Back at last

You could say I took a break from posting for a while.  It was unintentional but that’s what happened.  After the craziness of August’s IUI-turned-IVF-then back to-IUI and the subsequent negative result, I needed to get away from writing and thinking about infertility.  We did have a consultation with the dr. about what happened and our options.  We’ve decided that we are not going to mess around with more IUI cycles.  That one was traumatic enough.  The dr. agrees.  He thinks that it would be traumatic for us both emotionally and financially.  So we are going to do IVF next.  When that “next” time will be… that I do not know.  I just know that now is not the time.

Several weeks ago I came to the realization that what was propelling me forward in this treatment was not my desire for a baby.  It definitely started out that way.  Now it is more about finding out whether I will be able to get pregnant.  That’s the big question.  I don’t think it is a good enough reason to try to make a baby (especially through such an arduous and expensive technique).  So we aren’t.  Not until that desire to have a baby comes back.

Even then it might not be for a little while.  I have also realized how important it is to me to move ahead professionally right now.  I’ve been a student for 22 years straight.  I went straight from college to grad school.  I am in my last year of my doctoral program.  I’m supposed to graduate in the spring and I don’t want anything to get in the way.  In many ways, getting my doctorate has been like a difficult pregnancy.  I am late in that last trimester and I want that baby to come out.   The process has transformed me in ways both amazing and uncomfortable.  I am very thankful for the opportunity.  But I need to push this degree out.  I need to see the fruition of my labor.  It may not be as cuddly or cute as an infant, but that degree is going to be beautiful.  I await it with eagerness and anticipation.  I can’t wait to see what lies ahead for me professionally.  This degree has been my baby and perhaps I need to give birth to it before I give birth to a child.

So we are waiting.  In the meantime I increased the dosage of metformin to 1000 mg based on the dr.’s recommendation (I have been taking 500 mg because 1000 mg made me so sick I could not keep anything down).  I’m doing okay with it.  I have a low appetite and cannot eat as much at one time.  I also cannot easy greasy foods unless I want to throw up and feel sick the entire next day.  That lesson has been difficult for me to learn for some reason.  But I am thankful that I can keep food down.  I’m also going to start acupuncture.  Basically, we are leaving the door open for a pregnancy to occur (not probable but perhaps a tiny bit possible) but we are not actively trying.

This week I did have a couple thoughts like “oh, it would not be bad to have a baby.”  I take that as a good sign.  Maybe the desire will come back.  For awhile now I pushed that desire down because it was too painful.  We’ll see what happens.  We are not in a rush.  The dr. told us that people like us (26 years old; healthy except for pcos; no male factor) do not walk out of their clinic without a baby.  I thought that was pretty bold but it made me feel much more comfortable with waiting.  So I’m choosing to believe that the answer to my question “will I be able to get pregnant” will probably be “yes” and that gives me the freedom to wait for the time that feels most right.

Countdown to Wedding - 3 Days!

So I am not supposed to stress out right? Easier said than done 3 days before the wedding. I have ears seeds in for the last two weeks to help me stay centered. I’m thinking I’ll add a few more today.
It can be very busy the week before the wedding so I’ll impart some wisdom that’s been handed down to me.

#1 plan your meals
It is so busy and last thing you need is a pizza hangover. Make sure you are taking your greens. In the morning I am loving a smoothie with Dr Schulze’s SuperFoods Plus powder. When I am eating right I feel better and I’m more likely to get it all done with a smile.

#2 Stay Hydrated
I carry a huge Klean Kanteen bottle with me everywhere, thank god I have a huge purse too.

#3 Care for your skin
The week before use natural products that help reflect your radiant beauty. Stress has a tendency to dehydrate and a good moisturizer will shine. I love the Purify Serum with the Refine Healing Herbal Serum from Golden Path Alchemy. Stress can also bring on breakouts which is everyone’s wedding nightmare right. So I have been using the Purify Herbal Cleanser in the morning and the Refine Cleanser at night. I also use the Goji Glow Mask about every other day, just to get that gorgeous glowing complexion.

oh shoot pedicure emergency – check back later!

Fertility

Fertility issues or preconceptual guidance is part of the midwife’s role and is something I am often asked about.  Apart from the usual information for someone planning a baby, actually getting pregnant can sometimes be an issue.  The medical profession often do not consider it a potential problem unless you have been trying for a baby for around 18 months, and indeed it can often take longer – this must seem like forever when you aren’t getting pregnant.  I do know that stress (including trying for a baby) and sub-optimal health can lead to difficulty in conceiving, so bear this in mind.

