Naturopathic Care with IVF

IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) is a procedure whereby fertilised eggs are implanted in to the uterus or fallopian tube. Naturopathy can work well as a complementary therapy to IVF, by improving pregnancy outcomes and minimising possible side effects as a result of IVF treatments.

At Integrated Wellness Clinic, we understand that the process of IVF can be a particularly stressful time for couples, with emotional, psychological, physical and financial stress all playing a role. Our Naturopaths provide comprehensive patient care in cooperation with your other health professionals, including doctors, midwife, obstetrician, and/or other natural therapy practitioners, to ensure you receive the best possible care that is safe and effective.

Our goal is to ensure the very best reproductive environment for a healthy, happy pregnancy and baby, whilst simultaneously supporting your general wellbeing and health.

A naturopathic treatment plan used alongside IVF treatment looks different for each person.

Preconception Care
A preconception care plan aims to optimise both partners’ (or individuals) health, in particular reproductive health, prior to conception. Treatment aims focus on improving the quality of the male’s sperm and the woman’s eggs and the quality of the environment in which the embryo will grow (the uterus). In a natural conception, the strongest sperm meets the egg. However, in IVF, this natural selection does not occur, which means it is extremely important to have the healthiest egg and sperm possible to ensure optimal genetic makeup. This helps to reduce the risk of complications such as miscarriage and birth defects.

Ideally, a preconception plan is implemented at least three months before conception. In the case of IVF, this would mean at least three months before egg collection. This is because it takes approximately 90 days for sperm and eggs to mature properly. A preconception plan prior to undergoing IVF treatment not only optimises your health, your partner’s health, and the health of your future baby, but can also save time and money by increasing your chances of IVF success. Studies have found that preconception care preceding IVF treatment leads to a significant increase in success rate – in some cases, more than doubling the success rate.

Addressing the Underlying Cause

Through comprehensive pathology testing and a thorough understanding of your medical history, our Naturopaths are able to identify the underlying factors that are possibly affecting your fertility. These may include thyroid and adrenal health, hormonal imbalance, genetic variations, nutrient deficiencies, heavy metal toxicity, and oxidative and psychological stress. Natural treatment methods can address these underlying causes of infertility. Read more about optimising fertility here.

Supporting the Body Through the IVF Process
Our Naturopaths are trained in safely administering herbal and nutritional medicines that will not interfere with your IVF treatment. At all times, your Naturopath will communicate your naturopathic treatment plans with your medical practitioner. Naturopathic treatment aims during this time may involve supporting the nervous system and adrenal glands to ensure your body can cope with the added emotional and physical stress during IVF treatment; ensuring optimal nutrition; and implementing lifestyle habits to promote your general wellbeing.

Our team of experienced Naturopaths are ready to work with you during this important journey.

We would love to see you in our Brisbane Naturopath Clinic, Gold Coast Naturopath our Sunshine Coast Naturopath Integrative Medicine Clinics in both Mooloolaba and Caloundra. Our Mooloolaba Clinic also offers the care of an Integrative Medical Doctor. Alternatively, no matter where you are, we can offer naturopathy services by phone or skype consultations and provide nutritional supplementation and pathology testing advice.