How Therapy Can Help During Your Fertility Treatment + IVF Process

Written by

Emily LeMoine - Registered Psychotherapist (Q)

Feel free to schedule your complimentary phone consultation with Emily.

Here are the most commonly asked questions and answers, when it comes to seeing a therapist during your fertility treatment + IVF process.

What is Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is primarily a talk-based session which is intended to help improve and maintain your well-being through discussion and resource recommendation.

How can therapy help when trying to conceive?

1. Emotional Support: Dealing with infertility can be emotionally taxing, leading to feelings of grief, guilt, anxiety, and depression. Psychotherapy provides a safe space for you to express your feelings and work through the emotional challenges associated with infertility.

2. Coping Strategies: In a collaborative effort, psychotherapy can offer you strategies to improve coping during a time of uncertainty. By improving resiliency to ambiguity, you can grow to feel confident in your journey in trying to conceive.

3. Decision Making: Reproductive treatment often involves complex decisions regarding treatment options, timing, and potential risks. Psychotherapy can assist you in navigating these decisions by providing information, support, and guidance tailored to their individual circumstances.

“Psychotherapy is primarily a talk-based session which is intended to help improve and maintain your well-being through discussion and resource recommendation.”

How do I know if I need therapy?

Unless in severe distress, there is no one-size fits all when it comes to entering therapy. However, if you are spending a lot of time thinking about your distress, it may be time to see a therapist.

What if I don’t feel ready?

The great thing about psychotherapy is that it is at your own pace. If topics feel unapproachable, the trusting relationship between you and the therapist will guide session topics without judgement to prevent pressured disclosure.

What about my partner/spouse?

Infertility can strain relationships, leading to communication difficulties and conflicts between partners. Individual or couple’s therapy offers you a space to openly discuss your feelings, concerns, and expectations, fostering understanding and strengthening your relationship bond.

I see you offer a free consultation. What can I expect from that appointment?

A confidential and compassionate conversation exploring your unique needs and experiences. During this session, the therapist will listen attentively to your story, providing a non-judgmental space for you to express youremotions and concerns. Together, you'll explore therapy approaches tailored to your preferences and goals, addressing any questions you have about confidentiality and session logistics. By the end of the consultation, you'll gain clarity on how therapy can support your well-being throughout your reproductive health journey. You'll also have the opportunity to discuss next steps, including scheduling future sessions if you decide to proceed with therapy. Overall, this consultation is an empowering and collaborative experience, aiming to equip you with the tools and support needed to navigate the challenges of reproductive health care with resilience and self-compassion.

Are your services covered by OHIP or my extended health plan?

At this time, unfortunately therapy is not covered by OHIP. However, your sessions may be covered by your extended health plan or explore benefits. It is always recommended to reach out to your insurance company ahead of time, to determine what your individual benefits are. If you have coverage for therapy with a Registered Psychotherapist, your visits will likely be covered.

How do I book with you to get started?

You can book a free 15-minute telephone consultation on our website

Cosmetic Acupuncture for Facial Rejuvenation

Written by Juby Chan R.Ac - Registered Acupuncturist

Schedule your FREE 30 minutes consultation with Juby .

Cosmetic Acupuncture

“Have you been doing something different? “

“You look like you have a glow on you.” 

“You look refreshed.  Something looks different.” 

These are typical words you’ll hear when you start getting cosmetic acupuncture treatments. Today, I am going to offer answers to the most commonly asked questions about cosmetic facial rejuvenation acupuncture. 

How does it work?  Acupuncture alone will help stimulate Blood flow (circulation) to improve skin health in general.

Cosmetic acupuncture is a great natural alternative to cosmetic injections that will stimulate collagen production by causing micro trauma (painless), known as collagen induction therapy.  This will help plump the skin, brighten the complexion and minimize the look of pores. 

“Cosmetic acupuncture simulates collagen production…plumps the skin and minimizes pores”

By inserting very thin, sterile stainless steel needles into motor points and traditional acupuncture points, this will help increases the blood flow (circulation) to the area.  Increased oxygen and blood flow will reduce puffiness and facial swelling as stagnant fluid is being circulated and help brighten the skin,  The result?  Rejuvenated and glowing skin. 

Some other areas of skin concerns that patients come in with and see results with are fine lines, wrinkles, hyper pigmentation, acne, rosacea and dullness.  

