The Ayurveda Fertility Connection
Wanting to conceive a child can become a profound longing. Holding a baby, watching that little one grow into an adult, and having the parent-child relationship is one of life’s most moving experiences. Achieving a successful pregnancy and delivery, however, can become challenging for many reasons and what started out as a journey of joy can rapidly become a journey of fear and stress. The question is, what can we do if we are faced with obstacles in our child-bearing path?
As always, I always turn my clients first to natural practices like Ayurveda to try to address the root cause of any health issue. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of holistic medicine, has been revered for centuries for its comprehensive approach to health and well-being. Among its many applications, Ayurvedic principles and practices hold significant promise for enhancing fertility. This traditional approach offers a natural and balanced pathway to improving reproductive health, grounded in the understanding that fertility is not just a physical condition but also a reflection of overall health and harmony. Recently, in 2022, Kourtney Kardashian and hubby Travis Barker used Ayurveda to get pregnant after multiple failed IVF attempts. They were successful, and Kourtney delivered a healthy baby boy in November 2023. The Ayurveda process they underwent is called a Panchakarma cleanse, an ancient Ayurvedic approach to detox the body entirely. Other celebrities, including NFL star Aaron Rodgers, Julia Roberts, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jennifer Aniston have embraced Ayurveda as well.
In Ayurveda, the concept of fertility goes beyond just reproduction. It is seen as a vital sign of health and vitality, deeply connected to the balance of the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These doshas are fundamental energies that govern our physiological and psychological processes. Although imbalance in any of these doshas can disrupt reproductive health, infertility issues are often linked to Vata, although other doshas can be involved as well.
The reproductive tissue, known as Shukra Dhatu in Ayurveda, is the final product of the metabolic processes and is considered the essence of vitality and creativity. Healthy Shukra Dhatu is essential for both men and women to conceive and bear healthy offspring. When the doshas are balanced, Shukra Dhatu is nourished, and fertility is enhanced.
Ayurvedic Diet and Nutrition for Fertility
Diet plays a pivotal role in maintaining doshic balance and supporting fertility. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet tailored to one’s dosha type. For optimal reproductive health, incorporating specific foods that enhance fertility is crucial.
For Vata types, who tend to have cold and dry qualities, warm and nourishing foods such as soups, stews, and cooked vegetables are beneficial. Pitta types, who often have heat and acidity, benefit from cooling foods like cucumbers, leafy greens, and melons. Kapha types, prone to heaviness and congestion, should focus on light and spicy foods to stimulate metabolism.
Certain foods are particularly recommended for their fertility-boosting properties. Almonds, sesame seeds, ghee, and milk are staples in an Ayurvedic fertility diet. These foods are rich in nutrients that nourish Shukra Dhatu and support hormonal balance. It’s also essential to avoid foods that can negatively impact reproductive health, such as processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
Spices and herbs play a vital role in an Ayurvedic diet. Spices like turmeric, ginger, and cumin not only enhance the flavor of food but also improve digestion and circulation, which are crucial for reproductive health. Herbs like Ashwagandha and Shatavari are particularly renowned for their fertility-enhancing properties.
Ayurvedic Herbs and Supplements for Fertility
Ayurveda offers a rich pharmacopeia of herbs known for their ability to support and enhance fertility. These herbs work by balancing the doshas, nourishing Shukra Dhatu, and promoting overall health. I have worked with a number of clients who were unable to conceive, including clients unable to achieve success with IVF, with great results. Ayurvedic herbs can also be used during IVF treatment, but is often limited to boosting male fertility since herbs and western pharmaceuticals are often contraindicated with the female partner. Some potent fertility herbs include:
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the most revered herbs in Ayurveda for its adaptogenic properties. It helps reduce stress, which is a common factor in infertility, and supports the body's energy and vitality.
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is another powerful herb, especially beneficial for women. It is known to support hormonal balance, enhance the reproductive system, and improve the quality of the ova.
Kapikacchu (Mucuna pruriens) is beneficial for both men and women. It supports the production of healthy sperm in men and balances hormones in women.
Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa) is particularly useful for its astringent properties and is often used to support menstrual health and balance Pitta dosha.
Incorporating these herbs into your daily routine can be done through various forms such as teas, powders, and capsules. Combined, these herbs are formulations which help create a synergistic hormonal balance between the Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and the Luteinizing Hormone (LH). However, it is crucial to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner to ensure that the herbs and supplements are appropriate for your specific needs and constitution. Herbs can also be contraindicated when combined with prescription medications.
Lifestyle Practices for Enhancing Fertility
A balanced lifestyle is essential for maintaining reproductive health. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a regular daily routine (Dinacharya) that aligns with natural rhythms. This includes waking up and going to bed at the same time each day, eating meals at regular intervals, and incorporating relaxation techniques into your daily routine. If you smoke, stop. If you drink or use recreational items for socializing or relaxation, stop. Any of these activities can act as disrupters. The cleaner your system, the better.
Stress management is vital for fertility. High stress levels can lead to hormonal imbalances and negatively impact reproductive health on your mood. Practices such as yoga and meditation are highly effective in reducing stress and promoting mental equilibrium. Gentle yoga poses and breathing exercises (pranayama) help release tension, improve circulation, and support the body’s natural balance. If you are conceiving with a partner, have them join in with you in these activities. It will boost their fertility as well.
