Acupuncture for Infertility

Acupuncture & Yoga for Infertility

2011-09-01T09:48:00.000-07:00

More and more research and information are becoming avaiable about how Acupuncture and or Yoga help with infertility. While I am past the point of trying to have children, I am really into Yoga. In fact I practice 1-3 times per day and look forward to it everytime! What it does for me is to bring my mind to a state that I may be exhausted but I am totally in the moment. You cannot think of anything else while trying to do the poses. I practice what is call Anusara Yoga. It has been a true blessing in my life. Anyway back to being in the moment. Women I treat are often so into getting pregnant that is all they can think about. It controls their life. When they have something that strong controlling their life it puts their body into stress mode. When in stress mode our minds tell us we can't conceive because we are to stressed.
I recently have been getting all my patients who come in for infertility to also start a yoga program. I am seeing the combination of the two are incredible. Women are beginning to blossom mentally understand the process and GET PREGNANT! Give it a try!

Time to Begin Again

2011-08-29T10:19:00.000-07:00

It has been along time since I published a post. I have been busy moving my office and deciding how I can most help my patients. There is so much being said about becoming a specialist in fertility Acupuncture that I felt it was time for me to make a choice if that is what I wanted to do or not.
The decision I finally made is I do not wish to go through the process of getting my specialization in Fertility Acupuncture for many reasons which I will share a few. I believe Oriental Medicine is meant to treat the whole body. When our body is balanced a women should be able to conceive. If she still doesn't we must question what is really going on in her body and is it beyond what Acupuncture can heal.
The whole process of infertility can be very, very stressful. Becoming calm, surrendering to what is suppose to be in our life and excepting our purpose has to be excepted.
After going to Acupuncture School many years ago, taking many extra classes throughout the years on infertility, studying alot of Western Medical reasons for Infertility I have found that I love treating women and men experiencing this, but also love treating anyone who walks through my door.
Helping people create their journey through life is what I love. Women whatever you decide about your treatment choice for infertility -- The goal is to have a healthy, happy baby. Not just to be pregnant.

What Does High FSH Mean In Chinese Medicine?

2008-11-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

Very common question. I have found that high FSH is a sign that the womens body is out of balance, and is just not nourishing the reproductive system. When women who have been diagnosed with high FSH come into our office, they feel hopeless. Their spirit has been broken.

The good news is that I have seen many women who have very high (80-100), come in, change their diet, get regular Acupuncture treatments and sometimes take herbs. Within 3-6 months often their FSH count is much lower.

I have seen many women with higher than normal FSH become pregnant, and have healthy, happy little ones.

The FSH is checked on the 3rd day of a womens cycle. In most clinics of Western Medicine the FSH should be 8 or under.

Does Acupuncture and Herbs work for everyone? I wish I could say yes, but -- I truely believe that we all have a purpose in life. Some of us will be mothers to our children, and some will be mothers to the world. There are just some women, that cannot conceive -- but that does not me you are less of a women, or that you don't have a purpose. It means that you were meant for something else that is just as dear and just as special as having your own children. Once you determine what that purpose is, you will be just excited as finding out you are pregnant.

It probably doesn't feel that way at this time, but time heals.

My Body is Attacking My Husbands Sperm --

2008-10-08T21:15:00.000-07:00

Please share your story, along with the types of treatments you have tried. Please let us know what you have found to be successful.

Story to long for comment? email me: katiemc@ancientartsaustin.com

Timing of Acupuncture and IVF

2008-10-05T20:00:00.000-07:00

As far as what I see in my office, the patients who come in for Acupuncture usually 1 time per week for 12 weeks plus 1 treatment right before the IVF procedure and 1 treatment right after the IVF procedure have the best success conceiving.
I do have patients that call me for the first time right before the IVF procedure and have the 2 treatmnets (1 before and 1after IVF procedure.) I can say that if this is their second or third time to have IVF, the Acupuncture often seems to have a positive effect. It is difficult time to know if it is their first time through IVF, because you don’t really know if they would have conceived or not.
What I can say is that it often really helps the patient relax stay calm and feel good about the process. Which in turn can’t help but increase the patients odds. I also believe that the Acupuncture will either help or not, but has no negative effects.

katiemc@ancientartsaustin.com

Infertility

2008-08-20T18:32:00.000-07:00

If your doctor is just prescribing medications such as Clomid because you have not been able to conceive, make sure and ask them how this medication is going to help. Feel free to ask the to do blood work to try and determine what is creating the problem. Test that may help determine what is going on with your body are:

FSH
LH hormone
Progesterone
Thyroid
Estradiol

It is not really good just to take medications because they worked for other women. it is best to determine the problem and then treat. When women come to me with these test results we are ahead of the game.

