Holistic Fertility

Holistic Fertility

Preparing your womb for a healthy baby

Fertility Specialist in Jupiter, Florida

BellaBirthing® Holistic Fertility Support Program is designed to help couples become pregnant

by promoting a fertile physical emotional and psychological environment suitable for a natural, healthy conception.

Our Holistic Fertility Support Program is for couples who want assistance conceiving naturally before having to rely heavily on medical intervention or heading down the IVF path. We use a combination of Oriental Medicine and acupuncture to relax both partners bodies and assist in creating the ideal environment for pregnancy.

Holistic fertility is a specific extension of the principle of holistic medicine, which holds that a person’s whole health is affected by his or her body, mind, spirit, emotions and lifestyle. If one of these aspects become out of balance, then the individual’s whole health—including fertility—will be out of balance. A major appeal of holistic fertility is that a patient can adopt such practices on his or her own. It is empowering to learn that the true physician lies within. You will be educated along your journey to parenthood and be given the tools to help bring your self back into balance, aka: Homeostasis.

The primary methods we use to achieve holistic fertility are

acupuncture, fertility enhancing bodywork, meditation,

yoga, stress reduction, dietary adjustments & proper nutrition.

Our philosophy is "Doctor as Teacher." We educate patients in achieving and maintaining health through recommended homework and self care. Our physicians provide holistic healthcare in the forms of acupuncture and oriental medicine, herbal remedies, integrative bodywork, homeopathic and vitamin injection therapy as well as stress management and nutrition. We believe a patient’s general health is greatly affected by his or her lifestyle choices. Such choices are an integral aspect of holistic fertility practices.

ACUPUNCTURE

FOR FERTILITY

Acupuncture can be a very useful tool for helping couples conceive a beautiful, healthy child.

Acupuncture benefits for Fertility are well known. Modern reproductive medicine suggests that Fertility Acupuncture helps balance hormones, increase blood circulation to the pelvic bowl and reproductive organs, reduce anxiety, stress and fertility drugs' side-effects as well as relax the uterus for easier implantation of the embryo. Moreover, acupuncture can treat disorders that may cause infertility such as PCOS.

ATMAT

FOR FERTILITY

The Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy (ATMAT) prepares the Womb/Uterus to be a healthy home for your baby. ATMAT is an excellent natural form of fertility enhancement as it helps to cleanse the uterus and bringing it into the ideal placement

for fertilization and implantation. This simple non-invasive massage technique helps to improve the five systems of flow, and restores homeostasis & hemodynamics. When the five flows (arterial blood, venous blood, lymph, nervous system, and Qi/energy) through the pelvic bowl and uterus are harmonized and flowing freely, the baby will come naturally. Take some time to re-member and restore the beautiful fertile state of health that is your birthright.

Fertility Acupuncture and IVF

Currently 1 in 7 couples have difficulty conceiving and Acupuncture is increasingly being used successfully to assist with IU (intrauterine Insemination) and IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization). IVF is suitable for women with absent, blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, it is also recommended in cases of unexplained infertility.

ACUPUNCTURE BENEFITS:

Improve egg quality
Increase implantation rates
Reduce IVF side effects
Increase success rates

WHEN SHOULD I BEGIN ACUPUNCTURE?

It is generally recommended to start Acupuncture two to three months before commencing IVF.

After detailed assessment we will work with the menstrual cycle and lifestyle to increase blood flow to the uterus which will increase the quality of the eggs, the endometrium and cervical mucus. In addition, the treatment will increase blood flow to the uterus and the ovaries which will enhance follicle quality before extraction. It will also ensure that the environment is healthier for implantation.

WHAT IS RESEARCH SAYING?

Researchers has discovered that certain neurotransmitters may be released during acupuncture that affect pituitary gonadotropin secretion, ovarian follicular growth, fertility, and ovulation.

According to the results, “Acupuncture administered on the day of ET (embryo transfer) significantly improves the reproductive outcome in women undergoing IVF or ICSI treatment for infertility. The rates of positive pregnancy tests, clinical pregnancies, and ongoing pregnancy or delivery were all significantly higher than those in the control group.

Acupuncture is also highly effective for ensuring good quality, free flowing sperm. Success rates for IVF alone are about 20% – 30%, but when acupuncture is introduced during IVF this percentage increases to over 40%.

WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE LIKE?

