CoQ10 & Fertility
Starting around age 40, it has shown to be useful to start supplementing with Co-enzyme Q10 for the purpose of fertility. CoQ10 is an antioxidant that occurs naturally in the body, which starts declining in production at age 40 usually, but can begin as early as age 20. Oxidation decreases egg quality. Combined with the decline of egg health over age 35 (and a further decline after age 40), the decrease of readily available CoQ10 can dramatically decrease the possibility of pregnancy.
Some prescriptions can lower CoQ10 as a side effect. In addition to fertility, CoQ10 supplementation is used for high blood pressure, heart failure, eye diseases, chest pain, asthma, high cholesterol, and the side effects of chemotherapy.
BPA’s effect on Fertility
The upshot is that the relationship between BPA (Bisphenol-A) and fertility is unclear, despite studies attempting to uncover a link. Mostly, this is because the variables in the studies may not correlate as well to real-life circumstance.
BPA is most commonly found in the lining of aluminum cans and other packages, and in thermal receipts. It is also found elsewhere in the environment and very difficult to avoid, but generally the amounts found in humans are not harmful according the Food & Drug Association. The route of exposure is ingestion from exposed foods and drinks, inhalation of particles that BPA has attached to, and absorption via the skin.
Treating Infertility with Acupuncture and Modern Medicine
Acupuncture continues to be increasingly popular among women undergoing fertility treatments. As more reproductive endocrinologists recommend acupuncture, it is quickly becoming an accepted supplement to modern-day assisted reproductive technology.
Experts believe acupuncture can increase blood flow to the pelvic area to help with embryo implantation, regulate the menstrual cycle, trigger ovulation, and reduce the side effects of medications associated with assisted reproductive technology. It also increases the release of endorphins, the body’s mood-enhancing hormone that reduces stress and relieves pain.
Acupuncturists also treat women with fertility problems – like a lack of ovulation – who choose not to pursue modern medical options. Western medicine believes that egg quality can only decline, however acupuncture and herbs can improve egg quality in many women.
East Meets West: Treating Infertility with Acupuncture and Modern Medicine
Postpartum Depression Online Resource and Community
Postpartum Progress is a great online resource and community for new or expecting mothers with postpartum depression. This blog was created by Katherine Stone, a mother who struggled with perinatal mental illness after the birth of her first child. This CNN story touches on her personal journey, which lead to the creation of her website that reaches out to mothers to reassure them that their experiences are not uncommon and to help them get the support they need.
Postpartum Depression: one mom’s mission becomes a movement.
Stress May Affect Fertility
Results from a recent study published in the New York Times shows that women with high levels of stress over long periods of time have more than double the risk of infertility.
Acupuncture enhances fertility by improving reproductive organ function and the production of hormones. It also activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which induces the relaxation response. It calms the sympathetic nervous system, which initiates the stress response. So receiving acupuncture on a regular basis while trying to conceive will prepare your body both physically and mentally.