For those trying to conceive, whether naturally or with IUI or IVF, optimizing reproductive health is essential. In Chinese herbal medicine and fertility acupuncture, we often recommend castor oil packs as a simple, natural therapy to support pregnancy preparation, hormone balance, menstrual regulation, and uterine health. Castor oil has been used for centuries in holistic medicine to promote circulation, detoxification, and inflammation reduction, making it a valuable tool for those navigating fertility challenges.

How Castor Oil Packs Support Fertility
Castor oil packs are applied externally to the lower abdomen to support reproductive health and detoxification. The active component, ricinoleic acid, helps reduce inflammation and increase blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, supporting overall pelvic health.

Key Benefits of Castor Oil Packs for Fertility:
1. Improves Circulation to the Uterus and Ovaries
Blood flow is essential for healthy egg quality, a receptive uterine lining, and balanced hormones. In fertility acupuncture, we focus on improving circulation to the reproductive organs, and castor oil packs naturally complement this by:

• Enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to the uterus and ovaries
• Supporting endometrial lining health for implantation
• Aiding in the healing of uterine adhesions or scar tissue

This can be especially beneficial for those undergoing IUI or IVF, as a well-nourished uterus is more receptive to embryo implantation. Consistent weekly acupuncture treatments for 3 to 6 months before an IUI or IVF cycle, combined with a dedicated castor oil pack regimen, can significantly improve reproductive outcomes. The synergy of acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and castor oil therapy enhances circulation, regulates hormones, and optimizes uterine health, helping many individuals conceive naturally and avoid the need for IUI or IVF altogether.

2. Supports Detoxification and Liver Function
In Chinese herbal medicine, the liver plays a key role in hormonal balance, detoxification, and menstrual health. Poor liver function can lead to hormonal imbalances that affect ovulation and cycle regularity. Castor oil packs help:

• Stimulate the lymphatic system to flush toxins and excess hormones
• Reduce estrogen dominance, which is linked to PCOS, fibroids, and irregular cycles
• Enhance liver function for better hormone metabolism

Many women preparing for pregnancy or IVF find that supporting liver health helps with overall hormone balance and cycle regulation.

3. Reduces Pelvic Inflammation and Pain
Chronic inflammation can be a barrier to conception and a healthy pregnancy. Castor oil packs have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with:

• Endometriosis and painful periods
• Ovarian cysts and fibroids
• Digestive issues like bloating and IBS, which often accompany reproductive imbalances

In fertility acupuncture, we work to reduce inflammation and improve circulation in the reproductive system. Combining acupuncture with castor oil therapy can enhance these effects and create an optimal environment for conception.

4. Supports Postpartum Recovery
The benefits of castor oil packs extend beyond conception. Many women find them helpful during the postpartum period to:

• Support uterine healing and recovery after birth
• Reduce postpartum bloating and digestive issues
• Assist with hormonal balance and menstrual cycle regulation postpartum

This makes them an excellent tool for long-term reproductive health, beyond just trying to conceive.

How to Use Castor Oil Packs for Fertility
To incorporate castor oil packs into your fertility routine, follow these simple steps:

What You’ll Need:

• Organic, cold-pressed castor oil
• A cotton or wool flannel (to absorb the oil)
• A natural heat source (flaxseed heating pad)- avoid plug-in heating pads because of the  exposure to toxic chemicals when heating plastic
• A towel to protect bedding
• Old t-shirt and underwear (castor oil stains clothing)

Instructions:

1. Apply a generous amount of castor oil to the flannel.
2. Place the flannel on your lower abdomen, over your uterus and ovaries.
3. Cover with a towel and apply gentle heat.
4. Relax for 30-45 minutes, allowing the oil to absorb.
5. Repeat 3-4 times per week, preferably in the evening

IMPORTANT! When to Avoid Castor Oil Packs:

• During menstruation
• After ovulation if you are actively trying to conceive
• After embryo transfer during IVF
• During pregnancy

Combining Castor Oil Packs with Fertility Acupuncture in Minneapolis
Mother Moon Acupuncture is located in Minneapolis, MN.  We specialize in fertility acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine to help individuals optimize their reproductive health. While acupuncture helps regulate cycles, improve egg quality, and support implantation, castor oil packs serve as a complementary home therapy to improve circulation, detoxification, and inflammation reduction.

