Infertility
Dealing with infertility is a traumatic, time-consuming and costly process. Infertility is not, however, uncommon, much to the dismay of couples around the world. It is estimated that one in six couples in Australia struggle to get pregnant. However, when the female is under the age of 34, couples are only considered infertile if they have not conceived after twelve months of unprotected sex. In cases where the female is over 35, however, the figure is six months rather than twelve. 40% of infertility cases are thought to be the result of male infertility, while 40% are thought to be caused by the female. In the remaining 20%, the cause is either unknown, or is as a result of both partners being infertile. Infertility in both genders has increased dramatically in the last fifty years. In fact, it is estimated that the average sperm count in males has decreased 48% since 1940. At Ayurvedic Wellness Centre, we believe that treating infertility requires an holistic approach to medicine and the use of natural treatments. In this article, we will examine some of the causes of infertility as well as discussing Ayurveda’s role in managing it.
Causes
Ayurveda regards the process of conception as the ultimate fulfilment of human destiny, and as such, the conditions must be exactly right for conception to take place. Particularly important is maintaining sexual health. In Ayurveda sexual well-being is dependent on having healthy Shukra Dhathu, or reproductive tissue. If one’s diet is unhealthy or imbalanced, it is unlikely that vital nutrients will make their way to the reproductive tissue. In addition, Ayurveda highlights the link between healthy conception and both members of the couple having a stress-free, balanced lifestyle.
Until there is a mutual sense of relaxation between the man and woman, conception cannot occur. Of course, avoiding the perils of our hectic, modern lifestyle is easier said than done!
What can Ayurveda do?
Ayurvedic texts state that there are four essential steps to the fertility process. They are:
Rtu: Timing
When attempting to conceive, try to find a time:
- when you are not stressed out about work, money or other issues.
- close to the milder spring season, when the body’s doshas are at less risk of being improperly balanced
- when you or your partner is ovulating
- when you are mentally ready to bring a child into the world
Kshetra: The field in which pregnancy occurs (ie. the body)
It is essential that you
- Know your body type and how to balance it effectively
- Free your body of toxins (ideally through Ayurvedic Panchakarma detox)
- Treat genital infections as soon as they happen. Consult one of our doctors for more information.
Ambu: Healthy Fluids
The body’s fluids must be balanced and healthy. Therefore:
- Avoid strenuous activities which may lead you open to disease
- Incorporate foods into your diet which balance the doshas
Bija: The Seed
To ensure that sperm and egg cells are healthy:
- Avoid exposure to chemicals or polluted environments
- Ideally be of an age between 18 and 35
- Avoid alcohol, pesticides, cigarettes or other potentially harmful substances
In summary, balancing the doshas within the body, thinking positively, relaxing and ridding the body of toxins are essential in conceiving healthily. For these reasons, Ayurveda recommends our Deep Relaxation Package, Panchakarma detox, and Couples Massage treatments in order to manage infertility. In addition, one of our highly qualified in-house doctors may be able to recommend specific treatments which have been customised to your body type. For more information please call us on (02) 9389 2581