What should I expect when you book for an Initial Cosmetic Acupuncture Treatment? We don’t just treat your face. We treat your whole body as well. Because when your body is healthy, your skin is healthy.

During your first treatment, you can expect:
- A full body initial consultation along with main skin concerns, because your health is more than just skin/facial deep, we treat the whole body along with any imbalances. 

- Facial Gua Sha that will help stimulate Qi and blood flow and aid in gentle lymphatic draining. 

- Insertion of fine sterile stainless steel needles into certain motor points and traditional acupuncture points. 

- Celluma LED light therapy to help supercharge the cells. 

- Facial cupping to further enhance Qi and Blood flow (circulation).

As an added benefit, the Celluma LED light therapy (FDA approved) is used while the acupuncture needles are inserted to enhance cellular regeneration.  The Celluma LED therapy is customizable to accelerate tissue repair, or treat acne prone skin by killing acne bacteria and decreasing inflammation. 

More questions that are generally asked:

Is it painful?  To most people’s surprise, the answer is no.  Many actually find the treatment to be very relaxing. 

What’s the down time for Cosmetic Acupuncture?  None.

Can I work out afterwards? Yes, but keep it gentle.

Can I shower right after? We recommend waiting 2-3 hours after the treatment to shower (this is generally recommended for any acupuncture treatments) 

Who is this treatment not recommended for: Cosmetic acupuncture is contraindicated for those who are on blood thinners, are pregnant, have had cosmetic injections or fillers 2-3 weeks prior, cancer or have epilepsy (pulsing light). 

What are the benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture:

- Stimulate Collagen production

- Increase firmness and tightness of skin and reduce fine lines + wrinkles

- Increase smoothness and improve skin texture

- Improve skin tone and balance out surface irregularities 

- Relax tight muscles that cause wrinkles

- Reduce hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage

- Reduce pore size

- Reduce symptoms of acne

Am I a good candidate for this treatment and is it too early to start in my 20’s or 30’s?

This treatment is definitely for you if you’re looking for preventative care and want to maintain the youthfulness of your skin.  The first signs of skin aging usually starts in your mid twenties to early thirties, where collagen and elastin start to break down.  This is actually the ideal time to start as your face is also like the rest of your body where it has tremendous muscle memory. 

If you’re past your 30’s, not to worry, this treatment can still do wonders for you with a few added sessions. 

How many treatments will I need and how often? Is there a maintenance protocol?

If you’r in your 20-30’s - 3-4 consecutive treatments, once a week with maintenance once every 4-8 weeks. 

If you’re over 40’s - 4-6 consecutive treatments, once a week with maintenance once every 4 weeks. 

Have more questions? Send us a note

Understanding Perimenopause Sleep Issues: Causes and Solutions

Written by: Michelle Kapler R.Ac R.TCMP

Today, we're addressing a pressing issue that frequently plagues people in their perimenopausal years—perimenopause sleep issues and insomnia. The quality and quantity of sleep often diminish during this transitional period, and understanding why can be the first step toward a solution.

My own Experience with Perimenopause Sleep Issues

Speaking from personal experience, I've grappled with sleep issues for almost a decade. My sleep patterns changed dramatically after the birth of my first child, turning me from a deep sleeper into someone who could hardly catch adequate rest. Despite medical consultations and experiments with various treatments, I only managed to find relief with lifestyle changes and melatonin. However, when I entered my perimenopausal years, I found myself back at square one.

Addressing chronic health issues like the lack of sleep and menopause insomnia is a nuanced process. And it’s often characterized by cycles of improvement and regression—that is to say, progress is, sadly, not linear. So, the goal of this article is to shed light on five of the most common causes of menopause insomnia.

There are two principal reasons for sharing this information: 

1. Understanding your body can help to remove the stigma, guilt, and morality women are taught to associate with health issues. Contrary to the narrative pushed by health and diet culture, understanding what’s “normal” for our bodies can help us avoid the “What have I done wrong?” question we often ask ourselves.
   

2. Being well-informed about what’s normal for your body enables you to advocate for yourself during medical consultations, allowing you to steer the conversation away from “You’re old, deal with it” and toward product helpful solutions like, “Let’s investigate this further to identify the root cause.”

