2011 Courses & Classes...Acupuncture Multi-Bed...Acupuncture & IVF...

Latest News

Acupuncture Multi-Bed...

Posted 26-07-2011

Fertile Ground Health Group is launching an exciting and progressive approach to acupuncture treatment in Melbourne.  The Melbourne Acupuncture Multi-Bed Project draws on international trends which make acupuncture more accessible, convenient and cost effective.  Specialising in fertility, IVF support and pregnancy, theMulti-Bed Project is a unique approach to this niche specialist area, providing Melbourne with the highest quality natural medicine health care with some of the most experienced practitioners in this field.
 
Multi-Bed Appointments (45 minutes)
Our Multi-bed Project is one space with three beds divided by screens and curtains for privacy, with one practitioner attending to multiple beds. Each patient listens to guided meditation or relaxation music on individual headphones for increased privacy.
Multi-Bed appointments are suitable for:

  • Repeat visits
  • IVF pre/post transfers
  • Labour Induction
  • Morning sickness
  • Birth preparation
  • Hormone/menstrual cycle regulation
  • Men's fertility
  • Patients with time constraints

All patients require an initial consultation when visiting Fertile Ground Health Group for the first time.  Some exceptions will be possible for IVF and induction patients. 
 
Costs
Multi-bed appointment (45 mins)    $ 65

Contact Details
For further information regarding treatments and appointments at Fertile Ground Health Group and the Melbourne Acupuncture Multi-Bed Project, call our Reception on 03 9419 9988 or email reception@fertileground.com.au
 
For extensive evidence, research and more information about how Acupuncture may be used to treat your particular condition, please view our website www.fertileground.com.au. 

 

 



2011 Courses & Classes...

Posted 25-07-2011

FGHG are proud to offer relevant and informative Courses and Classes in a relaxed, supportive environment, enabling participants to meet like-minded people travelling similar paths.  The following classes are being held in 2011.  For further details, see our 'Courses & Classes' page or simply call us on 9419 9988.



Acupuncture & IVF...

Posted 19-05-2011

When considering the use of Acupuncture to support IVF there are a few key components of treatment to consider.  Some people undertake only the minimum pre- and post-transfer appointments to support the embryo.  Most embark on a more holistic program of treatment aiming to treat the whole person and underlying issues that may be affecting fertility.  At Fertile Ground Health Group, it is our preference to treat more holistically, and we would usually see patients weekly in the lead up to egg collection and transfer.  However, we also have an excellent system that allows us to cater to short term clients.

From a TCM point of view, regular weekly treatments are recommended for most patients with complex issues, or undergoing IVF.  Working weekly enables us to address underlying health issues that may be affecting fertility, as well as working across a cycle to maximise hormone balancing and cycle regulation, follicular and endometrial development, stress as well as addressing any side effects from medications. 

Possibly the most critical, and certainly the most researched, treatment protocol is the use of Acupuncture both before and after the embryo transfer. This happens within a 24-hour period on both sides of the transfer and there is a different aim for each treatment.

In the treatment prior to the transfer, the focus is on increasing arterial blood flow to the uterus to nourish and support the endometrium, moving Qi (energy flow) and blood generally as well as creating relaxation both physically and mentally for a woman prior to the transfer.

After the transfer, treatment is used to create a calm environment in the uterus and minimise any discomfort or cramping from the transfer itself. Points are chosen that support implantation and again focus on the integrity of the endometrium.

In any Acupuncture treatment, it is also important to note that the treatment is always designed in relation to what a woman needs constitutionally and specifically at the time of treatment.  Based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) your practitioner will assess your health and address any concerns presenting on the day.  For example if a patient has a headache, or pain remaining from egg collection, point selection takes this into account. 

A follow up treatment one week after the transfer is also recommended in support of possible implantation.  This is also a time when many women find their stress levels and anxiety start to peak. The relaxing effects of Acupuncture as well as the chance to talk to their practitioner about how they are feeling during this waiting period is highly advantageous.  Treatment aims are similar to the post transfer treatment - settling everything down, supporting implantation and circulation to the uterus, etc.