When you come in for your treatments, we will be keeping a basal body temperature chart, we will see how the chart looks each month. We will see how your tongue and pulse are. With this information we will have a idea what is going on with your body. Together with the blood test results we will be able to confirm what we are seeing with your body.

Exercise & Infertility

2008-08-04T14:35:00.000-07:00

I have found that exercise is one key to living a healthy lifestyle. Keeping your body in the best shape you possibly can of course increases your chances of conceiving. Do you have to have the perfect body? No, what is perfect anyway? You do have to do the best YOU can by eating a healthy diet, and exercising.

Not everyone is going to enjoy going to the gym, running, swimming etc. But, you can find something you enjoy if you try. Sometimes walking while using a stretch cord is fun. You can turn on music and dance around your home for 30 minutes or more. You can mow the lawn, etc., etc.

Studies have shown that if you are within 20% of your "perfect" body weight your chances of conceiving are greater. It has also been shown that if you have a positive attitude your chances of conceiving are greater. People feel better about themselves if they exercise. Give it a try.

My doctor isn't interested in my BBT chart.

2008-07-29T13:07:00.000-07:00

It doesn't seem that most Western Medicine Physicians are interested in the BBT chart. Althought there are some that use are. Personally, I have learned that the BBT chart can give you alot of very good information as long as it does not stress you out. What I do is just have my patients email me their temperatures daily, so they are not looking at the charts and over analyzing. At anytime they wish to see their charts I email it to them, but it puts the burden more on myself and they are a little less stressed.

I guess the BBT chart just does not help most Physicians in their treatment process. But with Eastern Medicine, it is important to know all the symptoms, the tongue, pulse and to see the temperatures. It can tell us if you have a yin or yang deficiency, a blockage, if you are ovulating, if you have enough progesterone, if you cycles are the correct length, etc.

Would you like me to look at your chart and give you my thoughts? Please email it to me:
katiemc@ancientartsaustin.com

Weather Changes

2008-07-23T17:16:00.000-07:00

I was at the hospital the other night when we had one our few storms of the summer. My daugher had called because her water had broke. My mom had always said that when storms come in women go into labor. I always thought it was just a old wise tale.

Well, what mom had told me must be true. There were so many women who's water had broke that there were not enough nurses or enough rooms. We were told they see this very often when a storm blows through. Most of the babies were smaller than normal, because most of the women had the same thing happen as my daughter, where their water had broke, but, they were not actually in labor.

The happy ending is that even though baby Wesley was 3 weeks early he was 7 lbs. 8 oz. Mom and son are doing fine.

What began as a business is now a passion

2008-07-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

Open your mind.

Open you heart.

Meditate.

Pray.

Visualize.

Open your mind.

Open your heart.

Meditate.

Pray.

Visualize.

What To Expect When I Come In

2008-05-19T20:47:00.000-07:00

I receive a lot of calls of people asking what to expect when they come to Ancient Arts Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine.

1. We have two Acupuncture clinics under one roof. Matthew is my son owner of McBrearty Acupuncture & I am Katie McBrearty-Shields owner of Ancient Arts Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine.

2. You will always see the same person unless you request to see the other.

3. We do not have office staff, because it makes it too expensive for the patients. In order to keep your cost down, we make all of our own appointments, and do our own paper work. We do not file insurance for you.

4. Our office is very calm and relaxing. You will get to know us, and feel very welcomed and relaxed in our office.

5. You will not have to wait for your appointment. I see all of my patients at their scheduled time.

6. If you can't afford the treatments talk to me. I believe anyone who wants to take care of them self should be able to.

7. You can call me in the evenings or on the weekends if you have questions.

8. You can email me and I will get back with you within a few hours.

9. Eat a little something before you come in for treatment. Come dressed as you are.

10. Acupuncture does not hurt.

Already One New May Baby!!!

2008-05-16T23:15:00.000-07:00

Yes, we have one new baby on the way at Ancient Arts. Early next year we will get to meet him/her. Very exciting. This is going to be the year of the baby at Ancient Arts. How many more babies do you thing we will have on the way?