5 Potential Causes for Sleep Trouble in Midlife 

By becoming more aware of how our bodies function, we’re better positioned to navigate the perimenopausal transition and the healthcare system to find appropriate solutions and treatments that align with our unique needs. So, let’s dive into the five most common causes of sleep trouble in midlife. 

1. Hormone Fluctuations

During both menopause and perimenopause, the body undergoes significant hormonal shifts, primarily involving the decline of estrogen and progesterone levels. These changes can be incredibly disruptive, causing sleep interruptions through various symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and even anxiety. But that's not all. 

Estrogen and progesterone also have mood-regulating properties. So, even if you're fortunate enough not to experience intense symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats, your sleep could still be impacted simply by the absence of these mood-stabilizing hormones.

2. Life Stressors

Life doesn’t slow down when you’re going through menopause. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. You may find yourself juggling new career opportunities, dealing with aging parents, or managing dependent children. 

In addition to these external stressors, you might also experience an identity crisis of sorts during your perimenopausal and menopausal years. Questions like, “If I’m no longer hot, young, or having children, then what value do I bring to the table?” or “My body’s changing; what does this mean for my self-image and intimate relationships?” may come to mind. 

Because our lives are packed with career and family-related events, we often end up with very little time to ourselves. That means our only time to process our identities is when we should be sleeping. 

3. Medical Conditions

A multitude of medical conditions, especially those that tend to surface around midlife, can be detrimental to your sleep. Conditions like chronic pain, sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, arthritis, and clinical depression are just a few examples.

If one of these issues is making it more difficult for you to sleep, know that treatment options that can help you manage the condition are available. These treatment options may help you manage the underlying condition and potentially improve your sleep quality.

4. Medications

As we age, the likelihood that we’ll require pharmaceutical medications increases, whether they’re for chronic conditions or new concerns. As you introduce these new medications to your routines, it’s essential to understand the effects they may have on you. Insomnia and overstimulation are both common side effects that can have a direct impact on your sleep quality. 

If you feel like one of your medications may have a negative effect on your sleep, consult with the prescribing physician for support. Please note you should not make any changes to your prescription habits without first consulting your prescribing physician. 

5. Lifestyle Choices

Finally, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, caffeine, and alcohol can have a noticeable impact on your sleep quality. However, proceed with caution. As women, when something goes wrong with our bodies, society has conditioned us to ask, “What did I do wrong?” 

That’s why lifestyle choices are featured at the bottom of this list. You can make all the “correct” choices and still experience insomnia and sleep difficulties. So, as you consider your various lifestyle choices, don’t forget to consider other factors as well. Chances are, making adjustments to your lifestyle can and will help your sleep quality, but there are likely other factors at play too. 

Final Thoughts 

Understanding the complexities of perimenopause sleep issues can help you take proactive measures to improve your sleep. Recognizing the root causes of your sleep troubles is the first step in addressing the problem. Still, everyone is unique, and what I’ve featured in this list may or may not apply to your unique situation. 

Book for clinical care today, to find your own unique path to better sleep.

7 Questions To Ask When You’re Offered A New Fertility Treatment Protocol

Written By: Michelle Kapler R.Ac R.TCMP

Today, I’m focusing on a set of questions you should consider posing to your fertility treatment specialist when introduced to a new treatment protocol. This could range from trying to conceive with intrauterine insemination (IUI) alongside prescription medications to transitioning from IUI to in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Because there are so many available treatment options and combinations, I often see people get confused. And when you’re confused about what’s happening, it’s not always easy to ask questions that will help you fully understand your next steps. 

Two Common Reactions to a Change in Fertility Treatment Protocol

In my interactions with people pursuing fertility treatments and experiencing protocol changes, I often see one of two reactions:

1. The patient is unaware of why a change is needed.
   
   OR
   

2. The patient is aware of the change, but they aren’t comfortable with the recommended path forward. 

So today, I’m offering seven questions you can ask your healthcare provider to help you get really clear about what the next best steps are for you. 

7 Questions To Ask When Offered a New Fertility Treatment Protocol

These questions will help arm you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your own healthcare. 

1. What is the reason for recommending this next step?

If you haven’t experienced a change in fertility protocol just yet, then this question may seem like a no-brainer. However, many healthcare providers forget patients don’t always have an advanced understanding of how the science works. As a result, they may leave out important information or helpful explanations. Asking this question will help you get clarity on the long-term plan. 

