your chances of a smooth and successful pregnancy[8]. Cell Pro Therapy (CPT) Cell Pro Therapy utilizes Japanese technology to introduce reducing electrons, which can enhance cellular metabolism and improve blood circulation[9]. This boosts overall wellness, providing additional support for pregnancy readiness. Our holistic approach combining traditional treatments with technology-enhanced therapies is tailored to each person’s unique constitution and designed to restore balance in the body. Through promoting a smooth and healthy flow of Qi and blood, we prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy and optimise your chances for conceiving. Healthy Lifestyle Habits In TCM, engaging in regular, mild-intensity exercise helps regulate the flow of Qi and blood throughout the body. Improved circulation can enhance overall health and create a more supportive environment for pregnancy. In addition to regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for conception and a successful pregnancy. The ideal weight for conception varies according to height, making Body Mass Index (BMI) a helpful metric. Research indicates that a healthy BMI supports balanced levels of female hormones like estrogen and progesterone, reducing the likelihood of menstrual irregularities and other gynecological issues[10]. To promote a healthy pregnancy, it is also essential to minimise or avoid habits that can harm your health or fetal development, such as smoking. Limiting excessive caffeine and alcohol intake is equally important for optimal reproductive health[10]. Mental and Emotional Health Stress is part of life, however, excessive stress can affect your chances of conception. High-stress levels can lower your libido and may even interfere with ovulation, preventing the release of eggs necessary for fertilization. Without ovulation, conception cannot occur, ultimately reducing your chances of becoming pregnant. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed during your fertility journey, consider the following strategies to alleviate stress[11]: Engage in a new hobby or activity to help shift your focus from trying to conceive. Connect with family or friends to share your thoughts and feelings. Practice relaxation techniques such as
5 Conditions You Didn’t Know Could Affect Fertility
Link copied! Fertility issues are often shrouded in misconceptions, with many people attributing difficulties in conceiving solely to age or reproductive health. While it’s true that age and the health of the reproductive system play significant roles in fertility, these factors only scratch the surface of what can influence one’s ability to conceive. Fertility is a complex interplay of various bodily systems, environmental factors and lifestyle choices. Surprisingly, several conditions that might seem unrelated at first glance can significantly impact fertility. Understanding these lesser-known factors is crucial for those trying to conceive, as it can help identify and address potential obstacles more effectively. Here, we explore five conditions you might not know could affect fertility. 1. Thyroid Disorders The thyroid gland is a small but mighty organ crucial in regulating metabolism and hormone production, both essential for reproductive health. Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), can significantly impact fertility. In women, an underactive thyroid can lead to prolonged menstrual cycles, heavy periods, or even the absence of menstruation. This occurs because insufficient thyroid hormones interfere with the production of sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone. The resulting hormonal imbalance can prevent the maturation and release of eggs, hampering ovulation and making it difficult to conceive [1]. In men, though less common, low thyroid hormone levels can result in decreased testosterone levels, which are associated with erectile dysfunctions, delayed ejaculation and deteriorated semen quality [2]. Conversely, an overactive thyroid can cause irregular menstrual cycles and lighter, shorter periods in women. Excess thyroid hormones can accelerate metabolism and disrupt the normal balance of reproductive hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinising hormone, leading to irregular ovulation or even the complete absence of ovulation [3]. In men, elevated thyroid hormone levels affect testosterone levels, thereby affecting testicular functions, semen volume and quality [4]. In TCM, thyroid disorders are often linked to imbalances in Yin and Yang. Hypothyroidism is often associated with Yang deficiency, which leads to a dip in overall Qi and energy levels. This imbalance can manifest as fatigue, sensitivity to cold and constipation. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism is attributed to Yin deficiency, resulting in a dehydrated body constitution with symptoms such as dry skin and eyes, heart palpitations and weight loss. TCM offers a holistic approach to regulating thyroid function and improving overall fertility through personalised herbal medication and acupuncture. Herbal formulas are tailored to each individual’s needs, nourishing Yin or Yang as required, while acupuncture helps harmonise the body’s energy flow, promoting optimal thyroid health and enhancing fertility. Tech-enhanced therapies like Electro-Lymphatic Therapy (ELT) help stimulate lymphatic flow to improve circulation and regulate the flow of hormones while Cell Pro Therapy introduces reducing electrons into the body, helping to improve cellular metabolism and oxygenation, further supporting thyroid health. With this comprehensive approach, individuals can achieve a better hormonal balance, paving the way for improved reproductive health and increased chances of conception. 2. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that is becoming increasingly more common, affecting an estimated 8–13% of women of reproductive age, with up to 70% of cases remaining undiagnosed [5]. PCOS is characterised by irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels and polycystic ovaries. Women with PCOS may have elevated levels of hormones such as estrogen, luteinising hormone and anti-müllerian hormone. These hormones regulate menstruation and ovulation by controlling the growth of the uterine lining and triggering ovulation. Disruptions in these hormone levels interfere with ovulation, making it difficult to conceive [6]. In TCM, PCOS is associated with Phlegm-Dampness accumulation and Blood stagnation. A modern sedentary lifestyle, combined with a diet high in processed and fatty foods, can impact our Spleen, or digestive system in TCM. This causes an uneven distribution of nutrients and fluids in our body, an accumulation Phlegm-Dampness, resulting in symptoms such as weight gain, oily skin and a lowered metabolism. Additionally, this accumulation can disrupt the flow of Blood, causing it to stagnate and accumulate in the womb, which affects reproductive organ function and creates a less-than-ideal environment for conception. Despite being one of the leading causes of infertility in women, PCOS can be managed with herbal medication, acupuncture and lifestyle modifications. Herbal medications are prescribed to address root issues, such as removing Phlegm-Dampness from the body, while acupuncture helps to regulate organ energy and hormone levels. Tech-enhanced therapies such as Electro-Lymphatic Therapy help promote smooth lymphatic flow, which boosts circulation and alleviates symptoms caused by Phlegm-Dampness. Improved lymphatic flow also helps regulate hormone levels and create a uterine environment that is more conducive for pregnancy. Together, TCM and tech-enhanced therapies work to regulate menstruation, balance hormone levels and increase the chances of getting pregnant. 3. Endometriosis Endometriosis is characterised by severe pain in the abdomen or lower back during menstruation. This condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterine cavity. Each month, when the uterine lining sheds during menstruation, this tissue outside the uterus also sheds into the abdomen, leading to severe pain, chronic inflammation and scar tissue formation. These scars can create adhesions between reproductive organs, distorting pelvic anatomy, including the fallopian tubes and ovaries. This distortion can interfere with the release and transport of eggs, hindering their journey to meet sperm for fertilisation. Additionally, the inflammatory environment created by endometriosis is hostile to sperm, eggs, and embryos, making fertilisation and implantation more challenging [7]. Endometriosis is often underdiagnosed because its symptoms can be mistaken for regular menstrual pain. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve fertility outcomes for those trying to conceive. In TCM, endometriosis is associated with Blood stagnation in the womb. Blood stagnation can result from Qi stagnation, Cold accumulation or Dampness. These factors disrupt the normal flow of Qi and Blood, leading to pain and poor womb conditions for fertility TCM offers effective treatments for endometriosis through acupuncture and moxibustion, which help relieve pain, expel Cold, and balance uterine conditions. With a proper diagnosis, herbal medication can address underlying