Make your guess, and whoever is closes will when a free treatment.

Remember to call in if you plan on coming to pre-natal yoga. The class is very full, and we need to make sure everyone has enough space to practice.

Tell your friends -- we are starting a regular yoga class for beginners. It is filling quickly, so give us a call and see what times are still available.

Common Questions

2008-04-24T20:56:00.000-07:00

1. Do you charge more to treat infertility, than allergies or pain?
No, women me who are experiencing infertility are under enough stress. It is my belief that
there is no reason to charge extra. Keeping the cost down eliminates extra stress, and I have
there is no reason to charge more. Yes, perhaps it takes time doing more research, or making
make personal formulas, but, the reward of helping couples experiencing infertility is so great,
I would not charge more.

2. How many patients do you see per hour? Usually, I see 1 per hour. I like to spend a lot of
with each patient. Patients who call and need to be seen come in on the 1/2 hour, so
sometimes there are two patients per hour.

3. Will I always see you, or do you rotate patients between Matthew and yourself? My patients
always see me, and Matthew's patients always see him. If one of us are out of town we tell
our patients ahead of time, and they can choose to come in, or wait until we return.

4. Do you accept insurance? We do accept some insurance. Give us a call and we can let you
know if we take yours or not.

5. Can I bring my child with me? Of course. We have a large office, and are happy to have little
ones visiting with mom or dad.

Are You Stressed?

2008-04-24T20:49:00.000-07:00

If you are under a lot of stress, for any reason, that could be the reason you cannot conceive. Take time for yourself. Practice Tai Chi, Yoga, or meditation. Learn deep breathing exercises that will help you learn to calm your mind and body.

Try Acupuncture!!! It works great for releasing the qi and letting your energy flow freely.
It is very important that your energy is free to flow the way it was meant to. With qi stagnation, problems occur.

How does your qi flow? Want to know more? Give me a call 512-653-6131.

Tai Chi Practice

2008-04-23T21:10:00.000-07:00

Every Wed. at noon we have a group of people that get together. Our office is located at 1501 Koenig Lane. Please call if you would like to join us. Cost is by donation.

Prenatal Yoga

2008-04-23T21:08:00.000-07:00

Prenatal Yoga is continuing at Ancient Arts. We have three more openings, if you are interested.
Classes are held on Monday at 6:00pm. Please give me a call if you are interested.
512-653-6131. Classes are $10.00 per class.

4 New Babies will be born to our Ancient Arts family!

2008-04-23T21:04:00.001-07:00

At Ancient Arts Acupuncture we are very excited to say that 4 of our patients will be giving birth in about 9 months. This was a very exciting month for our patients.

How Many Patients Do You Treat Per Hour?

2008-03-20T19:52:00.001-07:00

I see one patient every 45 minutes. I believe each and every patient needs this much time most of the time. We usually talk for 20-30 minutes and the rest of the time my patients are receiving acupuncture. Each visit usually lasts a total of 1 hour.

I usually see about 15 patients per day.

Eating for Fertility

2008-03-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

The research is in -- but then it changes. Constantly changing. Nutrition, diets, foods, what is good what is not? Let's break it down to the simplest form that can just make sense.
Stop caffeine it can't hurt. Can't stand it? Have one small cup of coffee with cream.
Caffeine is a vasoconstrictor and at this time you need all the blood flow possible.

Eat whole foods. Why not it is much better for everyone. Vegetables, grains, seeds, lean meats, beans, legumes and nuts. Can't go wrong.

We all need water, not sweetened drinks. Not high energy or vitamin drinks. WATER.

If it is in a package, ready to eat -- don't do it. Too many chemicals, preservatives.

Dairy? Don't drink cows milk. Too many hormones. You can get enough calcium from leafy dark greens.

Eat breakfast -- Eat a healthy snack -- Eat lunch -- Eat a healthy snack -- Eat dinner
Skipping meals can disrupt your blood sugars. Can make you eat fast food, because you become too hungry and make bad choices.

Would you like to know more? Call me 512-653-6131

Do you treat patients once they are pregnant?

2008-03-10T23:30:00.000-07:00

Yes, sometimes is the answer to that question. If you have nausea, pain, or if the condition that we were treating you for before you became pregnant is still a problem.