In some cases, providers are following the research. In other cases, they may be following a clinic’s protocol. Whatever the reason for this change in protocol, understanding where the change is coming from can help you understand the underlying reasons and what to expect moving forward. 

2. What are the risks and benefits of this next level of treatment?

Healthcare professionals bear the ethical duty to ensure patients grasp both the potential gains and risks associated with treatments. Practitioners should always ensure patients fully understand the risks and benefits so they can make truly informed decisions. 

Remember, this question has two parts: the benefits AND the risks. That means asking about what you have to gain from this change in protocol and asking about what side effects or harmful effects you may experience too. 

3. What are the risks and benefits of sticking with my current treatment protocol for now?

This question is also related to the concept of informed consent. The American Medical Association defines informed consent as “The process of informed consent occurs when communication between a patient and physician results in the patient’s authorization or agreement to undergo a specific medical intervention.” 

This question aims to help you decide between moving forward with a new treatment protocol or sticking with your current treatment method. 

Here’s a clinical example of when asking this question can give you valuable insight into your treatment plan: The drug called Clomid is used to stimulate follicle growth and produce more eggs, increasing the chance of fertilization. There are risks and side effects of using this drug for many cycles. One well-documented side effect is adverse effects on the uterine lining after three cycles. So, if you were seeing positive results with this drug and your doctor decided to change your protocol, this information would help you weigh the risks and benefits against a new protocol. 

4. What will the entire cost be for this next level of intervention?

I recognize this question also seems pretty obvious. However, there are some cost-related concerns that aren’t always obvious. First, there’s a clear disconnect between what you and your provider may recognize as the logical next step and what your budget is capable of supporting. 

Second, as you progress in your fertility treatment toward more intensive treatment options, there tend to be more and more hidden costs. For example, if your provider recommends IVF, will they also recommend genetic testing? If so, that may cost you thousands more than IVF on its own. 

As you decide when and how to proceed, it’s essential that you’re also aware of all costs associated with the following recommended step in treatment. 

5. How will I know if this treatment protocol is working?

Of course, there is the obvious answer—pregnancy. But in many cases, pregnancy is only one of many ways you can determine if a treatment is working. For example, is your provider looking at lining development, follicle development, the number of follicles, or perhaps minimizing side effects? 

Understanding how your provider will determine whether a treatment is effective or ineffective for you will help to keep you on the same page with your provider, so you’re not left wondering what went wrong when your provider makes a new recommendation.

6. How long do you suggest I try this intervention before we know it’s time to move on?

When asking this question, it’s helpful to ask in terms of cycles. So, how many cycles will you be on this new medication? 

In addition to knowing how your provider will measure success, knowing when to look for success is critical. Not only will knowing this keep you informed, but it will also help you mitigate negative feelings when you don’t see results right away. This information can also help you weigh the benefits and risks of new treatments. For example, if you’re experiencing severe fatigue and mood swings from IVF treatment, knowing how long you’ll have to endure it may impact your path forward. 

7. Are there any alternatives to this suggestion?

The final question in this list is reserved for situations where you don’t feel comfortable moving forward with the new protocol your provider has recommended. 

Your healthcare provider is required to share all of the options available to you. So, if something doesn’t feel right to you, it’s okay to ask what alternatives are available. 

Final Thoughts

There you have it! Seven essential questions to arm yourself with when navigating the landscape of fertility treatments. Remember, if your healthcare provider doesn't proactively share this information, it's not necessarily a reflection of negligence. At times, they may simply need prompting.

For a downloadable version of these questions (and more), check out my free fertility toolkit. Dive deep and equip yourself with tools that empower you to self-advocate.  Receive instant access to the Fertility Stress Relief Toolkit, which, through a medley of meditations, worksheets, journal prompts, and guides, can usher in a sense of well-being in mere minutes.

5 Signs That You Might Be Experiencing Fertility Treatment-Related Burnout (And What To Do About It)

Written By: Michelle Kapler R.Ac R.TCMP

Seeking fertility treatment is more than just physical treatment, it’s emotional and mental. As you progress in your treatment plan, you may experience hope, despair, anticipation, uncertainty, excitement, sadness, and many other emotions. Each step, each test, and each result can stir up a whirlwind of emotions, making you feel isolated even in the most supportive environments. 