The treatment of acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific acupuncture points slightly underneath the skin. The process is painless and quite relaxing. Many patients simply fall asleep during treatment and this helps them reduce the stress surrounding IVF treatments.

VIP BIRTH CONCIERGE® IVF Support Program uses acupuncture, gentle herbs, supplementation and dietary advice to promote an ideal environment for optimal follicular development, sperm quality, endometrial lining, embryo attachment and early stage pregnancy. Our treatments are integrated into your IVF schedule and provide support for the ‘critical’ IVF procedures, before and after egg collection and embryo transfer. (Please note that this is only a guide to our IVF Support Program as each program will be individualized to your specific needs and requirements)

Part One: During the follicular phase (Pre egg collection)

Days 1-3 of cycle:
During this active period phase, acupuncture is used to promote healthy shedding of the endometrium.1 treatment is recommended in this time, however if you suffer severe pain during this phase it may be recommended to have a follow-up treatment within 48 hours to assist with pain management and proper shedding.
Days 4-10 of cycle:
This is key follicular development time and is a highly important stage of treatment for women who have been diagnosed with poor egg quality. Acupuncture treatments during this phase will focus on establishing an optimal environment for follicular growth and development by increasing blood flow to the uterus and ovaries. This will ensure proper nourishment and energy is available to the follicle during this key period of growth.2-3 treatments are recommended in this phase.
Day of Egg Collection:
It is recommended to have acupuncture immediately before and after egg collection to assist with stress reduction as well as prepare and maintain an internal environment that is conducive with the next stage of your IVF treatment, embryo transfer.
Women can sometimes feel extremely anxious and excessively worry about this collection procedure which can lead to a disruption of hormones that is not favorable for conception. Acupuncture at this time is especially helpful for these women and can play an important role for those having this procedure at clinics that do not use an anesthetic, as it will help to relax and prepare both the body and mind.
The post-collection acupuncture treatment will promote fast healing of any trauma caused by the procedure, reduce any bleeding and promote blood flow to the uterus to maintain a healthy endometrial lining.

Part Two: During the Luteal Phase (Post egg collection)

The days in between collection and transfer:
This is highly stressful time for most couples as they wait to see if their follicles and sperm develop into healthy embryos. Acupuncture during this phase with assist with blood flow to the uterus for healthy development and maintenance of the endometrial lining, as well as reduce stress hormone levels. This treatment is especially important for women who have been told their endometrial lining has not reached the desired thickness for implantation.
1 treatment 2-3 days post collection is recommended during this phase.
Day of Transfer:
Research shows that acupuncture on the day of transfer can significantly improve your chances of a successful pregnancy. IVF alone has a 12-32% clinical pregnancy rate, however, when combed with acupuncture treatments immediately before and after embryo transfer, your chances of pregnancy can increase to 44.6%.
Implantation:
Around 4-5 days after you transfer, implantation of the embryo into your uterine lining should be occurring. An acupuncture treatment at this stage may assist with proper implantation.
1 treatment 4-5 days post transfer is recommended during this phase.
The week after transfer:
This too can be a highly stressful time as couples wait for their results. Any amount of stress during this stage can have a significant impact on embryo implantation. Acupuncture during this phase promotes embryo attachment as well as reduces stress factors that are not conducive to a healthy early stage pregnancy.
1 treatment is recommended during this phase.

Here are some common causes of fertility challenges

Xeno-estrogens

Many lay the cause of planetary-wide fertility challenges on the doorstep of the food and drug industry who have introduced powerful hormone disrupting chemicals into our food and water supply. These xeno-estrogens (foreign) disrupt normal hormonal fluctuation in ovaries and testes, causing production of unviable eggs or sperm. Excess estrogen in a woman’s body can be the cause of anovulation with thickening of the uterine lining. It is known that our planetary water supply contains urinary residue of birth control pills and hormone replacement drugs or ERT’s that thus far we cannot filter out of our drinking water. In women, high estrogen levels cause mal-function of estrogen and progesterone balance, which is the basis of a woman’s reproductive life.