If you are preparing for natural conception, IUI or IVF incorporating castor oil packs alongside fertility acupuncture can help optimize your body’s ability to conceive.

To learn more about how acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can support your fertility journey, schedule a consultation today.

At Mother Moon Acupuncture in Minneapolis, we are always looking for ways to support your health through Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture, and Chinese herbs. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to nourish your body is through herbal teas that support fertility, digestion, immunity, and emotional well-being.

One of my favorite recommendations for patients—especially those working on fertility, hormonal balance, or stress management—is Jujube and Goji Berry Tea. This ancient Chinese herbal remedy is deeply nourishing and has been used for centuries to support reproductive health, boost circulation, and calm the nervous system.

The Benefits of Jujube and Goji Berries in Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, food and herbs are powerful tools to restore balance and enhance overall well-being. Jujube dates and goji berries are two widely used Chinese herbs that can help with fertility, digestion, and stress relief.

Jujube Dates (Da Zao) for Qi and Blood Nourishment
Jujube dates are sweet, nutrient-dense fruits that have long been used in Chinese herbal medicine to:

• Nourish blood and Qi, which is essential for hormonal balance, fertility, and a healthy uterine lining
• Strengthen digestion, making them beneficial for those with IBS or bloating
• Calm the nervous system, reducing stress, anxiety, irritability, and insomnia

In acupuncture and Chinese medicine, we often recommend jujube dates to individuals experiencing fatigue, irregular menstrual cycles, or emotional imbalances that may be interfering with their reproductive health.

Goji Berries (Gou Qi Zi) for Fertility and Longevity
Goji berries are an essential Chinese herb for fertility, immunity, and longevity. They are commonly used to:

• Strengthen liver and kidney function, which are vital for hormonal balance and reproductive health
• Improve circulation and brighten the eyes, helping reduce fatigue, vision  and support overall well-being
• Boost immune function and vitality, making them beneficial for those recovering from illness or stress

Goji berries are frequently incorporated into fertility-supporting herbal formulas in Chinese medicine because of their ability to nourish the Kidney Yin (reproductive energy).

How to Prepare Jujube and Goji Berry Tea
This tea is an excellent way to incorporate Chinese herbal medicine into your daily routine. It’s warming, nourishing, and can be enjoyed throughout the year, especially during the colder Minnesota months when the body needs extra support.

Ingredients:

• 5 to 6 dried jujube dates, sliced
• 1 tablespoon goji berries
• 2 to 3 slices of fresh ginger 
• 3 cups of water

Instructions:

1. Add the jujube dates, goji berries, and ginger to a pot with 3 cups of water.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer and allow the tea to steep for 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Strain and serve warm.

For a naturally sweet flavor, you can add raw honey. This tea can be consumed daily as a gentle tonic for fertility, digestion, and overall wellness.

Who Can Benefit from This Tea?
Jujube and goji berry tea is particularly beneficial for individuals who:

• Are looking for natural ways to enhance fertility
• Experience stress, anxiety, or difficulty sleeping
• Want to support hormonal balance and menstrual health
• Struggle with digestive issues like IBS or bloating
• Are transitioning between seasons and want to keep their immune system strong

Pairing Herbal Medicine with Acupuncture for Fertility and Wellness
While Chinese herbs like jujube dates and goji berries can be incredibly beneficial, they work even better when paired with acupuncture treatments tailored to your specific needs. At Mother Moon Acupuncture in Minneapolis, we work with individuals to create personalized fertility and wellness plans that integrate acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle recommendations.

If you are trying to conceive, struggling with hormonal imbalances, or simply looking for more natural ways to support your health, acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help.
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To learn more about how Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture can support your fertility and overall wellness, book an appointment today.

When we think about fertility, our minds often focus on hormones, egg quality, sperm health, and reproductive organs. But did you know that your digestive system also plays a critical role in supporting fertility? At Mother Moon Acupuncture, we approach infertility with a holistic lens, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) teaches us that gut health is closely linked to reproductive health. Nurturing your digestive system can be a key part of your fertility journey.

One of the things I love most about practicing Chinese Medicine is the holistic approach to healing. It’s not just one thing that makes us feel better, it's the combination of small lifestyle changes that create a foundation for genuine health and healing.