Building a family can take an enormous toll, leading to what I recognize as fertility burnout. In this article, I’m going to share five signs that indicate you’re experiencing fertility treatment-related burnout and how you can begin to heal from it. Let’s get started. 

Defining Fertility Burnout: 5 Signs You’re Experiencing It

The term “burnout” is a real buzzword these days, meaning it’s thrown around in magazines, the news, and on social media. But what does it mean? 

Most often, the term is used in relation to someone’s career. While the term burnout is defined broadly across different sources, it generally refers to a sense of sadness or loss of control and is indicated by a loss of interest, investment, or drive at work. However, I believe burnout can be experienced in other contexts as well, like with fertility. 

The following five signs come from a combination of the World Health Organization’s formal definition of burnout and signs I’ve gathered from when working with fertility patients over the years. They are:

1. Physical Fatigue

Specifically, I’m referring to physical fatigue and exhaustion that persists despite having plenty of quality rest. Physical fatigue that results from fertility-related burnout occurs regardless of when you took your last vacation, how much you slept in this weekend, and even if you’ve taken a brief break from fertility treatment. 

2. Cynicism and/or Detachment 

Cynicism and/or detachment refers to a negative outlook on everything, especially in regard to your fertility treatment. Thoughts that indicate your feeling cynical or detached may include:

• “This just isn’t going to work.”

• "There must be something wrong with me."

• “Maybe I’m just not meant to have a baby.”

• "Everyone else makes it look so easy. Why can't I?"

• "I feel so alone in this; nobody truly understands."

3. Thoughts of Lack of Accomplishment

Feelings of lack of accomplishment are the last sign I’ve derived from the World Health Organization’s burnout definition. But what does this mean in the context of fertility treatment? 

Within the journey of fertility treatments, milestones are often overshadowed by the overarching goal of conceiving. As a result, even as you make progress, the emotional weight of not achieving your desired outcome can intensify feelings of stagnation, regression, and failure. Often, it can mean experiencing thoughts like this, “I’ve been doing this for 2 years with nothing to show for it…” 

4. A Decline in Emotional Resilience

This symptom can be different for everyone, but in general, it suggests your emotional battery is constantly on low, making it challenging to navigate daily tasks and interactions with the same vigor as before. This diminished emotional capacity can be a direct outcome of the ongoing stress and anticipation related to fertility treatments. In my experience, this is expressed in one of three ways:

1. “Your patience is thin.” You may notice this if you’re constantly snapping at your partner, people at work, and even the fertility clinic staff. 

2. Emotional expressions are exhausting. Whether you’re experiencing angry or sad emotional outbursts, these outbursts tend to deplete your energy for the rest of the day. 

3. Anxiety and emotions are high. Contrary to what a decline in emotional resilience might suggest, you may experience increased emotions or anxiety. 

5. Isolation

Isolation is a deep emotional response to overwhelming feelings. This sign is indicated when you withdraw from social interactions that once fit within your “normal.” The weight of the fertility journey can sometimes make even familiar settings feel daunting or taxing. This may manifest as avoiding gatherings with friends, sidestepping family get-togethers, choosing to eat alone at work, or even finding reasons to distance from your partner at home. Such behaviors aren't just about seeking solitude; they often signal a deeper struggle with processing the emotional roller coaster of fertility treatments.

Bonus: Numbing with “Substances”

There is one final sign I’d like to address, and that's the tendency to seek refuge in “substances” as a way to numb or escape the overwhelming emotions tied to fertility challenges. While the term "substance" might instantly bring to mind alcohol or drugs, it's important to expand our understanding. Beyond the traditional realm of substance abuse, it also encompasses behaviors that offer temporary distractions or comforts, like binge-watching Netflix, excessive social media usage, emotional eating, or retail therapy.

These behaviors may seem harmless on the surface, but they can be indicative of an underlying attempt to avoid confronting our deeper emotions and feelings. While turning to these behaviors doesn’t necessarily mean you’re experiencing fertility burnout, they can be red flags. You’ll want to look deeper at what you’re feeling and why in order to determine whether these behaviors are associated with your fertility treatment or if they’re related to another concern like depression or even work-related burnout. 