We can also treat pregnant patients for: headaches, digestion problems, etc.

Prenatal Yoga

2008-03-09T20:34:00.000-07:00

Prenatal Yoga has been a big hit. Don't forget it is Mondays at 6:00pm. Right now we have 1 or 2 openings. Give me a call at 512-653-6131 if you are interested.

Low BBT

2008-03-08T22:35:00.000-08:00

When your basal body temperature is low, it is time to have a doctor check you thyroid. It is always the best place to begin, because this can be a sign of Hypothyroid. To understand this in Oriental Medicine, you must first understand about Yin & Yang.

yin = cold, female, fluid, nighttime, estrogen, etc.

yang= heat, male, nighttime, progesterone, etc.

So, when there is a yang deficiency, you could find your self with low bbt's, tired, cold hands & feet, etc.

Acupuncture & Herbs can help you. Sometimes I find that women with yang deficiency become pregnant, but cannot maintain the pregnancy, due to low progesterone.

Would you like to know more? Email your bbt chart to me. ktmc@austininfertility.com or give me a call 512-653-6131.

Prenatal Yoga Classes

2008-03-06T06:43:00.000-08:00

Yes, our prenatal yoga classes are going strong. We meet Mon. evenings at 6:00 pm. Please give us a call if you would like to join. We have 2 more openings. I will be happy to send you information regarding the instructor and her teaching styles, if you would like.

You are welcome to drop by any Mon. evening to watch and see if you are interested.

Kidney Yang Tonic

2008-02-28T19:22:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know we are seeing a lot of the low basal body temperatures. You are wondering how to get those temperatures up and how to keep the progesterone level high enough.

Getting a Kidney Yang Tonic can be very helpful. The timing of beginning this treatment is very important.

You need to make sure and pick up your tea's before ovulation.

Give me a call to learn more.

It's A Balancing Act

2008-02-27T07:02:00.000-08:00

Preparing the body for conception is a balancing act. If you are more than 20% underweight we see difficulties, if you are more than 20% overweight, we sometimes see problems, if your weight is perfect we sometimes see problems.

Diets are sometimes a reason for infertility. Sometimes we just are not eating foods that are nourishing our bodies.

Lack of exercise or over exercise can be a factor.

My point is:

If you have been diagnosed with infertility, you may be able to prepare your body with acupuncture and herbal formulas. We may be able to help you change your diet, suggest supplements, etc.

There are alternatives to going on stronger medications. Often, your body is just out of balance, not infertile.

Keeping BBT Chart

2008-02-23T22:15:00.000-08:00

If you can keep a bbt chart without it becoming too stressful, we can understand a lot about what is going on with your cycle. You can download one from my website and email it to me if you would like some help understanding it.

www.austininfertility.com

Letting Go --

2008-02-22T21:08:00.000-08:00

Please add your comment on how letting go can improve your life.

3 More Babies Born This Month !!!

2008-02-21T21:09:00.001-08:00

We are very excited to announce the arrival of 3 more babies born this month. Wow what a exciting month. Thanks men and women for changing your lives, to help bring these wonderful new babies into our world. Having responsible parents as you, will help you to raise the leaders of our future. I know it is not easy to change your diets, to give up some of your precious time off, to come in for acupuncture treatments. But, as you see it was well worth it, and you are to be praised for your dedication.

Infertility

2008-02-13T20:33:00.000-08:00

Please share your stories to not only help you heal, but help others who may be going through what you have already been through.

I believe the 2 weeks after ovulation can be the most difficult time. The up and down emotions. I really believe that men and women must spend time meditating and praying, not when these two weeks roll around each month, but everyday.

When we tell ourselves things over and over our mind and body begins to believe it. By the time you get to these two weeks, it is out of our hands. You are either pregnant or not. If we just begin the meditation and prayer at this time it is much more difficult, to really process what is true.

Give you mind and body a break, start today no matter what time of your cycle it is. Relax, take deep breaths calm your mind. Remind yourself that you have done everything possible at this point, and if it is meant to be, it will be. Be thankful for your blessings. Practice this everyday as often as possible.

Remember, some women are mothers of their children, and others are mothers of our world. Some are both.

Yes, It's In and We Carry It!

