Tag: fertility acupuncture preston

Trying to Conceive? Why Natural Skincare Matters More Than You Think

by JMReflex, posted in Acupuncture, Fertility

When you are trying to conceive, it is natural to focus on diet, supplements and lifestyle. You might start tracking your cycle, supporting your hormones, or eating more nourishing, fertility-friendly foods. But one area that is often overlooked is the everyday products we apply to our skin, hair and body.

We are usually careful about what we eat, but do we pay the same attention to what we put on our skin? The skin is permeable and many ingredients in personal care products are absorbed into the bloodstream. This becomes particularly relevant in the preconception phase, when you are working to create the healthiest possible internal environment for pregnancy.

The Problem with Petrochemicals

A large number of mainstream skincare, body care and cosmetic products are based on petrochemicals. These are substances derived from petroleum and crude oil. They may be used to preserve products, make them feel silky, create foam or fragrance, or simply to bulk them out because they are cheap and widely available.

Petrochemicals can burden the liver and disrupt the endocrine system. Some are known or suspected endocrine-disrupting chemicals, which means they can interfere with your hormones. This is especially important during the delicate process of trying to conceive, when hormonal balance is essential for ovulation, implantation and embryo development.

Petrochemical-Derived Ingredients to Avoid

Here are some common ingredients that may appear in your skincare products, all of which are derived from petrochemicals and can impact fertility:

  • Paraffinum liquidum (mineral oil) Often used in moisturisers, this is a by-product of petroleum refining. It forms a film on the skin that may block pores and inhibit natural detoxification.
  • Propylene glycol Common in creams and serums to help retain moisture, but it can irritate the skin and increase the penetration of other chemicals.
  • Parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben) Used as preservatives, they mimic oestrogen in the body and are linked to hormonal disruption.
  • Phthalates Often hidden under the word “fragrance” or “parfum,” these are plasticisers that can disrupt reproductive hormones and have been associated with reduced fertility.
  • Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulphate (SLES) These are foaming agents that can irritate the skin and are often contaminated with by-products of the petrochemical industry.
  • Synthetic fragrance or parfum A single artificial fragrance can contain dozens of undisclosed chemicals, many of which are derived from crude oil and may disrupt hormones or sensitise the skin.

The Preconception Window is Precious

In the months leading up to conception, your body is preparing in subtle but powerful ways. Detoxification, hormonal signalling, egg and sperm quality, and the uterine environment are all influenced by your internal balance. Reducing your toxic load by avoiding petrochemicals is a simple but significant step that supports these natural processes.

Nourish Yourself Naturally

Choosing natural personal care products is an act of self-love. Look for certified organic or naturally formulated options that are free from petroleum-derived ingredients, artificial fragrance and synthetic preservatives.

Brands such as Neal’s Yard Remedies focus on high-quality botanical ingredients that support rather than suppress your body’s natural rhythms. Begin with the products you use most often, such as body lotion, deodorant and facial care. These small shifts create long-term benefits, not only for fertility but for overall well-being.

Conclusion

Trying to conceive is a time to simplify, nourish and connect more deeply with yourself. By making thoughtful changes to the products you use every day, you support your body in doing what it was made to do. Natural personal care is not about being perfect. It is about creating space for your hormones to settle, your liver to work freely, and your skin to breathe.

You deserve to feel safe, supported and ready. Let nature take care of you, so you can take care of what matters most.

SHOP ORGANIC

What is the difference between regular acupuncture and fertility acupuncture?

by JMReflex, posted in Acupuncture, AMH, Fertility, fertility acupuncture, ICSI, IVF, Male Factor, Menstrual Cycle, Pain management, Pregnancy, Reflexology, Stress

Fertility acupuncture is very similar to regular acupuncture in that it will still try to address common issues such as pain, digestive issues, headaches, hormonal imbalances etc. as part of the wider picture of a fertility patient. However it focuses a lot on reproductive health and treating the meridians that target this area of health. Common points are found on the wrists, ankles, feet, lower legs, abdomen and lower back.

Fertility acupuncture aims for the optimal internal environment for each particular patient. This means that it’s not a generic set of acupuncture points for everyone; each patient is treated as an individual. There is no one size fits all in any aspect of health.

Happy pregnant woman preparing for her baby.

Fertility acupuncture tends to prioritise regulating the menstrual cycle, increasing blood flow to the ovaries and uterus, and regulating sperm health for the men. Stress management and building resilience to stress is also key when trying to conceive. This is something that is always prioritised in clinic.

When coming for fertility acupuncture it’s advisable to plan to come weekly for 3 months as this is the length of time it takes for an egg to be recruited, matured and finally ovulated. What we do now has an effect on those eggs ovulating (or collected via IVF) three months down the line.

During those 3 months we treat through the menstrual cycle, meaning that when you’re bleeding the focus is on good blood flow and emotional support as a period means no pregnancy. During the follicular phase the focus is on follicular development so good blood flow to the ovaries and uterine lining.