How to Heal from Burnout

Now that you’re aware of the signs of fertility burnout, let’s look at three ways you can begin to recover. 

1. Focus on What You Can Control

Pay attention to what you can control rather than what you cannot control. Fertility treatments are inherently stressful. They can be uncomfortable and invasive. There can be months of waiting and strong feelings of loss of control. But, you can control how you talk and think about yourself as you navigate the fertility treatment process. 

This is not to say that you shouldn’t feel your negative feelings. It’s crucial that you process these feelings, but when you have negative thoughts and feelings, you want to make sure that you question them and ask yourself, “Is this actually true?” Allowing these negative thoughts to go unchecked will lead to burnout over time. 

2. Avoid Overly-Restrictive Mindsets

Tread lightly with your lists of health and wellness initiatives. These are the things you use to “optimize fertility.” This includes fertility diets, fertility yoga, fertility supplements, and certain lifestyle practices. Then there’s the list of things you “can’t” do, like “don’t exercise too much,” “don’t eat this,” and “don’t get too stressed out.” 

To be clear, I’m not advocating that you shouldn’t live a healthy lifestyle. But more often than not, people use these stringent lists against themselves, turning them into a prescriptive fantasy. In creating this fantasy, patients can put themselves in a scenario where they’re constantly disappointed with themselves.

I’m here to tell you that there isn’t one simple action that you can mess up that will cause your entire treatment to fail. So yes, do what you can to the best of your ability, but meet yourself where you’re at—and know there isn’t any one thing you can do to make fertility treatment work perfectly. 

3. Have Your Own Back

There are a ton of decisions to be made in the fertility process. And the most challenging part of making these decisions is that there are usually equally good reasons for your decision to go in either direction. 

Sure, your doctor can make the best guess, but ultimately it comes down to what you’re feeling up for. And what people fear most is making the wrong decision. But guess what? There is no such thing as the wrong decision. That’s because there is no way to know what the future holds. No one could ever know where Decision A will lead over Decision B. So my suggestion here is to make the decision to the best of your ability with the knowledge you currently have and then have your own back, no matter what the outcome is. 

Final Thoughts 

In the challenging journey of fertility treatments, it's essential to be vigilant about our mental and emotional well-being. Recognizing the signs of fertility treatment-related burnout is the first step to seeking the support and interventions that can help.

Book for clinical care with one of our mental health support clinicians for individualized support.

Three Things You Can Do To Prepare For Your Perimenopausal Transition

By Michelle Kapler R.TCMP R.Ac

Three Things You Can Do To Prepare For Your Perimenopausal Transition

Navigating the perimenopausal transition is like embarking on a journey through uncharted territory. And unlike geographical territory, no two transitions are the same. 

While well-meaning friends and professionals may offer road maps in the form of advice, the reality is that your body is your ultimate guide. In order to read your guide, you have to start tuning into your body well before your perimenopausal journey. 

In today’s post, we’ll explore three tips for preparing for this pivotal phase in your life: knowing your baseline function, establishing a healthy relationship with your provider, and building sustainable healthy habits. The goal is to arm you with the tools you need to advocate for yourself, develop a personalized care plan, and improve your overall well-being.

1. Get to Know Your Baseline Function

The objective here is to compile data in various ways so you're familiar with your unique version of "normal." This way, you'll quickly notice when something has changed and may require attention or even medical treatment.

If you do need medical care, being aware of what’s normal for you will help you to be a better advocate for yourself. For example, let’s say your menstrual cycle typically lasts 30 days but suddenly shifts to a 24-day cycle. With the data you've gathered, you can communicate more effectively with your doctor about this change and advocate for a treatment plan. 

Now, there are several ways you can gather this info. But before we dive into those, I have one pro tip: keep all of your info in one place. For some people, that’s a journal. For others, that’s the notes app on your phone. For me, it’s Google Drive. 

So, how can you gather this information?

1. Make simple observations - If you’ve followed my podcast for a while, you may recognize this advice from a previous podcast episode with Ana Lopez. In that episode, we talked about using your five senses to observe your body.
   
   So, go get naked in front of a mirror. What do you notice? How does your body look? What does your body feel like? You can even take notes on different smells, sounds or tastes. And don’t forget to take a look at your vulva—something many people neglect.
   

