Category Archives: Hormones

acupuncture, Hormones, Menstrual Cycle, Women's Health

Can Acupuncture Regulate Your Menstrual Cycle?

Posted on by Lindsay Goodwin
Garnet Moon Fertility Method. Get Pregnant Now.

Are you tired of dealing with painful and irregular menstrual cycles every month or just not having regular periods?

Women around the world are looking for natural solutions to menstrual problems. They hope to find relief without having to take medication with side effects or surgery. One possible solution many women are turning to is acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture are effective in regulating periods. They also affect the pituitary ovarian HPO axis loop in the brain and overall hormonal levels.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can help regulate, improve, and balance your hormones. This can bring comfort and relief from irregular menstrual cycles and hormonal levels. To learn more, explore this treatment option.

Lindsay Goodwin, LAc., FABORM, MSOM, BS, Dipl. OM, CH.t., CPNLP, CLC, EFT is a Fertility and Women’s Health Expert, a certified Fellow on The Acupuncture & TCM Board of Reproductive Medicine, and has over 13 years of experience in Fertility, Women’s Health, Hormones, & Pregnancy. Can Acupuncture Regulate Your Menstrual Cycle? 

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What is acupuncture, and how does it work for your menstrual health?

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese Medicine practice. It has been used for centuries to manage various health concerns. These include menstrual irregularities and hormone level issues.

This technique involves inserting thin, sterile needles into certain points in the body. This is done to stimulate the flow of energy (or Qi) and assist in the healing process.

Acupuncture can be effective in addressing menstrual health issues. It can reduce pain, regulate irregular cycles, and promote a healthy flow. Additionally, it can help with other symptoms such as bloating, mood swings, and fatigue.

Acupuncture improves blood flow and releases endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals that help balance hormones and reduce inflammation. I am a licensed acupuncturist and a reproductive medicine certified Fellow on ABORM. I can confirm that acupuncture is effective in treating menstrual irregularities and hormone level issues. It also helps to improve reproductive health and overall wellbeing. Can Acupuncture Regulate Your Menstrual Cycle?

Benefits of acupuncture for regulating periods.

Acupuncture has been employed for centuries as an alternative medical treatment. It promotes holistic wellness and has been found to be highly effective in regulating periods and relieving menstrual irregularities.

The concept behind acupuncture is that specific channels or meridians exist throughout the body. A blockage or imbalance in energy channels can have serious health implications. This is due to a lack of regulated energy flow, leading to imbalances.

Acupuncture can boost blood flow. This increased circulation helps the body produce hormones. These hormones are important for regulating the menstrual cycle. It is a safe and natural alternative to pharmaceuticals.

 

What to expect from an acupuncture session?

Acupuncture treatment can be relaxing and calming.

If you are new to this experience or just curious, have no fear. When you arrive for your appointment, your licensed acupuncturist will review your health history. They will then discuss what you hope to achieve from treatment.

You will be asked to lie on a comfortable table. Your licensed acupuncturist will insert tiny, hair-thin needles into specific points on your body. This stimulates the body’s natural healing response. It can help with various conditions, such as pain, hormone imbalance, menstrual irregularities, stress, and insomnia.

You may feel slight tingling or pressure, but the sensation is relaxing and should not hurt.

Many people even fall asleep during their acupuncture treatment because it is relaxing! If you feel anxious, take a deep breath acupuncture is a gentle way to support your health and well-being.

How diet and lifestyle can affect your menstrual cycle & balance hormonal levels.

Many women can attest that their diet and lifestyle can significantly influence their menstrual cycle and hormonal levels. 

Foods & Lifestyle Factors: 

  • Eating sugary and processed foods can lead to irregular menstrual cycles. On the other hand, diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help bring regularity to menstrual cycles. 
  • Sedentary lifestyles can affect one’s period, as regular exercise is crucial for maintaining hormonal balance.
  • Stress can affect menstrual cycles. High-stress levels can disturb the hormonal balance responsible for regulating ovulation and menstruation. These hormones include estrogen, FSH, and progesterone, as well as LH.
  • It is important to focus on our diet and lifestyle. We must strive for a healthy, balanced lifestyle to keep a healthy menstrual cycle.

Key takeaways about acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine and your menstrual cycle.

