Journal Tag: Naturopathy

FSANZ 2025 Poster Presentation Pilot Survey

Enhancing IVF Outcomes Through Integrative Care: The Role of Naturopathy & Acupuncture: Pilot Survey Results from IVF Patients and Specialists

FSANZ Conference September 2025

FSANZ 2025 Enhancing IVF Outcomes Through Integrative Care: The Role of Naturopathy & Acupuncture

 

Pilot survey results from IVF patients and specialists

Presented at the FSANZ Conference September 2025

 

Introduction

IVF patients are driving a collaborative care model for IVF that includes integrative practitioners, seeking personalised support, greater agency, and improved wellbeing. Studies show most infertility †  patients use at least one integrative medicine modality to support conception (Sehgal et al., 2023) and incorporating complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) into IVF care plans can lead to improved psychosocial health outcomes (LoGiudice et al., 2018).

Focus groups in Melbourne found that women † using CAM to optimise conception valued enhanced communication between their CAM practitioners and fertility specialists (Rayner et al., 2009). Coordinated care between conventional and complementary specialists is essential for safe, informed, and effective IVF support (Sharifi et al., 2022).

Fertile Ground is a multidisciplinary complementary medicine practice operating independently from any single IVF provider, enabling collaboration with multiple clinics and specialists while maintaining neutrality, transparency, and trust with both patients and providers. Since 2001, Fertile Ground’s fertility-focused naturopaths, acupuncturists, counsellors, and massage therapists have provided individualised, whole systems care that complements IVF by addressing modifiable factors beyond the laboratory.

Each month, 120 – 150 new patients seek Fertile Ground support for preconception, IVF, pregnancy, and postpartum care – reflecting a growing demand for independent, integrative models that combine medical IVF expertise with whole-person care.

This collaborative approach enables recruitment of patients from multiple IVF clinics, capturing diverse perspectives and minimising institutional bias.

Within this context, we conducted a pilot study to explore the perceived benefits of collaborative care between IVF specialists and Fertile Ground naturopathic and acupuncture clinicians, to inform priorities for prospective evaluation of the role of collaborative care.

Objectives & Aims

  • Assess patient-reported experiences and perceived benefits of collaborative care (naturopathy and acupuncture) during IVF. 
  • Explore IVF specialists’ perceptions of benefits and challenges when their patients engage in collaborative care with Fertile Ground clinicians.
  • Generate preliminary insights into whether collaborative care may contribute to improved health, wellbeing, and fertility outcomes.

Methodology

  • Design: Exploratory pilot survey, July 2025
  • Patients:
    • Online survey emailed to the full Fertile Ground database → 13,091 active emails
    • 33 responses reporting IVF treatment with collaborative care included in analysis
  • IVF Specialists:
    • Survey emailed to 13 IVF specialists/clinics with existing collaborative relationships with Fertile Ground
    • 8 responses received
    • Purposive sampling approach used to capture perspectives
  • Recruitment: Voluntary, self-selected participation; respondents could choose to be identified or remain anonymous
  • Ethics: As an internal quality assurance project, ethics approval was not required, but national ethical guidelines including informed consent were followed
  • Data Collection: Structured and open-ended questions on experiences, perceived benefits, and challenges
  • Analysis: Descriptive statistics (quantitative) and thematic review (qualitative)

Limitations

  • Small, exploratory pilot study – findings are hypothesis-generating rather than conclusive 
  • Limited sample size
  • Short timeline
  • Voluntary participation, introducing potential self-selection bias
  • Not everyone who received a survey responded  – 4283 opened emails, 421 clicks
  • Response rate means that findings may not be generalisable
  • Potential for positive responder bias. Interestingly no negative responses were received.
  • Reliance on participant recollection introduces potential recall bias

Patient Responses: Quantitative Data

Improved subjective patient outcomes attributed to integrative care:

  • “Going through IVF can be a mix of intense highs and lows, but having a small, caring team by your side… can make a huge difference. When you have these therapies and the thoughtful guidance that come with them, it’s not just about increasing your chances of a healthy pregnancy and birth. It’s about feeling held, supported, and understood every step of the way. Taking a whole-system approach to your care can also help you feel more in control, especially in a medical process where so much can feel out of your hands. It’s a way to remain connected with yourself, more in tune with your body, and to navigate the IVF journey with a greater sense of calm and confidence.” Jen
  • “Embryo quality improved, successful implantation, pregnancy went smoothly.” Emma
  • “My care team were really happy with the number of follicles stimulated – resulting in 14 eggs collected and 4 embryos created. I had a successful transfer. I feel collaborative care really helped achieve these outcomes. I didn’t undertake IVF without acupuncture so can’t compare in any other way.” Lisa
  • “My naturopath and I were able to counteract a lot of the side effects of my fertility medications through the use of specific supplements. We were also able to add in supplements that supported all stages of conception and pregnancy to help ensure baby was well supported and healthy/thriving too…I attribute avoiding things like gestational diabetes (expected in my situation…) to excellent support and guidance from my Naturopath.” Nichola
  • “Issues were looked over with a fine-tooth comb. A fertility specialist appointment can be minutes, whereas an initial consult with a naturopath can be 90 minutes – you feel so supported.” Kira
  • “At the time of treatment, when I compared myself to others undergoing IVF, I felt that I was coping both physically and emotionally better due to the treatment of the Naturopath.” Heather
  • “The Fertile Ground staff knew about the meds and treatment details from (my specialist) … meaning Fertile Ground could work with it and understand what I was going through and why. Integrated care like that doesn’t happen enough in healthcare.” Rachel
  • “We did IVF over a 9-year period… it seemed hopeless…. It’s a testament to the naturopath that we ended up eventually having success with IVF, embryo quality improved. Furthermore my mental health and general health was supported. It allowed me to continue with IVF treatment.” Kira 
  • “The emotional support of acupuncture on the day of embryo transfer helped – I stopped needing Valium prescribed by my fertility specialist on transfer day.” Kira
  • “I strongly believe I wouldn’t have a baby (without naturopathy and acupuncture support and) …attribute both my IVF children to working with a senior naturopath with genuine IVF understanding.” Rachel
  • “It made me feel less alone, and like someone was helping me look after my body and my peace of mind (IVF can make you feel very battered and physically wrung out, but I feel like this support was about helping me heal and focused on my care).” Kate
  • “My hormone levels improved with Naturopathy supplements. This meant I could continue my IVF journey. The wholistic approach meant that I was treated for everything, not just what would traditionally be thought of as fertility issues. I lost my first son and I believe that the wholistic approach benefited my subsequent successful pregnancy.” Dianne

Fertility Specialist Responses: Quantitative Data

Observations of collaborative/integrative care from specialists during IVF:

  • “The patients who engage integrative care have a greater understanding about the role that diet, nutrition and lifestyle can play in supporting general health and their reproductive outcomes. They are also more actively involved in their treatment plan…. Those that make changes often feel better about their general health and well-being.” Anon
  • “Patients who have undergone acupuncture are calmer. Patients doing IVF often feel guilty that they are not pregnant, that a negative result is their ‘fault’ … patients seem better able to distance themselves from the outcome, either because they feel they have tried everything, or because the acupuncture actually changes something to make them feel better. Either way, in the end, being calmer and happier seems to improve the patient experience of treatment, and often the end result also.”  Victoria
  • “Our patients have a lot going on. It is unrealistic and unreasonable to think we can manage every aspect of their case. It’s helpful to have a team ready to optimise and support your patients for better outcomes.” Linda 
  • “Healthy lifestyle advice is always given but the collaborative practitioners are better at following up … then showing patients the evidence in terms of blood test results, seminograms, weight change etc how the lifestyle changes have positively affected those results.” Victoria

Experience collaborating with Fertile Ground practitioners:

  • “Extremely positive… they build relationships for the long term and not just short-term goals.” Linda
  • “Reassuring that I know those I work with “know their stuff”.”  Alice
  • “Good communication between Fertile Ground and our clinic which is supportive of collaborative shared care.” Anon

Benefits and challenges of collaboration:

  • “Working with the right practitioners… many practitioners who claim to be experts in fertility.” Anon
  • “I only see benefits. There could be challenges on a financial level.” Victoria

Advice for those considering collaborative care during IVF:

  • “I recommend this to my patients. I am aware that ART offers solutions to mechanistic problems – ovulation, tubal and sperm factors but does not deal with underlying health issues or other symptoms. I believe that integrative care considers patients more holistically, and addresses symptoms beyond infertility. I also believe that patients who engage integrative care feel more supported during their treatment.” ANON

Discussion

At Fertile Ground, we observe that collaborative, patient-centered care is reported by both patients and specialists to lead to improved patient outcomes. This approach allows patients to contribute and not just comply with medication. An individualised and nuanced, whole systems program empowers patients to persist and leads to better clinical outcomes.

Collaboration in Practice – Reported Areas of Benefit

While mechanisms underpinning naturopathy and acupuncture in IVF remain an active area of research, growing evidence across diet, lifestyle, supplementation, herbal medicine, and acupuncture suggests potential effects on oocyte and sperm quality, endometrial receptivity, stress regulation and metabolic health. 

IVF specialists and patients in our survey described collaborative care as supporting:

  • Improved egg and sperm quality (patient-reported embryo quality, implantation, pregnancy outcomes; specialist observations of healthier patients and better treatment engagement).
  • Targeted supplementation to improve outcomes, reduce medication side effects and support pregnancy/baby health.
  • Optimised diet, nutrition, and lifestyle changes (weight, exercise, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol, caffeine and endocrine disrupting chemicals).
  • Reduced stress, coping/resilience and sleep, with patients reporting greater calm and emotional stability; specialists observing calmer, more engaged patients.
  • Enhanced continuity and persistence with IVF treatment, with patients and specialists highlighting greater resilience and ability to “stay the course.”

What does the current research say in support of these interventions?

A substantial body of evidence exists on the role of acupuncture, naturopathy, and lifestyle interventions in IVF outcomes and informs the treatments received at Fertile Ground as part of our collaborative care model. The following represents a brief snapshot of key findings, not an exhaustive review.

Acupuncture

  • Associated with 28–32% higher clinical pregnancy, 42% higher ongoing pregnancy, and 30% higher live birth rates compared with no treatment, particularly in women † with prior failed cycles or at clinics with lower baseline success. Outcomes were most favourable with 3–12 treatments prior to embryo transfer day plus treatment before and after transfer, (Hullender Rubin, 2019).
  • May improve IVF clinical pregnancy and live birth rates, but results remain inconsistent due to methodological limitations and variability in sham controls (Wang et al., 2021; Manheimer et al., 2008; Smith et al., 2019).
  • Reduces IVF-related anxiety and improves emotional wellbeing, with fewer side effects than conventional care alone (Amorim et al., 2018; Hullender Rubin et al., 2022).
  • May support male infertility, via neuroendocrine regulation, reduced inflammation, and improved semen quality (Feng et al., 2022).

Evidence for acupuncture in IVF is mixed, limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneity of protocols, and challenges finding an inert control. Nonetheless, biological plausibility, safety, and patient-reported benefits support its potential role as an adjunctive therapy.

Naturopathy (Diet, Lifestyle, Supplementation)

  • Diet & Lifestyle: Healthy and Mediterranean diets are linked to improved oocyte quality, embryo yield, and IVF/live birth rates (Jahangirifar et al., 2019; Sun et al., 2019). Weight management, smoking cessation, and alcohol reduction are also well established for improving fertility outcomes (yourfertility.org.au., 2025).
  • Environmental Factors: Reducing endocrine disruptor exposure is associated with improved fertilisation and embryo quality (Shen et al., 2024).
  • Micronutrients & Supplements: Evidence suggests benefits for IVF outcomes from micronutrient and targeted supplementation (Arhin et al., 2017), including Omega-3s (Trop-Steionberg et al., 2024), Vitamin D (Iliuta et al., 2024; Jukic et al., 2019), CoQ10 (Lin et al., 2024), N-Acetyl Cysteine (Li et al., 2022), Myo-Inositol (Zheng et al., 2017), B12/5-MTHF (Cirillo et al., 2021), Iron (Tulenheimo-Silfvast et al., 2025), and Zinc (Garner et al., 2021).
  • Male Fertility: Lifestyle and antioxidant therapy can reduce sperm DNA damage in men with failed IVF/ICSI (Humaidan et al., 2022) and enhance sperm quality and reproductive potential (Kaltasas et al., 2024).

Evidence for naturopathic approaches in IVF is mixed, with most studies focused on single factors, and limited by small samples, supplement quality and protocol variation. Whole-systems, multi-modal research is scarce, though practice and patient reports suggest cumulative “marginal gains” that support wellbeing and persistence.

Conclusion

This pilot study suggests that collaborative care combining naturopathy and acupuncture may offer measurable benefits for patients undergoing IVF. Further research is warranted to evaluate the impact of whole-systems, multi-modal, collaborative care models and mechanisms of actions on IVF, clinical pregnancy and live birth rates, as well as patient-centred outcomes.

Key Points for Clinical Relevance

Patient-Reported Perceived Benefits:

  • Collaborative care supported embryo quality, implantation, and healthy pregnancies.
  • Side effects of fertility medications were reduced, and targeted supplements supported conception, pregnancy, and baby’s health.
  • Patients felt physically and emotionally stronger, coping better through IVF treatment.
  • Confidence came from working with knowledgeable, fertility-focused integrative practitioners offering holistic support alongside IVF.

IVF Specialist Observations:

  • Patients in integrative care report being more engaged, calmer, and having better overall wellbeing during IVF.
  • Patients and IVF specialists reported a high degree of trust in practitioners at Fertile Ground for their expertise, evidence-based approach, and strong communication.
  • Collaborative care has the potential to address health and lifestyle factors beyond the scope of IVF alone.
  • Qualified, evidence-based practitioners can optimise outcomes while supporting emotional resilience.