We have more control over our hormones and fertility than we often realize. Your daily diet is something you can control, and by focusing on gut-healthy foods and eliminating inflammatory foods, you can significantly improve your fertility and overall well-being.

The Gut-Fertility Connection in TCM

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the digestive system, governed by the Spleen and Stomach, is viewed as the foundation of health. It is responsible for transforming the food we eat into vital energy (Qi) and nutrients that our bodies need to function optimally. This energy is essential for nourishing egg and sperm quality, balancing hormones, and preparing the body for conception.

When your digestive system is compromised, whether from poor diet, stress, or inflammation, it can affect the quality of nutrients available to your reproductive organs. This may lead to issues like hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, poor sperm health, and even infertility.

How Fertility Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Can Help

By focusing on gut health, we can enhance fertility. Fertility acupuncture treatment at Mother Moon targets both the digestive and reproductive systems to ensure proper nutrient absorption, reduce inflammation, lower stress, and promote a smooth flow of Qi throughout the body. This holistic approach improves fertility by addressing underlying imbalances.

Remember: Healthy sperm and healthy eggs are essential for creating a healthy baby! If you’re trying to conceive, it’s important to have open, honest conversations about the diet and lifestyle changes you’re implementing. Both partners should be equally committed to these changes, conception is a team effort, not a one-sided responsibility.

Practical Tips for Supporting Gut Health and Fertility

Here are a few ways you can start nurturing your gut and reproductive health:

• Incorporate whole foods: Focus on nutrient-dense options like salmon, eggs, grass-fed organic meats, dark leafy greens (spinach, kale, arugula, mustard greens), asparagus, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil, and berries. These foods support digestion, balance hormones, and provide essential nutrients for fertility.
• Eat warm, nourishing foods: In TCM, cold and raw foods can weaken digestion and contribute to menstrual pain and irregular cycles. Incorporate warm, cooked meals such as soups and stews to support digestive energy.
• Significantly reduce processed foods: Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and additives that can disrupt hormone balance and increase inflammation. By reducing processed foods and focusing on whole, nutrient-dense options, you can lower inflammation, improve digestion, and create a healthier environment for conception.
• Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can impair digestion and disrupt the balance of Qi, affecting fertility. Reducing or eliminating alcohol supports hormone balance, digestion, and overall reproductive health.
• Prioritize high-quality supplements: Supplements can fill nutritional gaps, support hormone balance, and enhance reproductive health. Mother Moon Acupuncture patients can set up a Fullscript account to order trusted, high-quality supplements for fertility and digestive health, with the convenience of home delivery.
• Reduce stress: Chronic stress affects both digestion and hormone balance. Incorporating relaxation techniques like meditation, gentle exercise, reading, time in nature, or acupuncture can help manage stress and improve fertility.

How Acupuncture Repairs the Digestive System and Optimizes Fertility

At Mother Moon Acupuncture, we believe that fertility is a reflection of your overall health. Supporting your digestive system is a crucial step in optimizing fertility. Regular acupuncture treatments work to repair and strengthen digestion by improving nutrient absorption, reducing inflammation, and promoting balanced energy (Qi) flow. This not only enhances gut health but also creates a more supportive environment for conception.

By addressing digestive imbalances, acupuncture can help regulate hormones, improve menstrual cycles, enhance sperm quality, and boost reproductive function. This makes acupuncture a valuable part of any fertility support plan, whether you’re trying to conceive naturally or preparing for assisted reproductive techniques like IVF or IUI.

Ready to Explore Fertility Acupuncture?

If you’re ready to explore how regular fertility acupuncture can support your digestion and optimize your fertility, Mother Moon Acupuncture is here to guide you every step of the way. You can book your appointment now with the link at the top of the page. 

This recipe uses warm ingredients to balance and nourish your Qi, while the apples and pumpkin seeds provide skin-boosting vitamins and antioxidants.
Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup water or almond milk
• 1 small apple (chopped, peeled if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds (raw or lightly toasted)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (warming and supports digestion)
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
• A pinch of sea salt
• A dash of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Oats: In a small saucepan, combine rolled oats and water (or almond milk). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the Apples: Stir in the chopped apples and cook with the oats for about 5-7 minutes until the apples soften and the oatmeal thickens.
3. Flavor the Oatmeal: Add the cinnamon, a pinch of sea salt, and nutmeg if using. Stir well to combine.
4. Top and Serve: Pour the oatmeal into a bowl and top with pumpkin seeds. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup, if desired.

