Fertility, Sub-fertility & Infertility: Why am I having trouble conceiving?
1 in 6 worldwide experience infertility.
Infertility or subfertility is defined as the inability to conceive or carry a baby to term after one year of regular intercourse without birth control.
Frustrated couples unable to conceive often consider assisted reproductive technologies, but these can bring a whole new set of frustrations. Intra-Uterine Insemination (IUI) is expensive and time-consuming, while IVF (in-vitro fertilisation) is particularly gruelling and involves harsh medication as well as putting immense emotional strain on the couple.
There are many other factors to consider when trying to start a family: pollution, nutritional deficiencies, body weight, processed food consumption, stress, smoking and alcohol consumption – all of which have significant impact on fertility.
Causes for infertility will be individual to each couple, but there are some common conditions which lead to infertility
Common causes of infertility:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Endometriosis
- Amenorrhea
- Ovulatory disorders
- Advanced maternal age
- Thyroid problems – both overactive thyroid gland and underactive thyroid gland
- Hormonal imbalance
- Male infertility—low sperm count and/or quality
- Medications: sulfasalazine, anabolic steroids, chemotherapy
There are many factors that affect your ability to get pregnant. From pollution in the environment, to hormonal imbalances in your body, and trauma.
Harvard researchers have found a clear link between diet and lifestyle habits and fertility (Chavarro, 2007). Experts are now linking toxic chemicals to a variety of different illnesses and conditions, including infertility (Toft, 2004). Exposure to certain pesticides, solvents and metals has been shown to affect fertility, particularly in men.
Lifestyle factors, like smoking, alcohol, exercise, diet, weight and stress affect your ability to conceive. Your nutritional profile may also play a role.
Your environment is also a key factor. We are living in an environment much more toxic than the one our previous generations live in. Today, babies are born “pre-polluted”, according to the Washington DC-based Environmental Working Group (EWG).
If you're unsure why you're unable to conceive, our naturopaths can recommend tests to identify factors which may be contributing.
From hormonal imbalances, to nutritional deficiencies, thyroid problems, and toxic overload, there are answers out there, and our naturopaths can help you find them.
Testing your DNA gives insight into whether you have issues with methylating - this is an important process the body needs to make DNA and become pregnant.
If we find that you have high levels of toxins like heavy metals or pesticides, we can help support you with detox. Our naturopaths are also skilled when it comes to treating nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, thyroid problems and more.
What’s next?
Simply call +852 2523 7121, or connect with us below, and we'll be in touch shortly.
Articles, blogs, videos and resources:
Why am I not pregnant yet?
Infertility or subfertility is defined as an inability to conceive or carry a baby to term after one year of regular intercourse without birth control. Common causes of infertility include...
Using TCM to facilitate conception – an article featured in The Parents’ Journal
The Naturopathic Perspective on Infertility
IMI Naturopathic Physician Benita Perch discusses the factors affecting fertility in Hong Kong; the basics frequently missed by fertility doctors thus prolonging the infertility journey; and the approach she takes as a doctor, naturopath, and homeopath to increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
Struggling to conceive? How osteopathy can improve fertility.
Safe, gentle and natural, osteopathy has been proven to treat the root causes of infertility, as well as offering support during pregnancy. Read about Jane’s success story.