Healthy Weight for FERTILITY

According to recent research published in Human Reproduction, as a woman’s BMI (or body mass index) increases, her fertility decreases. The study found that for every BMI unit over 29 kg/m2, the probability of pregnancy was reduced by 4 percent. Very obese women with a BMI between 35 and 40 had a pregnancy probability that was 26-43% lower than those with a BMI below 29.

The researchers postulate that being obese disrupts the endocrine system. One hormone which is produced by fat cells called leptin may be the culprit, as evidence shows that leptin may influence sex hormone production directly from the ovaries.

A healthy weight is essential for having an easy pregnancy and birthing experience, and weight loss is a key component of naturopathic fertility treatment in women with elevated BMI levels. Regular moderate exercise, diet modification and customized supplementation is still the healthiest way to lose weight for long term results.

Want to know your BMI? Use this handy tool from the Department of Health and Human Services. BMI CALCULATOR

ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine is a Scottsdale, AZ wellness center serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Glendale, Arrowhead, Peoria, Sun City, Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Mesa, AZ with specialties in naturopathic medicine, natural hormone therapy, women's health, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, natural skincare and sugar hair removal.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Acupuncture for FERTILITY

A recent study out of the University of Maryland investigated the effects of combining acupuncture with in vitro fertilization (IVF) in the treatment of infertility. Researchers found that women who received traditional acupuncture before and/or after IVF were 65% more likely to become pregnant than those who received random needling, or sham acupuncture. Additionally, the rate of live births was twice as high among women treated with traditional acupuncture than those who were treated with sham acupuncture.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treats infertility by restoring balance, whether the underlying cause is due to organ deficiency, stagnant energy, or inadequate blood and qi. Acupuncturists place needles along specific meridians in order to promote the smooth flow of energy and treat imbalances within these meridians and organs. Treatment plans are individualized according to patient symptoms and pulse and tongue observation.

If you would like to schedule an acupuncture treatment or complimentary 15-minute consultation with our naturopathic acupuncturist, please call ALETRIS at 480-443-7168 or email info@aletriscenter.com.

ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine is a Scottsdale, AZ wellness center serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Glendale, Arrowhead, Peoria, Sun City, Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Mesa, AZ with specialties in naturopathic medicine, natural hormone therapy, women's health, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, natural skincare and sugar hair removal.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.