Collaborative care integrating naturopathy and acupuncture may enhance patient experience, adherence, and biological readiness, potentially improving IVF outcomes.

† We acknowledge the diversity of people undergoing IVF/ART; terms such as “women” or “infertility patients” reflect study language, not all lived experiences.

Presenter contact information

For further information about our pilot study or Fertile Ground Health Group please contact:

Fertile Ground Health Group

P: 03 9419 9988

www.fertileground.com.au

 

Charmaine Dennis 

BHSc (Nat), PGCert (Repro Med)

Director | Naturopath

email:  charmaine@fertileground.com.au

 

Gina Fox

BHSc (Nat), MA (Repro Med)

Naturopath | Nutritionist

email:  gina@fertileground.com.au

 

Tina Jenkins

B.Nat), MA (Repro Med-with Excellence), B.A., Cert. Nat. Fert. Mgt., Grad Cert (Learning & Teaching)

Naturopath | Torrens University Clinical Supervisor (Naturopathy and Western Herbal Medicine)

email: tina@fertileground.com.au

 

Georgia Marrion

MHNut, BHSc (Comp Med), Adv Dip (Nat)

Naturopath | Nutritionist

email:  georgiamarrion@fertileground.com.au

 

Christina Tolstrup

BHSc (Chinese Med)

Acupuncturist  | Chinese Herbalist

email: christina@fertileground.com.au

Survey Results

Patient Responses:

  • Emailed to the full Fertile Ground database → 13,091 active emails
  • 4283 opened emails, 421 clicks to links
  • 28 finalised survey responses reporting IVF treatment with collaborative care
  • Summary document linked

Collaborative Care in IVF for FG Patients – FINAL SURVEY RESULTS SUMMARY

IVF Specialist Responses:

  • Survey emailed to 13 IVF specialists/clinics with existing collaborative relationships with Fertile Ground
  • 8 responses received
  • Purposive sampling approach used to capture perspectives
  • Summary document linked

Collaborative Care in IVF for IVF specialists – FINAL SURVEY RESULTS SUMMARY

 

References

Introduction – Collaborative Care Models

  1. Sehgal S et al. Integrative medicine utilization among infertility patients. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2023;21(1):71.
  2. LoGiudice JA, Massaro J. The impact of complementary therapies on psychosocial factors in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF): a systematic literature review. Appl Nurs Res. 2018;39:220-228.
  3. Rayner JA, McLachlan HL, Forster DA, Cramer R. Australian women’s use of complementary and alternative medicines to enhance fertility: exploring the experiences of women and practitioners. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2009;9:52.
  4. Sharifi F, Roudsari RL. Complementary and alternative medicine use in infertility: a review of infertile women’s needs. J Educ Health Promot. 2022;11:195.

Discussion – Acupuncture in IVF

  1. Hullender Rubin LE. Point of Influence: What is the Role of Acupuncture in In Vitro Fertilization Outcomes? Med Acupunct. 2019;31(6):329-333.
  2. Manheimer E et al. Effects of acupuncture on rates of pregnancy and live birth among women undergoing IVF: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ. 2008;336:545-549. 
  3. Smith CA et al. Acupuncture performed around embryo transfer: systematic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Biomed Online. 2019;38(3):364-379.
  4. Wang X et al. Overview of systematic reviews of acupuncture for women undergoing IVF/ET. Front Public Health. 2021;9:651811.
  5. Amorim D et al. Acupuncture and electroacupuncture for anxiety disorders: systematic review. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2018;31:31-37.
  6. Hullender Rubin LE et al. Acupuncture for IVF-related anxiety: systematic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Biomed Online. 2022;45(1):69-80.
  7. Feng J et al. The efficacy and mechanism of acupuncture in the treatment of male infertility: review. Front Endocrinol. 2022;13:1009537.

Discussion – Naturopathy in IVF – Diet, Lifestyle, Supplements

  1. Jahangirifar M et al. Dietary patterns and ART outcomes: a prospective cohort. Int J Fertil Steril. 2019:316-323.
  2. Yourfertility.org.au. Lifestyle interventions for fertility. 2025.
  3. Shen J et al. Exposure of women undergoing in vitro fertilisation to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances: evidence on negative effects on fertilisation and high-quality embryos. Environ Pollut. 2024;359:124474.
  4. Arhin SK et al. Effect of micronutrient supplementation on IVF outcomes: systematic review. Reprod Biomed Online. 2017;35(6):715-722.
  5. Trop-Steionberg S et al. Omega-3 supplements or diets on fertility in women: meta-analysis. Heliyon. 2024;10(8):e29324.
  6. liuta F et al. Women’s vitamin D levels and IVF results: systematic review and meta-analysis considering three categories of vitamin status (replete, insufficient and deficient). Hum Fertil. 2022;25(2):228-246.
  7. Lin G et al. Clinical evidence of coenzyme Q10 pre-treatment for women with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF/ICSO: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Med. 2024;56(1):2389469.
  8. Li X et al. N-acetylcysteine treatment in women with advanced age undergoing IVF/ICSI cycles: prospective study. Front Med. 2022;9:917146.
  9. Zheng X et al. Inositol supplement improves clinical pregnancy rate in infertile women undergoing ovulation induction for ICSI or IVF-ET – A meta-analysis and systematic review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2017;96(49):e8842.
  10. Cirillo M et al. 5-MTHF and Vitamin B12 supplementation is associated with clinical pregnancy and live birth in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021;18(23):12280.
  11. Tulenheimo-Silfvast A et al. Association between iron deficiency and fertility. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2025;104(4):738-745.
  12. Garner TB et al. Role of zinc in female reproduction. Biol Reprod. 2021;104(5):976-994.
  13. Humaidan P et al.  The combined effect of lifestyle intervention and antioxidant therapy on sperm DNA fragmentation and seminal oxidative stress in IVF patients: pilot study. Int Braz J Urol. 2022;48(1):131-156.
  14. Kaltsas A et al. Lifestyle modifications and medicines for male infertility. Diseases. 2024;12(9):209.

Potential mechanisms supporting our clinical approach and outcomes  – A Whole-Systems Approach

Contact authors for further references supporting mechanisms of action. 

  • Dietary Patterns (e.g. Mediterranean): May improve metabolic and hormonal regulation, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, and support gamete and endometrial quality.
  • Cellular Function & Methylation: May optimise mitochondrial activity and ATP production; protect DNA integrity via antioxidant effects; and support one-carbon metabolism (folate, B12, choline) for DNA synthesis, repair, and epigenetic programming.
  • Blood Flow: May enhance autonomic regulation, vasodilation, and perfusion of ovaries and endometrium, supporting implantation parameters.
  • Endometrial Receptivity: Potential improvements in endometrial thickness, vascularity, and receptivity markers.
  • Neuroendocrine Modulation: Influencing hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal signalling and neurotransmitter activity for coordinated reproductive function.
  • Metabolic Support: May improve glucose regulation, insulin sensitivity, and nutrient utilisation relevant to folliculogenesis and embryogenesis.
  • Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant Actions: May reduce systemic and local inflammation, attenuate oxidative stress, and protect reproductive tissues.
  • Detoxification & Environmental Load Reduction: Support for hepatic clearance pathways and minimisation of endocrine-disrupting chemical exposure.
  • Stress Response: Downregulation of sympathetic activity, reduced cortisol, improved parasympathetic balance, and potential support for treatment adherence.
  • Male Factor Support: May enhance testicular perfusion, optimise spermatogenesis, and improve sperm DNA integrity through antioxidant, endocrine, and environmental pathways.