Uterine or cervical issues

Uterine or cervical issues caused by mal-position of pelvic organs occur in about 70% of women. A mal-positioned uterus may be too low, too far back, lying to one side or the other which does not allow for proper arterial supply, venous flow, nerve function, lymphatic drainage and free flowing chi. To achieve the miracle of reproduction, these five systems must flow unimpeded. Acupuncture, ATMAT sessions and regular self-care at home that re-position organs help to improve the flow of life force to cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Uterine or cervical anomalies can impact fertility by interfering with implantation or increasing the likelihood of a miscarriage. Inflammation within the uterus due to poor venous and lymphatic outflow can disrupt implantation. The primary site for this disruption, in Dr. Rosita Arvigo's opinion, would be where the sperm enters the tube. ATMAT practitioners often find that the wall of the uterus is endurated with incompletely flushed menstrual fluids causing a crusty layer to develop on the endometrium, which prevents implantation. Women with a congested uterine membrane may have dysmenorrhea and report dark blood at the beginning and end of each menstrual cycle. This is remedied by the Arvigo therapy applied externally over the uterus along with vaginal steams, a cleansing herbal remedy. After these therapies, the amount of thick, dark and often odoriferous material women pass can be truly astounding.

Cervical stenosis

Cervical stenosis, a cervical narrowing, can be caused by an inherited malformation or damage to the cervix from scar tissue or adhesions. Regular self-care massage at home that gently stretches the cervical tissue to eliminate adhesions can alleviate this. Sometimes because of poor arterial circulation or hormonal imbalances, the cervix can't produce the best type of mucus to allow the sperm to travel through the cervix into the uterus.

Damage to fallopian tubes

Damage to Fallopian tubes is a common malfunction improved by regular Acupuncture & ATMAT sessions. When the retroverted uterus lies on top of both Fallopian tubes it can cause severe menstrual cramping, and inability of the smothered tubes to receive either an egg or sperm. Also, if the uterus lies against the colon, there is re-absorption of fecal material from the colon into the uterus. If the uterus is lying to one side (very common) it will rest on one Fallopian tube as well as the internal iliac artery and vein obstructing arterial blood supply and venous outlet. Delicate internal layers and muscles of the Fallopian tubes demand a rich blood supply to receive, nourish and move the conceptus along. Arteries must flow unobstructed to supply the tubal lining with nutrients to nourish a newly fertilized egg that must then be moved along into the uterus for implantation seven days after conception. The passageway between uterus and fallopian tube at the junction of the isthmus is only the width of a sewing needle, so inflammation or adhesions can easily seal the entry so that egg and sperm cannot meet or the fertilized egg cannot descend into the uterus for implantation. It is our estimation in the ATMAT profession that inflammation at the juncture of the isthmus is responsible for much “unexplained infertility.” Fallopian tubes can also be compromised by pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection of the uterus and Fallopian tubes due to chlamydia, gonorrhea or other sexually transmitted infections that leave behind scar tissue in the tubes. Scar tissue and adhesions from previous surgery in the abdomen or pelvis, including surgery for ectopic pregnancy may also be the cause of damage to Fallopian tubes. Scar tissue responds favorably to regular self-care techniques and vaginal steams performed at home by the client.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when tissue that normally grows on the uterine lining implants and grows in response to hormonal fluctuations in other locations. Endometrial tissue has been found in the lungs, intestinal tract and even the nose. One cause is extreme menstrual cramping that forces the uterine lining out of the Fallopian tubes where it can settle in Douglas’ Pouch, the pocket between the uterus and the colon. In the pelvis, this extra tissue growth creates a spider-web of scarring and adhesions that can “incarcerate” the uterus or ovary and obstruct the tube so that the egg cannot enter or travel freely.

Ovulation disorders

Ovulation disorders account for fertility challenges in about 25 percent of couples. These can be caused by flaws in the regulation of reproductive hormones by the hypothalamus or the pituitary gland, or by problems in the ovary itself. Xeno-estrogens in the diet and water supply intended to disrupt reproduction of agricultural pests affect women as much as they do insects.

Anovulation

We have found that anovulatory women who do not have polycystic ovaries will often begin to ovulate after a series of pelvic bowl therapies that include acupuncture, massage, vaginal steams, herbal remedies and dietary changes. Stress, severe weight loss and extreme exercise can also cause an ovarian shut down.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

In PCOS, complex hormonal changes occur in the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and ovaries, which have a negative effect on ovulation. PCOS is associated with insulin resistance and obesity, abnormal hair growth on the face or body, and acne. It's now a common cause of female fertility challenges and requires regular abdominal therapy, better nutrition and daily self care techniques.

Hypothalamic dysfunction

Hypothalamic dysfunction disrupts the pattern of production of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) — Excess physical or emotional stress, a very high or very low body weight, or a recent substantial weight gain or loss can disrupt this pattern and affect ovulation. The main sign of this problem is irregular or absent periods. Acupuncture and ATMAT can correct this function with better nerve impulses from pelvis to brain and improved circulation to the uterus and ovaries.