2008-02-01T21:22:00.000-08:00

BBT Chart

2008-01-30T18:53:00.000-08:00

Would you like to understand your BBT Chart? Please feel free to email, or bring it to my office, I will be happy to help you.

katiemc@ancientartsaustin.com
1501 Koenig Lane
Austin, Texas 78756

After Ovulation

2008-01-29T11:25:00.000-08:00

The time between ovulation and finding out if you are pregnant or not can be a very long 2 weeks. Believe me I understand, I go through it with my patients all the time. My best suggestion for you is to take time to meditate and pray.

Assuming that you have been eating healthy, exercising, and doing your part of whatever type of treatment you have chosen, you have done everything you can do up to this point. Now, you have to turn it over to God, and know that if it is meant to be it will be.

A good thing to practice is taking a deep breath through your nose, feeling your abdomen with air. Breath out very slowly, taking longer to exhale than inhale. Do this a couple of times by itself first, then a nice mantra, could be -- Lord, I am turning it over to you, if this is the right time for me to conceive, I pray for your blessings. Repeat, this or whatever feels right to you over and over as you practice your breathing. Find the peace in understanding, that it is what it is.

Acupuncture On Koenig Lane

2008-01-28T20:17:00.000-08:00

We have a wonderful family owned Acupuncture Clinic on Koenig Lane. Most of our patients are from referral. It before that we can usually work you in between patients.

We have two Acupuncturist Katie McBrearty-Shields and Her son Matthew McBrearty. Matthew Aunt is also an Acupuncturist in Bolder Colorado. Stop by anytime to meat us.

Specialist

2008-01-10T16:37:00.000-08:00

I get this question all the time. Why do I go to a specialist(infertility)and go through the same protocol as every other person setting in the waiting room?

Your thoughts?

Ask Yourself What Is Your Goal --

2008-01-09T16:55:00.000-08:00

Is your goal to become as healthy as possible and live a long natural healthy life? A life without lots of pharmaceuticals, organs intact, disease free?

Or is your goal to become pregnant?

Guess what -- Most women who change their diets to a whole foods (fruits, vegetables, grains) without eating fast foods and packaged foods can achieve both of these.

When our body is working in its natural state -- most women become pregnant. So, most of the time by having a goal to be as healthy as possible, pregnancy happens. That also takes the stress off of being consumed with infertility, and allows you a more peaceful state of mind.

Diet, Acupuncture and Herbs all help bring the body back to its natural state. Call to find out how we can help you. 512-653-6131

How Is Your BBT Looking?

2008-01-07T21:59:00.000-08:00

Are you having a difficult time reading your chart? Are you having a difficult time filling out your chart?

Both are normal. I will gladly help you read the chart, but know that BBT charts are not for everyone. Sometimes, women just feel to bad when they have to take their temps. day after day.

If you are one of those women you can still get help through acupuncture & herbal medicine. Using your health history, tongue and pulse you can still get help. The BBT chart is just a great guide and can make the whole process faster.

Girl Talk

2008-01-06T17:48:00.000-08:00

Is your husband tired of hearing you talk about trying to conceive?

You are not alone. Most of the time it is not because he doesn't care.

Men are use to providing and often being in control. This is not always something he can control or provide.

That is what this blog is all about. Here is your chance to vent and read about others going through the same thing.

IS IT TIME FOR A TUNE-UP?

2008-01-03T21:15:00.000-08:00

When is the last time you had a tune up?

Remember, taking care of your body is more important than tuning up your car.

What happens when you put bad gas in your car?

Remember, your body can't run on bad fuel. It is more important for you to eat healthy, than it is to put clean, pure gas in your car.

What do you do when your car runs out of fuel?

Remember, your body can't run without fuel.

What happens if you keep driving your car when it is having problems?

Remember, what will happen to you if you keep running down your body without a tune-up.

IT'S TIME FOR YOU TO TRY ACUPUNCTURE!!! IMAGINE HOW WELL YOUR BODY COULD WORK IF YOU JUST TOOK THE TIME TO HELP IT FUNCTION THE WAY IT WAS MEANT TO. MUCH OF THE TIME WOMEN ARE NOT INFERTILE, BUT IMBALANCED.

COULD THIS BE YOU? GIVE ME A CALL: 512-653-6131

Move the Blood & Qi

2008-01-02T19:53:00.000-08:00

Women often have cramping and blood clots during their monthly cycle. They are often told by their doctor that this is normal and to take over the counter pain relief.

