Patient resource

Health Tips

Patients sometimes like to use natural or alternative therapy alongside IVF treatments. Though reliable scientific data regarding these methods is limited, they can sometimes help the patient maintain a sense of calm through the IVF treatments

Fertility and complementary therapies

There is limited scientific evidence of complementary therapies improving fertility, but they can help improve your general health and wellbeing.

Fertility treatments can be associated with uncertainty and stress, which can hinder the treatments themselves. Complementary therapies can help manage your stress and anxiety.

But it is important to let your fertility specialist know of any complementary treatments and supplements you might be taking to ensure they do not interfere with your treatment.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture can help reduce stress and anxiety. Its underlying principle is to help the flow of energy through the body. But it does not increase your fertility. If this practice is beneficial to you, talk to your fertility specialist and a qualified acupuncturist before continuing.

Herbal medicines and supplements

Herbal medication is mostly plant based, available in form of tablets, capsules and ointment. Though they are considered natural, they contain powerful compounds which can interfere with your fertility treatments. It’s important to let your doctor know about any such supplements you might be taking.

Meditation

Meditation helps promote relaxation. But there is no relation between meditation and increased fertility. Meditation does not interfere with fertility treatments, and can be continued for other health benefits like reduced stress, lower blood pressure, etc