If a couple has not been able to conceive within six months ...
there are still a few things to consider before seeking out a fertility doctor.
August 2004 | Health Conscious
Consider Natural Fertility Treatments
by Bonnie C. Minsky
Today, approximately ten to 15 percent of couples in the United States trying to get pregnant during childbearing years are infertile, according to fertility experts. Infertility is defined as the failure to become pregnant after one or more years of sexual activity during the time of ovulation.
Many of these couples may attempt to become pregnant through traditional medical treatments. One such treatment is in vitro fertilization, which typically involves taking eggs from ovaries that have been stimulated by hormones. The eggs are then fertilized in a petri dish and the resulting embryos are placed into the uterus.
The financial and emotional costs of such treatments can be devastating for some couples. And many may do well to consider less invasive and more natural treatments first.
There are many natural steps for promoting fertility. If a couple has not been able to conceive within six months, even after using ovulation detection kits, which can pinpoint the time of ovulation, there are still a few things to consider before seeking out a fertility doctor. Following are 10 known contributors to infertility and simple suggestions that should be considered first:
1. Low progesterone in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Blood or saliva test can accurately assess low progesterone. If low, topical progesterone creams or natural progesterone suppositories can help correct hormonal balance.
2. Excess acid. Ph paper strips (found in most drug stores) can assess if a female has too much acid, which can kill sperm.
3. Glucose (blood sugar) imbalance. An ideal fasting blood glucose (between 85-100) can be assessed through simple blood testing.
4. Overexercise. Females who exercise to excess may have trouble conceiving due to minimal body fat, a drop in production of hormones, and/or mineral losses (especially loss of magnesium). Also, early miscarriages can occur from “pounding” physical activities (i.e. jumping and running).
5. Thyroid imbalance. A blood test, screening for at least three thyroid levels (especially thyroid stimulating hormone), can rule out thyroid problems.
6. Nutritional deficiencies. Dietary protein and B-12 deficiencies (especially common in vegetarians) are known causes of infertility and miscarriage. If deficient, dietary supplements, protein powders, and eating more protein-rich foods can reverse the situation. A prenatal multivitamin and mineral formula containing at least 200 mg. of magnesium, 20 mg. of B6, 25 mg. of zinc, 35 mg. of iron, and 800 mcg. of folic acid, can provide the most important micronutrients necessary for a healthy pregnancy. In addition, vitamin C helps the integrity of sperm and prevents subtle birth defects. It should be used as a supplement by both partners. A deficiency of zinc or selenium can lead to sterility in men and infertility in women. I recommend between 100-200 mcg. of selenium and 25-30 mg. of zinc for both partners.
7. Alcohol and marijuana use. No studies can accurately predict how much alcohol can prevent conception or cause fetal impairment. Thus, the best rule-of-thumb is no alcohol consumption by the male and female while trying to conceive; and none for pregnant women. Pot smoking can reduce fertility in both men and women. Even worse, a high concentration of THC (the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana) appears to cause abnormal changes in sperm as they fuse with the woman’s egg. Marijuana and other mind-altering drugs should be avoided for fertility and pregnancy.
8. Gluten intolerance. Gluten intolerance, even if mild, is a known cause of infertility. Strict adherence to a gluten-free diet (see August 2003 Conscious Choice article entitled “Against the Grain” for details) has enabled previously sterile men to become fathers and has allowed women to conceive.
9. Mercury Toxicity. Environmental exposure to mercury, because of its adverse effect on the pituitary gland, can disrupt production of the follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) and the luteinizing hormone (LH). This leads to infertility. The July 2003 Conscious Choice article entitled “Mercury Madness” shows ways in which to avoid its toxic effects.
10. Stress. Stress can be an ovulation killer in many ways. The pressure to conceive can be the worst stress of all. How many times have you heard of someone trying to become pregnant, give up, adopt a child, and become pregnant several months later?
Ruling out the 10 problems listed above will promote a healthier pregnancy and baby. However, traditional fertility routes may be necessary if conception still has not occurred within one year.
Disclaimer: This column is for information only and no part of its contents should be construed as medical advice, diagnosis, recommendation, or endorsement by Ms. Minsky.
Bonnie Minsky is a Licensed and Certified Nutrition Specialist, Public Health Educator and Certified Menopause Educator with a private practice in Northbrook, Ill. She can be reached at nutritionalconcepts.com.
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