Naturopathic Care for Parents and Babies in Melbourne

Gina Fox naturopathy for babies

As you navigate the transformative journey of pregnancy, birth and parenthood and consider how best to support yourself and your growing family, we encourage you to consider postnatal naturopathy in Melbourne as an avenue for ongoing holistic wellness. Let’s explore the principles and benefits of postnatal naturopathy, shedding light on how it can offer support to both parents and babies through the various critical life stages and big changes.

Unlocking the Benefits of Postnatal Naturopathy

Postnatal naturopathy embraces a holistic approach to health and well-being. It goes beyond addressing specific issues, focusing on various aspects such as diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management. This comprehensive approach extends to the use of nutritional supplementation, herbal medicines, and homeopathy. These tools work in harmony to enhance overall health for both parents and babies.

How Postnatal Naturopathy Works

While postnatal naturopathy can and does provide immediate relief for acute issues, its main emphasis is on holistic intervention and preventative healthcare. Naturopaths carefully assess an individual’s physical and mental state to identify areas for improvement in their overall health and wellness. Collaboration with other medical practitioners ensures thorough testing and diagnoses if needed, resulting in optimal holistic outcomes. Collaboration with your healthcare team is a key value and process at Fertile Ground and The Melbourne Apothecary to ensure you’re getting the best care. We have a wide network of collaborative health professionals from various allied health and medical professions who we commonly work with and refer to.

Naturopathy for Every Family Member

Our services extend beyond postnatal naturopathy for parents in Melbourne. We offer naturopathic care for babies and young children too, at both Fertile Ground and The Melbourne Apothecary, providing convenience through telehealth consultations so you can access naturopathic care with us from anywhere in the world. Our expert practitioners are dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of your entire family.

For Parents

New parenting often brings tiredness, exhaustion, and sometimes overwhelm. Our expert practitioners are highly experienced in helping parents navigate these challenges. Whether you’re recovering from birth, managing breastfeeding concerns, coping with sleep deprivation, or addressing issues of mood and stress, our naturopaths can provide valuable support.

In fact, the time after birth is often referred to as The Fourth Trimester, and support to help your body and mind adjust to this new terrain is critical. If this is you (or about to be you) get started with our free guide:

Download – Free Guide For Your Fourth Trimester

For Baby

Children’s health can often be maintained and restored through minor dietary changes and short-term naturopathic assistance. Our commitment is to help you strike the right balance in supporting your child’s healthy development. We also offer guidance on homeopathic kits and natural remedies for common childhood issues too.

Book a Consultation to Support Your Family Health

If you’re seeking naturopathic pregnancy care, postnatal naturopathy, or support for babies and children, our team at Fertile Ground Health Group in Melbourne is here for you. Our highly skilled naturopathic practitioners are ready to discuss your unique needs and help you achieve optimal health. Book an appointment and access the naturopathic support to help you achieve greater wellness.

Book your naturopathic appointment

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Seedsli – Grain Free Summer Breakfast 🌟

Seedsli is a great alternative to muesli for the grain or gluten challenged and a delightful way to get creative with your breakfast! Seeds are an amazing source of good fats, protein, fibre, essential vitamins and minerals and energy, not to mention packed with flavour. This recipe is simple to put together and will keep in a sealed jar for up to several weeks. It makes approx 4 cups, is gluten free, coeliac, and grain free.

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup each of: unhulled sesame seeds, pepitas, sunflower seeds, flaxseed meal, chia seeds, buckwheat groats (or whatever seeds you have to hand to a total of 3 cups)
  • ½ cup slivered or chopped almonds, toasted and cooled
  • ½ cup coconut flakes, toasted and cooled
  • 1 generous teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 vanilla pod, split (optional)
  • ½ cup puffed quinoa (optional, but a very tasty addition)
  • ¼ cup dried fruit (optional)

Method:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well to ensure cinnamon flavour is well distributed.
  2. Place vanilla pod into a large jar and top up with seeds.
  3. Allow to stand for a few days, with an occasional shake so the vanilla flavour infuses through the Seedsli giving it a delicious aroma and flavour.
  4. Serve with fruit and yogurt, your favourite nut milk, on top of stewed fruit, or make it into a crumble topping with a crunchy, healthy difference. You can even just have it as a tasty snack on its own. For best nutritional results, soak it overnight in a little water or milk before consuming

This recipe is brought to you by The Breakfast Project and the senior fertility naturopathic and nutritionist team ,at Fertile Ground Health Group.

Are you keen to access dietary support for fertility, pregnancy, postpartum or general health? Book in with one of our  Naturopaths for a free 10 minute telehealth consult to find out what’s possible for you > navigate to heading Naturopathy – Fertile Ground > 10 minute Free Naturopathic Introduction.

Book your naturopathic appointment

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What can I do for eczema?

Are you wondering ‘What can I do for eczema?’ How many creams and lotions have you had to use just for it to come back with vengeance? There is so much more to this condition than meets the eye and a lot that can be done to help. Read on!

Why does eczema happen?

Atopic dermatitis/eczema (AD) is multifactorial involving alterations in cell mediated immune responses, barrier dysfunction, IgE mediated hypersensitivity and environmental factors.

Alterations in barrier function along with immune dysregulation are thought to be first step in the development of atopic dermatitis with each of them work cyclically with one another to maintain the eczema presentation (2). 

Impaired barrier function with a high rate of transepidermal water loss places a person at risk of developing eczema (1). Defects in the skin barrier proteins such as keratins, intracellular proteins and transgluataminases facilitate a dysregulated immune response to external environmental antigens and drive an inflammatory skin response (1). 

Why does it itch?

We know the itch of eczema too well and it is caused by the release of histamine in the body. Histamine is released by a subset of sensory neurons which cause itch and allergic inflammation, which is why many people with eczema see a worsening of symptoms when eating high histamine foods (1). 

The importance of lipids (fats) cannot be ignored in patients with eczema. Ceramides, long chain fatty acids and cholesterol contribute to the lipid matrix that makes up the skin. In patients who experience eczema we see a decreased level of long chain ceramides and long chain fatty acids which are reduced by inflammatory Th2 cytokines (1). Th2 cytokines are associated with an increased inflammatory response in eczema as this cytokine reacts to environmental allergens (1). 

The relationship to your skin microbiome

The microbiome of the skin is particularly important in eczema with patients having decreased bacterial diversity with increased opportunistic Staphylococcus and Corynebacterium bacteria. High levels of opportunistic bacteria can increase proinflammatory cellular reactions (1).  

