Research Update – Acupuncture and Fertility

Research Update – Acupuncture and Fertility

A study published by the National Institutes of Health in 2018 indicates receiving acupuncture treatments can improve the possibility of conceiving a child for patients that have experienced fertility issues. This particular study was conducted on one couple, and focused on treating both partners to achieve conception. The male received acupuncture treatments to improve sperm quality, and the female received acupuncture treatments to remove ovarian cysts and improve blood flow to the uterus. After seven treatments, the ovarian cysts had disappeared, and the couple was able to conceive. The acupoints used in this study were chosen to improve blood flow and energy to the reproductive organs, while also decreasing excess phlegm and fluids in the lower body. Acupuncture has been shown to be very effective at treating infertility in the past and this study confirms those findings.

Infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant after one year or more of unprotected sex. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 18 percent of women aged 15 to 44 have difficulty getting pregnant or carrying the pregnancy to full term. Infertility is not limited to women though. The CDC reports 35 percent of couples with infertility have a male component to their difficulties. This means that nearly 6.9 million people in the United States have received fertility treatments. Infertility is typically treated with injections, prescription medications and even artificial insemination, but there are still no guarantees that conception will occur even with all of these efforts.

Traditional Chinese Medicine has been proven to increase the chance of conception in couples that are currently receiving fertility treatments. In fact, the success rates of conception increase from 39.4 percent to 65.5 percent when acupuncture and TCM are added to the mix. Acupuncture helps increase fertility by reducing stress, increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs and balancing hormones. Acupuncture treatments can provide increased blood flow to the ovaries and uterus, which creates a stronger chance for an egg to be nourished and carried to full term. In the male, acupuncture treatments can improve sperm quality and motility.

The insertion of acupuncture needles has been proven to stimulate blood flow, so for men, regular acupuncture treatments can increase blood flow to the testicular arteries. The testicles need blood to provide nutrients, remove waste products and keep the area cool. Excess waste products can damage sperm while they mature in the testicles. Stagnation of blood in the scrotum can increase testicular temperatures, which can be very detrimental to the forming sperm. By increasing blood flow to and from this area, nutrients are brought in and waste is removed, which will contribute to healthier sperm.

The most common cause of female infertility is due to a problem with ovulation. This can be caused by imbalanced hormones, stress or even a buildup of excess phlegm in the lower body. All of these situations may prevent the release of a mature egg from the ovaries. When progesterone is lacking, the fetus may be unable to attach to the uterus. Regular acupuncture treatments have been shown to correct these imbalances, making conception more possible.

If infertility is something you are dealing with, ask me how I can help. The chances of getting pregnant and having a happy healthy baby are much better when combining both Western medicine and Eastern medicine.


New York Sports Acupuncture

Dr. Bishara Wilson, DACM, L.Ac.

www.nysportsacu.com

888.375.5444



https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6182526/

Patient Helpsheet: Infertility - Female

Patient Helpsheet: Infertility - Female

About one in 10 couples in the United States struggle with infertility. Infertility is defined as an inability to get pregnant after 12 months of actively trying to conceive. There are numerous known causes of infertility, but often the cause is unknown. Biomedical treatments for infertility include hormonal injections and assisted reproductive technologies such as IUI (intrauterine insemination) and IVF (in vitro fertilization.)

If you are struggling to get pregnant, either on your own or with treatments like IUI or IVF, it can be very taxing both physically and emotionally. Here are some suggestions of things to do at home to increase your chances of conception and to make the whole process more bearable.

Learn Your Cycles:

If your infertility is undiagnosed, or unexplained it is very important you start paying attention to your menstrual cycles. A healthy menstrual cycle should be 28 to 32 days, and you should bleed for four to seven days. Ideally, you won’t have any cramps or discomfort with the period, and bleeding will not be overly heavy or too light. Blood will be fresh red and will not have any clots. If your periods differ from this in any way, it can be a sign of subtle changes the body needs to make in order to conceive and carry a child. You should learn how to tell when ovulation occurs. Many women can tell when they ovulate based on a change in vaginal discharge, or by their basal body temperature. You can also use over the counter ovulation kits to test when ovulation is occurring.



Acupressure points

SP6: Located on the medial side of the lower leg, four finger widths up from the medial malleolus (ankle bone), on the border of the tibia. Spleen 6 strengthens the body’s Qi and blood, which are necessary resources for conception. It also nourishes the body’s yin energy, which is the receptive, feminine energy and essential to a healthy pregnancy.