2. Gather lab data - This can be done through a healthcare provider, whether that’s a gynecologist or a Naturopathic doctor. The aim is to establish a consistent set of lab data over the years to track trends and changes. 

2. Connect With a Care Provider You Trust

Many women and people who menstruate don’t have a good working relationship with their primary care provider. If that sounds like you, that’s okay. Oftentimes, this happens because of flaws in the healthcare system—doctors may be overburdened, you may not have insurance (for US residents), or you may not even have providers nearby. 

To foster a stronger relationship with your healthcare provider during your journey towards menopause, it's crucial to build your self-advocacy skills. The most effective way to bolster these skills and make the most of limited appointment times is to be well-versed in your body's data. Armed with this information, you can better articulate your concerns or requests, particularly as they relate to natural menopause or menopause treatment options.

If you feel that your relationship with your healthcare provider is not meeting your expectations, now is the time to take action. Guided by your unique values and preferences, you can explore alternatives. Although navigating healthcare networks, geographical limitations, and funding options can be challenging, alternatives often exist. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations within your community or explore online support groups focused on menopause and menopause treatment.

Bottom line: get the care you want and need. 

I’ve seen too many people fall victim to politeness and people pleasing. This is when, out of fear of being seen as rude or impolite, women fail to voice their concerns or express an interest in finding a new provider. Most providers genuinely want the best treatment for you, whether they personally deliver it or another professional does. If a provider seems unsupportive of your decision to seek other opinions, they're likely prioritizing their ego over your healthcare needs. Is that the provider you want guiding you through the natural menopause process?

3. Establish Sustainable Health Promoting Habits

I'm not advocating for extreme exercise routines or restrictive diets. When talking about health-promoting habits, I’m referring to the low or no-cost options proven to have long-term positive effects. This includes a balanced diet, adequate hydration, regular and enjoyable physical activity, and prioritizing sleep and stress management for a smoother transition into natural menopause.

There's no quick fix or guaranteed path to long-term health. However, these mundane but effective habits are your best defense against the passage of time.

Over the next month, try prioritizing sleep. Once you’ve accomplished that, try tackling a well-balanced diet next. 

Remember, you don’t have to be perfect. This is all about doing the best you can with the time, energy, and resources you have, most of the time! 

There you have it! Those are my top three tips for preparing for the perimenopausal transition.

To learn more about working with me, to find an individualized treatment plan, to help you address your perimenopause and menopause symptoms, book your initial appointment today!

How Fertility Acupuncture Can Help During Your Fertility Treatment Process

By Michelle Kapler R.TCMP R.Ac

With over 13 years of clinical experience as a fertility-focused acupuncturist, I often encounter people who are curious, if not skeptical, about the role of acupuncture in conception and fertility. In this blog post, I’ll demystify this ancient Chinese practice, revealing how it can optimize your fertility treatment plan, help regulate your nervous system, and even alleviate common side effects associated with fertility treatment. 

Whether you’re in the beginning stages of an IVF treatment plan or have a few treatments in your history, this article will serve as a guiding resource helping you to understand how acupuncture can be a beneficial and instrumental tool in your fertility treatment plan, how to know when it’s working, and what to look for in an acupuncture practitioner. Let’s begin. 

What is Acupuncture? 

One of the most frequently posed questions in my practice centers around the definition of acupuncture. So, before diving into my fertility-focused practice, let’s start with a broad definition. 

Simply put, acupuncture is a practice within the broader medical system known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It involves the precise insertion of ultra-fine needles into specific points on the body, known in TCM as meridian channels, to achieve targeted health outcomes.

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a respected medical system that has been passed down through generations. Apart from acupuncture, TCM encompasses a variety of therapeutic approaches, including herbal medicine, dietary guidelines, and bodywork techniques like massage, cupping, and gua sha (scraping therapy).

In a standard acupuncture session, the practitioner first establishes a diagnosis. Once the practitioner has identified the problem, they can begin treating it with a series of hair-thin needles strategically placed at designated points on the body to facilitate the desired physiological change.

While acupuncture is perhaps most renowned for its efficacy in alleviating pain, its applications are far more expansive. It has been successfully utilized in the treatment of a diverse range of conditions, such as facial rejuvenation, eye disorders, nerve damage, and digestive health issues. In my own clinical experience, I have specialized in applying acupuncture to the fields of fertility and gynecology.

