Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome 

 

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal problem that happens during the reproductive years. If you have PCOS, you may not have periods very often or your cycle is rarely a monthly cycle. Or you may have periods that last many days (1).

PCOS is classed as a hormonal and metabolic health imbalance affecting approximately 1 in 10 women. The male hormones androgens are higher in women with PCOS, as well as problems with insulin. Insulin is a peptide hormone secreted by cells of the pancreas to help maintain normal blood glucose levels, regulating carbohydrate, lipid and protein metabolism and promoting cell division and growth through its mitogenic effects (2). When insulin becomes resistant, that’s when disharmony with weight and hormonal changes can occur in women, thus having an impact on their reproduction. 

What are the symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian syndrome?

 

  • Irregular or no periods
  • Excessive hair growth on the face or body
  • Hair loss
  • Skin conditions such as acne or excessive skin tags 
  • Difficulty falling pregnant due to irregular ovulation 
  • Difficulty losing weight and/or weight around the waist 
  • Mood changes and/or specifically anxiety or depression 

Possible causes for Polycystic Ovarian syndrome

 

Genetics may play a role in PCOS, with up to a third of women  having a female relative with PCOS or similar without being diagnosed. However lifestyle, diet and environmental factors show to be contributing factors also. 

It is important to note that females can experience irregular periods without any of the other above symptoms. This is classed as polcystic ovaries (PCO); when you have multiple “cysts” on the ovaries. They aren’t actually cysts, they’re eggs that haven’t developed properly. It might occur after hormonal conceptive use in the reproductive years that confuse the body, and/or lifestyle or environmental factors. Insulin and weight are usually not of concern with PCO. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA), describes the interaction between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands. The hypothalamus and pituitary gland are located just above the brainstem, while the adrenal glands are found on top of the kidneys (3). The HPA can receive the wrong signals resulting in eggs that haven’t developed properly (cysts), thus causing lack of ovulation and periods (4). Distinguishing between PCOS and PCO is important. 

What can help Polycystic Ovarian syndrome?

 

PCOS treatment is mainly focussed on symptom management by reducing additional metabolic risk factors like heart disease and diabetes. Other ways can include: 

  • Regular exercise – managing potential weight gain and maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system
  • Dietary changes – as PCOS has a somewhat inflammatory component, reducing inflammation via appropriate foods (a Mediterranean diet). Moderating carbohydrate intake in a similar way to balancing diabetes (insulin imbalances). Minimising exposure to foods that contain hormones that have been purposefully added to increase production – animal products usually.
  • Acupuncture – can help with pain associated with PCOS and help regulate the nervous system which in turn has an impact on hormones 
  • Managing stress – stress impacts any health condition. Learning to manage life’s stressors is vital for general health and well being. Low stress also equals low cortisol release (the stress hormone). High cortisol leads to weight gain thus impacting the metabolic pathways exasperating PCOS
  • Reducing exposure to hormone disrupting chemicals – did you know that IVF clinics do not allow perfumes/deodorants into their clinics as research has found that they can disrupt the endocrine system. In the armpit for example, products get directly absorbed into the lymphatic system. Going as natural as possible with skin care, body products and cleaning products will surely benefit 

 

What does research say about Chinese medicine and Acupuncture for PCOS?

 

A study done in 2018 on the prevalence of diabetes mellitus, obesity, lipid metabolism disorders, and major depression was recorded as common symptoms for PCOS enrolled patients. Multiple common Chinese herbal formulas were included in the study based on the patients symptoms such as period pain, abdominal pain, constipation and uterine contractions. 

The present findings revealed that patients with PCOS had a relatively high tendency to consult TCM practitioners (89.22%) due to Western medicine not having a treatment protocol directly. Among these prescription chinese herbal medicines (CHM) trialled showed hepatoprotective effects, as well as beneficial effects in treatment of hyperglycemia, insulin intolerance, dyslipidemia, and anovulation. These findings indicate that Chinese herbal medicine might serve as a potentially effective therapeutic option for PCOS (5).

Another study showed that following transfer of fresh or frozen-thawed embryos available from the same stimulated IVF cycle, 47 patients got clinical pregnant and 43 of them achieved live birth with the use of CHM. Among which, 32 patients achieved term delivery in the CHM group. In the non-CHM group, 27 patients got clinical pregnant and 22 of them achieved live birth, among which, 14 patients achieved term delivery (6). 

The NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in PCOS undertaken at the Sydney Western University, has already completed a systematic review, and a qualitative study on acupuncture for weight loss in PCOS, with feasibility testing now in sight for a clinical trial. The clinical trial will explore the role of traditional acupuncture as an adjunct to lifestyle interventions for weight loss in PCOS. “Weight loss improves many of the features of PCOS and can reduce the burden of chronic disease from diabetes and heart disease.” (7). 

 

 

This is an image of Polycystic Ovarian SyndromeTanya Keam is an integrative Chinese medicine Doctor and registered Acupuncturist in Nambour in the beautiful Sunshine Coast hinterland in Queensland, Australia. If you’re experiencing the above symptoms or interested in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture treatment specifically for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or Polycystic ovaries, please reach out to see if Acupuncture, herbal medicine and lifestyle guidance might support your gynaecological health. 

You can see Tanya’s training here, call us here, or book online here. 

 

 

 

References:

  1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439
  2. Wilcox. G. 2005. Insulin and Insulin resistance. National Library of medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1204764/
  3. Chrousos GP. Stress and disorders of the stress system. Nat Rev Endocrinol. 2009 Jul;5(7):374-81. doi: 10.1038/nrendo.2009.106. Epub 2009 Jun 2. PMID: 19488073.  https://neuroscientificallychallenged.com/posts/what-is-the-hpa-axis
  4. Chrousos GP. Stress and disorders of the stress system. Nat Rev Endocrinol. 2009 Jul;5(7):374-81. doi: 10.1038/nrendo.2009.106. Epub 2009 Jun 2. PMID: 19488073. https://neuroscientificallychallenged.com/posts/what-is-the-hpa-axis
  5.  Liao, Wan-ting, Chiang. Jen-huai, Li Chia-lung, Lee Ling-Tsung, Su Cheng-chiung, Yen Hung-rong. 2018 J Clin Med. 2018 Jul; 7(7): 179. Journal of Clinical Medicine. Investigation on the Use of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in a Nationwide Prescription Database in Taiwan. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6069244/
  6. 6. P, Xiaoming. Gu, Yinger. Z Xian. W, Fangfang. S, Biwei. C, Long. W, fangfang. Q, fan. Integrative Medicine research Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2022, 1007752022. Chinese herbal medicine (Bu-Shen-Tian-Jing Formula) for outcomes of IVF in Chinese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: A retrospective cohort study. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213422021000627
  7. NICM Health Research Institute: https://westernsydney.edu.au/nicmhri/news/trial_to_explore_acupuncture_for_weight_loss_in_pcos
Chinese Medicine for Premenstrual Dysmorphic Disorder

Chinese Medicine for Premenstrual Dysmorphic Disorder

Chinese Medicine for Premenstrual Dysmorphic Disorder

 

Premenstrual Dysmorphic Disorder (PMDD) is a health concern that is similar to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) but is more serious. PMDD causes severe moodiness such as feeling irritable, crying a lot, depression, anger outbursts or anxiety in the week or two before the period starts. Other symptoms may include fatigue, weight gain, restless sleep, breast tenderness, digestion changes, trouble focussing, binge eating, feeling out of control and suicidal thoughts. 

About 80% of women report at least mild premenstrual symptoms, 20%–50% report moderate-to-severe premenstrual symptoms, and about 5% report severe symptoms for several days with impairment of functioning. The 5% of women with the severest premenstrual symptoms and impairment of social and role functioning often meet the diagnostic criteria for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) (1). 

 

Risk factors may include:

  • A family history of PMS or PMDD
  • Women with a personal or family history of depression, postpartum depression, or other mood disorders
  • Cigarette smoking (2)

 

How is PMDD diagnosed?

Premenstrual Dysmorphic Disorder (PMDD) is typically diagnosed by a healthcare provider after performing a physical examination and speaking to the patient about signs and symptoms. Researchers do not know for sure what causes PMDD or PMS, however hormonal changes in the menstrual cycle each month may play a role due to the brain chemical called serotonin levels changing throughout the cycle. 

Healthcare providers may also ask patients to keep track of symptoms over several menstrual cycles, or order tests to check certain things related to hormones. 

 

What are the treatment options for PMDD?

Treatment for Premenstrual Dysmorphic Disorder (PMDD) typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Medications used to treat PMDD include antidepressants, hormonal control pills/medications, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In some instances, gonadotropin releasing hormones may be given.