KD3: Kidney 3 is located on the medial (inner) ankle, at the deepest point of the depression between the achilles tendon and the high point of the medial malleolus (ankle bone). This point strongly nourishes the energy of the kidneys, which govern hormone levels, growth and reproduction. It strengthens both the yin and yang of the kidneys - yin is receptive and water, whereas yang is the hot fiery aspects of our being - an imbalance between the two forces is frequently a contributor to infertility.


KD16: Located just to the sides of the belly button, Kidney 16 nourishes both the kidneys and the heart. This point is particularly helpful at treating an imbalance known as the “heart and kidney not communicating.” It therefore can work on regulating hormones and strengthening our reproductive abilities, but it also calms the mind and helps to root the mind back into the body. It is important when there is stress surrounding the infertility.

SP8: Spleen 8 is located on the medial lower leg. It is four finger-breadths towards the toes from the very bottom of the knee. To locate the point, just roll off the shinbone and palpate until you find a tender spot in the area. It is an essential point for moving energy and blood in the uterus, so is especially indicated if there is a history of fibroids, endometriosis or lots of previous medical procedures that may have left scar tissue.


Foods

When trying to conceive, pay extra attention to eating a healthy and balanced diet. Limit sugar, processed meat and dairy. Including foods that are nourishing to the kidneys is a good idea. These foods include kidney beans, black beans, barley, millet, tofu, fish, seaweed and eggs. It is also important to include blood-nourishing foods, particularly in the first half of your cycle, following the period and through ovulation. Lean red meat, dark leafy greens, dates, chicken, molasses, eggs, legumes, beets and mushrooms.


Give yourself a break

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we talk about yin and yang. Yin is the cool, watery, passive, receptive energy of the body, while Yang is the hot, fiery, active, expansive energy.

Conceiving a child is the most yin thing our bodies can do. Unfortunately, infertility often necessitates a very yang approach to conception - actively tracking ovulation, going for blood work incessantly, constantly thinking about whether or not you are pregnant - these are all yang manifestations of who you are.

This contradiction is so hard for many women, but often a necessity. Be sure you take some time to nourish yin. That can sometimes, in and of itself, be the magic fix. 

New York Sports Acupuncture

Dr. Bishara Wilson, DACM, L.Ac.

www.nysportsacu.com

888.375.5444

Acupuncture and Cervical Health

Acupuncture and Cervical Health


Women’s health is a big part of the healthcare industry. And acupuncture can be very beneficial in caring for the overall health of women. Acupuncture has been especially effective in helping with things like infertility, turning breech babies, inducing labor and clearing up infections. The cervix is just one small part of the uterus. Specifically it is the lower part of the uterus that opens to allow passage between the uterus and the vagina. The cervix widens during childbirth to allow the baby to pass, it also allows the passage of menstrual fluids from the uterus out of the body and it is vital for sperm to pass through the cervix to reach the uterus when trying to procreate.

The cervix is very vulnerable to several health conditions, such as chronic inflammation, polyps, dysplasia and even cancer. Cervical conditions rarely present symptoms in the early stages, which makes it extremely important for women to get regular pap smears. If an abnormality is detected, there are several ways to address it, depending on the severity. In the early stages of any of the aforementioned conditions, acupuncture can be a positive addition to Western medical treatments. Acupuncture is very good at decreasing inflammation and helping to dissolve polyps and tumors. Acupuncture can also balance hormones, which allows the body to correct any imbalances.

One of the most studied areas of acupuncture is in treating fertility issues. When invitro fertilization by itself does not get the job done, adding acupuncture may be the last piece of the puzzle. Acupuncture does much more than just balance the hormones. When a woman is trying to get pregnant and struggling with it due to fertility issues, the stress levels are extremely high. And high stress levels have been proven to disrupt the body’s ability to conceive. One of the things that acupuncture is really successful at is decreasing stress levels. This can make it easier for the fertility treatments to work. Acupuncture has also been shown to increase blood flow to areas of the body, including the uterus. This can help to make a very hospitable place for a baby to grow.

Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine are also widely used for treating infections and sexually transmitted diseases. In traditional Chinese medicine, most infections have some sort of heat or discharge associated with them. This medicine uses principles, herbs and acupressure points that have specific properties that can drain heat and expel toxins from the body. This can lead to an overall improvement in both uterine and cervical health.

Another area where acupuncture can help with cervical health is at the time of birth. About four percent of babies are presented in the breech position prior to birth. An accessory modality known as moxibustion, has proven time and time again, that it can actually turn the baby to the proper birthing position. Moxibustion involves the burning of an herb, dried mugwort, very near the skin on a specific acupressure point that is located on the outer edge of the pinky toe. By performing moxibustion several times a day, the baby and the body somehow know that there needs to be a repositioning and the baby tends to turn during the night.

