Treating Conditions - infertility, menopausal, pregancy
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Reproductive Health and FertilityMenopausal Health

Conditions We Treat

Elevated FSH

ReproductiveFollicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland.  This reproductive hormone communicates with the ovaries to produce follicular growth so a healthy egg can be released and there is potential of conceiving.   The more responsive the ovaries are to FSH, the less the amount required to stimulate normal follicular growth.

To determine if your FSH is elevated, a blood test is taken on day 2 or 3 of your menstrual cycle.  If FSH is elevated, it is >10. This means the body needs more FSH hormone to get a normal reaction from the ovaries, the ovaries are shrinking, and blood flow has diminished.

Typical symptoms of a high FSH may include:  hot flashes, night sweats, or vaginal dryness.   You could feel like you are in the beginning stages of menopause.

It takes about 120 days before the egg is actually released from the follicle.  During this growth phase, Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicinals can improve the health and quality of the egg by stimulating blood flow to the reproductive organs. This is why we recommend a treatment course of 3 months (if time allows). Even in women with low ovarian reserve, we often see FSH levels decrease as a result of consistent treatment.

From a Traditional Chinese Medical perspective, we look at the underlying reason for poor egg quality and a high FSH.  There are times when a woman who has been diagnosed with these conditions is able to become pregnant and deliver a healthy baby.

If you have been diagnosed with poor ovarian reserve, advanced maternal age, elevated FSH, premature ovarian failure or had a canceled IVF or IUI cycle due to poor response, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine may offer you a safe and effective solution to help you have a baby.  Call to schedule a consultation and find out if acupuncture can make a difference for you.

Please use caution when selecting a practitioner if you have this condition.  Make sure they are highly recommended, specialize in fertility treatment and are a board certified fellow with the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine (ABORM).  You can visit the website at www.aborm.org.