Prior to starting any IVF cycles, Acupuncture treatment for approximately three months prior for both partners is advisable. Acupuncture is recognised by the World Health Organisation as a treatment for infertility and is used to help the couple to optimise their health and maximise their chances of success. However even without this, the research into the effects of Acupuncture on the outcomes of IVF cycles by just focusing on the pre- and post-transfer treatments is more than favourable.

In 2008 the British Medical Journal published a world first meta-analysis by highly respected Cochrane Review researchers and scientists.  The meta-analysis assessed the main research from around the world pertaining to acupuncture and IVF.  The results clearly showed a positive association between the use of acupuncture and increased success rates with IVF.  For more information on the Cochrane Review and the meta-analysis, see :

Manheimer E, Zhang G, Udoff L, et al. Effects of acupuncture on rates of pregnancy and live birth among women undergoing in vitro fertilisation: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ 2008;336 (7643):545-549.

To read more about the benefits of Acupuncture, go to http://www.fertileground.com.au/acupuncture/



Naturopathy & Fertility...

Posted 19-05-2011

Our Naturopaths are particularly enthusiastic about providing expert preconception care for prospective parents. Preconception care is the ultimate in the naturopathic philosophy "prevention is better than cure". Ensuring your preconception health is at its best means you will experience less health problems during your pregnancy and give a much better opportunity for your baby's constitution, vitality and future health. Our Naturopath's can provide continuous care (both preventative and curative) for you and your family's health through all stages of life.

You can be confident that our experienced, professional and caring practitioners see pregnant and post-natal women, people with fertility/reproductive issues, and babies and children as part of their daily practice.

To read more about the benefits of Naturopathy, go to http://www.fertileground.com.au/naturopathy/



Infertility & IVF...

Posted 19-05-2011

At Fertile Ground Health Group, our Practitioners are experienced in working with couples undergoing IVF and other assisted reproduction methods. They have a thorough knowledge of the IVF process and the physical and emotional experiences you may have during this time. Importantly, because they are supporting couples through assisted reproductive approaches on a daily basis, they are also highly attuned and sympathetic to the emotional stresses you may experience.

During your IVF treatment we may help you in one or more of the following ways:

  • Naturopathic support includes pre-conception care, physical, mental and emotional health support during treatment, and miscarriage prevention measures. A recent study in the U.K. showed that IVF success rates more than doubled when preceded by a period of preconception health care. DVD's outlining this study and its findings are available for loan from the clinic.
  • Recent studies in Germany and China have shown Acupuncture support to be especially successful in enhancing IVF outcomes. (See News and Research page) Proven protocols include preconception care, egg collection and transfer preparation and miscarriage prevention.
  • Stress management and nervous/adrenal system support will enable your body and mind to cope more effectively with ongoing treatment.
  • Appropriate physical treatment and adjustments restore balance, reduce stress, assist physical imbalance and enhance circulation and blood supply to affected areas.
  • Ongoing Counselling support is valuable at this time to help with stress and emotional issues that may arise or to help you and your partner to cope with any challenges or disappointments which may be affecting you or your relationship.

We work closely with your other medical and health professionals to ensure efficacy and safety of treatment. With your consent, we advise in writing of all treatment undertaken with us for your medical records.

To read more about Infertility and IVF, go to http://www.fertileground.com.au/infertility-and-ivf/



Pregnancy Massage...

Posted 19-05-2011

Pre-natal massage has an important role to play as part of your pregnancy support strategy.

Pregnant women often suffer from neck, shoulder, back and hip pain due to hormonal changes and the increasing physical load. Pregnancy massage helps to alleviate tension and pain, relieves headaches, leg cramps, insomnia, fluid retention, stress and fatigue.

We use specially designed massage tables which allow you to lie safely and comfortably on your belly and back until full term.

To read more about the benefits of massage, go to http://www.fertileground.com.au/massage/