When it comes to women’s health, acupuncture is an amazing resource. Finding a licensed acupuncturist in your area is as simple as doing an internet search. But there are also acupuncturists who specialize in fertility and women’s health issues. So be sure to research before you schedule your appointment.

New York Sports Acupuncture

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM

www.NewYorkSportsAcupuncture.com

888.375.5444

How Folic Acid Can Help You Get Pregnant

How Folic Acid Can Help You Get Pregnant

Becoming pregnant can be frustrating and discouraging when it doesn’t happen right away. There are many common problems that could be preventing you from getting pregnant including a folic acid, or folate, deficiency.

According to research fellow Dr. Jorge Chavarro from Harvard School of Public Health in Boston, folic acid is one of the most important reasons for reducing the chance of ovulatory failure.

Folic acid is the synthetic form of the B-vitamin folate, it can be found in supplements as well as enriched foods such as cereal or other grains.

Taking folic acid for at least one month before conception reduces the risk of neural-tube defects, such as spina bifida, by up to 70 percent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The recommended-daily dose of folic acid for women who want to get pregnant is .4 milligrams, during pregnancy the recommended amount is .6 to .8 milligrams.

Not only can it help you get pregnant, but this vitamin can also help embryo survival as well as brain development of the child during pregnancy.

A study done by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine on more than 18,000 women found that those who took multivitamins that included folic acid had improved fertility.

These women also had a 40 percent lower risk of complications producing eggs.

Along with supplements, you can find folic acid in its natural form in many vegetables and fruits:

• Lentils

• Dried beans, peas

• Broccoli

• Spinach

• Collard or turnip greens

• Okra

• Asparagus

• Citrus fruit: papaya, oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, raspberries

• Avocado

• Seed & nuts

• Cauliflower

• Beets

• Corn

• Carrots
• Squash

Getting the recommended-daily amount of folic acid before and during pregnancy is one of the easiest ways to improve fertility and to have a healthier pregnancy. You can find folic acid supplements at your local grocery story.

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

5 natural ways to improve women’s health

5 natural ways to improve women’s health

Egg health

Getting pregnant can be frustrating when it isn’t happening as easily as planned. There are many reasons you could be dealing with a difficult pregnancy including egg health. There are many factors that play into egg health including blood circulation, stress and hormonal balance. For improving blood and oxygen flow, try to get some sort of exercise whether it is yoga, running or simply going on a brisk walk at least three times a week. Ask a massage therapist about abdominal massage, which can increase blood flow to the reproductive system. Stress can also play a very important factor in egg health. Find ways to destress with meditation practices, acupuncture and deep breathing.

Hormonal balance

Hormonal imbalances in women are common and can result in weight gain, fatigue, skin problems, infertility and PMS. Hormones are an important part to our body’s growth and development, mood, reproduction and metabolism. To keep your body in balance, avoid high omega-6 polyunsaturated fats that are found in vegetable oils. Reduce your caffeine intake. Too much caffeine can have a negative impact on the endocrine system. Most importantly, make sure to get an adequate amount of sleep each night. When the body does not get enough rest, hormones cannot regulate.

Breast health

There are many reasons that some women have a higher risk of breast cancer including both genetics and environmental impacts. Research has shown that keeping a diet of fresh, unprocessed foods can help the health of breast tissue. Chemical exposure from foods as well as other environmental factors have been shown to be high in women who have breast cancer. Foods to eliminate from your diet include highly processed foods, additives, canned foods and soy. Avoiding foods that are high in hormones and adding foods that are packed with antioxidants such as berries can help lower your risk of breast cancer.

Metabolism

Many women feel their metabolism has slowed over the years, making it harder to break down and burn calories and fat. Try adding more omega-3 fatty acids into your diet such as salmon and tuna. Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to help regulate blood sugar and lower inflammation, which can then improve metabolic function. Increasing strength training can also help give the metabolism a boost. The more muscle you have, the more your resting metabolism will increase to burn fat. Lastly, eating breakfast has been shown to give your metabolism a jump start for the day compared to eating your first meal later in the day.

Immune health

Don’t let the cold and flu season get you down this year. There are many natural ways to boost your immune system to prevent illness and to improve energy levels. Assess your stress levels and take action if you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Spend some time practicing deep breathing or finding an activity that you find relaxing. Try adding in more garlic and ginger to your diet. These natural ingredients contain properties that help boost the immune system and lower cold and flu symptoms.

