Research shows that approximately one in five pregnancies result in miscarriage. By following a preconception health care plan, treatment by a Naturopath aims to help reduce the incidence of miscarriage by supporting pregnancy and foetal health.
The preconception period is recognised as being very important to the health of a future baby. Sperm formation can take up to 116 days, and ova are susceptible to damage for about 100 days before ovulation. It is recommended that both partners undertake a preconception program for around 3-4 months before trying to conceive.
It is essential to investigate any contributing factors in miscarriage in addition to optimising the health of the prospective parents, while recognising that a pregnancy loss can make the emotional and physical journey so much harder. Following a healthy diet and implementing lifestyle modifications to reduce potential stress and anxiety is vital.
A Fertility Naturopath will use the latest medical testing to investigate the cause of the miscarriage (even after a single loss) so that it can be treated and the chance of it happening again reduced. These tests may include genetic testing, antibody testing, hormonal analysis and more.
Some causes of miscarriage include:
- Thyroid problems
- Progesterone insufficiency
- Genetic and chromosomal problems
- Inflammation
- Auto immunity and antibody production
After investigating and treating underlying health problems, changing diet and lifestyle and implementing appropriate nutritional supplementation, many couples achieve their dream of a healthy full-term pregnancy.
It is worth noting that most Fertility Naturopaths will work closely with your GP or specialist to ensure transparent and integrative care to help you achieve your goal of a healthy pregnancy and baby.
Belinda Kirkpatrick is an expert nutritionist and naturopath with over 15 years clinical experience. As well as running a busy clinic in Sydney, Belinda lectures in nutrition and naturopathy and is a regular television and media presenter on health and dietary topics. Belinda is the author of Healthy Hormones which features expert naturopathic advice, 50 recipes plus tips on lifestyle and nutrition. (Available for purchase at all good bookstores or at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Healthy-Hormones-practical-balancing-hormones/dp/1743369387)
Connect with Belinda at @bknaturopathy or www.belindakirkpatrick.com.au
You are also welcome to join Belinda’s private FB group, “Healthy Hormones with Belinda Kirkpatrick” (https://www.facebook.com/groups/438834833295825)