Acupuncture treatment and Traditional Chinese Medicine can help regulate menstrual irregularities and flow. It can also reduce pain and cramping with menstruation. Additionally, it can improve overall balance hormonal levels and the function of the nervous system.

Acupuncture works by addressing imbalances in the body through the use of thin needles that are put into specific points. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can be overwhelming to some people. However, it is a gentle and effective way to address menstrual cycle issues. 

There is no denying that acupuncture treatment and Traditional Chinese Medicine have been used for centuries. This ancient practice is used to regulate menstrual irregularities and hormonal levels. The list of benefits, from pain relief to reduced nervous system issues, i.e., due to the stress response, is impressive.

At your appointment, your licensed acupuncturist will review your health history.

They will also insert needles gently into acupuncture points chosen specifically for you.

You must also pay attention to your diet and lifestyle factors that may affect menstrual irregularities and hormonal levels. 

If you experience hormonal issues, PMS, and painful and irregular menstrual cycles, these may be impacting your daily life. Consider consulting a professional who is a licensed acupuncturist, and who specializes in reproductive medicine and women’s health. To find the best specialist, visit the ABORM website. There, you can find certified Fellows who specialize in women’s health. 

Want to learn more? Are you in the Denver area? I see clients at my Denver based clinic or from anywhere in the world; book a comp consult with me to learn more about how I can increase your fertility success, balance hormones, and your reproductive medicine health. 

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Fertility Acupuncture, Fertility Diet, Hormones, IVF Nutrition, IVF Success Stories

What To Eat After an Embryo Transfer

Posted on by Lindsay Goodwin
WHAT TO EAT AFTER AN EMBRYO TRANSFER

Foods to Eat Before and After an Embryo Transfer.

A fertility journey is exciting yet challenging and full of unknowns; and possible heartbreaks in some situations. Proper nutrition can help ensure a successful outcome. Eating nutrient-dense foods in the right combination after transferring your embryos could increase your chances of success. 

As a fertility and women’s health expert and board-certified and licensed acupuncturist with more than 13 years of experience, I know that through healthy eating we have the ability to support our hormones and reproductive systems on this path toward motherhood—and today I will share my insights into which foods are most beneficial to eat pre and post transfer.

Lindsay Goodwin, LAc., FABORM, MSOM, BS, Dipl. OM is a Fertility and Women’s Health Expert, a Certified Fellow on The Acupuncture & TCM Board of Reproductive Medicine, and has over 13 years of clinical experience in Fertility, Women’s Health, Hormones, & Pregnancy.

Our Fertility Method

Foods to Help Increase IVF Transfer Success and Detailing Why it’s Important.

Anyone going through IVF or trying to conceive heard of consuming tons of pineapple core for the bromine enzyme it’s packed with. Studies have shown bromine to increase embryo implantation. Yes, use bromine, but also incorporate other fertility success foods. Let me explain. 

When undergoing IVF treatment, the transfer stage is a critical moment in the process. While many factors can impact the success of an IVF embryo transfer, nutrition can play a significant role. Incorporating certain foods into your diet can help improve your chances of a successful embryo transfer. These foods include those rich in protein, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Choosing the right foods can help optimize your body for a successful IVF embryo transfer. Remember that a healthy diet is just one piece of the puzzle, but it can significantly impact your overall success!

The Importance of Healthy Fats, Zinc, Folic Acid, and Antioxidants For a Successful Embryo Transfer.

Regarding embryo transfer, there are a few essential nutrients that experts recommend incorporating into your diet.

Healthy fats, such as those found in avocado and nuts, can help support the embryo’s development.

Zinc is another essential nutrient that can aid in the growth and division of cells, and it also increases progesterone levels which is one of the critical hormones for the start of a healthy pregnancy.

Folic acid, often associated with prenatal care, can also play a crucial role in the success of an embryo transfer by preventing neural tube defects.

Finally, antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, can help to protect the developing embryo from oxidative stress.

While no one food or nutrient alone can guarantee a successful embryo transfer, ensuring that your diet includes a variety of foods rich in these critical nutrients can undoubtedly increase your chances of success.

Tips to Boost Your IVF Success with Food Choices.

Incorporating specific foods into your diet can help improve the quality of your eggs, balance hormone levels, and create a healthy environment for implantation.

Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can help decrease inflammation and improve egg quality.

Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc, which regulates hormone levels and supports a healthy reproductive system.

Eggs contain protein and vitamin D, essential for embryo growth and reducing the risk of miscarriage.

Dark leafy greens are packed with folate, a crucial nutrient for fetal development.

Nuts and legumes are excellent sources of plant-based protein and fiber, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation.

By making mindful food choices and incorporating these nutrient-rich foods into your diet, you can boost your IVF success and increase the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy by up to 40%!

Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids for IVF Embryo Transfer Success.

Omega-3s are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can improve the quality of eggs and the uterine environment. These essential fatty acids are found in fatty fish, nuts, and seeds but can also be supplemented.

Omega-3s have been linked to increased blood flow, hormone regulation, and reduced uterine inflammation, all of which can contribute to a successful IVF embryo transfer.

Talking to your doctor before starting any new supplement or dietary program is essential, especially when undergoing fertility treatments like IVF or when pregnant.

Ways to Include More Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Your Diet.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that our bodies need to function correctly. Incorporating more of them into our diets is easy. There are various ways to get your daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids, but one of the most effective is the consumption of walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds. 

These foods are not only delicious but also highly nutritious. Walnuts are a tremendous alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) source, while flaxseeds and chia seeds contain omega-3. Try sprinkling flaxseeds or chia seeds on your oatmeal or organic full-fat yogurt. And next time you need a snack, reach for a handful of walnuts; they nourish your and your baby’s brain too! 

Simple changes like these to your diet can boost fertility and promote a healthy pregnancy.

How These Foods Can Make an Impact on Fertility & An Embryo Transfer.

Foods high in antioxidants, such as organic berries and cooked leafy greens, can improve egg quality and reduce the risk of miscarriage. It does start with the egg for a healthy pregnancy! 

Additionally, consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like wild-caught salmon and chia seeds, can increase blood flow to the uterus and improve the embryo’s chance of implantation. 

A healthy diet can not only aid in conception, but it can also support a healthy pregnancy and the development of a happy, healthy baby.

Your fertility success can be greatly improved with vibrant, healthy diet choices! As a 13-year fertility and women’s health expert, I highly recommend consuming foods high in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, pumpkin seeds, organic eggs, organic cooked dark leafy greens, nuts, and legumes to improve your IVF and fertility success. 

Increasing folic acid intake could also buffer any potential problems associated with IVF. Adding walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds to your diet is an excellent way to increase your omega-3 fatty acid levels. Remember that food choices are essential for improving the success rate for embryo transfers and boosting overall fertility.

Fertility issues can seem daunting, including the two-week wait after your embryo transfer, but if you take the opportunity to make significant changes in your lifestyle to include healthier food options and consult experts like myself to increase your fertility and healthy pregnancy success, you will dramatically improve your conception. 

Make sure to take advantage of this powerful method because food is medicine when it comes to improving pregnancy success rates through IVF treatments. So don’t wait – schedule an appointment with me today to get started on increasing your success!

Want to learn more? I can help you if you are in the Denver area at my Denver-based clinic or from anywhere in the world; book a complimentary consult with me to learn more about how I can increase your fertility success and my highly successful signature Fertility program, The Garnet Moon Fertility Method!

Best Fertility Acupuncture | Garnet Moon Denver.

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Fertility Acupuncture, Fertility Testing, Hormones, Menstrual Cycle, Women's Health

Hormonal Tests: Learning About Your Hormones

Posted on by Lindsay Goodwin
Best acupuncture and holistic wellness for women's health and fertility acupuncture in Denver. Book now.

Understanding Hormonal Tests and Your Cycle.

One of the best things you can do for your body is to stay in tune with its natural rhythms. But understanding your hormones and fertility journey can be so frustrating! Learn how Understanding Hormonal Tests and Your Cycle can make things so much easier. Garnet Moon Denver is the expert in Best Fertility & Women’s Health Acupuncture!

Lindsay Goodwin, LAc., FABORM, MSOM, BS is a Fertility and Women’s Health Expert, a Certified Fellow on The Acupuncture & TCM Board of Reproductive Medicine, and has over 13 years of experience in Fertility, Women’s Health, Hormones, & Pregnancy.

