Fertility issues can be an emotional and financial strain on couples. Whether you are struggling with fertility or would simply like to boost your fruitfulness, there are many natural and over the counter aids available.
Fertility, by definition, is the ability to conceive children. It is typically a natural process in the body. The Center for Disease Control finds that at least 10 percent of women (6.1 million) in the United States between the ages of 15 to 44, struggle to get or stay pregnant. According to the CDC, the term “infertile” applies to someone who is unable to conceive after trying for a full year.
There are many reasons, both known and unknown, why the natural process of fertility shuts off or does not function properly. These vary from poor nutrition, exposure to chemicals, age, physical blockages or hormone imbalance, to endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, high levels of prolactin and more. It helps to rule out natural causes and issues before going through the emotional, physical and financial stress of expensive fertility doctors and treatments. Starting with over the counter aids to avoid high costs and pressure is especially reasonable, considering the fact that anxiety and stress affect fertility in both men and women. Here are some easy, natural ways you can boost your fertility.
Get more sleep
Women with low melatonin and serotonin levels have shorter luteal phases. A luteal phase is the time that lapses between when you ovulate and when you menstruate. Having a shorter luteal phase means you have a shorter window of conception and have lower chances of becoming pregnant. Sleep needs to be a priority as it is vital to the production of many hormones, including cortisol and insulin. Make sure you are getting enough quality shut-eye at night and when possible, nap during the day.
Red Raspberry Leaf
This herb is a common natural fertility herb which is also beneficial during pregnancy. You can find it in both a capsule form and it is a common tea that you can drink hot or cold. This high nutrient herb that acts as both a calcium boost and a uterine tonic can be found in any health food store.
Fertility Blend Supplement
Fertility Blend SP-1 can be found both online and at many stores. As a Kosher, herbal capsule, this supplement provides a gradual, gentle approach, without undesirable side effects. Its natural ingredients and affordable price makes Fertility Blend a smart solution. It features blends for both women and men. In 2004, Stanford University College of Medicine conducted a study to validate the effectiveness of Fertility Blend.
Fish Oil
Omega-3s are excellent for baby development and healthy pregnancy. Flax oil and fish oil are rich in vital fatty acids. They help fertility by helping to regulate hormones and increase cervical mucous. Omega- 3 acids also promote ovulation, by increasing the blood flow to a woman’s reproduction organs, and in some cases help prevent blood from clotting inappropriately. It’s not just women who boost fertility with fish oil; it is also well known to promote fertility in men. These fatty acids are found in high concentrations of sperm, meaning it could boost the viability and maturity of his swimmers.
Fertility Superfoods
There are many things you can add to a daily smoothie that can boost your fertility and support hormonal balance. Maca, a Peruvian root, contains 31 different minerals and is a nourishing food for the entire endocrine system, which promotes hormone health. It has a nutty flavor and can be purchased in powder form for easy smoothie adding. One of the most vital things to add to your daily intake for fertility boosting is extra servings of leafy greens. It should be a go-to for many health reasons. Romaine, spinach, kale, arugula and others help create a sperm-friendly alkaline environment and provide vitamin and antioxidants needed to grow healthy eggs and sustain pregnancy. Wheatgrass is another high recommendation for your daily smoothie. It aids the body’s detoxing process naturally and it helps to purify your blood. If you are carrying high levels of toxins in your system, it can hinder fertility. Wheatgrass can be found both in the form of juice and powder.
Ovulex
An all-natural supplement to help promote a woman’s ovulation cycles, Ovulex is an over the counter fertility aid found online and in store. Containing herbs like Chaste-Tree, Raspberry Leaf, Black Cohosh, Dong Quai, St. John’s Wort and more, Ovulex, when taken in combination with regular exercise, proper diet and frequent timing of sexual intercourse, is said to boost a woman’s entire ovulation system and increase chances of getting pregnant without side-effects.
It comes in capsule form and is recommended to take two tablets right before bed time.
Don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor about healthy ways to increase your conception odds and discuss further options to help boost your fertility.