Problems with infertility in men and women have been steadily on the rise over the past few decades. The fertility society of Australia estimates that one in six couples are having trouble with fertility. Practitioners are seeing a rise in couples who have been struggling to conceive, simply give up hope as a result of feeling emotionally and physically drained. Both men and especially women go through an array of tests, invasive procedures and treatments (which takes its toll on their physical and mental state.) Adding to the problem some surgical procedures to treat certain conditions of infertility may lead to even further damage of the fallopian tubes and ovaries.
What is causing this rise in infertility?
Different conditions can lead to infertility. In females, endometriosis is one of the most common conditions. Other conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome, premature ovarian failure, fibroids, and hormonal imbalances are also common. In a lot of instances female patients may present with two or more of these conditions.
More than 90% of male infertility cases are due to low sperm count, poor sperm quality, or both. The remaining cases of male infertility can be caused by a number of factors including anatomical problems, hormonal imbalances, and genetic defects.
In many instances the cause simply cannot be determined. In both males and females, it is known that stress plays a major role and even when the reproductive system is normal, stress may be the one obstacle that can prevent conception from taking place.
What can be done? Lately, research has been able to show proof of the major role that our unhealthy environment is playing in causing infertility. It has been shown that the chemicals leaking from plastics, pesticides and animal produce boosted by hormone treatments, to name just a few, lead to a disruption in important hormones crucial for reproduction, and the immune system. A disruption in the immune system may lead to inflammatory changes in the uterus and fallopian tubes, in turn leading to conditions like endometriosis. These chemicals can enter the body through breathing, drinking unfiltered water, eating non-organic, animal products and certain vegetables and fruit.
It is important to be aware and educated about new research and treatments available to prevent excessive exposure to these chemicals and to improve the general health and function of the reproductive system.
As we can’t walk around holding our breaths or starve ourselves to avoid these chemicals, here are a few more manageable tips:
· Try to use more organic fruit and vegetables. If it is not possible, wash and scrub your fruit and vegetable thoroughly in white vinegar water before using
· Avoid using fluids and foods with plastics, especially heating in the microwave. Look out for BPA free plastic containers.
· Drink filtered water
· Try to eat organic chicken and meat. Limit your intake of red meat to once a week.
· Avoid insecticides as far as possible and wear gloves if you are using harsh chemicals while cleaning your house.
· Avoid skin products containing chemicals like parabens.
· Avoid coffee, alcohol and smoking
· Men should avoid excess exposure to heat like a hot bath or sauna
· Avoid foods high in trans fat and sugar
· Avoid nail polish, hair spray and chemical cosmetics
· Avoid carrying your cell phone in your pocket or using a laptop on you lap
· Try to relax more by doing meditation, yoga or other relaxation techniques offered by your practitioner
Homeopathic and Naturopathic treatment can assist the body by not only treating the symptom of the infertility but aiming to bring the body into balance by treating the cause. During the consultation a suitable Homeopathic constitutional remedy will be determined, which will stimulate the immune system in order to bring about a balance and make the body more receptive for the Naturopathic medicines that will be prescribed. Focus will be put on the patient’s full fertility menstrual history, lifestyle and diet, hormone levels, the immune system, nutritional status, heavy metal status and emotional wellbeing. After gathering all the information an individual specific prescription will be formulated.
Here are a few vitamins and minerals important to take whilst you are trying to conceive:
For male patients:
· Selenium
· Zinc
· Vitamin C
· Arginine
For female patients:
· Folinic acid
· Zinc
· Chaste tree
Omega 3 for both will be very beneficial to take. The above nutrients are just an example; every patient will present with an individual symptoms picture and will be treated accordingly.
As vitamins and minerals come in many different forms and some brands are more beneficial than others, always consult your Naturopath to ensure you buy what is best.
