As a naturopathic physician who works in the reproductive health field, I often encounter individuals struggling with fertility issues and recurrent miscarriages, and one of the common underlying factors I observe is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, also known as chronic autoimmune thyroiditis. In this article, we will explore the effects of Hashimoto's thyroiditis on reproductive health, including its impact on fertility and miscarriage, and discuss naturopathic supports that may help improve reproductive outcomes.
Read moreThe Power of Diet in Managing PCOS: Exploring the Mediterranean Diet and Low Glycemic Index Foods - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age, often causing difficulty with weight management, insulin resistance, acne, menstrual cycle irregularity and fertility concerns. While there is no definitive cure for PCOS, adopting a healthy diet can play a crucial role in managing insulin resistance and its associated symptoms. In this article, we will explore the Mediterranean diet and low glycemic index foods as potential dietary approaches to support women with PCOS.
Read moreThe Impact of Exercise on Fertility: Understanding the Role of Intensity and BMI - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
Exercise plays a significant role in overall health and wellness, and it can also have an impact on fertility. However, the effects of exercise on fertility can vary depending on factors such as exercise intensity and BMI (Body Mass Index). In this article, we will explore the relationship between exercise and fertility, taking into account the intensity of exercise for both female and male partners.
Read moreRevitalizing Reproduction: Coenzyme Q10 and its Impact on Fertility - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
When it comes to female and male fertility, the health and quality of egg and sperm cells play a crucial role. These cells require a significant amount of energy to develop and are susceptible to oxidative damage. One key nutrient that has gained attention in recent years for its potential benefits in supporting fertility is Coenzyme Q10.
Read moreTop 5 Supplements for Endometriosis - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
Endometriosis is a gynaecological condition that affects approximately one in ten women of reproductive age. In this article, I will review the causes and risk factors of endometriosis, as well as the top 5 supplements I recommend in my naturopathic practice for endometriosis management.
Read moreFrom Microbes to Motherhood: Exploring the Link Between the Uterine Microbiome and Fertility
The importance of a healthy uterine microbiome for optimizing fertility outcomes is a new and exciting area in the world of reproductive medicine. We once thought the uterus was a sterile organ, but we now know that it is colonized with bacteria, and recent research has shown that the type of bacteria present in the endometrium influences fertility outcomes. Let’s dive into the research shall we!
Read moreThe Power of HIIT: Improving PCOS Symptoms One Workout at a Time - By Dr. Chelsea Cole, ND
Have you heard about avoiding high intensity exercises if you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? The thought is that these activities increase cortisol levels, which can negatively affect hormone balance. In fact, there is a lot of online discussion these days about modifying your movement depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle, for a variety of different hormonal concerns, including PCOS. While it makes sense to tune into your body, and honor what you need, sometimes this conversation is filled with misinformation and can become another barrier to regular movement. So, I want to take some time to talk about recent research into the benefits of high intensity interval training (HIIT) for those with PCOS.
Read moreNavigating Endometriosis with Food: Key Nutritional Strategies to Consider - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
Endometriosis is a condition characterized by the presence of endometrial tissues outside the uterine lining, causing symptoms such as pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and fertility complications. While there are a variety of treatment options available to ease symptoms of endometriosis, recent research suggests that dietary interventions may have a role in the prevention and management of this condition. In this article, we will explore the link between diet and endometriosis and discuss important nutritional strategies that may help improve symptoms and overall well-being.
Read moreThe Fertility Benefits of Inositol in Women with PCOS - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects many women of reproductive age. In this blog article, Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen reviews how inositol naturally works in the body, and the evidence to support its use for improving fertility outcomes in women with PCOS.
Read more3 Nutrients Worth Testing for Fertility - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
When you see a naturopathic doctor for preconception and fertility support, you will be offered a laboratory panel that looks at baseline hormone and nutrient levels. This blog article is going to review the top 3 nutrients worth testing for your reproductive success.
Read moreFoundational Fertility Supplements for the Preconception Period - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
Preparing your body for a healthy pregnancy starts in the preconception period, 3 months prior to conception. This is the time when the oocytes are maturing, and are particularly vulnerable to nutritional and environmental stressors. During the preconception period, naturopathic doctors recommend targeted lifestyle enhancements and fertility supplements to help improve your reproductive success.
Read moreDiet & Lifestyle Recommendations for Optimal Fertility - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen ND
The old saying goes, we are what we eat, but does this apply to fertility? Do diet and lifestyle changes really impact fertility outcomes? Learn more in Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen’s newest blog article…
Read moreGetting to Know Your Menstrual Cycle: Ovulation - By Dr Chelsea Cole, ND
Learn why ovulation is important beyond fertility, common causes of anovulation, and how you can determine whether or not you are ovulating (…)
Read moreThe Hot & Cold of Fertility: Basal Body Temperature - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen
The basal body temperature (BBT) is a person's at-rest temperature. Women can track their BBT to find out when they are ovulating. With this time line, a woman can learn when she is most likely to become pregnant (…)
Read moreFeelings of Infertility & Pregnancy Loss
Having children is one of the most natural and basic of human desires. However, achieving conception and maintaining a healthy pregnancy is not always a straightforward journey. When one’s dreams of starting a family face challenges, the emotional impacts can range from frustration to devastation. In honour of infertility awareness week, Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen shares what helped her cope personally throughout her own fertility journey.
Read moreWhy I Recommend Acupuncture For All Infertility Patients
When you are trying to start or expand your family, there is nothing more heart breaking then not achieving your intended goal. In Canada, 1 in 6 couples trying to conceive experience fertility challenges. Having said this, many people are turning to acupuncture to help achieve their family building goals. Acupuncture can be used to enhance your natural fertility, or can provide adjunctive support to assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF (in vitro fertilization) and IUI (intrauterine insemination). Here’s why I use acupuncture regularly in my clinical practice as part of a comprehensive fertility treatment plan (...)
Read moreWomen's Health - The Importance Of Ovulation - Dr. Carla Cashin, ND
Ovulation is a key moment of the menstrual cycle, where a mature egg is released from the ovary. It is an important physiological process obviously for fertility, but plays a fundamental role in women’s health beyond this as well (...)
Read moreAcupuncture & Cervical Ripening | Acupuncture Victoria
Cervical ripening occurs when the cervix softens and becomes more distensible which coaxes the baby into the best possible position for birth. Multiple studies have shown the benefits of acupuncture in preparing the body for birth, and assisting the cervix to ripen (...)
Read more