Patients with eczema also have significantly lower numbers of intestinal Bifidobacterium and higher numbers of Staphylococcus (1,2). Overgrowth of opportunistic bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Clostridium difficile, increases intestinal permeability causing a cascade effect on immunity and skin barrier function (1, 2).  There’s a lot you can do for eczema on a skin microbiome level.

How can eczema be treated?

Studies have shown that frequent application of appropriate moisturisers (ceramide dominant or lipid mixtures) can reduce skin inflammation, enhance skin hydration, decrease bacterial colonisation and improve skin barrier function, decreasing the need for topical corticosteroids (1,3). Creams that contain the following have measurable effects on skin barrier function and inflammatory mediators: ceramides, hyaluronic acid, dimethicone, licorice extract (glycyrrhetinic acid), and palmitoylethanolamide (3). 

  • Appropriate probiotics have proved beneficial in the prevention and treatment of eczema through modulating the gut bacteria and immune response (3). 
  • Wearing appropriate clothing textiles such as cotton and silk has been shown to reduce the number of eczema breakouts and aid in cream absorption (3). 
  • Therapeutic bathing in natural mineral rich water and gentle sun exposure has been shown to promote skin healing and improvement in eczema appearance (3). 
  • Natural oils applied directly to the skin have been shown to improve skin hydration, exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial effects reducing chronic and acute skin inflammation (3). 
  • In depth dietary analysis is necessary to identify food sensitivities/allergies that may be contributing to sustained eczema presentation or acute eczema flares. Hypersensitivity to certain foods is seen in 85% of eczema patients. (3)

Eczema/AD are complex conditions that require in depth analysis and targeted treatment to get results. There’s a lot that your naturopath can do for eczema, including prescribing you an appropriate plan to help to get your eczema under control, which may include targeted lotions and assisting you with an overall assessment of your lifestyle and the factors that contribute to the expression of eczema/AD with you.

Written by Lucy Moores, Naturopath and Nutritionist at The Melbourne Apothecary. 

If you’re looking for help with your eczema, book in a free 10 minute chat with our Naturopaths

 

References

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6399565/
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29063428/
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4518179/ 

Are Contraceptives Harmful?

One source of chemical exposure that particularly affects women are pharmaceutical contraceptives, which while providing important birth control benefits, can also have adverse effects on the body, particularly when we have systems, organs or tissues with suboptimal functioning or diseases or nutrient deficiencies. (4)

In our modern world, we are all exposed to a significant amount of chemicals from food, water, medications and the environments we live in and ongoing research increasingly indicates a link between such exposure and the presence of disease and/or health imbalances. (3) In this blog, I’ll dive into the specifics around contraceptive toxicity and what you can do to help yourself clear it whilst 

What types of contraceptives are there?

The most common contraceptives used by women are combined oral contraceptive pills (COCs), progestin-only contraceptive pills (POPs) and intrauterine devices (IUDs – such as the Mirena). Lots of abbreviations there!

COCs contain various combinations and doses of synthetic oestrogen and progesterone (known as progestins), while POPs are progestin (synthetic progesterone) only medications. Each are available in pill, patch or vaginal ring dosage forms. 

The most common type of synthetic oestrogen used in these medications is a compound called ethinyl estradiol (EE) (others that can be used include chlorotrianisene, dienestrol, diethylstilbestrol, fosfestrol, mestranol or quinestro). 

Progestins (the synthetic version of progesterone) can contain old (norethisterone, levonorgestrel, gestodene) or new forms (drospirenone, dienogest, trimegestone). The two types of IUDs are available are the copper-bearing (Cu-IUD) and hormonal-releasing forms. [1,5-7] 

How are contraceptives processed by your body?

So, you either ingest these contraceptive medications orally or they are present in your body following insertion. What happens to these hormones once they are in your body?

The pharmacokinetics (how they are absorbed, distributed and removed from the body) varies depending on the different types and dosage forms used, with oral medications generally having more significant biological effects compared with topical, vaginal or intrauterine forms. (But not always). [4] 

For the oral dosage forms, once it makes its way down the gastrointestinal tract/gut, EE is absorbed quickly (though the rate of absorption can vary from 20-65% between individuals, from day to day and with long-term use). 

Nerdy fact 1: this can be one of the reasons why one woman will respond differently to these medications to another (the fascinating joys of physiology!) 

Once the contraceptive medicine is absorbed, it undergoes metabolism (conversion) in the liver. This produces a range of oestrogen metabolites (substances that have been converted to a different form) that then either leave the body via the kidneys or bowels, or are altered by bacteria in the large bowel/intestine and reabsorbed and recirculated throughout the body. [4,8] 

Nerdy fact 2: this is one of the reasons why gut health influences hormone levels and activity in the body and therefore menstrual health and fertility). 

So, what about progestins (our synthetic progesterone)? They only go through the step of conversion in the liver (they aren’t reabsorbed and recirculated like oestrogens are). Though (you know what I’m going to say here…) the rate (how quickly or slowly) that progestins are metabolised will be different depending on the type of progestin in the medication used. [8]

How do synthetic contraceptive hormones get processed in your body?

The summary so far:

  • How these synthetic hormones are absorbed and distributed in the body will vary from one woman to the next depending on the type and duration of medication used. 
  • It will also vary because of the wide range of differences between us all in our physiology (which body systems and organs are working well and which ones need some love). This will influence the degree to which such substances can adversely affect our bodies in one way or another. 

Contraceptives and their side effects

The types of adverse impacts associated with such contraceptive medications and devices can include our gut and vaginal microbiomes, liver function, oxidative stress levels, chemical accumulation and nutrient status. [9-16] 

That sounds like a lot, right? Keep in mind we will all respond differently to such medications, so it’s important to consider your own individual response and if a particular contraceptive is right for your body or not. 

It’s all about the bugs….(gut and vaginal microbiome) 

The link between contraceptive medications and the gut microbiome is complex/complicated. 

Certain intestinal bacterial species with a particular enzyme called beta-glucuronidase and beta-glucosidase in the colon (you may have heard of the term ‘estrobolome’ which this is referring to these type of gut bugs) alters the structure of oestrogen in bile. How is this relevant? This will influence the amount of oestrogen that is reabsorbed and recirculated around the body. [17,18] 

Nerdy fact 3: intestinal dysbiosis (an imbalance between beneficial and non-beneficial bacteria in the gut) can mean more oestrogen is recirculated in the body, and in this case, more is not better when it comes to too much oestrogen!

And here’s the thing…both oral COC and IUDs can alter gut microbiota and vaginal microbiome composition and the integrity of our small intestinal lining (which can cause, contribute to or exacerbate dysbiosis). [9-16] This means that contraceptives may indirectly contribute to body toxicity by adversely affecting the capacity of the gut to metabolise and excrete other environmental chemicals we are commonly exposed to (xenobiotics including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, nitrotoluenes, pesticides, polychlorobiphenyls, heavy metals, benzene derivatives, azo dyes, artificial sweeteners). [20] 

Take home message 1: the balance of your bugs matters when it comes to hormone health and fertility. 