To get yourself into optimal health obviously you need to eat well, be rested.  There are some very good websites, particularly the Foresight website and I suggest you work through this list. 

www.haveababy.com

www.womantomother.co.uk

http://www.foresight-preconception.org.uk

http://www.marilynglenville.com

http://www.zitawest.com

http://www.eatwell.gov.uk/agesandstages/pregnancy/whenyrpregnant/

Also, complementary therapists may help and I have listed some that I am aware of in the Milton Keynes area:

Acupuncture –

Sandra Ah-Peng – Acupuncturist
Milton Keynes 01908 505883

www.mkacupuncture.co.uk

Gabi Stutz – Acupuncturist
Milton Keynes 01908 225051

Homoeopathy -

Gwynne Grayson – Homeopath
Milton Keynes 01908 520546

Jacky Swanepoel – Homeopath
Milton Keynes 01908 585385

Reflexology -

Kelly Holman – Reflexology
Milton Keynes 01908 54266

www.thesunflowerhouse.co.uk

Kinesiology -

Lesley Stephenson – Kinesiologist
Northampton 01604 871225

www.sanctumclinic.co.uk

Hypnotherapy –

Denise Marleyn
Leighton Buzzard 01525 850334

www.persephone-therapy.co.uk

Emotional Freedom Techniques

http://midwifevalerie.wordpress.com/2009/10/15/emotional-freedom-technique-eft-and-fertility/

Sejual Shah

http://www.healthyinmind.com/

Nutrition:

Kim Crundall

http://www.balancenutrition.co.uk/index.htm

How aware you are of your fertile period?  It is usually 14 days before a period, so if you have a 28 day cycle it is day 14, but on a longer cycle it may well be later, and just to confuse things women do not always ovulate on day 14!  There are various things you can use, like predictor and charting your temperature etc, but also by looking at your normal vaginal discharge (!) at your fertile period the discharge will change from a thicker creamier discharge moving towards a clear, stretch discharge like egg white.  To help with conception it is best if you have sex on alternate days around this period.   

Hope that something here will be helpful to you.

Acupuncture for Morning Sickness a Clinical Study

Summary

The objective was to compare; traditional acupuncture treatment, acupuncture at Neiguan P-6 only, sham acupuncture and no acupuncture treatment for nausea and vomiting. 593 women who were less than 14 weeks pregnant were randomised into 4 groups and received treatment weekly.

The acupuncture group, in which points were chosen according to a traditional acupuncture diagnosis, received two 20 minute acupuncture treatments in the first week followed by one weekly treatment for the next four weeks. The sham acupuncture group were needled at points close to but not on acupuncture points. Both the acupuncture group and the sham acupuncture group received their treatment from the same acupuncturist.

The outcomes of treatment were measured in terms of nausea, dry retching, vomiting and health status.

When compared to the women who received no treatment; the traditional acupuncture group reported less nausea throughout the study and less dry retching from the second week The Neiguan P-6 acupuncture group reported less nausea from the second week and less dry retching from the third week. The sham acupuncture group reported less nausea and dry retching from the third week.

So while all three acupuncture groups reported improvement with nausea and dry retching, it was the traditional acupuncture group that had the fastest response. Patients receiving traditional acupuncture also reported improvement in five aspects of general health status (vitality, social function, physical function, mental health and emotional role function) compared to improvement in two aspects with the Neiguan P-6 and Sham acupuncture groups. In the no treatment group there was improvement in only one aspect.

Although there were no differences in vomiting found in any of the treatment groups the authors speculated that more frequent treatments might have produced greater benefits.

In assessing the safety of acupuncture in early pregnancy data was collected on perinatal outcome, congenital abnormalities, pregnancy complications and the newborn. No differences were found between study groups in the incidence of these outcomes suggesting that there are no serious adverse effects from the use of acupuncture treatment in early pregnancy.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for women who experience nausea and dry retching in early pregnancy.

Acupuncture comments

Treatment method

The traditional acupuncture treatment involved the insertion of up to 6 needles per treatment. De qi was obtained and the needles left for 20 minutes. Points were selected according to the following pattern differentiation.

