In Boulder, Colorado and around the country, couples or individuals interested in fertility treatment have first tried alternative, non-traditional methods of improving their fertility such as massage and acupuncture. In some cases, patients may combine the use of these non-traditional treatments with more traditional fertility options such as in vitro fertilization. This combination may improve the chances of success for some patients, although many have found success through massage and acupuncture alone.
Before embarking on any fertility treatment, patients who are interested in undergoing treatment or procedures to improve their fertility should first consult a fertility specialist or a practitioner of acupuncture and/or massage to discuss their condition and how treatment may help. In the case of massage therapy for infertility, three types of massage may be available at a clinic offering such services: reflexology, the Wurn Technique and Reiki.
Reflexology is a technique that involves massaging specific areas of the hands and feet that are thought to correspond to certain areas of the body. The belief is that points on the hands and feet correspond to internal organs, such as those that may lead to infertility. By massaging these areas of the hands and feet, the practitioner is able to treat the targeted internal organs. The hands and feet are also thought to contribute to the tension level of the body, and by massaging these areas, practitioners are able to relieve tension.
The Wurn Technique not only increases fertility, but is also used to help alleviate pain during intercourse. The Wurn Technique works to break down adhesions in the pelvic region, which may be painful for some women and may block the fallopian tubes, thus inhibiting fertility. During this massage, pressure is applied directly to the area affected, and the soft tissue is gently manipulated and stretched for a certain period of time. The areas treated usually include the abdomen, sacrum or pelvis.
Reiki is intended to help patients relax and relieve stress. It also works to promote healing. The practitioner will lay their hands on the patient to manipulate a life force that they believe flows through all living things. The practitioner will begin the massage at the head and move down the body, manipulating the energy.
Further scientific studies are needed to determine reflexology's effectiveness in improving fertility, although many studies have indicated that it may be an effective treatment for infertility. Women have reported that Reiki has helped them overcome infertility, although no scientific study shows that Reiki is effective in relieving infertility. Research indicates that the Wurn Technique is an effective treatment in overcoming fertility.
Massage may help patients relax and relieve stress, which may help some couples improve their fertility. Stress is sometimes a major inhibitor to fertility, as the desire to get pregnant can be so strong for some that it actually stresses them out and hurts their fertility. There are several other benefits associated with massage techniques as well.
Massage may help to relieve depression and anxiety, aligns the uterus, minimizes discomfort during pregnancy, helps maintain blood pressure, relieves fatigue and improves blood circulation. A massage may also decrease fluid retention, alleviate cramps in leg muscles, strengthen immunity, provide relief for headaches, prepare the muscles for childbirth and provide stress relief for joints as the patient gains weight.
Before undergoing a massage, women are encouraged to consult with a trained practitioner in the Boulder area to discuss their options. Women who are trying to become pregnant or who are already pregnant may be considered candidates for fertility massage.
Learn more about massage in Boulder, Colorado. .