Natural approaches for Premenstrual Dysmorphic Disorder (PMDD) can include regular exercise and nutritional changes individualised to the patient to support serotonin, and lifestyle modifications such as sticking to a daily routine, practicing meditation and taking care of oneself, recognising emotions and managing stressful situations. Other natural remedies that have been used to treat symptoms associated with PMDD include acupuncture and herbal medicine.. Traditional Chinese medicinal herbs can be given to patients the week or two before their period is due to ease symptoms. This can be a good alternative to pharmaceuticals.  

It’s important to remember than it’s normal for women and young girls to experience fluctuations in energy levels, mood or food cravings in different stages of their menstrual cycle. Iron levels for example drop once the uterus lining has shed, so it’s normal to feel lower energy before or on your period. Women live on a 28 day cycle and can sometimes even sync with the moon cycles. Whereas, men live on a 24 hour one! However when signs and symptoms are really affecting your quality of life, then it’s important to seek help.

 

 

This is an image of chinese medicine for Tanya Keam is an integrative Chinese medicine Doctor and registered Acupuncturist in Nambour in the beautiful Sunshine Coast hinterland in Queensland, Australia. If you’re experiencing the above symptoms or interested in Chinese Medicine Premenstrual Dysmorphic Disorder treatment specifically, please reach out to see if Acupuncture, herbal medicine and lifestyle guidance might support you to feel better.

You can see Tanya’s training here, call us here, or book online here. 

 

 

References:

  1. Pearlstein, T., Steiner, M. (2008). Premenstrual dysphoric disorder: burden of illness and treatment updateJournal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience; 33(4): 291–301.
  2. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/premenstrual-dysphoric-disorder-pmdd
Endometriosis and Chinese Medicine

Endometriosis and Chinese Medicine

Endometriosis and Chinese Medicine

 

First of all, What is Endometriosis? Endometriosis is a common condition in which the tissue that is similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of the uterus and in other parts of the pelvic cavity. Whilst endometriosis most often affects the reproductive organs, thus damaging fertility, it is also frequently found in the bowel and bladder, but has rarely been found in muscle, joints, the lungs and the brain. More than 10% of Australian women suffer from Endometriosis at some point in their life (1). Endometriosis and Chinese medicine

Some women experience Endometriosis as debilitating period pain, pelvic pain and pain during intercourse. They may need to seek medical attention to ease their painful symptoms. While others have no symptoms but may have difficult falling pregnant naturally (1, 2). 

How is Endometriosis diagnosed?

Patients will generally have a pelvic examination and internal and external ultrasounds first to look at the whole lower pelvis including ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus, however Laparoscopy (key hole surgery) is needed to confirm diagnosis. 

There are multiple stages of Endometriosis Endometriosis and Chinese medicine

  1. Mild Endometriosis appears in small patches or surface lesions scattered around the pelvic cavity.
  2. Moderate Endometriosis appears as larger widespread starting to infiltrate tissue and often found on the ovaries, pouch of douglas and utero-sacral ligaments.
  3. Severe Endometriosis affects most of the pelvic organs, often with distortion of the anatomy and the adhesions (1).

What can cause of Endometriosis?

  • In utero exposure to a non-steriodal oestrogen that was commonly given to woman (prior to 1971) as it was thought to reduce the risk of pregnancy complications
  • Use of low dose contraceptives
  • A family history (first generation) can make you more prone to having Endometriosis
  • Irregular menstrual cycles that are heavy and prolonged
  • Delayed childbearing
  • Teenagers starting their period after the age of 15 years
  • A high amount of physical exercise from a low teenage years
  • Multiple births and prolonged lactation 
  • Hormonal defects such as Mullein duct defects 

