|
|
The Eclectic Physician
Natural Health Care
by Beth Burch N.D.
Infertility-
Infertility affects 1 in every 6-10 couples, about 40% is due to a male
factor and 60% to a female factor. For women, the causes of infertility
can be irregular ovulation, endometriosis, scarring of the fallopian tubes
from infection, stress, poor nutrition, antibodies to sperm and inadequate
production of progesterone. Because there are many reasons for infertility,
a thourough exam for both a woman and her partner are the first step. Conventional
treatment includes ovulation induction with medications, surgery to remove
endometriosis or tube blockages, in-vitro fertilization, and artificial
insemination.
Natural treatment includes improving diet for both partners including
vitamin and mineral supplements, decreasing stress, exercise and exposure
to natural light. Itís important that you have enough energy for conceiving,
pregnancy and raising a child; too many other committments may hinder that.
Also examining your feelings about pregnancy, sexuality and having children
can be helpful. Certainly any couple who is dealing with infertility can
benefit from counseling, if only to help deal with the frustration and
managing the process of testing and treatment.
For irregular ovulation or inadequate production of progesterone, herbal
treatment may be effective.
Vitex- a number of studies
have shown this herb to be effective for anovulatory cycles and inadequate
progesterone production. It can take 6 cycles or more for normal ovulation
to be established, so you may need to use it for awhile.
Dosage- Liquid extract- 1/2 teaspoon each morning
Dry herb in capsules- 500 mg each morning
Standardized extract-225 milligrams of an extract standardized for
0.5 percent agnusides
Caution: Vitex should not be used in pregnancy, so be sure to discontinue
it as soon as you suspect you are pregnant.
Other herbs- True Unicorn Root, False Unicorn Root, Dong Quai
* The information presented in this web site is intended to inform and educate.
It is not intended replace a qualified medical practitioner to diagnose or treat medical conditions.
|
|
