The Functional Health Approach to Fertility
I am frequently asked about the difference between a functional health practitioner and a traditional medicine physician. The main distinctions lie in the approach. In traditional medicine, training revolves around learning about disease states and treatment options. Physicians then specialize in a specific system within the body (such as skin, female health, GI, etc.). If you complain to your primary doctor about having painful and irregular periods and wanting to conceive, they will typically refer you to an OB/GYN. If the OB/GYN doesn’t identify an issue and you’re still unable to get pregnant, they may eventually refer you to a fertility specialist. This approach works well for some, but it often involves a lot of waiting and observing rather than actively addressing the root cause of the issue.
In functional health, we do not diagnose or treat diseases. Instead, we evaluate the person as a whole through a thorough intake process and a comprehensive panel of functional labs. These labs assess the client’s gut health, nutrient/vitamin/heavy metal status, and stress and hormone levels. These labs are designed to delve beneath the surface and uncover the root causes of the symptoms you’re experiencing. For instance, the DUTCH Stress & Hormone test that we use with all fertility clients in our practice takes five samples within a 24-hour period and utilizes urine rather than blood. Why urine? Because it allows us to observe hormone metabolites and measure both free and available cortisol levels. We can also assess how well your body is detoxifying estrogen (a critical process!) and monitor vitamin and neurotransmitter markers. This deeper insight helps us uncover what’s hidden beneath the surface and create customized plans for each client that work as efficiently as possible.
Our customized plans involve a holistic approach to healing, delivered in manageable steps. Clients begin by improving drainage and ensuring mineral balance. Then, we address any gut-related issues (pathogens, parasites, bacterial imbalances, etc.), all while providing consistent support to the liver. These personalized plans incorporate targeted supplements and other lifestyle improvements. They result in clients who, with dedicated effort, achieve their goals. For most of our clients, the ultimate goal is achieving a successful pregnancy. At the end of our 6 month programs clients are either pregnant (yay!!!) or in the best possible position for success with fertility treatments.
As I mentioned, this path demands real effort on your part, but the rewards extend far beyond the effort. By preparing your body for a healthy pregnancy and baby, you also position yourself to be a healthy mother!