Conventional Treatment Options 

  • Your doctor typically recommends trying conservative treatment approaches first, depending on how severe your signs and symptoms are and whether you hope to become pregnant. If this fails then surgery is the next option. 
  • Over the counter pain medicines such as NSAIDS.
  • Hormone therapy to slow endometrial tissue growth and prevent new implants of endometrial tissue. Hormone therapy is only temporary as they are suppressing hormones, so once treatment stops, your symptoms may return.
  • Hormonal contraceptives – the birth control pill, vaginal rings or patches. Many women have lighter and shorter menstrual flow when they’re using a hormonal contraceptive. 
  •  Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gn-RH) agonists and antagonists – These drugs block the production of ovarian-stimulating hormones, lowering estrogen levels and preventing menstruation. This causes endometrial tissue to shrink.
  • Aromatase inhibitors – a class of medicines that reduce the amount of estrogen in your body.
  • Progestin therapy – a variety of progestin therapies, including an intrauterine device with levonorgestrel (Mirena, Skyla), contraceptive implant (Nexplanon), contraceptive injection (Depo-Provera) or progestin pill (Camila), can halt menstrual periods and the growth of endometrial implants, which may relieve endometriosis signs and symptoms.
  • Laproscopy surgery to help remove a lot of the endometrial tissue, while trying to preserve the ovaries and uterus. This is helpful if you doctors plan is to improve chances of conceiving and your diagnosis is in the severe. 
  • Hysterectomy – surgical removal of the uterus and cervis and sometimes the fallopian tubes and ovaries. This type of treatment is the last resort and should only be considered when the woman has already conceived children and is of age that is suitable (3).

 

Endometriosis and Chinese Medicine

Endometriosis is seen as a ‘blood stagnation’ pattern. When the Endometrial tissue is outside of the uterus, it forms a blockage preventing blood from exiting downward out of a woman’s body, instead it pools in the pelvic cavity which therefore causes severe pain. 

The treatment of Endometriosis with Chinese medicine has a specific emphasis on looking at the whole menstrual cycle and promoting proper circulation of blood through each week of the cycle. Promoting blood flow in this way reduces pain during menstruation, reduces and prevents the endometrial tissue that builds up in the pelvic cavity and decreased inflammation, thus restoring a healthy and functioning reproductive system. 

In the traditiol of Chinese medicine, different areas and prescription are used for each individual such as acupuncture treatment, moxibustion (heat therapy). herbal medicines such as Peony Root (4) that is often used for menstrual disorders, nutritional and lifestyle advice. 

Advice from Endometriosis Australia

Using other health professionals such as physiotherapists, acupuncturists, herbalists, nutritionists, homeopaths and psychologists can be very helpful for women with endometriosis. You should discuss these treatments with your doctor before commencing them, or if you are on any of these treatments and are having surgery, then it is also important to tell your doctor.

Research:
  1. Endometriosis Australia > https://www.endometriosisaustralia.org
  2. Lyttleton, J. & Clavey, S. (2004). Treatment of Infertility with Chinese Medicine. UK. Elsevier.
  3. Endometriosis 2018. Mayo Clinic > https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354661
  4. Takeuchi, T. Nishii, O. Okamura, T et al. Effect of Paeoniflorin, Glycyrrhizin and Glycyrrhetic acid on Ovarian Androgen Production, The American Journal of Chinese Medicine, 19(1), 1991, pp73-8) > https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/pdf/10.1142/S0192415X91000119
  5. Briden, L. 2018. Period Repair Manual: Every Woman’s Guide to Better Periods. Pan Macmillan Australia Pty Ltd, NSW, Australia.

 

 

 

If you are ready to seek support from an experienced health professional in women’s health for Endometriosis with Chinese medicine and Acupuncture, you can book an appointment for our Sunshine Coast Clinic or give us a call if you have further questions.

Phone: 0417 732 213
This is an image of Acupuncture for EndometriosisHi, I’m Tanya Keam, an AHPRA registered Acupuncturist and integrative health professional in Nambour on the beautiful Sunshine Coast, Australia. I practice Chinese medicine because its safe, logical, relevant and has effectively shown methods of natural wellness for thousands of years (read more about my training here). Life doesn’t need to be complicated and nor does the treatment approaches to get people feeling vibrant and well. I’ve seen people gain a lot from treatments, much more than just alleviating symptoms. It’s exciting to connect with people and share deep wisdom from the classics of ancient and traditional medicine, with modern protocols for todays mind-body living.

See you in the clinic!

SPRING into Spring!

SPRING into Spring!

SPRING into Spring !

 

Spring is the season of growth and transformation. We come out of the hibernation of Winter and move forward with bursting flowers, warmer weather and longer days of sunlight. There is a sense of renewal and new life all around.

While Winter was a time to conserve energy and reduce activity, spring is a time of regeneration, new beginnings, and a renewal of spirit.