Liver qi stagnation: Taichong LIV-3, Neiguan P-6, Yanglingquan GB-34, Shangwan REN-13, Youmen KID-21, Lianqiu ST-34, Zusanli ST-36

Stomach or spleen deficiency: Zusanli ST-36, Neiguan P-6, Zhongwan REN-12

Stomach heat: Neiting ST-44, Jianli REN-11, Liangqiu ST-34, Liangmen ST-21, Neiguan P-6, Quze P-3

Phlegm: Fenglong ST-40, Yinlingquan SP-9, Burong ST-19, Pishu BL-20, Youmen KID-21 Heart qi deficiency: Tongli HE-5, Neiguan P-6, Zusanli ST-36, Juque REN-14

Heart fire: Neiguan P-6, Juque REN-14, Xinshu BL-15

Local abdominal points were also used, selecting from

ST-19, Chengman ST-20, Liangmen ST-21, Youmen KID-21, Futonggu KID-20, Juque REN-14, Shangwan REN-13, Zhongwan REN-12, Jianli REN-11 and Xiawan REN-10.

Clinical Perspective

This is a very interesting study, as it explores the use of traditional diagnostic patterns compared to the use of a point formulated treatment. In doing so it provides information both to acupuncturists and the western medical health professions about the most effective use of acupuncture. This reseach provides reassurance to the medical profession that acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment in early pregnancy as well as confirming the effectiveness of traditional diagnosis over using prescription point acupuncture.

Part 3 (or III) on herbs

If you have a cold or flu-type virus, eating the right things can help you feel better and can also help you get well faster.  Easy-to-digest foods are the best and they include: chicken soup (or broth), apple juice (or sauce), bananas,tea and toast (together).

Honey in the tea and/or on the toast is very tasty, especially raw honey – which has lots of nutrients.  Honey is also good when added to a hot toddy – lemon, water, and, if it is the right time of day, a little whiskey(!!).  To make this drink, squeeze a fresh lemon (or some lemon essential oil) into a cup of hot water and add the honey.  This drink will replace your fluids while breaking down mucus in your sinuses and lungs and is also good for the vitamin C it provides.

Also, breathing in steam from your drink will warm up your respiratory tract which the little viruses hate – they like it nice and cold!

GANMAOLING TABLETS

This is an excellent cold or flu remedy and can also be used as a preventative.  The main herb in this formula is Isatis (Ban Lan Gen), a great anti-viral.  Take at the first signs of illness, since it works better the earlier you start it.  It’s good for both wind-cold and wind-heat.  Some possible symptoms are fever/chills, swollen lymph glands, sore throat and upper back/neck stiffness.  The  normal dosage would be 4-5 pills three times/day or 2 pills two times/day as a preventative.

NASAL OIL

This is an oil that is applied to your nose with a q-tip.  It will open up the nose and is used for acute and chronic sinus problems and allergies.  It can be used as needed.

Remember that:

Herbs are recommended for most healthy adult people as a means to promote better health and well-being. However, the following precautions are recommended:

***Pregnant women or women nursing a baby refrain from taking ANY herbs due to lack of testing of most herbs on fetuses and infants.

***For children under the age of 18, please see a medical practitioner.

***People who have food allergies, sensitivities or digestive problems should be cautious when taking herbs, and carefully review the ingredients on the label for potential allergic reactions.

***If you’re currently taking any prescription medication, please see your doctor before taking herbs to ensure there are no contraindications.

***If you have a serious or life-threatening medical condition, please see your doctor.

Information on this site is provided for educational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice of your own physician or other medical professional.  I make no claims as to efficacy or safety of products appearing on this site. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sources:  Chinese Herbal Patent Formulas by Jake Fratkin, Outline Guide to Chinese Herbal Patent Medicines in Pill Form by Margaret Naeser.

Acupuncture to Reduce Stress

“Angels can fly because they take themselves lightly.”
~Baron Baptiste

Many sources site stress as the number one killer to date. Stress can take on many different forms, and can contribute to symptoms of illness. Common symptoms include headache, sleep disorders, difficulty concentrating, short-temper, upset stomach, job dissatisfaction, low morale, depression, and anxiety.
We all have stress we just need to figure out how to cope without it taking it’s toll on the vital organs of the body. I mean, what is more important than your body? It is your vehicle for LIFE.

Read on for some tips for reducing stress. I am also offering a stress reduction special for October and November.
* Tend : protect and care for your children…oxytocin release.

* Get a babysitter (maybe it is those kids are driving you nuts).
* Befriend. chatting and giggling advised.

* Relax. breathing, yoga, meditation, couch time.

* Acupuncture. Read study below on how acupuncture works.

