I read some good advice early on in this journey on an IVF blog: the thing to keep in mind about fertility doctors, is that they see a problem (you can’t get pregnant) and they know how to fix that problem; (with western medicine, IUI and IVF).

This was good advice for me because I was a bit puzzled when my previous doctor didn’t really have much to say about acupuncture after I asked about it, didn’t tell me not to do it, but also didn’t advocate for it either.

Some background on me, I’m a big believer of fixing things naturally if at all possible, (I come by it honestly from my momma) and while this approach has its limits, I knew that acupuncture, chinese herbs, healthy diet and yoga were things I wanted to incorporate into my routine if possible as we tried to start a family.

So I was thrilled to find out not only does my current doctor encourage acupuncture, he pretty much requires it, along with a mostly paleo diet, and a slew of supplements. Not only that, he also encourages chinese herbs during IVF which is pretty unusual.

For him, anything you can do to improve your odds is worth doing, and while you are pumping your body full of medicine, why not take time to relax and increase blood flow with acupuncture and yoga, and fuel your body well with a good diet.

For me, I of course value the western side of medicine, and I know that for those us with DOR, (diminished ovarian reserve) our treatment options most likely include IVF. However I also do believe in the importance of eastern medicine, of detoxing our life, and making time to destress, think positively, and strengthen your body and mind.

Regardless of the outcome of this cycle, I know the benefits of daily yoga & chinese tea, weekly acupuncture, and my supplements, carries over into many areas of my life.

If any local girls are interested in acupuncture, I highly recommend Kandace Cahill at Well Woman Boulder. She’s the best.