Our Fertility Method

Understanding Your Hormones and Cycle.

In this article, I will go over common hormonal testing I recommend or review for women in my clinic.

When understanding your hormones and menstrual cycle, several tests are available to help identify any potential imbalances and guide personalized treatment plans. At Garnet Moon Denver, we know the importance of working with all members of your healthcare team, including your Fertility specialist, gynecologist, reproductive endocrinologist, or medical doctor. Let’s look at the different tests that can help you gain insight into your health, overall wellness, and fertility if trying to conceive.

Hormonal Testing or Baseline Testing.

Hormonal Testing or Baseline Testing – is a initial screening tool before starting any Fertility treatment or helping to identify where there are issues with hormonal imbalances. This test measures hormone levels such as estradiol (E2, estrogen), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), progesterone (P4), testosterone, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), and prolactin (PRL); and AMH (Anit-Mullerian Hormone) for ovarian reserve if trying to conceive.

The results from these tests will provide insight into your hormones and Fertility status and allow for suggestions on how best to proceed with treatments that align with your goals.

Hormones are tested at different times in your cycle. This gives a more accurate hormonal balance evaluation, how well your ovaries respond, and overall health. Some hormones, however, like AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) to see what the ovarian reserve (egg quality) level is and, will test on any day of the cycle for an accurate measurement. Testosterone is another hormone for testing at any time of the month and is crucial in Fertility and PCOS.

First, let’s briefly examine the menstrual cycle before diving more into hormone testing. A key part of Understanding Hormonal Tests and Your Cycle.

    • Day 1: the first day you start the full bleed of your period.
    • Day 14: the average day many women ovulate, but this varies from woman to woman and cycle to cycle based on hormones, stress, etc.
    • Day 28: (depends from woman to woman)- some women have shorter or longer cycles than 28 days. However, having a cycle of fewer than 25 days or longer than 31 days could indicate hormonal imbalances happening if it happens often.
    • Back to Day 1: your period returns, and a new cycle begins.

Day 3 Testing: 

The day 3 tests measure estradiol (E2, estrogen), follicular stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). These tests show how your brain communicates with your ovaries. Testing on or around day 3 of your cycle can also be helpful in the diagnosis of PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome). It is important to note that even though estradiol (E2, estrogen) is generally tested on day 3 of your cycle, it can also be tested on days 19-22 or roughly 5-7 days after ovulation. Evaluating progesterone with estrogen can help to identify possible estrogen dominance, which can be a real problem in both trying to conceive and with hormonal issues like endometriosis, fibroids, and cysts. 

Additional testing may be suggested depending on individual circumstances. A vaginal ultrasound is usually done on the same day as the day 3 testing to check for ovarian activity through an antral follicle count (AFC) and to get a medical image of the uterus’s health. 

Mid-Cycle Testing:

Progesterone (P4) is generally at its peak 5-7 days following ovulation, so this test is recommended on days 19-22 of a typical 28-day cycle. Ovulation happens around day 14 of your cycle, but this can vary from woman to woman and cycle to cycle individually. The best way to gauge when ovulation occurs each cycle is through BBT charting, basal body temperature recording, and cervical mucus evaluation. Mid-cycle testing is done around day 14 of an average 28-day cycle (day 1 being the first day of bleeding). This test measures estradiol (E2, estrogen) and progesterone levels, which helps determine if ovulation has occurred or if further evaluation is needed, such as ultrasounds or bloodwork during other parts of the cycle. The results from this test may show hormonal imbalances that need further investigation, which can lead to targeted treatments that support reproductive health.

Tests to Consider Having Tested for Not Getting Your Period:

    • Prolactin 
    • Thyroid panel 
    • Luteinizing hormone (LH) 
    • Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) 
    • Estradiol (E2 Estrogen) 
    • Free testosterone 
    • Androstenedione 
    • DHEA-S 
    • Fasting Insulin 
    • HgA1C 
    • Pregnancy test 

Want to learn more? I can help you if you are in the Denver area at my Denver-based clinic or from anywhere in the world; book a complimentary consult with me to learn more about how I can increase your fertility success and my highly successful signature Fertility program, The Garnet Moon Fertility Method!

Best Fertility Acupuncture | Garnet Moon Denver.

Book now