Gynecology/ Infertility

 Yoga

 

A very famous teacher, Geeta S. Iyengar, author of Yoga a Gem for Women (Allied, Publishers Limited, 1983), writes extensively on women's issues. She stresses the importance of practicing several asanas to aid in conception. Salamba Sirsasana (Supported Headstand), Salamba Sarvangasana (Supported Shoulderstand) , and Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Supported Bridge Pose) are recommended because of their hypothesized effects on hormonal balance.

She also recommends the following poses:

 

Forward bends—To make the poses more restorative, place a chair in front of you and rest your head and arms on the seat for support, or use a bolster for support.

• Dandasana (Staff Pose)
• Baddha Konasana (Bound Angle Pose)
• Janu Sirsasana (Head-to-Knee Forward Bend)
• Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)
• Upavistha Konasana (Wide Angle Pose)
• Malasana (Garland Pose)

Reclining Poses—These poses are helpful because they open and elongate the abdominal area.

• Bound Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclined Bound Angle Pose)
• Supta Virasana (Reclined Hero's Pose) 

She also recommends Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose) after coitus (which will theoretically keep the sperm inside the body and close to the opening of the uterus) to encourage the opportunity for sperm penetration. Before coitus set up for Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose). As you move into and out of the pose, keep the abdominal area soft-your partner can assist you to make this possible. The amount of time you spend in Viparita Karani is up to you.

To set up for Viparita Karani: Fold a sticky mat into quarters and place it two inches from the wall. Place a round bolster or a firm folded blanket on top of the sticky mat with the back edge of the bolster or blanket in line with the back edge of the mat. Place the buttocks on top of the bolster with the sitting bones as close to the wall as possible and the legs up the wall. The tailbone should tilt toward the ceiling so that the vaginal area is pointing upward. The shoulders, arms, and head rest on the floor. Once in the correct pelvic position, allow the legs to soften and bend the knees to allow the abdominal and pelvic floor to relax.

 

 

 

Nutrition

Professional Chinese Medicine strongly believes in the relationship between diet and fertility.   Only recently has Western medicine begun to embrace this.   At your first visit, Ms. Westhauser will discuss the ways that Chinese Medicine's view of nutrition may enhance your fertility.  In general,  foods that are warm, cooked and organic, with an emphasis on protein, greens and grains are paramount.  Grains and beans should be well-cooked and soups, stews and teas are incorporated into meals.  There is an avoidance of raw and cold foods, including salads and fruit juices.  Ms. Westhauser will tailor your diet based on your  Chinese diagnosis.

 

General Nutrition Guidelines:

 

• Avoid raw and cold foods (including uncooked vegetables and fruits)

• No coffee or alcohol

• Eliminate dairy (some high fat yogurt is allowed) 

 

Increase the following foods:

Proteins: slow cooked and broken down lean meats, cold water fish (3-4 times a week), eggs, beans, legumes, nuts and seeds (including almonds and walnuts), quinoa, amaranth, millet

Greens: slightly steamed or quickly sauteed spinach, swiss chard, kale, mustard greens, collards, seaweeds 

Warm foods: crock pot foods, soups, stews, chili, oatmeal, hot grain cereals 

Warming spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, curry, cumin, fennel, turmeric, paprika 

 

General Supplements: 

Vitamin C, Calcium, Zinc, L-Arginine, Fish Oils, Flax Seed Oils, Spirulina, Wheat Grass