Fertility acupuncture works with each phase of assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF/ICSI to really enhance your response to the treatment you’re having, and manage the side effects of the medication.

When you work with a fertility acupuncturist, you gain insights and education from someone who has a regular practice in this area of health; someone who understands the process and what is involved. It’s not just needles; it’s fully rounded support.

If you would like to discuss your situation with me or would like to book in with the clinic in Warton, near Preston, Lancashire, please get in touch. Please read some of the success stories from the clinic here.

Ear points for fertility support

by JMReflex, posted in Acupuncture, Fertility, fertility acupuncture, ICSI, IVF, Menstrual Cycle, Stress, Stress, TCM

Ear seeding and ear acupuncture (or auricular therapy) is growing in popularity, but this is an ancient concept with its roots as far back as ancient Egypt, Greece and Persia. Ear acupuncture is an adjunctive technique which is useful in clinic to support fertility clients.

This post will go over some key ear acupuncture points I regularly use to support my fertility clients in addition to their body acupuncture prescriptions. I use ear acupuncture to reinforce the main treatment I give on the body. Other practitioners may use it as a stand alone treatment, and this is also appropriate.

Zigong (1)

In Chinese Medicine Zigong also means Uterus, or “Palace of the Child”. This point is found just on the edge of the small crater-like structure in the top of the ear called the triangula fossa.

ShenMen (2)

ShenMen means “Spirit Gate” and is useful to promote a sense of calm. Particularly useful when stress is prominent. This point is similar to the body point Heart 7: in Chinese Medicine the Heart houses the Mind, and also governs Blood. So you can see why this point is particularly useful in fertility support.

Kidney (3), Liver (4), Spleen (5)

These points help reinforce the main treatment protocol. In Chinese Medicine, the Kidneys are known as the “Root of Life”, storing Essence and governing birth, growth, reproduction and development; the Liver stores Blood and promotes the smooth flow of Qi; the Spleen governs transformation and transportation (e.g. digestion) and controls Blood.

Endocrine (6)

The Endocrine point is used with the intention of regulating the endocrine system. So useful for balancing hormones. It is found at the meeting point of the ear folds.

Sympathetic Nerve (7)

The Sympathetic Nerve point is used to help regulate the sympathetic nervous system which is part of the autonomous nervous system and prepares the body for “fight or flight”. It is the body’s stress response; the body’s way of keeping us safe and away from danger. This point, therefore, is useful to help combat stress and to promote sense of calm. It is also useful where immune system modulation might be needed, and in the presence of inflammation. The sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomous nervous system work in a “see-saw” way, and its about getting that balance right to promote overall health and to boost chances of conception and ongoing pregnancy.

Diagram of ear acupuncture points for fertility support.
Ear acupuncture targets specific points linked to fertility, helping to balance hormones and improve well-being.

If you are trying to conceive, or preparing for IVF, feel lost or unsupported, please get in touch. If you are wanting private blood tests please contact The Diabetes Lady, Maureen Chadwick on 07706 353127.

IVF Acupuncture – Does it Work?

by JMReflex, posted in Acupuncture, Fertility, fertility acupuncture, ICSI, IVF, Menstrual Cycle, Reflexology

IVF acupuncture is acupuncture to support you through the IVF process.

Artistic interpretation of ovaries, uterus, cervix and vagina.

Ideally you will work with me for 3 months before your IVF treatment begins so that you are fully prepared for success.

Many clients come to me after they have had an unsuccessful first round. We look at the unsuccessful cycle and review what happened, and reflect upon what can be done differently next time.

It is such an emotionally challenging and stressful time for couples; having independent support is invaluable. It’s not simply needles; it is having someone to talk to and knowing someone has your back throughout the journey.

Acupuncture points are often chosen on the lower leg, ankles and feet, wrists and abdomen. But everyone is individual and points are chosen based on your particular pattern.

Acupuncture is powerful after egg collection to help your body heal from this procedure quickly so that you are ready and energised for the embryo transfer around 5 days later.

Getting 1-2 acupuncture treatments in after egg collection, and then one before embryo transfer can be really helpful.

A “baby bank” with details of couples who have trusted in me to support them through their fertility journeys is forthcoming. I am also preparing an e-book to help you set good foundations for your fertility journey.

How can I increase my chances of IVF success?

by JMReflex, posted in Acupuncture, AMH, Fertility, fertility acupuncture, ICSI, IVF, Male Factor, Pregnancy, Stress, Stress, TCM

IVF is a process which shouldn’t be taken lightly. It is hard on couples from all angles; emotionally, mentally and physically.

IVF eggs under microscope.

The drugs used are heavy duty; creating all sorts of side effects and mood swings. The process involves physical incisions through the vaginal wall and on the ovaries – multiple cuts in fact – depending on how many follicles you have. A lot of energy is required for your body to heal. You will also be sedated and this can take time to recover from.

Then there is the agonizing wait to see if any eggs fertilized, and how well they develop to day 5 where you will then have another procedure to transfer the embryo into your womb. And the 2 week wait begins, alongside more drugs.