 

spring image2

 

Spring is the ideal time for cleansing and rejuvenation for overall health and well-being, as well as corresponding to the “Wood” element, which in turn is conceptually related to the liver and gallbladder organs. According to the philosophy of Chinese medicine, the liver is responsible for the smooth flow of energy movement throughout the body. When the liver functions smoothly, physical and emotional activity throughout the body also runs smoothly. We even feel like doing more exercise and being outside!

Imbalances that can occur during Spring: 

Feeling frustrated, irritable, anger outbursts

Insomnia, restless sleep

Temporal headaches, migraines

Depression

Abdominal discomfort

Alternating bowel motions

Lack of motivation

A feeling like there is a lump in the throat

Premenstrual symptoms

Irregular, painful periods

Bitter taste in the mouth

Stiff joints

Dry mouth and throat

Ringing in the ears

Sore red eyes, blurry vision

 

Seasonal acupuncture treatments a minimum four times a year can serve to regulate the inner organ systems and can correct minor annoyances before they become health problems. Acupuncture can help improve the overall health of your liver as well as treat stress, anger and frustration, which are often associated with liver disharmony.

 

Tanya Keam-44

 

Stretch – The liver controls the tendons. According to Chinese medicine, the liver stores blood during periods of rest and then releases it to the tendons in times of activity, maintaining tendon health and flexibility. Incorporate a morning stretch into your routine. Try a local yoga class!

 

spring image1

 

Eye Exercises – The liver opens into the eyes. Although all the organs have some connection to the health of the eyes, the liver is connected to proper eye function. Remember to take breaks when looking at a computer monitor for extended periods of time and do eye exercises.

Eat Greens – Green is the colour of the liver and of spring time. Eating young plants – fresh, leafy greens, sprouts, and immature cereal grasses – can improve the liver’s overall function.

 

 

spring image3

Taste Sour – Foods and drinks with sour tastes are thought to stimulate the liver’s movement. Put lemon slices in your drinking water, use vinegar and olive oil for your salad dressing. Garnish your sandwich with a slice of dill pickle.

Do more outdoor activities – Outside air helps energy to flow. If you have been feeling irritable or stuck, find an outdoor activity to smooth out that liver stagnation. Try bush walking or take up swimming.

Enjoy milk thistle tea

Milk thistle helps protect liver cells from incoming toxins and encourages the liver to cleanse itself of damaging substances, such as alcohol, medications, pesticides, environmental toxins, and even heavy metals such as mercury.

Take care of you, see you in the clinic,

TK xx

 

Tanya Keam Wellness is an experienced health clinic on the Sunshine Coast. Helping you to feel better in all aspects of your health and wellbeing.

 

Temperature charting for women

Temperature charting for women

What does BBT mean?

BBT stands for basal body temperature. It is your lowest body temperature in a 24-hour period.

Why do you map your BBT?

I asked clients to map their BBT if their treatment involves regulating their menstrual cycle, managing hormonal imbalance and for fertility. It is such a useful tool to understand many aspects of them as an individual woman and allows me to pin point specific imbalances. Most unexplained infertility cases are actually not infertile at all, but are actually subfertile. Through looking at charts as well as lab results and symptoms, the cause can often be found. Charting can be an excellent tool for diagnostics, especially in cases of unexplained infertility and is also a great way for woman to be self aware and gain understanding for what is going on in their bodies.

How to record your BBT 

Take your temperature (with a thermometer orally or vaginally) upon waking and record it on a simple chart. This means before you get up and do your morning rituals. Your temperature can slightly increase once you are up and about getting breakfast ready, chasing kids around, exercise etc. Try to take your temperature at the same time each day or your reading may not be accurate. If the time varies, please make a note of this, as well as any illness or life changes (cold/flu, stomach bug, migraine, unsettled sleep, a sudden increase in stress etc). I always suggest to keep your thermometer by your bedside table so its always handy.

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Your menstrual cycle

A women’s menstrual cycle is approximately 28-32 days. Day 1 of your period is day 1 of your cycle.

The first phase (follicular phase) is the phase in which the follicles develop. Typically we see that this level is low and steady, where Estrogen is the dominant hormone during this phase.

Around mid cycle (day 14), you may or may not see a slight dip in temperature, followed by a strong rise in temperature of approximately 0.3- 1 degree. The day before the temperature rises is the day you ovulate.

Ovulation is when you are most fertile.