According to Oriental Medicine -- This is not normal. Cramping and blood clots during your period does not have to happen. This is a sign of blood and qi stagnation (blockage) and can sometimes be the reason women have a difficult time becoming pregnant.

Would you like more information? Give me a call 512-653-6131

Not trying to become pregnant? You still don't have to have cramping and/or clotting!

Do you have questions?

2007-12-26T20:50:00.000-08:00

I receive many of the same questions by email daily. Know that you can write into the blog, with any questions or comments. It is fun to see what others have to say!

Busy This Year At Holiday Time?

2007-12-26T20:41:00.000-08:00

Trying to conceive?

Things to remember:

1. Take time for yourself.
2. Eat healthy.
3. Relax
4. Pray/Meditate
5. Don't over do it.
6. Have fun.
7. Smile
8. Exercise, but do not over exercise.
9. Work on a healthy relationship.
10. Regular Acupuncture to keep your blood moving and qi flowing.

Have you been trying to become pregnant for months?

2007-06-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

If you anwser is yes, please give acupuncture a try. There are many clinics that treat infertility. In Chinese Medicine we do not like to think of it as infertility, because most of the time we find women are not infertile, but imbalanced.

Are bodies are made to reproduce. Through time we abuse our bodies, eating junk food, drinking alcohol, not getting enough sleep, etc.

With acupuncture it usually takes between 3 and 6 months to bring the body back to balance.

During this time we will work on diet, exercise, herbal supplements, aromatherapy, etc.

We will keep a basal body temperture chart on you so we will be able to watch your progress.

You will also know your body is becoming balanced because you will feel better mentally and physically.

Have questions? Give me a call. 653-6131

Calming the Mind

2007-03-05T08:34:00.000-08:00

Most of the time when women come to me for infertility, they know so much about their own bodies. They are usually so worked up about not becoming pregnant, and feel like something is wrong with them. The most difficult part of my job is helping women to understand, that they have spent many years trying not to become pregnant. Many have taken preventative measures to make sure they do not.

It takes time to retrain our bodies. We have to spend time telling ourselves that it is ok to become pregnant. Meditation and prayer are very, very important.

Success Story

2007-02-11T20:44:00.000-08:00

My husband and I began trying to have children around the beginning of 2004. After a year of no luck, we were well on our way through the emotional journey of infertility. My doctors had diagnosed me with polcystic ovarian syndrome and endometriosis. Like most women struggling with fertility, I had tried several different fertility drugs, hormone injections, and even had a laparoscopy to check for and treat endometriosis.

When I came to Katie, I was frustrated and had really begun to give up hope. Adoption started to sound like the best option. I decided to try acupuncture as a last resort, not sure what the outcome would be. After just four monthly cycles of Chinese herbs and weekly acupuncture, I am very happy to announce that I am seven weeks pregnant -- with twins!

Katie's encouragement and caring spirit really helped me through. I just knew I had to give it some time and be patient. During those four months, my temperatures started to regulate and signs of ovulation became apparent. My sleep cycles began returning to normal, and I felt less anxious and stressed.

Good luck to each of you who are struggling and don't give up hope. Though at times it is difficult, remember to practice patience--you'll need it when you bring that baby home!

Rachel Garman, Cedar Park, Tx. (Nov. 22, 2006)

pms

2007-02-02T20:41:00.000-08:00

Do you have pms symptoms? Possible clotting, cramping, emotional? Do you have breast tenderness? Feel sad?

These are all signs of liver qi stagnation or pms. What can you do? There are many herbs/formulas, that can help balance your body and eliminate these symptoms.

Western medicine just recommends pain medication, or birth control pills as a solution for pms.

Eastern medicine believes in balancing your body so that you do not have these problems.

Here are the common formulas for liver qi stagnation
1. Xiao Yao Wan
2. Jia Wei Xiao Yao
3. Calm

Feel free to call me for more information: 512-653-6131

Kidney Yin Deficiency

2007-01-31T19:30:00.002-08:00

Are you suffering from Kidney Yin Deficiency? How would you know?

Common symptoms of Kidney Yin Deficiency are:

1. possible high fsh
2. hot flashes
3. thirsty during night
4. frequent urination
5. high basal body temperature during first phase
6. lower back & knee pain or weakness

You may only have a couple of these symptoms or could have all of them.
What can you do about Kidney yin deficiency?

