Laughter for Fertility

We all know it is true what they say about laughter being good for the soul. Well, now it seems to be a good medicine, especially for those struggling with fertility.

Humorist Demetri Martin

It may sound like of those 'easier said than done' statements, when you are faced with month after month of heartbreaking disappointment, but bringing a bit of humour into your day to day could make all the difference.

A recent study by Dr Shevach Friedler looked at the stress levels in women undergoing IVF shows a 16% increase in success rates for women who had laughter therapy after an embryo transfer compared to those who  had a 'comedy free' recovery.

This percentage increased to close on 50% once factors such as age, reason for IVF treatment and number of embryos transferred were taken into account.  A good reason as any to take the day off after an embryo transfer and enjoy your favourite comedy, or relax by reading a light hearted, uplifting book.

LOL Cats

Other studies looking at the stress and anxiety levels of those struggling with fertility show that   elevated levels of the stress hormones cortisol, adrenlin, alpha-amalayse and prolactin are likely to play a major role in unexplained infertility. While it can seem flippant to put the cause of infertility down to stress, these hormones effect the female reproductive system at every stage of the cycle.
For example, higher levels of cortisol can disrupt the LH surge inhibiting ovarian function, resulting in untimely release of the egg and a poorly developed corpus luteum. It can also reduce the secretion of oestrogen, limiting cervical mucus production and the development of the endometrial lining.

Poor corpus luteum development can result in lower progesterone levels and consequently luteal phase defects. This interferes with implantation and has been shown to negatively affect immune tolerance in the early stage of pregnancy, an important process responsible for preventing the mothers immune system from rejecting the implanted embryo.
In a different study of American women who had not menstruated for six months or more, for no known reason, were all found to have high levels of urine cortisol levels. Interestingly most of the women reported not to rate themselves as being under stress but researchers noted 'these women have unrealistically high expectations of themselves and and others. They think they can get more done in a day than what is normally possible and their sense of worth depends on  achievement'. After therapy focusing on creating perspective, stress management and self worth 80% of women started menstruating within 5 months compared to  25% of women who did not receive therapy.

These finding go to show that by being kind to yourself and looking at ways of reducing possible stressful situations in your daily life will help improve your natural fertility.

While every day doesn't need to be a super happy, enthusiastic day your stress levels will benefit by giving yourself the time and space to do things that make you happy. Sign up for that class you've been wanting to do, get outside for some exercise, read a good book or watch a comedy. Get offline and meet up with supportive friends for a cup of peppermint, rose or camomile tea. And don't forget your regular acupuncture or massage sessions, they will immediately clear those stress hormones and help brighten your mood.

Change of Season

Spring  -  Time for Renewal 

Photo by Bron Hradsky, Creswick VIC

According to the philosophy of Chinese medicine we are all part of the makeup of the natural universe, intricately connected to the flux of the season. Whilst winter was a time to conserve energy and rest, spring is a time of sudden growth and regeneration.

Spring corresponds to the Wood element, which in turn is related to the Liver and Gallbladder energies. It is the changeover point from Yin in to Yang. The beginning of a new cycle of life. One day the trees are bare, the next they are fluorescent with new growth.

We naturally start to put our winter dreams into action, drawing from the season's invigorating energy helps us to find the inspiration we need to achieve our goals. Exercise is easier and pregnancy rates seem to soar  - at our clinic anyway!

Spring is a windy season in anyone's book, in Chinese Medicine the spring winds can stir up old ailments and injuries, carry pathogens and disrupt our bodies exterior defenses. It directly impacts the Liver energy and can disrupt its function of instigating movement and regulating body functions. 

If the Liver energy becomes stagnated stress, anger and depression will rise. If the Liver energy is healthy and flowing smoothly these emotions are calm and the spring winds are cleansing and uplifting, however if the Liver is constrained Spring can bring much suffering.

Keeping with the belief that by harmonizing oneself with the seasons we stay healthier through the prevention of disease there are many things we can do to help our bodies ride through this tumultuous time.  

Eat lots of leafy greens! Eating young plants - fresh greens and  sprouts can assist the Liver's function of regulating Qi flow. Think bitter foods for natural detoxification including romaine lettuce, asparagus, amaranth, rye, quinoa,  kale, parsley, and collard greens. Try these lovely salads: 

Mung Bean Noodle Salad 

Kale Spinach Detox Salad

We all know fluids are an important part of the elimination and cleansing process. Drinking small amounts water regularly, will help us keep well hydrated. Starting the day with a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water will stimulate your liver and  bile production helping flush out toxins.  This is especially good practice for those who can not stomach, or don't have time for breakfast first thing in the morning.

Be active Now is the time to exercise outdoors, the fresh air helps invigorate Liver Qi flow. In the warmer weather take the opportunity to walk when possible, meet up with friends outside, or  sign up to a couch-to-5k challenge (it's great for us non-runners!) Whatever form of exercise you choose relax and enjoy the expansive energy of Spring.