Contraceptives and your liver function

Contraceptives can also affect how happy your liver is, which is important because one of the key functions of this important organ is to detoxify a HUGE range of substances from the outside (chemicals from our food, drink, environment and medications, including the hormones from these contraceptives) and inside our bodies to make them safer for removal from the body.

That is, certain contraceptives (and our gut bugs) can affect the activity of our liver enzymes (the good guys that carry out these detoxifying reactions). [21] This can present a problem when the level of our chemical exposure exceeds the ability of these liver enzymes to detoxify them, resulting in higher levels of circulating (unconverted) toxic metabolites, further contributing to an overload of these liver detoxification pathways. [4,8,22] 

Take home message 2: healthy liver function is another key aspect of hormone health and fertility. 

Contraceptives and their impact on nutrient and trace mineral status

Contraceptive medications may also contribute to endogenous toxicity by modifying endogenous nutrient, heavy metal and trace mineral levels, subsequently influencing (nutrient-dependent) hepatic detoxification and cellular antioxidant enzyme activity.

A range of studies have shown that nutrients that can be lower with use of OCPs, IUDs or injectable contraceptives include zinc, selenium, phosphorus, magnesium and vitamin B12 while higher levels of iron, copper and cadmium can also occur. [31,32, 33, 34, 35]

Lower levels of selenium, zinc and magnesium can influence body toxicity as they are required for the synthesis and activity of antioxidant enzymes in the body (including glutathione (magnesium), superoxide dismutase (zinc), glutathione peroxidase and selenoprotein enzymes (selenium). [36] 

The toxic effects of the heavy metal cadmium in the body include by depleting glutathione levels, inhibiting antioxidant enzyme activity and increasing the synthesis of free radicals/oxidative stress [37] Copper, when it’s too high, can contribute to pathological oxidative processes in much of the body, including inactivation of glutathione peroxidase and oxidation of hepatic mitochondrial cells, while excess iron results in the formation free radicals. [33,38,39] When there are excessive levels of oxidative stress in body cells and tissues with use of contraceptives, this can have a detrimental impact on detoxification processes and overall body toxicity and functional capacities.   

Take home message 3: nutrient status and oxidative stress can be adversely affected by contraceptives, particularly if you have used them for an extended period of time. 

What can you do if you think contraceptives are adversely affecting you?

The use of pharmaceutical contraceptives has an important place in the population for birth control and family planning purposes – this blog is not a directive to come off all your contraceptives! 

However, their potential detrimental impact on the body (and your reproductive health and fertility in many cases) is an important consideration. This means it is important to identify if the health issues you are experiencing are associated with your contraceptives and getting individualised support with strategies including functional pathology, dietary modifications, nutrient, herbal and lifestyle changes to address such imbalances. 

Written by Senior Fertility Naturopath & Nutritionist, Georgia Marrion MHNut, BHsci (Comp Med), Adv.Dip HSci (Nat) MNSA, MANPA, MFSA

Make a free 10 minute booking with Georgia to get started on your journey towards better health.

References
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  33. Babic Z, Tariba B, Kovacic J, Pizent A, Varnai VM, Macan J. Relevance of serum copper elevation induced by oral contraceptives: a meta-analysis. Contraception 2013 Jun; 87 (6): 790-800.
  34. Imperato F, Perniola G, Mossa B, Marziani R, Perniola F, Stragapede B, Napolitano C. The role or copper-releasing intrauterine device or levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system on uterine bleeding and iron status (prospective study of 8 years). Minerva Ginecol 2002 Jun; 54 (3): 271-8. 
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  37. Rahimzadeh MR, Rahimzadeh MR, Kazemi S, Moghadamnia AA. Cadmium toxicity and treatment: an update. Caspian J Intern Med 2017; 8 (3): 135-145. 
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  39. Kohgo Y, Ikuta K, Ohtake T, Torimoto Y, Kato J. Body iron metabolism and pathophysiology of iron overload. Int J Hematol 2008; 88 (1): 7-15. 
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Are you our next Fertility Naturopath?

An exciting opportunity is available now for an experienced Fertility Naturopath to join our team at Fertile Ground Health Group.

Fertile Ground Health Group practitioners have been leaders in their respective professions for IVF support, fertility, pregnancy-related treatments and general reproductive medicine care for over 21 years. Our practitioners are well respected amongst medical specialists and experts within this area of practice.

We pride ourselves in providing exceptional standards of patient care and believe that collaboration and co-creation create the best learning environment where everyone involved benefits – practitioners, patients and the team supporting both. We have a large influx of new patients ready and waiting for the right new practitioner.

To be eligible for this position, you already have passion, interest and experience in reproductive health, pre-conception care, infertility, IVF/ART, pregnancy, birth and beyond. Mentoring and supervision with seasoned practitioners on our team is also available if required.

You will receive

You will not only receive dedicated business management and administrative support, but will also be immersed in a collaborative team of well-known professionals to grow, work and co-create with. We provide support and opportunities from all angles to guide, develop and expand your professional profile. You will have new patients waiting to see you and the established reputation of Fertile Ground Health Group including professional and collaborative referral networks to provide you with a consistent flow of patients to work with on an ongoing basis.

Is this you?

  • You value collaboration and your ability to develop referrer relationships and patient results are a must.
  • You want to establish yourself as a leader in your profession and you are willing and ready to raise your profile through opportunities that excite you (we have opportunities for exposure and growth rolling in all the time).
  • You understand the value of writing blogs and social media, marketing contribution, relationship building, speaking opportunities (to health professionals or patient groups), running workshops, classes or support groups (in person, on zoom or on social media).
  • You may feel ready to be a mentor in the naturopathic field or run masterclasses of your own, for practitioner or patient audiences (or both). In either instance, we are fully set up to support you to take off in this arena too.

As a member of our team you receive full access to all the foundational goods that come as part of the extensive springboard that is Fertile Ground Health Group, providing you with endless opportunities to accelerate your practice.

What we’re looking for

We are looking for an experienced naturopath who would like to simplify the work involved in running a business and dispensary, who is ready to focus on being a fully supported, fantastic practitioner, dedicating efforts to growing patient reach, enhancing their profile and growing their career with Fertile Ground Health Group. Ideally you are ready to let go of all the (often unpaid) work of running your business and ready to fully immerse in what you love most – seeing patients and being  the best practitioner you can be (without wearing so many different hats).

Prerequisite

We require up-to-date fertility and IVF knowledge in order to continue serving our patient base with the high standard of care that they enjoy. The successful applicant will, of course, be well supported and integrated into the existing naturopathic team, with mentoring if desired. A solid baseline understanding of current research and confident clinical application is required as a baseline and completion of relevant reproductive medicine courses or demonstration of equivalent experience is considered favourably.

Practice session times

You will need to commit to a minimum of two sessions per week with room to grow over time. Sought after Saturdays are encouraged even if alternating. Practicing options include both in person and/or Telehealth (Zoom or phone). Appointments can be conducted from wherever you are – providing you have a stable internet connection. In light of this new Telehealth paradigm, if you are interstate you are also welcome to apply.

