How to Optimize Your Fertility According to Chinese Medicine
Whether you have just decided to start to try and conceive, or have been on your fertility journey for months, even years, Chinese medicine can help you achieve those two precious pink lines. Becoming a parent is a sweeping journey, and in Chinese Medicine (TCM) it is believed that this journey begins with the cultivation of one's essence, known as Jing (精). Jing can be described as the vital life force that nourishes our mind and our body, and is closely associated with reproductive health and longevity. Although, our Jing naturally declines with age, and the quality and protection of our Jing depends our lifestyle choices longterm. Luckily, there are some easy choices we can make to enhance our fertility outcomes and preserve our Jing.
Keep your abdomen and low back warm.
I know spring and summer is upon us, but it is especially important to keep the crop tops to a minimum to keep our uterus warm and cozy. This is because warmth promotes healthy circulation, and research has shown that more circulation to the uterus improves fertility outcomes by creating an ideal environment for implantation. Additionally, cold in the uterus is a common TCM diagnosis that can lead to irregular, or painful periods, making it more difficult to get pregnant.
Wear socks to sleep.
Similar to keeping your belly warm, it is just as important to keep your feet warm. An essential channel related to fertility is the Kidney meridian, which originates on the sole of your foot. The Kidney meridian connects to your uterus through another channel known as the Chong Mai, so if cold enters at the base of the foot it can travel up the channel and reach the uterus. (*side note: avoid cold seating such as metal dining chairs or bleachers when trying to conceive for the same reason.)
Eat blood nourishing foods
While certain herbal remedies and supplements can aid in your fertility, sometimes you are advised to not take anything else besides the meds given by your OB for IVF/IUI. Even if you are prescribed an herbal remedy, what you feed your body while you are trying to conceive is so important because oocytes require a lot of ATP to mature. In Chinese medicine, we advise to each blood-nourishing foods, which not only includes red meat, but other blood colored foods, such as beets, berries, and dark leafy greens. Similarly to the above concept of keeping your belly warm with clothing, we also want to keep your stomach warm but sticking to eating only warm, cooked foods, and bringing snacks like berries to room temperature before consuming.
Receive regular acupuncture treatments
Acupuncture does not only aid in the physical aspect of getting pregnant, but the mental as well. A skilled licensed acupuncturist can use techniques to bring circulation to the uterus and other reproductive organs, while also calming the mind by releasing endorphins. The benefits of regular acupuncture treatments when trying to conceive may include thickened endometrium lining, regular ovulation, increased egg quality and receptivity, and decreased mental stress.
The wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine, combined with modern knowledge and research, offers an abundance of effective tools and lifestyle advice that can bring you through not only your journey of conception, but all the way through pregnancy and beyond. By nurturing your essence (Jing), and prioritizing holistic mind and body wellness, you can create an environment that maximizes your fertility and allows you to be the mother you were always meant to be.
