Infertility is a common condition that affects many couples. From a functional medicine perspective, infertility is viewed as a symptom of an underlying issue in the body, rather than a condition in and of itself. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and treatments of infertility from a functional medicine perspective.

Symptoms of infertility

Infertility can present in many different ways, depending on the individual and the underlying cause. Some common symptoms of infertility include:

• Difficulty conceiving after one year of unprotected intercourse
• Irregular menstrual cycles or no periods
• Painful periods or intercourse
• Abnormal sperm count or quality in men

Causes of infertility

Infertility can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Nutritional deficiencies
• Hormonal imbalances
• Chronic stress and emotional trauma
• Environmental toxins
• Genetic predisposition
• Medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis
• Side effects of medications or treatments such as chemotherapy

Treatments for infertility

The treatment of infertility from a functional medicine perspective typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and targeted supplements or medications. Some common treatments for infertility may include:

• Stress reduction techniques such as meditation or yoga
• Dietary changes such as reducing sugar and processed food intake and increasing consumption of whole foods
• Nutritional supplementation with key nutrients such as folic acid, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids
• Balancing hormones through targeted supplementation or medication
• Reducing exposure to environmental toxins
• Addressing underlying inflammation or infection through targeted supplementation or medication
• Fertility-specific treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI)

Tests for infertility

• Gluten intolerance
• Gut tests
• SIBO
• Hormone tests: Adrenals, Estrogen & progesterone, Men’s hormones, Women’s hormones
• Nutrition tests: Amino acids, Fatty acids, Minerals, Vitamins (A, B3, B5 & Biotin), Vitamins (B12, folate, D, E & Q10), Vitamins (All)
• Heavy metals

In conclusion, infertility is a complex condition that can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life and relationships. From a functional medicine perspective, infertility is viewed as a symptom of an underlying issue in the body. By identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the infertility through a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and targeted supplements or medications, patients can find relief from their symptoms and achieve their goal of conceiving a child.