Parenthood is a lifelong dream for many couples, which can easily be prevented by the constant stress, anxiety and pressure brought on when trying to conceive. If conventional methods have yet to aid in conception, a holistic approach may be your best bet on the road to "project" baby. Clinical studies have acknowledged the benefits of traditional medicine, such as acupressure therapy, in relieving pain and restoring balance to the reproductive system. Whether you're a believer in the power of holistic healing or a skeptic who's willing to give traditional medicine a try, the benefits you reap from acupressure will be sure to keep your mind and body focused on baby.
Acupressure
Dating back to 2500 BC, practitioners of Ancient Chinese Medicine used acupressure to relieve pain and discomfort and restore reproductive health by clearing meridians, which encourage the flow of energy or chi (pronounced chee) throughout the body. Often confused with acupuncture, acupressure does not involve needles that break the skin's surface. Where a certified practitioner must perform acupuncture, acupressure can be self-applied by anyone who understands the specific points on the body to apply pressure.
Fertility and Conception
Results of clinical studies suggest that specific points on the body that are stimulated by acupressure can restore balance to a woman's hormonal and endocrine systems. These systems regulate the menstrual cycle and increase blood flow to reproductive organs, which in turn, can help with conception. Dr. Sarah Berga led an infertility study that proved an 80 percent success rate among participants who had their ovulation cycle restored after 20 weeks of acupressure therapy. Dr. Berga states, "This study underlines the important contribution that lifestyle factors make in determining overall health and reproductive health in particular. It is quite possible there are many individuals who could benefit from stress reduction in terms of infertility therapies." Specialists recommend starting acupressure therapy at least three months prior to conceiving to balance and create the hormones necessary to get pregnant.
Techniques
An acupressurist only applies pressure to one or two points at a time, using his fingers, palms, hands and elbows. Applying pressure to certain points on the body can trigger endorphins -- "feel good" hormones -- which can reduce the stress and anxiety that is often triggered when trying to conceive. Acupressure points are identified by organ and number. For example, applying pressure to the spleen 3 and large intestine 11 during the preconception period can stimulate blood flow and up the odds of conception. Pressure points in the hands and feet have also been shown to improve blood flow and restore hormonal balance to the ovaries, uterus, pituitary gland, adrenal gland, thyroid gland and parathyroid gland. These points can easily be stimulated by a professional acupressurist or found on an acupressure chart in a handbook for those who wish to try the methods themselves.
Considerations
Although acupressure is safe, always check with your doctor before starting a new treatment, holistic or otherwise. Individual results may vary depending on age, medical history and the techniques used. If you're having trouble following a handbook or applying the methods, consult a professional who can advise you on the best techniques to fit your individual body and needs. If you tried various acupressure techniques and still have issues conceiving, consult a physician who can administer fertility tests.
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