New research by scientists at the San Francisco State University indicates that people undergoing treatments for infertility, along with their partners, are much more likely to suffer Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). As a result of the study, doctors are suggesting that fertility treatment providers should include screening for MDD during pre-treatment testing, in order to help patients prevent the disorder taking hold during or after the process.
It is essential that any subfertility treatment involves stress and emotional management. Chinese medicine views a person as a system of interrelated structures, fluids and energy (including emotions), which must constantly be kept in balance in order to be healthy. At AcuMedic, our fertility experts help their patients to process the many feelings that arise during treatment. We understand that having fertility issues is a very severe diagnosis that can cause a great deal of emotional distress and leave patients feeling hopeless.
In Chinese medicine, reproductive health is primarily influenced by the health of Kidneys. The Kidney essence feeds the reproductive organs and maintains their health. If the Kidneys become weak, then the sexual health of the person declines. Men will start to lose their sex drive and sperm production becomes less efficient. Women will also lose their sex drive, ability to conceive and this eventually causes menopause. It is therefore essential to boost the Kidneys.
The Kidneys are directly affected by two other organs – the Liver and the Spleen. The Liver governs the emotions and therefore during prolonged periods of emotional pain or stress, the Liver will weaken, which will in turn weaken the Kidneys.
The organ predominantly associated with depression is the Liver. Liver Qi stagnation is the most common diagnosis, so herbs known to move the Qi and balance Liver are often used – such as Chinese angelica root, white peony root and liquorice. Treatment also usually involves acupuncture and advice on diet and lifestyle since a change in these two aspects might be vital to a successful outcome.
If you or someone you know is suffering from stress, anxiety and depression due to fertility issues, we suggest taking the necessary steps to improve emotional wellbeing naturally. Even though it’s hard to “just relax” take a deep breath and remember stress really doesn’t help.
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