The second phase (luteal phase) is the phase in which the egg travels down the fallopian tube and the process of fertilisation or implantation may occur. Typically we like to see that this phase is high and steady. Progesterone is the hormone which keeps the luteal phase at a high temperature.

What do your readings mean?

When the follicular phase is too long, too short, too high or too low in temperature, or your cycle is irregular (such as 23 days long, then 40 days long, then 50 days long, then 22 days long) this can mean there are hormonal imbalances.

What causes hormonal imbalances?

Thyroid conditions – The thyroid gland is located at the front of you neck. Thyroid hormones travel from the thyroid gland through the blood to all parts of the body, where they do their work in affecting your metabolism rate, which means how fast or slow your brain, heart, muscles, liver, and other parts of your body work. The thyroid can be tested through pathology tests to check the levels of specific hormones.

Through BBT charting, we tend to see an abnormally low or high temperature reading in the follicular phase when the thyroid is under or overactive. 

Emotional stress and inconsistent sleep patterns – Often shows up as an up and down movement of temperature from day to day.

In the case of stress, we tend to see instability of temperature, and in the case of primary hormonal imbalance we tend to see either an increase or decrease in length of this phase.

Poor ovarian reserve (also known as impaired ovarian reserve, premature ovarian aging or declining ovarian reserve) and poor egg quality – Can be due to a number of reasons.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) – is a complex condition in which a woman’s ovaries are generally bigger than average. Polycystic means the ovaries have many cysts or follicles that rarely grow to maturity or produce eggs. Symptoms can include excessive hair growth, moodiness, weight gain, irregular cycles, no periods or a long follicular phase, acne and painful periods.

Diagnosis of PCOS is likely to involve your medical history, an examination which may include an abdominal ultrasound, and tests to measure the hormone levels in your blood. 

Through BBT charting we can see if your follicular phase is longer than usual, which for PCOS can indicate insulin resistance or excess androgens (male hormones).

Insufficient nutritional elements – Poor diet and lack of nutrients can be another cause of hormonal imbalance. Diabetes can also be a culprit.

Progesterone deficiency – Mid cycle, we see a spike in temperature, which is related to secretion of the hormone progesterone and is the result of ovulation. The temperature will rise the day after ovulation occurs. If you don’t see this spike, you may not have ovulated. f there is a downward decline occurring earlier than 12 days after ovulating, this suggests that there may not be sufficient progesterone production to maintain pregnancy. Implantation may occur 7 – 12 days after ovulation, in which case you may see an implantation dip on your chart. This is a normal and healthy finding, but like implantation bleeding it is also not necessary for a healthy pregnancy.

Through BBT charting we can see if the temperature reading in the second phase of the cycle (luteal phase) does not remain steady, your progesterone secretion may not be enough to maintain implantation and pregnancy. If the length of this phase is either too long or too short, this can indicate problems with the health of corpus luteum, or nutritional deficiencies (the corpus luteum is the outer part of the follicle left after you have ovulated, which continues to secrete the hormone progesterone allowing you to maintain pregnancy).

Perimenopause and menopause – A woman’s ovaries gradually decrease production of estrogen and progesterone with age.

There are many other more complex breakdowns of the variations in basal body temperature charting as well.

What is helpful to balance hormones?

In Chinese medicine  we use diagnostics, acupuncture, herbal medicine, heat therapy, nutrition and lifestyle care to treat hormonal imbalances and other gynaecological factors. Depending on which scenario (above) you are, will determine your treatment.

Treatment plans for preparing to conceive specifically, are designed to optimise ovarian function, sperm and egg vitality, regulate the immune system, reduce stress, promote restful sleep, promote digestion, and weight loss if necessary. Treating gynaecological conditions have also proven success in regulating menstrual cycles and improving fertility.

Chinese medicine can work safely in accordance with IVF to improve the outcome. Acupuncture protocols will help to improve blood flow and drug delivery to the ovaries and uterus during the stimulation phase, improve rates of implantation of embryos and reduce stress and side effects.

IVF is the process of fertilising eggs with sperm outside of the human body. Once the eggs are fertilised, the resulting embryos are placed in the woman’s uterus in the hope that a successful pregnancy will follow.

Information derived from Lyttleton, Jane (2013) Treatment of Infertility with Chinese Medicine, Second edition.

Tanya Keam-44

What do the treatments involve?