If you are able to offer face to face sessions from our practice at 6 Smith Street, Collingwood, Melbourne, you will be working in one of Australia’s most intentionally beautiful and vibrant clinic spaces with an extensive dispensary at The Melbourne Apothecary, which supplies all of your prescription needs. At present, our naturopaths work both from home via Telehealth and in person at the practice, depending on preference.

What is The Melbourne Apothecary?

The Melbourne Apothecary (The MA) was created in 2020 to provide Melbourne’s first prescription-only naturopathic dispensary, serving the Fertile Ground Health Group team as well as filling prescriptions for naturopaths all over Australia. The MA serves to protect the privacy of our fertility and IVF patients (for those who want it) along with opening up to the general health population as a street-frontage “shop” and growing general health practice. It is a truly beautiful space and strives to be an example of what is possible.

Apply

To apply please email a cover letter detailing your interest, availability and ideal scenario along with your resume to Charmaine Dennis at charmaine@fertileground.com.au

Applications close December 15th December 2022. Apply asap as we will be interviewing as soon as the right candidates land in our inbox.

“It always feels too soon to leap. But you have to – because that’s the moment between you and remarkable.” Seth Godin

How to find calm amid the chaos

Is now the right time to develop a calm meditation practice? I think it is and I want to help in these tricky times, so I’ve decided to offer FREE group meditation sessions on zoom.  Hopefully you’ve been able to join the first two and I’d love it if you would join me on the final session on Wednesday 6th May at 8.30am.

The Benefits of Meditation

I’m sure you’ve already heard much about the benefits of meditation.  So I’m not going to rave on about the benefits (much).  If you haven’t yet heard meditation can help you with an incredibly diverse range of things such as providing immense relief from your anxiety and stress, resetting your circadian rhythms, regulating a daily practice of deep rest, facilitating repair in your body, encouraging a deeper sense of connection and wholeness – the list is endless. These are just some of the top few that are relevant to our current circumstances.

This may be your opportunity to include meditation within your daily ritual so that you can use these crazy COVID-19 days to hone a skill that can serve you in other challenges that will inevitably come over the years (to all of us).  Life brings us all shades of circumstance – some we perceive as brilliant, others perceive as not so. We know that there will always be more challenges. Thankfully, adopting meditation as a daily practice can really help you rise to any occasion and keep calm amidst it. Through meditation you can enhance your resilience, your capacity and your ability to think clearly.

What can we do?

This current situation isn’t something we can run away from, it is our life. The only thing we can be certain of right now is that the current lockdown will continue for some time. So we can choose how we wish to show up each day over the next number of weeks and what practical things we want to do each day to support our own health and to help others.  

I have taught people meditation for a number of years now and I hear common questions about obstacles to meditation – I’d like to share a few insights with you.

Common Questions

My mind is so busy I just can’t settle and meditate

I have news for you, everyone’s mind is busy.  That is what minds are built for – to think and be busy and look out for us.  This isn’t a hindrance to meditation and we’re not trying to empty the mind of thoughts – that’s a bit like saying we can stop getting older….  we can’t and we don’t want to stop our thoughts.  So yes everyone can meditate.

I don’t know what meditation style to follow

There are many ways to meditate and you can place your attention on various objects like breathing,  sounds, a candle, or you can count or recite a mantra.  There’s no right or wrong and it’s a matter of finding a style that suits you.  You can also use different objects on different days.  Following the breath is the most universal and this is the style that I’ll teach over the free sessions.

Will meditation make me too relaxed so that I’m not motivated to do anything?

In fact meditation can help you to do the opposite.  It’s helping to train the mind to focus on an object of awareness and this in turn helps us to know when our mind wanders.  It can do wonders for our ability to focus on a job and not on distractions and to use our time more effectively.

How can I find time to meditate in my busy life?

Hopefully now many of you are at home or working from home this may be easier to find some time whether it’s 10 minutes or longer.  Once you develop a routine it’s much easier to incorporate once our lives open up again.  It really is a matter of prioritising our health above other things like netflix!

Can I meditate on a chair or lying down rather than sitting on a cushion cross legged?

Yes you can meditate sitting on the floor on a cushion or on a chair or even standing or walking meditation.  Although you can meditate lying down this might be best to do as a relaxation before bed as you may well fall asleep.

Calm on

Spending time regularly sitting and being with ourselves and listening to ourselves is highly productive.  If you would like some support in making meditation part of your daily routine I am offering a final meditation session this week.  Simply sign up and we’ll send you a zoom link. I will lead some meditation sessions followed by a question and answer session.  The session is 30 minutes and the date is Wednesday 6th May 2020 at 8.30am.

Gina Fox

Naturopath & Fertility Educator

Are you looking for support with your fertility, health, or mindset? You’re welcome to book in with Gina Fox.

Lockdown Lentil Patties

Lentil Patty Life Savers

Have you been struggling for lunch ideas while in lockdown? Lost for inspiration amongst preparing all your own food? These lentil patties have been a life saver for me. With the weather getting colder, I’m sure most of use feel like a warm meal for lunch but want something that is quick, tasty and healthy. These patties are all of those things.

Lentils are a good source of minerals and B-vitamins, plus protein and fibre to keep you full and satisfied well into the afternoon and balance your blood sugar. The nuts, seeds and eggs in this recipe up the protein content further and provide further minerals and Bs. The other ingredients give plenty of flavour but I like to top my patties with some chilli hummus, babaganoush, or avocado and goats cheese for extra deliciousness. Plus, don’t forget the green leaves.

I make the mixture up on a Sunday, shape into patties and freeze. Then, I take them out in the morning as needed to thaw and cook at lockdown lunchtime. Here is how.

 Ingredients
  • 2 ½ cups cooked green lentils – also referred to as brown lentils (soak overnight and cook or use organic canned lentils), half whole and half blended to a paste
  • 1 cup carrots, finely chopped
  • 1 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, ground
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds, ground
  • 1 cup rolled oats, ground
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste 
  • 2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh or dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon fresh or dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
  • 1/4-1/2 cup wholemeal spelt flour (use chickpea flour for gluten-free)
  • polenta for coating
  • olive oil for cooking
Method

Use a food processor to prepare all your ingredients in a flash, process each on separately and add to a large mixing bowl as you go. I usually grind my walnuts, then sunflower seeds, then oats, then chop the wetter stuff like onion, garlic and carrot, and lastly blend half my lentils.

Once these are all in the bowl add the eggs, tomato paste, Worcestershire, oregano, thyme, salt and pepper. Mix well.

Then add the flour, starting with a 1/4 cup. Try rolling a 2-inch ball with the mixture, if it is too wet, add the rest of the flour.

Roll into 2 inch balls, coating each ball gently in polenta (spread your polenta out on a plate to do this) and then flattening onto a baking tray lined with baking paper to form discs about 1.5-2cm thick.

Pop your tray/s in the freezer for an hour or so until patties are frozen and enough to handle and then stack them in an airtight container in the freezer until ready to use.