Acupuncture and herbs work great.

Formulas: Er Xian Tang, Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, Nourish
Want to know more? Call me 512-653-6131

Liver Qi Stagnation

2007-01-27T12:38:00.000-08:00

Most women have some extent of liver qi stagnation. How can you tell if you do?
Do your breast get sore or tender around your period? Do you get cramps with your period? Do you become emotional? Do you having clotting with your period? If you anwser yes to any of the above questions you have liver qi stagnation.

With liver qi stagnation, it is more difficult for women to become pregnant, because the blood and qi are not free flowing. There are some great herbs you can take if you to have liver qi stagnation.

The most common formula used in Oriental Medicine:

Xiao Yao Wan or Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan

Evergreen makes a good herb called Calm that is also very good.

It usually takes 2-4 months to correct the problem. My patients often refer to this formula as their "happy pills."

2007-01-26T07:35:00.000-08:00

I have been getting request for explaining the bbt chart and how to understand it. The bbt chart is a very useful tool. Please contact me if you would like a copy and I can email one to you.

When a patient comes to me, the first thing I do is regulate the period. Once she is having normal periods, without clotting and cramping, lasting 5-7 days I begin using the chart.

The bbt chart can be used to see if you are ovulating on time, and when you are ovulating. It can be used to tell if she is deficient in kidney yin and yang and then we can give her the herbs needed to help balance the body. It can show if the four stages of your cycle are happening and if they are long or short.

The most common observation that is easy to see is blood stagnation, where the blood to the uterus is not flowing smoothly. There are some great herbs to regulate this.

Great Week!!!

2007-01-21T14:24:00.000-08:00

Last week was a great time for success. Several patients called to say they were pregnant. What did these patients have in common.
1. They were great at making their appointments.
2. They took their herbs as suggesed.
3. They learned and used positive meditation.

Most women are not infertile, usually they are just imbalanced from years of taking birth control pills, unhealthy eating, over or underweight. Please call me about how acupuncture and herbal medicine can help you.

Remember the female body is made to reproduce, we just have to let it know when we are ready for that to happen. Mentally and physically.

Cervical Fluid

2006-12-07T15:33:00.000-08:00

Cervical fluid is a very important part of ovulation. It is the substance necessary for the sperm to have nourishment and mobility during the ovulation time.

The sperm requires a egg like medium which to live and move, otherwise the sperm will die.

new happiness is blog

2006-12-06T20:22:00.000-08:00

Ladies, lets help to reduce our liver qi stagnation (stress) please add your photo, drawing, painting whatever to our new happiness blog. We want to help relieve stress and find ways to help people smile. Just click on www.happiness-in-pictures.blogspot.com

I can't wait to see what brings happiness to you!

Liver qi stagnation.

2006-12-06T19:52:00.000-08:00

Liver qi stagnation is the most common reason I see that keeps women from becoming pregnant. What is liver qi stagnation?

In Oriental Medicine the Liver is known to store the blood. When the blood is not able to flow freely due to blood deficiency or blockage of blood flow a person develops liver qi stagnation.

What causes liver qi stagnation?

STRESS, not enough blood, anger

What can you do to prevent liver qi stagnation?

Learn how to deal with stress, eat healthy, get plenty of exercise, nourish you blood.

Do you have liver qi stagnation?

Do you get angry easy?
Do you feel stressed?
Does you basal body temperature chart go up and down daily?
Do you have painful periods?
Do your breast get tender during your period?
Do you have cramping or clotting during your period?

Would you like to know more about liver qi stagnation? Send your email to:
katiemc@ancientartsaustin.com

Differences of male and female

2006-11-21T14:45:00.000-08:00

Some interesting facts ---

Males: Fertile all the time, sperm is produced on a daily basis. In most cases fertile from puberty until death. Do not develop any sperm until they go through puberty.

Females: Fertile only a few days per cycle. Fertile from puberty until menopause. Born with all the eggs they will ever have.

How does your BBT chart look?

2006-11-02T08:20:00.000-08:00

Would you like to understand how to read a bbt chart? Please feel free to email me your BBT chart. I will be happy to look at it and help you understand it. I can also email you a blank bbt chart if you do not have one.

Learning how to read the chart, will help you to know if your body is imbalanced.

Does your BBT Chart look normal?

