Fertility Support for Men & Women

Fertility Optimization

For healthy couples, this portion of the program involves adding a few key supplements, and then patience, as pregnancy will often occur with minimal intervention.  Supplements can be added to improve egg quality (especially for those over 35), as well as support healthy development such as 5-MTHF (methylated folic acid), omega 3 oils, and more.

If conception does not occur within 3 months, or medical intervention is required from the start for your unique fertility journey, cycle monitoring in women and sperm testing in men is advised. This is not necessarily an indication of any problems, however starting to monitor a cycle early can speed up appropriate treatment interventions if needed. Appropriate levels of cycle monitoring are discussed and taught.  Sperm optimization strategies will be targeted based on results. 

By 6 months of trying to attain pregnancy, or when medical fertility approaches are a co-therapy, clients will be put on a more comprehensive program, matching the clients needs, wishes, and unique fertility concerns. Many couples will be successful within this program, which can include acupuncture, CranioSacral tharpy, Bowen therapy, uterine massage, botanical, nutritional and homeopathic supports for female and male fertility concerns, all offered at our Calgary fertility clinic.

Common problems seen and supported are:

Correction of uterine position
PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome)
Autoimmune conditions
Hormonal imbalances
Ammenorrhea and irregular cycles
Endometriosis
Hypothyroidism
Sperm irregularities- morphology, motility and count

Family Planning

Deciding you want children is a truly exciting moment in life. This moment may have been planned for well in advance, come by surprise, or be linked with a desire to preserve fertility and egg quality due to age, fertility challenges or illness. There are many ways a family can be made, and just as many ways our Centre for Natural Medicine Calgary fertility clinic can support you with Naturopathic Medicine.

Co-therapy with Conventional Treatments

For clients initiating treatments including Clomid (Clomiphene), Letrozole, IUI, ICSI, IVF, surrogacy and embryo or egg donation, plans are adjusted to optimize success. Nutritional supports have been shown to both improve natural ovulation rates, as well as response to fertility medications. Naturopathic Calgary fertility clinic protocols are guided by research, and influenced with over 20 years experience supporting couples going through fertility treatments.

 

 

 

Pregnancy Support

One of the most rewarding parts of doing fertility work is transitioning into pregnancy support. Providing clients with up-to-date evidenced based approach to all aspects from exercise (important!), to optimal doses of 5-MTHF, DHA, probiotics, and more. Specific supports and goals are outlined in each trimester. Pregnancy programs are tailored to the needs of each client, supporting symptoms from fatigue, nausea and constipation, to hyperemesis gravidarum and pre-eclampsia. This program is intended to be a co-support with midwifery or obstetric programs. Treatments that may be recommended as needed include IV nutritional support for hydration and fatigue, Bowen therapy and acupuncture for hormone balancing, alignment, pain relief, birth preparation, and more.

Preparation for Labour & Early Days of Parenting

Support and guidance are provided to help prepare your body for the marathon of birth, and the early needs of parenting, including nipple preparation, pelvic floor preparation, optimizing chance of ideal baby position for birth, and strategies for birthing. Essential remedies are discussed and provided for birth preparation, labour, and post birth support for mom and baby.

The Fourth Trimester – Attachment and Nursing

Support and plans are discussed to optimize integrating your new family. This includes planning for minimizing postpartum depression, supporting nursing plans, and supporting siblings. Early Bowen therapy and CranioSacral therapy can help speed healing for mom and baby post-birth. Additional supports are available as needed for early concerns such as milk supply, colic, skin rashes, pain, fatigue, and more.

On-going Care- Paediatrics

Naturopathic medicine is an amazing first-line support for paediatric care. From healthy approaches to diet and supplements for kids, to natural approaches to fevers, ear infections, colds, well child visits, vaccination supports and more.  Dr. Kirk ND’s goal is to empower parents to feel confident in treating their own children for common concerns, and trusting us to be there for new challenges, and to refer for medical help when needed. Kids heal so fast when supported with the right approach. A part of working with kids is learning which barriers to healing a child has, such as food sensitivities, poor diet, anxiety and constipation. The benefits of transitioning kids to a naturopathic lifestyle are noticed by parents and teachers alike, and most importantly, kids feel better.