Cooking

Take out your patties a few hours before you want to eat them and let thaw in the fridge.

Cook for a few minutes on each side in hot olive oil until crispy and warmed through.

Go crazy with healthy toppings, e.g.
  • try tomato, cheese, onion, rocket and organic tomato sauce
  • chipotle hummus, sliced cucumber and spinach
  • babaganoush, avocado and tomato
  • beetroot relish and cheese
  • a fried egg and rocket

Josephine Cabrall

Naturopath

BHSc (Nat)

Recipe modified from Classic Lentil Burgers by https://www.makingthymeforhealth.com/

Improve your fertility during lockdown

The current COVID-19 pandemic has bought about a number of significant changes in day to day life for all of us, let alone for those of you focusing on your fertility.

Many people are working from home and may have additional challenges negotiating this new work/life space. Whilst there are certainly pros and cons of being in lockdown, there are many things that you can be doing now to help improve your chances of conceiving. 

Focus on what you can do now

Whilst there may be an overwhelming feeling of lack of control in the current circumstances, try to focus on what you can control and what factors you can change that may help improve your fertility. 

Diet & Exercise

If you are not in the healthy weight range, aim to change your diet and exercise levels to help achieve this.

We know that being overweight or underweight can impact your fertility negatively and can also reduce your chances of success with IVF. Now is the time to address this. 

Start with calculating your BMI and your waist measurement. Look online or in our book (Create a Fertile Life) for details around calculating your BMI and waist measurements correctly. 

If your BMI is less than 18.5 or greater than 25, or your waist measurement is greater than 94cm (for men) or 80cm (for women), then you may need support in achieving a healthy weight to improve your fertility.

Make a time to speak to your naturopath about what changes are necessary to help you achieve a healthier more fertile weight. They will also be able to assess whether there are likely to be any other contributing factors that may be affecting your ability to maintain and/or achieve a healthy weight. 

Exercise regularly

Aim for 30-60 minutes of exercise every day. Along with benefits to your fertility, exercise helps to improve your mood, blood sugar and hormone balance, circulation, energy and assist in weight management.   

It’s probably never been more important than now to be exercising regularly. The COVID-19 pandemic has the potential to negatively affect our mental health. Impacts can come in the form of financial stress, job insecurity, isolation and less social connections. This may also affect our fertility by increasing our stress and anxiety and exacerbating any previous mental health issues.

Exercising regularly is a wonderful positive change you can make to help improve your body’s ability to manage stress and resilience. Start with doing something and build up from there. Use that extra time in your day that you may have spent travelling to/from work to lock in a daily exercise routine and stick to it. Book it in at a specific time each day.  I have been doing Yoga or Pilates classes at 4pm every day which has been a lovely way to wind down and also work out (see below for some free online classes). Try to find something that you enjoy and that makes you feel good after completing. 

Make your diet more fertile!

Now is the time to focus on making those changes to your diet that you may not have had time to do so before. Use this time productively to nourish yourself with healthy meals. For example, cook up big batches of healthy soups or broths and freeze these in smaller portions so that they are readily available for a meal when needed.

Treat yourself to a daily nutrient-dense smoothie, make some chia seed puddings or your own wholegrain bread. Now is also the perfect time to cut out the caffeine and alcohol which may be easier due to the lack of social functions. Speak to your naturopath, or look at our website for recipe ideas or to the Chapters in our book, Create a Fertile Life, for more inspiration. 

Utilise healthy stress management techniques

Stress affects all aspects of male and female fertility. Fortunately, stress reduction programs can significantly improve your chances of having a baby. This is now the perfect time to be introducing daily deep breathing techniques, visualisation and/or meditation.

There are many apps e.g. Smiling Minds, Headspace, Stop Breath Think etc that you can use to begin with. There are also specific fertility-related meditations that you can download made by our very own naturopaths Charmaine Dennis and Gina Fox. Give them a go.

Try to make meditation a daily practice. It can create powerful change in your life.

Now is the time to focus on what positive steps you can make during lockdown to help improve your fertility.  We know that whilst a woman’s eggs are present from birth, they take 3-4 months to mature in the ovaries before they are ovulated. Sperm are manufactured from scratch over the same time frame. This preconception period of 3-4 months is a wonderful time to focus on supporting the growth and development of both the eggs and sperm so that they are likely to be a lot healthier and thus, improve your chances of conceiving.

More helpful action taking resources for you

Free Yoga class  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=epsvORtTVk0

Free Pilates class https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-750Jo8CUU

Tina Jenkins
Naturopath
B.Nat., Masters of Reproductive Medicine (MRMed), B.A., Cert Nat Fert Mgt.
Member FSA, NHAA, ATMS

Looking for a Naturopath to support you? Book in with Tina here.

Changes to health insurance rebates for naturopathy

By now you will have received notification from your private health insurer informing you that your rebates for naturopathy will no longer be available.  For the millions of people who have benefited from the very real and very powerful results of naturopathic care, this political decision is equally concerning and confusing.

While we are busy being politically active, speaking and writing to members of parliament and signing petitions to change this unfounded decision, it looks like it is still going ahead as of the 1st April, 2019.

You will still be able to take advantage of your rebates for naturopathy up until the 1st April and as far as we understand, all claims that need to be made online for past appointments must be submitted before the 1st of April as well. If you haven’t already done so, now is the time to organise your receipts and make those claims.

We will keep fighting for this decision to be overturned and if you are benefiting from your work with our naturopaths, you can fight for it too. Give your local member a visit or call, write a letter using this template or sign this petition and help them to see how valuable our naturopathic services have been for your health and fertility outcomes.

There is SO MUCH EVIDENCE to support naturopathy and it’s not difficult to find the published research for the benefits of herbal, nutritional and lifestyle medicine.  In fact, we are about to launch a book with over 200 scientific references supporting naturopathic approaches just for preconception. This represents a mere drop in the ocean for research and evidence supporting naturopathic approaches in diet and lifestyle modification, herbal and nutritional medicine for fertility, general health, acute and chronic conditions.

Rest assured that FGHG naturopaths will continue to provide professional, evidence-based naturopathic support and you will still be able to claim for acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, osteopathy and remedial massage at Fertile Ground, so all is not lost! Besides, the benefits you receive from naturopathic support will continue well beyond any rebate you don’t receive!

If you would like to learn more, or do something about the decision to remove naturopathy from health insurance, we hope you find these links to information useful and insightful.

Petition – change.org
Have your say – template letter to the government
Letter to Minister from Your Health Your Choice – Formal request to Australia’s Health Minister, Greg Hunt to amend the Private Health Insurance  Rules 2018
Article – Article from Gill Stannard: You’ll soon be unable to claim for naturopathy and herbal medicince
Article – How did the Australian government conclude “There’s no evidence for naturopathy”
Article – Subsidies for natural therapies abolished 
Latest news – Your Health Your Choice Facebook Page
Listen to report – Discusses the flawed method of review in the decision to amend private health for naturopathy. Features Professor Stephen Myers, Southern Cross University