It is an emotional roller coaster and exhausting; taxing mentally and physically with trips in and out of the clinic for tests and scans.

For such a consuming process, wouldn’t you want to prepare the best that you can to maximise your chances of success? Its not something you should walk into without first fully investigating what the problems are with your inability to conceive naturally, and to really prepare your body and the environment within which your eggs are recruited and collected, and then transferred back for implantation and ongoing pregnancy.

Preparation is key when it comes to IVF success. Don’t allow a fertility clinic to use your first round as a diagnostic; that’s way too expensive both financially and for your health and overall wellbeing.

Find someone to help you through the process and work with a specialist who can take a deep dive into your lifestyle and nutrition, and offer you acupuncture as part of your preparation program.

Contact me for an initial chat and start your preconception journey with me today.

Is Acupuncture Worth it for IVF?

by JMReflex, posted in Acupuncture, Fertility, fertility acupuncture, Healthy eating, ICSI, IVF, Male Factor, Nutrition, Pregnancy, Reflexology, Stress, supplements, TCM

Acupuncture is very much worth it as part of your overall plan in preparing for conception.

Woman receiving acupuncture for fertility issues in her abdomen.

It is well documented that it takes around 100 days/3 months, or 3 cycles, for an egg to be recruited and matured ready for ovulation, and similarly for a full sperm regeneration cycle to complete.

It is hugely important to give yourself time to prepare and improve your overall health and wellness, lifestyle, diet and nutritional aspects before conceiving, whether you plan to do this naturally or via IVF. If the raw materials are not in the best condition possible, then you will not be maximizing your chances for a viable conception, implantation, and ongoing pregnancy and the health of the child.

As an acupuncturist I work closely with couples to look at where problems might be hiding. Sometimes a small imbalance can lead to issues when it comes to fertility. Working holistically, I take a full medical and lifestyle history from couples trying to conceive, then work out a specific and individualized acu-point prescription to help re-balance what I see happening in the body. I look at tongues, ears, feet and feel your abdomen. I ask a lot of questions about your menstrual cycle, menstrual blood and digestive health, as this can tell us as lot about what might be happening within the body.

Acupuncture is hugely effective when it comes to IVF. Particular points can help with innervation to the ovaries and uterus, boosting Blood and Qi, giving a good bump up to the follicles, helping with uterine lining, managing oestrogen levels and holding off OHSS, as well as calming the mind and supporting the couple. It is also excellent for expediting the recovery after egg collection, and preparing the uterus for transfer. Which points are used will be individual to your own picture.

In my own clinical experience, couples who have taken the appropriate time and care to prepare for their next IVF cycle get the best results; either falling pregnant naturally or having a successful IVF cycle.

If you would like to book a full consultation to discuss your own situation please contact me. Prices can be found here.

Let’s talk about periods

by JMReflex, posted in Acupuncture, Fertility, Menstrual Cycle

Did you know that a true menstrual period only comes if ovulation occurred. This means that if you are on the oral contraceptive pill (OCP) and have “periods”, these are really withdrawal bleeds and not true menstrual periods. This is because the OCP prevents you from ovulating.

If you are trying to conceive then it is wise to give your body time to readjust from stopping OCP and get back to a normal cycle.

Period Flow

The flow of your period should be tracked on the day that menstrual blood starts flowing properly (this would be marked as day 1). Often light spotting can occur beforehand so only class day 1 of your period when it gets going properly.

A normal, healthy period would be 3-5 days of bleeding and have a clear end. A regular flow is normal.

Heavy flow and flooding are something to be flagged. This would be more than 5-7 days of bleeding, or if you are having to change sanitary products more than every 2-3 hours. These issues might indicate issues such as thyroid imbalances, fibroid, low iron.

Likewise, very light pink blood for less than 3 days is also something to be flagged. This might be a sign of low oestrogen levels.

Period Pain

Woman feeling emotional and in pain during menstruation.

Rate your pain levels on a scale of 0-10. Mild cramping when your period starts is normal. Anything more should be flagged. Does it stop you from going to work? Do you need to take pain killers? Do you need to use a hot water bottle? Anything more than a 1 on the scale indicates a red flag. Where is the pain in your body? e.g. headaches, abdominal pain, breast pain, lower-back pain? These can all be clues and could indicate imbalances that can be addressed.

Period Frequency

Cycle length (day 1 to the next day 1) should be 24-35 days in length. There should be a clear start and end to the period.

If you have spotting before or afterwards this is something to be noted. Similarly, the colour of the blood should be a healthy red colour with no clots. If it is pink, dark red, purple, or black, then these are all flags to be noted.

Acupuncture

After discussing all of the above in a consultation, acupuncture can help rebalance the body with certain point prescriptions based on your symptoms. Alongside regular acupuncture, lifestyle changes and wellbeing techniques can also be adopted to optimise health and chances of conception.

There are lots of things to think about and consider with fertility awareness. Education is key and having knowledgeable support from an acupuncturist or reflexologist can be invaluable.

If you are looking for fertility support in Lancashire please get in touch.