Enhancing Egg Quality Before Egg Retrieval : Nutrition, Acupuncture, and Herbal Support
Preparing for egg retrieval, whether for IVF or egg freezing, involves a comprehensive approach to optimize egg quality. At our clinic, we integrate the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with modern nutritional and supplemental strategies to support your journey. Here’s a guide to enhancing egg quality through diet, acupuncture, and herbal medicine.
Nutrient-Dense Foods for Egg Quality
Incorporating nutrient-dense foods for 3-6 months can significantly improve egg quality. These foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support cellular health and reproductive function:
Seafood: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and zinc, salmon, oysters, clams, and mussels are excellent for reproductive health.
Organic and Pasture-Raised Eggs: High in protein and vital nutrients for hormone production.
Bone Broth: Excellent for gut health and rich in collagen and minerals.
Beef Liver: High in vitamin A, iron, folate, B12 and other essential nutrients.
Goji Berries and Black Sesame Butter: Known for their jing-nourishing properties in TCM.
Avocados and Walnuts: Great sources of healthy fats.
Spirulina: A superfood rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Berries: High in antioxidants.
Dark Leafy Greens: Provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Brazil Nuts: High in selenium, crucial for thyroid function and reproductive health.
Organic Meat: Provides protein and essential nutrients for overall health.
The Role of Acupuncture Before Egg Retrieval
Regular acupuncture sessions can be incredibly beneficial in months leading up to egg retrieval. Acupuncture helps to:
Regulate Hormones: Promotes the balance of reproductive hormones, essential for follicle development.
Improve Blood Flow: Enhances blood circulation to the ovaries and uterus, ensuring optimal nourishment and oxygenation of the follicles.
Reduce Stress: Alleviates stress and promotes relaxation, which can positively impact hormonal balance and overall reproductive health.
Support Overall Health: Addresses any underlying health issues that may be affecting fertility, ensuring a holistic approach to preparing for egg retrieval.
Chinese Herbs and Supplements for Egg Quality
In addition to acupuncture and diet, certain Chinese herbs and supplements can support egg quality. Here are some commonly recommended options:
Dang Gui (Angelica): Known for its blood-nourishing properties, it helps improve circulation and nourish the reproductive system.
Bai Shao (White Peony): Used to balance hormones and support overall reproductive health.
Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia): Nourishes jing and supports the kidneys, which are vital for reproductive health in TCM.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): A powerful antioxidant that supports mitochondrial function and energy production in cells, including eggs.
Vitamin D: Essential for hormone production and overall reproductive health.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil supplements, they help reduce inflammation and support overall cellular health.
Preparing for Your Egg Retrieval Journey
Optimizing egg quality before egg retrieval is a multifaceted approach that combines diet, acupuncture, and herbal support. At our clinic, we tailor our treatments to meet your individual needs, ensuring you receive the best possible care on your fertility journey.
If you're preparing for egg retrieval for IVF or freezing, consider booking an acupuncture or herbal medicine appointment at our clinic. We recommend our holistic fertility acupuncture patients to come in for weekly or biweekly acupuncture sessions for at least 3-4 months prior to trying an egg retrieval as the maturation cycle of eggs is roughly 90 days. Starting acupuncture and embracing holistic health practices sooner can significantly enhance the quality of eggs and conception outcomes. If you live in the Los Angeles, Book an appointment in our West Hollywood clinic and let us support you on your path to fertility.