How Does Acupuncture Work for Fertility?

When it comes to boosting fertility, acupuncture offers a variety of ways to help you get the results you're after. First, let's understand how acupuncture fits into your overall fertility treatment plan.

Many of my patients are also using other medical treatments for fertility. In this case, your acupuncturist acts as an allied health provider, offering extra help throughout your fertility journey. There are three main goals your acupuncturist typically focuses on during treatment.

1. Boosting Pelvic Blood Flow - There's solid research showing that better blood flow in the pelvic area helps improve egg quality, follicle growth, and ovulation. Simply put, better blood flow means that key areas get the nutrients and oxygen they need, making it easier for you to conceive.

2. Balancing the Nervous System - Acupuncture is great at this. When your nervous system is in balance, your hormones are too. Hormones affect your whole body, so keeping stress hormones in check helps your reproductive hormones do their job better.

3. Easing Pain and Side Effects - If you're using fertility meds, you might experience side effects like mood swings, insomnia, and headaches. Acupuncture can help treat these symptoms, making them either go away or become much easier to handle.

Acupuncture can be a supportive part of your fertility treatment plan. It offers a range of benefits, from improving blood flow and balancing your nervous system to making medication side effects easier to deal with.

How Often Should You Schedule Acupuncture Treatments?

When it comes to how often you should schedule acupuncture sessions, once a week is usually a good starting point. Some people wonder if they should come more often. While you might come across information online suggesting multiple visits per week, remember that acupuncture is a personalized treatment. What works for one person may not apply to you, so your acupuncturist will help tailor your plan based on your specific needs.

Others think once a week sounds like a lot. Maybe acupuncture doesn’t fit your budget or lifestyle right now, and that's okay. What's important is having a discussion with your practitioner to find a frequency that makes sense for you. Even occasional treatments can be better than none at all.

How Do You Know Acupuncture is Working?  

The question of acupuncture's effectiveness often arises after someone has begun their treatment plan. When it comes to fertility issues, evaluating effectiveness isn’t as straightforward as it is for conditions like pain relief.

You might measure success by asking, "Am I pregnant yet?" But this shouldn't be the only yardstick. A skilled practitioner will look for other indicators of progress, like changes in your menstrual cycle, a reduction in period discomfort, or shifts in hormonal levels. For example, I monitor levels of follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) and often see reductions in this hormone with ongoing treatment.

That said, treatments aren’t universally effective. Just as no single medical or physical therapy approach works for everyone, the same is true for acupuncture. An experienced practitioner should also be able to identify when the treatment isn't yielding results, helping you make informed decisions moving forward. 

Is it Safe to Combine Acupuncture with Fertility Treatments?  

Yes, it is safe to combine acupuncture with fertility treatments. Acupuncture is often safely practiced in combination with IUI, IVF, FET, and other common fertility treatments. 

However, there is a major caveat to this answer. I practice in a jurisdiction where acupuncturists need a license to operate, ensuring they meet educational and practical standards. This is the case in many Canadian provinces and U.S. states as well.

When considering acupuncture as a complement to other medical fertility treatments, it’s important that you choose a practitioner who has experience in integrative healthcare. These professionals are best equipped to ensure that your acupuncture treatments align well with your other medical treatments, avoiding any adverse interactions.

What Should I Look For in an Acupuncturist?

If you're wondering how to select the right acupuncturist, several resources can help. Some jurisdictions have regulatory bodies with directories of certified practitioners. For instance, the Acupuncture and TCM Board of Reproductive Medicine (ABORM) offers certifications for those specializing in fertility and reproductive healthcare. Certification involves passing a comprehensive exam that gauges expertise in the interaction between fertility treatments and acupuncture.

If local options are limited, don't worry. You can still find qualified professionals by asking specific questions:

• Have you treated my specific condition before?

• Have you had clinical success treating individuals with my condition?

• Are you experienced in working with patients who are undergoing similar fertility treatments?

• Have you worked with people who are on the same medications as me?

• What is your history of working with fertility and gynecology?

A licensed practitioner should be able to offer safe treatments, but it’s a plus if they have experience with cases similar to yours.

Didn’t see one of your burning questions in this blog post? Send it to me on Instagram @michellekapler! Future questions may be addressed in upcoming blog posts or podcast episodes.