Benefits:

• Apples hydrate and nourish the skin while promoting digestion, which in TCM is crucial for clear, glowing skin.
• Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc and vitamin E, supporting skin repair and maintaining its moisture barrier.
• Cinnamon and nutmeg add warming energy to support your digestion and balance your internal system.

This oatmeal is a simple, nourishing way to incorporate TCM principles into your morning routine while supporting healthy skin from the inside out.

As the colder months settle in, it’s the perfect time to embrace nourishing, warming foods that not only comfort but also deeply support our health. One of the most beneficial remedies I love is homemade bone broth. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), bone broth is recognized for its ability to promote wellness in several key areas, including fertility, digestive health, immune support, and skin health.

Why Bone Broth is Essential for Fertility and Overall HealthBone broth is a powerful ally when it comes to supporting fertility. Rich in collagen and amino acids, it helps nourish and build the blood, which is essential for menstrual health and improving fertility outcomes. Whether you're actively trying to conceive or supporting reproductive health, incorporating bone broth into your routine can offer gentle yet effective support.

It’s also fantastic for boosting the immune system, packed with minerals and nutrients that help strengthen the body’s natural defenses during cold and flu season. Whether you're preventing illness or speeding up recovery, bone broth provides essential immune support that can keep you feeling strong and resilient.

Additionally, bone broth works wonders for digestive health, soothing the gut and promoting healing. This is especially helpful for those dealing with digestive imbalances, as a healthy gut is key to overall wellness, including balanced hormones and optimal reproductive health.
Finally, let’s not forget skin health—thanks to its high collagen content, bone broth can improve skin elasticity, promote hydration, and support your body’s ability to maintain a glowing complexion.

Ingredients You’ll Need: 
*Choose organic whenever possible. 

• Whole chicken 
• Large onion
• Whole garlic head
• Large carrot
• Fresh ginger root
• Fresh turmeric root
• 1 bunch flat-leaf parsley
• 1 package fresh poultry herbs (rosemary, sage, thyme)

Method:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken in cold water and place it in a large stock pot. Cover with water and bring it to just below a boil. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for one hour, skimming off any foam for a clean, nourishing broth.
2. Add the Vegetables and Herbs: While the chicken simmers, chop the vegetables in half (no need to peel!) and add them to the pot along with the herbs. Let everything cook together for another hour, for a total of 2 hours.
3. Strain the Broth: Once the broth has finished cooking, strain it into a large bowl. You’ll now have a rich, nutrient-dense broth that can be used as the base for soups or sipped on its own for a warm, soothing drink. For added flavor, try adding a fresh squeeze of lemon and salt to taste.

A Nourishing Tool for the Fall and BeyondBone broth is a simple yet powerful addition to your diet that offers benefits across multiple areas of health, from fertility and immune support to digestive health and glowing skin. Whether you enjoy it as a warm drink throughout the day or as the base for healthy meals, this broth is a versatile, nourishing remedy that your body will thank you for.

As we move through the seasonal transition, take time to nurture your body with foods that support your overall well-being. If you're looking for more personalized guidance on how to support your fertility, immunity, or digestive health through diet and acupuncture, we’re here to help at Mother Moon Acupuncture.

Happy cooking, and may this bone broth recipe bring warmth and wellness to your season!

 
Outside the clinic, I’m Momma to four amazing children. I know firsthand the ups and downs of trying to conceive, experiencing multiple miscarriages, and what it’s like to navigate the unpredictable path of pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.
 
My path toward becoming an acupuncturist was long and winding, but my first pregnancy played a huge role in helping me find my purpose and passion. In 2006, when I was pregnant with my first child, I experienced preterm labor at 26 weeks, which resulted in three months of strict bed rest and a very difficult postpartum period. I struggled with severe postpartum anxiety, brain fog, and chronic fatigue for more than a year. I knew that becoming a new mom had its challenges, but this seemed like more than that. I just felt off.
 
I went to the doctor multiple times during that first year of motherhood, desperate for some help. All of my labs and tests came back within the normal range, and I was told that nothing was wrong with me. But I knew something wasn't right.
 