Sleep hygiene is another critical aspect. Ensuring adequate rest and maintaining a regular sleep schedule supports the body’s natural regenerative processes and hormonal balance. Regular exercise, tailored to your dosha type, also plays a significant role. Vata types benefit from grounding exercises like walking and yoga, Pitta types from cooling activities like swimming, and Kapha types from invigorating exercises like running or aerobics.
Emotional well-being is closely linked to reproductive health. Ayurveda teaches that unresolved emotional issues and chronic stress can weaken the reproductive system. Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, journaling, and engaging in creative activities like art and music can help process emotions and reduce stress.
To support emotional balance, practices such as Abhyanga (self-massage) with warm herbal oils can be incredibly soothing and grounding. Aromatherapy using essential oils like lavender and rose can also promote relaxation and emotional balance.
If you are conceiving naturally, approach intimacy in a gentle and loving manner. Use the time to connect deeply with your partner, sharing your love not only for the purposes of conceiving, but also simply to be there for each other. Mornings are great for lovemaking - sperm count and testosterone are highest in the morning for men and estrogen highest in the morning for women. Males should avoid hot baths prior to intercourse because it lowers sperm count. Enjoy your morning connection every other day, beginning five days prior to ovulation and a couple of days after ovulation.
Easy Yoga Postures
Yoga and meditation are vital aspects in any Ayurveda. Practicing yoga postures with slow breathing helps manage stress, promotes better sleep, and greatly improves your mood. Here are two very simple, easy practices that you can incorporate into your day and benefits fertility.
Viparita Karani (Legs Up the Wall)
This exercise helps reduce cortisol that your body releases when stressed. It also works by easing tension and reducing anxiety, both of which are commonly linked to infertility. This yoga pose is a great one to do at night because it is so relaxing and can help with sleep quality as well as stress reduction.
To practice: Lower your shoulders and back to the mat as you lift and straighten your legs against the wall, forming as close to a 90-degree angle as you can. Rest your arms by your sides with palms facing up.
Breathe into your pelvic area. Imagine a beautiful glowing light emitting from your reproductive organs. Breathing in through the nose, feel the belly rise. Breathing out through the nose, feel the belly contract.
To exit the pose, slide your legs down the wall, and turn to one side. Alternatively, you can slide the legs down until the knees are bent with feet flat on the wall and push off from there.
Marjaryasana/Bitilasana (Cat/Cow)
This exercise stretches the muscles surrounding the reproductive organs to increase flexibility to the hips and pelvis. To watch a video that I did explaining how to do this posture, check out my eHow video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jr1zPiI7gqA
To practice: Sit on the floor and come onto your hands and knees. The knees align directly below your hips. Knees should be spaced two fist widths apart. Align your wrists and elbows directly under the shoulders, palms flat with fingers spread.
Begin with your spine in a neutral position, with your back flat and your abs engaged. Inhale through the nose and drop the waist towards the floor. As you exhale, round your spine toward the ceiling like a cat, keeping your shoulders and knees in position. Imagine you’re pulling your belly button up toward your spine, really engaging your abs. Tuck your chin toward your chest, and let your neck release.
Inhale and return to a neutral tabletop position to begin cow pose. Connect your breath to each movement—inhale for cow pose and exhale on cat pose. Repeat 10 to 15 times.
Easy Relaxation Technique for Sleep Quality
The yoga postures above pair well with a good night’s sleep. There is also a very easy breathing exercise that does an amazing job of helping with relaxation and a good night’s sleep. It’s known as alternate nostril breath.
To practice: Relax your entire body. Bring the right hand up, and close off the right nostril with the thumb. Inhale deeply through the left nostril and feel the belly rise. Close off the left nostril with the index finger and exhale right, feeling the navel move inwards. Inhale right, close off the right nostril with the thumb, exhale left.
Integrating Ayurveda into Modern Fertility Treatments
Ayurveda can complement conventional fertility treatments by addressing the holistic needs of the individual. Collaborating with healthcare providers to integrate Ayurvedic principles with modern medical treatments can offer a more comprehensive approach to fertility.
For instance, Ayurvedic dietary and lifestyle recommendations can be incorporated into conventional treatment plans to enhance overall health and support the body's natural fertility processes. Herbs and supplements can be used alongside medical treatments, provided there is coordination between the Ayurvedic practitioner and the healthcare provider.
By combining the wisdom of Ayurveda with modern fertility treatments, individuals can benefit from a holistic approach that supports both physical and emotional well-being.
For those seeking a deeper and more immersive experience in Ayurveda, consider joining our Ayurvedic Retreat. Our retreat offers personalized guidance, daily Ayurvedic treatments, and a serene environment designed to support your journey towards overall well-being. Reconnect with your body and mind, learn practical tools for a healthier lifestyle, and enjoy the tranquility that our retreat has to offer. Or, book a personal one-on-one Ayurveda consultation with Dr. Scarborough. The time to optimize your health is now!
Interested in learning more about Ayurveda? Check out our other blog articles here!
Dr. Lola Scarborough is an Ayurveda Consultant, Astrologer, Author, Yogini & Healer and owner of Ayurveda Living Retreats and The Health Hut in Texas.
Leading fun, life-changing, health-focused body-mind-spirit local and international retreats since 2010
https://ayurvedalivingretreats.com
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