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

http://natural-fertility-info.com/increase-egg-health

http://wellnessmama.com/5946/natural-breast-health/

http://wellnessmama.com/5425/balance-hormones/

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20306911_7,00.html

7 Steps to Detox After the Holidays

7 Steps to Detox After the Holidays

Get rid of leftovers

The holidays bring delicious homemade food, and along with that come the leftovers. Holiday leftovers can be just as good as when you cook the meal the first time and become a tempting go-to snack. Time to let go. Toss the leftovers, they most likely aren’t the healthiest dishes and it’s time to start fresh.  

Stay hydrated

Most Americans do not drink enough water, and there is no better time to start than now! Fill up your glass at least 8 times a day. Some find it easier to carry a water bottle throughout the day to remind yourself to keep hydrated. Staying hydrated can flush out toxins and detox your body, as well as keeping you feeling good.

Hit the gym

Sweating is another great way to flush out toxins. Exercise has many health benefits long term and short term. Find just 30 minutes a day to get some form of exercise, whether it’s going on a run, yoga or simply going for a walk. Getting your body moving is important for your metabolism as well as overall health.

Ditch the sugar

The holidays are a notorious time that the sugar intake starts ramping up. Now that they are over, it’s time to remove added sugar to your diet. Limit how often you eat dessert and when you do, eat in moderation. Replace sugary foods with natural sweet foods like fruit. Fruit can fix your sweet tooth and also give you a boost of vitamins.

Drink green tea

Green tea is packed with antioxidants and nutrients to help your body get back on track. It is one of the healthiest beverages you could choose, it can act as a replacement for coffee, lower your risk of cancer and protect your brain as you age.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine believe in addressing the body as a whole when illness arises or the body is run down. Because of this, acupuncture treatment works by returning the body back to balance and restoring its natural energy. Certain acupuncture points can detoxify important organs like the kidneys, colon, lungs, liver and skin.  

Relax

Don’t forget to relax and give yourself some downtime. The holidays are hectic and stressful, which can lead to bad habits and bad eating. Give yourself some time now that they are over to relax. Find activities you enjoy and make sure you make time for them every week. Detoxing is not just for improving your body physically, but mentally as well.

Give me a call today to schedule a complimentary 15 minute health evaluation.

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

http://www.modernreflexology.com/acupressure-points-for-body-detoxification/

3 Tips for Ovary Health

3 Tips for Ovary Health 

There are a number of complications that can happen to a woman’s ovaries over her lifetime. Ovarian cysts commonly occur and can go away without treatment, while more serious problems like ovarian cancer require extensive treatment. The best way to treat these conditions is with preventative care. Below are tips to fit into your daily routine for better ovary health.

1) Healthy Foods

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition involving the imbalance of sex hormones, have a higher risk of ovarian cancer and obesity. Because of this, it is even more important that those with PCOS have a healthy diet.

Foods to consider into your diet:

Lean Proteins: Limiting saturated fats can help decrease the body’s inflammation and lower the chance of ovarian cancer.  Good sources of lean proteins include fish, chicken, lentils, beans and eggs.

Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are never a bad choice to include more of into your diet. They are packed with vitamins and antioxidants to help strengthen your body’s immune system and fight disease. Tomatoes and onions can especially help prevent ovarian cancer.

Nuts and Seeds: Healthy fats are important for ovary health. The unsaturated fats in nuts and seeds can provide omega-3 fats that can reduce inflammation and help decrease your cancer risk.

2) Exercise

Women who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. Along with a healthy diet, it is important to have regular exercise to maintain health. Exercise is thought to help the body’s immune system, which in turn can help prevent obesity and ovarian cancer. Starting off with moderate exercise that includes taking a walk most days or light jogging can even be impactful on lowering your risk.

3) Herbs

Chinese Herbs:
Cinnamon and rehmannia is a common combination of herbs that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat ovarian cysts.  These herbs can be found out at health stores as well as be ordered online.

Brassica vegetable extract:
Brassica vegetable extract is a natural antioxidant that can help prevent disease such as cancer, diabetes and other chronic diseases. Brassica vegetables include kale, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels sprouts. These vegetables contain glucosinolates, which work as an anti-carcinogen, helping to decrease the risk of cancer. You can find brassica vegetable extract in your local health food store.

Along with these lifestyle guidelines, consider acupuncture for preventative treatment as well as managing an existing problem to help get you back on the road to better health.

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com