Eventually, I went to see an acupuncturist. I started getting regular acupuncture treatments and taking herbal medicine. My acupuncturist listened to my complaints and validated what I was feeling. She explained my diagnosis to me and advised me to make some diet and lifestyle changes. After about a month of following her advice, I could feel my brain fog lift, my anxiety ease, and my energy return. I finally started to feel like myself again. I was so relieved that it literally brought me to tears!
 
Years later, when I was trying for my fourth child, I experienced back-to-back miscarriages. Although I knew pregnancy loss was common and happened to many women, nothing could have prepared me for the depth of grief, fear, and anxiety I felt during that time. It was truly one of the most difficult things I have ever gone through in my life.
 
As challenging as those times were, I am, in some ways, very grateful for these experiences. They helped me turn my personal pain into a clear vision for helping others. It gave me firsthand experience in understanding how much people need and deserve compassionate care during these times. And it led me to the most fulfilling and heartwarming career I could have ever dreamed of.
 
I founded Mother Moon in 2013 because I believe in nurturing the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. At Mother Moon, we understand the challenges of trying to conceive, and we are here to support you every step of the way. No two stories are the same, that's why our acupuncture treatments are designed to provide you with individualized care to support you  on your journey to parenthood and through every stage of your reproductive life.

​Navigating fertility challenges is hard. We are here to help make your journey quicker and easier. 
 
Mother Moon Offers the Following Specialized Care

• Menstrual Health (Menarche through Menopause)
• Fertility Support for Women & Men
• Pregnancy & Postpartum Care
• Miscarriage & Loss Support
• Natural Skin Health

The Impact of Male Factor Infertility
Although it's not often talked about openly, male factor fertility is more common than you may realize. One in six couples struggle with fertility issues, 40-50% of those cases are due to male factor infertility. 

The fear of learning that sperm counts or quality may be low prevents many men from getting their sperm tested in the first place. Receiving news that your count is low can be devastating, especially because Western medicine has little to offer in the treatment of poor sperm quality other than using IVF. After struggling for some time, many couples opt to try medicated IUI cycles, while this treatment helps egg development, ovulation and zeros in on timing, it does nothing to improve the health of the sperm. When trying to conceive it is imperative to optimize sperm health. Going forward with IUI when sperm health is poor is often just a waste of your precious time, energy and emotions. 

The good news is that Chinese Medicine has been successfully treating male infertility for thousands of years. Acupuncture and herbal medicine helps to improve sperm count, motility, morphology and viscosity by increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs, reducing stress, and encouraging a healthy diet and lifestyle to support overall health and fertility. Acupuncture and herbal treatments combined with diet and lifestyle changes have helped many couples conceive naturally and avoid western treatments altogether. For more difficult cases the use of acupuncture and herbal medicine significantly improves the rate of positive outcomes of IUI and IVF. 

Understanding Male Infertility
Male infertility can result from various factors, including:

• Low Sperm Count: Defined as having fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen, low sperm count is a primary cause of male infertility.
• Poor Sperm Morphology: This refers to the size and shape of sperm. Abnormal morphology can hinder the sperm's ability to penetrate and fertilize an egg.
• Low Sperm Motility: Sperm motility is the ability of sperm to move efficiently. Reduced motility can impede the sperm's journey through the female reproductive tract to reach and fertilize the egg.

Several factors can contribute to these conditions, including stress, poor diet, substance use, exposure to environmental toxins, and lifestyle choices.

The Role of Sperm Health in Miscarriage
Emerging research suggests that poor sperm quality may contribute to higher miscarriage rates. DNA fragmentation in sperm has been linked to early pregnancy loss, emphasizing the importance of male preconception health.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Male Infertility
Traditional Chinese Medicine, encompassing acupuncture and herbal remedies, has been utilized for centuries to address male infertility.

• Acupuncture: Studies indicate that acupuncture can improve sperm parameters, including concentration and motility.
  pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  
  
• Herbal Medicine: Specific herbal formulations have been shown to enhance sperm vitality and motility.
  pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  
  

By promoting blood circulation, regulating hormones, and reducing inflammation, TCM offers a holistic approach to improving male fertility.

Integrating TCM Before Assisted Reproductive Technologies
For couples considering assisted reproductive technologies like Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), integrating TCM treatments 3-6 months prior can be beneficial. While IUI and IVF assist in fertilization, they do not address underlying sperm quality issues. Enhancing sperm health beforehand can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of miscarriage.