Depending on why your hormones are imbalanced or other gynaecological factors, will determine the treatment plan and outcome. As a practitioner I advise regular treatments such as weekly, in accordance with health changes you need to do at home, such as nutritional changes or herbal remedies to assist the treatment outcome. The male partners are also advised to receive treatment.

I advise all women seeking treatment to start BBT mapping their cycles and fill in a symptom chart which includes daily symptoms relating to; energy levels, PMS, menstrual cramping, vaginal discharge and mood changes, to name a few. The symptom chart allows me to see what is happening in between your acupuncture treatments so that I can treat you accordingly.

Changes to your plan will be made for IVF protocols and specific gynaecological conditions. Acupuncture can be used to manage anxiety and any side effects you might experience such as fatigue, moodiness, abdomen swelling and discomfort that can be experienced with the IVF process.

Please see the FAQ’s page and What to Expect page for more information.

Other factors to consider regarding your fertility and gynaecological health

Environmental toxins – clean up your environment at work and at home – exposure from various sources such as BPA in plastics, pesticides in food.

Do you exercise? Adopting the right amount of exercise is important, however exercising too strenuously releases the stress hormone Cortisol which can interfere with reproductive organs. Opt for gentle exercises such as swimming, yoga, tai chi and pilates.

Sanitary products with bleach and other chemicals that are being inserted into the body – organic tampons and pads are now easily found in major supermarkets and health food stores and their quality and absorpancy is nothing less. Menstrual cups found here > https://www.menstrualcupsaustraliaonline.com.au/what-is-a-menstrual-cup/ are also becoming more popular as they are sanitary, medical grade silicone, environmentally friendly and save you money (they cost $40-60AU and will last you 10 years!). All you have to do is wash them out and boil them in hot water at the end of your period to kill any bacteria. Many women experience less period pain when using a cup !

Look after your abdominal area – A poor diet can cause your digestive system to malfunction. Unhealthy foods collect in the abdominal environment, blocking the blood circulation needed to nourish the area. Pay attention to foods that cause bloating, fatigue, wind, abdominal cramps, irregular bowel motions or sensitivity. Acupuncture and herbs can stimulate circulation and improve the function of the digestive system.

Start with a healthy body weight – Women who are either underweight or overweight can ovulate less regularly, and men in the same situation will produce fewer and less healthy sperm.

Are you stressed – Physically, mentally or emotionally? Stress is a huge factor for fertility, especially if you and your partner have been trying for a baby for a long time. However other stressors in life such as work or relationships also play a part. Find time to resolve stress and put relaxation time in your diary! Talking to a friend or professional may also be helpful to get things of your chest.

Be aware of your immune system – If you are getting every cold/flu going around, having upset digestion from a gut bug or generally feeling unwell then you are not in optimal health to conceive.

For women – stay warm. In Chinese medicine, we place a strong emphasis on keeping warm to encourage blood flow. Keeping your ‘midriff’ and lower back warm is said to encourage a ‘warm womb’. Swimming on your period is also not recommended, as your cervix is open when menstruating, the cold temperature of the water enters a warm body, causing the ‘cold’ to lodge inside. Remember its all about the warmth and circulation! However for men its important that their testicles are kept cool as heat can affect sperm quality.

Are you sleeping well throughout the night? Even just one week without well-rested sleep plays havoc with your hormones. Opt for the same bed time every night such as no later than 10pm. Avoiding stimulants such as caffeine after 3pm is important so that you aren’t kept awake.

Have you been on the pill for a long time where your hormones have been told what to do for years? Your body will need time to adjust to its own cycle. Acupuncture can regulate the menstrual cycle and manage symptoms such as fatigue, menstrual headaches, tender breasts and mood swings.

Do you have any nutritional deficiencies? For example, your uterus needs a certain amount of iron for the lining of the uterus to thicken for conception, if your iron levels are low then conception decreases.

Do you have a family history of any gynaecological conditions? Ask the women in your family about their fertile health.

Be aware of infection – Previous STD’s and noting any thrush or constant urinary tract infections could make conception more difficult.

Having a GP check up – blood tests, ultrasounds and infection tests are all helpful to rule out anything first.

Lastly, do you have time to welcome a baby into your life? Are you working so many hours already, trying to make ends meet financially or too many other commitments for a baby to come into your life?

Take the time to cover all bases listed above so your health is the priority 🙂

Take care of you, see you in the clinic,

TK xx

Learn more > http://www.tanyakeamwellness.com