2006-08-07T20:56:00.000-07:00

Very often women come to me thinking they will not be able to become pregnant. After seeing their BBT charts, checking tongue & pulse and talking with them about symptoms, we decide if they should begin treatments.

If the women appears balanced along with their BBT chart being normal, the first step would be to have the man tested. Many women come to me after going through many types of treatments only to find out that their spouse is the one whom needs to be balanced.

If you would like to learn how to read your BBT chart, feel free to give me a call, or email me.
512-345-4005 ktmc@austininfertility.com

2006-08-04T07:52:00.000-07:00

Oriental Medicine is all about balancing the body. We've all heard of yin and yang at sometime of our life. If yin is to depleted, the yang is to much and if yang is depleted the yin is to much.

When trying to conceive, yin and yang balance are very important.

Would like a deeper understanding? Contact me at ktmc@austininfertility to learn more.

Is the acupunctururist you use the right one for you?

2006-08-03T06:06:00.000-07:00

Finding the right acupunctururist for you is very important. Does your Acupuncturist listen to your needs? Getting to know a patient and their lifestyles help the acupuncturist understand what your body goes through. How we treat ourselves on a daily basis makes a difference on how our body functions. Acupuncture works by balancing the energies within our body. While checking the pulse and tongue is a great indication of what is going on within the body, there is much more to learn from listing to the patient. Watching their BBT chart, hearing their symptoms, and understanding their emotional feelings.

How do you know if you are getting all you need from your acupuncture? When you leave their office you should feel relaxed, informed and comfortable with the information you have received. You should know if you call for more information, that she/he will spend the time you need to answer any questions you have.

2006-08-02T06:55:00.001-07:00

The quality of a womens cervical fluid is very important in order to conceive. The cervical fluid should be raw egg white quality. It should very slippery and should stretch while the color should be clear or slightly streaked. If you find the quality of cervical fluid is not what it should be, you can try Evening Primrose Oil. It has been found to improve the quality of cervical fluid.

2006-07-25T19:53:00.000-07:00

Do you have a question about fertility and Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine. I will be happy to anwser your questions. Email me at ktmc@AustinInfertility.com

Patient Improvement

2006-07-25T13:22:00.000-07:00

Currently I am seeing several patients with high FSH. After treating these patients from 3 to 6 months, I am finding that there counts are coming down, and staying more stable. Many have become pregnant during this time. At this time one of my patients FSH has dropped from 30 to 6.5. Will this be a lasting change? Time will tell. She is getting a monthly FSH count because she is very interested in seeing the progress.

High FSH

2006-07-21T06:38:00.000-07:00

If you have been diagnosed with high FSH, don't feel like that is the end. I see women everyday that within three to six months of beginning acupuncture and herbal medicine become pregnant. You must remember that many women are imbalances not infertile.
Read more about being diagnosed with infertility. www.AncientArtsAustin.com or www.AustinInfertility.com

Are you within 20% of your body weight?

2006-07-20T07:24:00.000-07:00

Are you within 20% of the body weight you should be? If you are underweight or overweight by more than 20% of the weight you should be for your body type, that could be a reason for your inability to become pregnant.

You must remember that women are born with all their eggs. Over time undernourishing or overnourishing their bodies can become a problem, not only for your health but for the health
of eggs.

Check out my new website at www.AustinInfertility.com. I will be adding new information all the time.

2006-07-19T07:39:00.000-07:00

When keeping a Basal Body Temperature Chart remember that by waking at the same time everyday, the chart is more accurate. However, if the waking time varies, the tempertures tend to creep up about two-tenths of a degree for every extra hour you sleep.

It is important to remember that you should have at least 3 hours of consecutive sleep, before taking your temperature.

Fever, a restless night's sleep, or alchohol consumption the night before can all make your waking temperatures higher.

Infertility and Pilates

2006-07-18T07:46:00.000-07:00

After treating many infertility patients who participate in pilates, I have found that it is not the best form of exercise. Yoga, walking, cycling would be better choices. Even though I love Pilates, I recommend women stop if they are having difficulty getting pregnant. I believe that the blood flow through the abdomen is obstructed, which causes stagnation. When there is blood and qi stagnation problems occur.

Acupuncture for Infertility -- Austin, Texas

2006-07-17T18:17:00.000-07:00

Everyday I will be posting information for treating Infertility with Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine. Please write in questions or thoughts you might have.