Wednesday, February 15, 2012

ART and Chinese Medicine

As a woman ages her hormonal makeup wavers and the axis which governs her reproductive status becomes less stable. This leads to the ovaries becoming less predictable and less responsive to FSH. Chinese Medicine recognizes this natural progression and attempts to provide more hormonal fuel for the remaining eggs and strength for this axis as aging becomes an issue.


Contrary to popular belief, follicular growth does not take thirty days. (or one menstrual cycle) From its resting state to ovulation takes up to one hundred days. (or more than three menstrual cycles) Only during the last few weeks of its cycling does a follicle become dominant and responsive to FSH. Many women over 41 or 42 will be turned away from ART because Western reproductive endocrinologists often find the ovaries in a poor state and the woman’s ovaries less responsive. In Chinese Medicine it is believed that the reason for the lower success rates of ART are because the only portion of the cycle that is manipulated is the last few weeks of a process which at a minimum is more than three months in duration.


It is paramount in Chinese Medicine to take the time to normalize and strengthen the reproductive system so that the hormonal fluctuations are reduced and the HPO axis becomes more stable. This is turn leads to a better quality egg and reproductive environment.


In addition to acupuncture, which is quite effective, Chinese Medicine places a strong emphasis on:

1. Restorative exercise

2. Deep and rejuvinating sleep

3. Avoiding processed foods, products treated with hormones

4. Including foods which are whole, cooked and high in nutrients


Chinese Herbal Medicine plays a critical role in the stabilization and harmonization of the reproductive system. It is best to see a practitioner who can evaluate you and determine if this is the correct route for you. Often times, herbal medicine is the key treatment factor in success.