Premature ovarian failure

Premature ovarian failure is usually caused by an autoimmune response in which the body mistakenly attacks ovarian tissues or by premature loss of eggs from the ovary due to genetic problems or environmental insults such as chemotherapy. In women under the age of 40, it results in the loss of the ability to produce eggs, as well as a decreased estrogen production.

Too much prolactin

Less commonly, the pituitary gland can cause excess production of prolactin (hyperprolactinemia), which reduces estrogen production. Most often this is due to a problem in the pituitary gland, but it can also be related to medications.

Fibroids or Myomas

Benign polyps or tumors (fibroids or myomas) are common in the uterus, and some can impair fertility by blocking the Fallopian tubes or by disrupting implantation. However, many women who have fibroids or polyps can become pregnant.

Uterine abnormalities

Uterine abnormalities present from birth, such as an abnormally shaped uterus or the bi-cornate uterus, can cause problems becoming or remaining pregnant.

Low or poor quality sperm

Low or poor quality sperm is more prevalent now due to hormone disrupting agents in the food and water supply. The male partner is always encouraged to come for acupuncture and abdominal therapy treatments. Often times, he is very grateful to be included and enjoys doing the self-care massage for him and his wife. Congestion in the testicles or prostate is more common lately because of tight clothing, sitting all day, or compression from bicycle seats. Acupuncture and Abdominal therapy decreases congestion thereby increasing life force and blood flow to the male pelvis, which can improve the quality and quantity of sperm. We suggest he wear only loose cotton underwear and avoid hot tubs and if he is a cyclist, a seat with a cut out section for the testicles.

Timing

Clients need to be advised of the best time to have intercourse. Usually couples are extremely well informed about fertile days and the difference between the longevity of sperm (5-7 days) vs ovarian eggs (24 hours).

Unexplained infertility

In some instances, a cause for infertility is never found. It's possible that a combination of several factors in both partners underlie unexplained fertility. Although it's frustrating to not get a specific answer, this problem may correct itself with time.

Whatever the cause, one of the best approaches is daily self-care techniques of ATMAT taught to every client. To this we add pre-menstrual vaginal steams, food therapy and dietary changes to more organic foods high in the rainbow of fruits and vegetables, a clean colon, stress reduction and a properly positioned uterus.

To learn more about the Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therap y (ATMAT), and to find out about upcoming courses and workshops, please visit www.arvigotherapy.com. Rosita Arvigo, DN is a naprapathic physician, herbalist, international lecturer, author and teacher of Maya medicine. She has lived in Belize for thirty years where she studied with more than a dozen traditional healers. Dr. Arvigo is the director of The Arvigo Institute, Rainforest Remedies, The Traditional Healers Foundation and founding member of the Belize Ethnobotany Project. She is dedicated to the preservation of the science and art of traditional Maya herbal healing for the benefit of the people of Belize and the world.

Dr. Bella Lauren & Dr. Rosita in Belize for Mayan Spiritual Healing Workshop in 2013.

Holistic Fertility Protocol:

ACUPUNCTURE PROTOCOLS:

2-3 months prior to conception or IVF
Fertility Herbs /Acupuncture
During IVF: 3x week
Upon conception: 1x week

ATMAT PROTOCOL:

3 months prior to conception to insure proper position of the uterus and open any restrictions or blockages that may be present in the abdominal cavity.
commit to a 1-3 month protocol and package

Fertility Packages

PROTOCOL FOR FERTILITY:

At least a 1- 3 month commitment is required.
Agree to avoid conception during fertility treatment commitment.
Best results are seen with 3-12 months of regular ACUPUNCTURE & ATMAT sessions along with daily self-care practices.
Additional therapies are suggested on a case-by-case basis to aid in detoxification and replenishing the body in preparation for healthy pregnancy
-- ie. Chinese herbal medicine, Yoni/Root-steams, castor oil packs, relaxation massage
For IUI and IVF clients, it is recommended to receive ATMAT & Acupuncture prior to stimulation,or during a break from taking stimulating drugs.
-- Timelines for working with IUI and IVF candidates can unfold very quickly with procedures scheduled with 2 weeks to one-month notice
--ATMAT can still provide the benefits of increased circulation and lymphatic flow, tonify ligament structures and improve pelvic alignment. Reduced abdominal and pelvic tension along with increased awareness and connection to ones pelvic region can help make an uncomfortable procedure less traumatic. We will do our best to be of support and honor your timeline for scheduled procedures.