* Make time for yourself. even 15 minutes can help.
* Sleep. 7-9 hours boosts immunity.

* Sex. Oxytocin is good.
* Move that body…see above.

* Eat right. you know the drill.

* Get help from a professional if you need it.
* Compromise. being right all the time doesn’t foster friendship.

* Write down your thoughts. conjuring Pablo Neruda…
* Help others. Its nice not to think about yourself.
* Get a hobby.
* Set limits. There are only so many hours in the day.
* Plan your time.
* Avoid: drinking too much alcohol, using drugs, smoking, or overeating.

Stress Reducing Bargain:

Save 15% on 5 Treatments. $63 Value.
Acupuncture can help calm the mind, ease anxiety and remember how you innately want to feel…awesome.

Facial Rejuvenation: Packages include full body and facial rejuvenating acupuncture and acupressure. Save 10% on Packages of 10. $100 Value.

offer valid until November 15th 2009.

contact: Laurel@ancientcurrent.com for more information.

Let the race begin...I'm ready!

The race is tomorrow morning and I’m clearly both excited and nervous.  I could tell, as my sleep was a bit erratic last night. Yesterday, I went to see Nancy Burns, Valley Acupuncture, for my pre-race energy tune-up.  I did this before my last race, and I truly believe it helps with energy and my muscles.  My friend and fellow runner, Kathie, is coming over shortly and we’ll head to the Race check-in to pick up our packets.  They are expecting nearly 20,000 to run/walk tomorrow at the San Jose Rock’nRoll 1/2 Marathon, so should be both fun and crowded.  Nice to see so many people out doing fun, fit and reasonably priced activities. The world is not falling completely apart as the news may seem to indicate…at least not for we runners! Other things I’m doing today, drinking lots of water and Gatorade, went for a brisk walk, and will have a nice dinner this evening and get to bed early.  Preparation is the key and I’ve done all I can, so let the race begin!

Relieving Body Pain Through Acupuncture Therapy

The Chinese have their own way of healing themselves that date back to, Food, Health, the Stone Age. Acupuncture is one traditional healing method that made the Chinese very popular. In fact, this technique of relieving pain is so renowned that it has spread to other parts of the world and used up until today by people, Food, Health, of various nationalities who believe in this Chinese method. Acupuncture in China started at around 3,000, Food, Health, B.C. and used sharpened stones or the Bian shi for their needles. These sharp pointed rocks used in treating diseases in the olden days were discovered by archaeologists in ruins. In the U.S, Food, Health, ., acupuncture became known in the 1970s after the publication of an article in New York Times. The article was written by James Reston who had appendectomy in China and acupuncture therapy to relieve his discomfort after the surgery. Later on, it was the National Acupuncture Association (NAA),, Food, Health, the very first association dedicated to acupuncture in the U.S. that spread the word through its seminars and research presentations. Chicago is just one state in the U.S. that provides this acupuncture therapy. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reveals that more than 10 million adults in the U.S. have used acupuncture at some point in their lives. Acupuncture Chicago involves the insertion and manipulation of very fine filiform needles on certain body points to relieve pain and promote healing. The traditional Chinese theory medicine claims that the body’s acupuncture points are located along meridians where the qi or energy flows. There are a total of 14 meridians located throughout the body, the 12 of which are the main acupuncture points while the two are the extra. There are also the so-called tender points used for, Food, Health, treating local pain. The main 12 blood flow pathways are, Food, Health, in the heart, lung, large intestine, stomach, spleen, small intestine, bladder, kidney, pericardium, liver, gall bladder and San Jiao. Acupuncture as part of oriental medicine Chicago involves features different types such as the classical Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Tibetan and, Food, Health, Korean. These days, people practicing this therapeutic method use disposable very fine stainless steel needles that are sterilized with ethylene oxide with the upper end covered with wire or plastic. According to the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture, this Chinese form of therapy is accepted in the U.S. as very effective in treating musculoskeletal pain. The NIH in its 1997 consensus statement has also acknowledged the value of acupuncture in conventional medicine and has encouraged further studies on this subject matter. In the Chicago area, there’s A Center, Food, Health, for Oriental Medicine which offers acupuncture therapy,, Food, Health, herbal medicines, Chinese acupressure massage and lifestyle counseling. The center is known for its compassionate way of treating a patient’s entire physical and mental well being, promoting balance, Food, Health, and providing pain relief Chicago using a holistic approach. It also utilizes high quality Chinese herbs Chicago that are safe to use in treating various conditions.