Optimizing Reproductive Health
Improving both sperm and egg quality before conception is crucial for passing on optimal genetics to offspring. A proactive approach to reproductive health can lead to healthier pregnancies and children.

Consider Specialized Fertility Acupuncture
Before consulting local Minneapolis IVF clinics such as the Center for Reproductive Medicine (CRM), Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine (CCRM), Reproductive Medicine & Infertility Associates (RMIA), or KindBody, consider 3-6 months of specialized fertility acupuncture at Mother Moon. Our tailored treatments aim to enhance both sperm and egg health, providing a solid foundation for your fertility journey.

By addressing male fertility proactively and integrating holistic treatments, couples can improve their chances of conception and a healthy pregnancy. If you or your partner are struggling with poor sperm health don't despair, Chinese medicine is well suited to make significant changes is sperm health. Ready to make some positive changes? Book your appointment here. 
​

I had been working with this lovely patient for about 5 months before she conceived. She originally came to me after experiencing a miscarriage from which she had conceived naturally. After the miscarriage, her usually regular periods became long and irregular. She and her husband had been trying to get pregnant again for months without success. She visited her gynecologist and was told her AMH level was very low at 0.1, at this point she reached out to me to seek Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine and also made an appointment to see a Reproductive Endocrinologist to consider IVF.

At her initial appointment we discussed her medical & menstrual history and took a close look at her lifestyle & diet. We examined what factors may be contributing to her fertility issues and identified some significant stressors in her life. She had a very busy work schedule and as a result she had developed unhealthy and irregular eating habits like skipping meals and frequently eating quick unintentional meals. This lead to an overall lack of nutrition and big drops and spikes in her blood sugar, which contributed to her hormonal imbalance and negatively effected her fertility. We discussed the importance of eating regular meals and I gave her specific diet and lifestyle suggestions to optimize her fertility.

Over the next 3-4 months she took her diet and lifestyle changes to heart and put them into action. She was intentional about reducing her stress and making more time for rest. She changed her diet to include regular meals focusing on high quality proteins and lots of vegetables, and reduced her consumption of quick processed foods. She also started walking regularly. She got regular acupuncture treatments and consistently took the herbal medicine formula I had prescribed for her.

Just a of couple weeks before she was scheduled to start IVF, this beautiful momma conceived naturally!!!

The take away lesson we can learn from this case is that lab tests and measurements are merely a snapshot in time. High stress, poor diet and lifestyle will effect your fertility negatively and we can often see a poor lifestyle reflected in fertility blood work. Doctors often tell patients that there is nothing they can do to change these numbers and that their only option is synthetic hormones and harsh medications leaving the patient feeling disempowered and sometimes helpless. This is not the right message to pass on. 

One of the things I love the most about being an Acupuncturist is that I get to spend so much time with my patients. I do so much more than "stick needles in people." I take a significant amount of time getting to know my patients with a two hour initial visit. Based on the information I gather from the first visit I make my diagnosis, pick my herbal formula(s), and write up a report that explains the patient's diagnosis to them in detail so that they understand how I am seeing their pattern and what they can do to bring that picture into more balance. I outline a treatment plan and give diet and lifestyle suggestions to improve overall health and optimize fertility. This approach puts the power directly in the patient's hands and gives them the tools to manage a healthy lifestyle for years to come.

Trust in your body's ability to heal. Diet and lifestyle have a major impact on your overall health and when adjusted appropriately the body can often heal itself. Proper diet and lifestyle lays the foundation for your health. You may still need some help to conceive but never think that those healthy changes you are making are not helping even if you don't see immediate results. When we add acupuncture and herbs to a healthy diet and lifestyle your treatments are more effective and last longer because they have than healthy foundation to hang on to. Your body loves being loved.
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In conclusion, I want to say that there are many factors that can lead to fertility struggles and not everyone is able to conceive naturally, even when they are leading a very healthy lifestyle. I work with both women, men and couples who are trying to conceive whether naturally or in combination with IUI or IVF and I always say, "There is no wrong way to get pregnant, there is no wrong way to get the baby out, and there is no wrong way to feed your baby."

​Each journey is unique and that is OKAY. The important thing is to learn to stay connected to your body's innate wisdom, your body's ability to heal, and the profound impact you can have on your own wellbeing when you have the right tools and are intentional about caring for yourself. 

Sending you love & strength,
Meghan