Why you are encouraged to avoid conception during your three month commitment:

Three months gives your uterine lining time to cleanse and rebuild give you the best chance of conceiving, avoiding miscarriage and having a healthy baby
Three months is an ideal time to make uterine positional corrections; having an aligned pelvis and uterus while pregnant can help prevent low back pain, constipation, hemorrhoids, poor circulation, incontinence, and difficult labor and delivery.
Trying to conceive during the first three months of treatment means that you lose about two weeks of self-care each month, possibly pushing your conception time further out than if you just waited the three months to try to conceive (you can’t do the self care massage if you might possibly be pregnant)

Three month Package for Couples: $1,808

Retail: $2,260 - 20%($452) = $1,808

This package is for couples who are willing to take a break from trying to conceive during the 3 month commitment. This package is 3 months in length and includes 12 sessions for her, 6 session for him.

**During this time you make a commitment to actively avoid conception.

For Her:

6 ATMAT sessions and 6 Acupuncture sessions over the course of 3 months.

One 2.5 hour initial consult and treatment for ATMAT with option of a Yoni/Root Steam bath (Retail: $290)
Five 1 hour ATMAT sessions ($650) and 5 Acupuncture sessions ($500) over the course of 3 months. (Retail: $1150)

TOTAL for HER ONLY: Retail $1440; save 10% ($144) and you pay: $1296

For Him:

3 ATMAT sessions and 3 Acupuncture sessions over the course of 3 months.

One 2 hour initial consult and treatment for ATMAT with option of a Root Steam bath (Retail: $260)
Two 1 hour ATMAT sessions ($260) and 3 Acupuncture sessions ($300) over the course of 3 months. (Retail: $560)

TOTAL for HIM ONLY: Retail $820; save 10% ($82) and you pay: $738

Highlights of the 3 month Fertility Enhancement Package:

a time of rest for you and your partner, no testing or counting days for ovulation
a time of rest and renewal for your body-uterus, ovaries, etc.
a time to reconnect with yourself through self-care
a time to reconnect with your partner and have fun!
Private self care massage instruction for Couples
suggestions on complimentary self-care including castor oil packs, vaginal steams, etc.
Energy balancing, which may include one or all of the following techniques: CranioSacral, Acupressure points to open energy channels & allow optimal potential for conception

•Reflexology (using endocrine, pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, testes/ovaries, uterus points) to increase potential for conception

•Breathing and visualization techniques for relaxation and positive thoughts.

•Guided imagery techniques to promote optimal fertility.

•Castor oil pack to break down scar tissue or other types of physical congestion/blockages.

One month Package for Couples: $1312

Retail: $1640 - 20%($328) = $1312

This package is for couples who wish to actively remain open to conception while also receiving Maya Abdominal Therapy. This package is 1 month in length and includes 8 sessions for her, 4 session for him.

For Her:

4 ATMAT sessions and 4 Acupuncture sessions over the course of 1 month.

One 2.5 hour initial consult and treatment for ATMAT with option of a Yoni/Root Steam bath (Retail: $290)
Three 1 hour ATMAT sessions ($390) and 4 Acupuncture sessions ($400) over the course of 1 month. (Retail: $790)

TOTAL for HER ONLY: Retail $1080; save 10% ($108) and you pay: $972

For Him:

1 ATMAT sessions and 3 Acupuncture sessions over the course of 1 month.

One 2 hour initial consult and treatment for ATMAT with option of a Root Steam bath (Retail: $260)
3 Acupuncture sessions over the course of 1 month. (Retail: $300)

TOTAL for HIM ONLY: Retail $560; save 10% ($56) and you pay: $504

Highlights of the Fertile Season Package:

a beneficial complement to Assistive Reproductive Technologies (IUI, IVF)
Private self care massage instruction for couples
suggestions on complimentary self-care
Energy balancing, which may include one or all of the following techniques: CranioSacral, Acupressure points to open energy channels & allow optimal potential for conception

•Reflexology (using endocrine, pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, testes/ovaries, uterus points) to increase potential for conception

•Breathing and visualization techniques for relaxation and positive thoughts.

•Guided imagery techniques to promote optimal fertility.

•Castor oil pack to break down scar tissue or other types of physical congestion/blockages.