Having a baby who refuse breastfeeding or won't stay latched on and cries may leave you feeling like the worst mother in the world. Postpartum, the idea of holding your little one close and contentedly nursing can quickly turn into a nightmare of a screaming, red-faced infant who refuses to touch your breasts. It's hard not to take it personally when your baby is still wailing despite your best efforts to feed them, leaving you in tears once again.
If your baby only stops crying when breastfeeding, it's understandable that you may feel trapped and overwhelmed by the situation. You may find yourself searching for answers and turning to lactation products like lactation supplement drink mixes or lactation drinks to help improve your milk supply and make breastfeeding easier.
Part of what makes the whole thing so perplexing is that it's difficult to understand why your infant dislikes nursing. Because newborns can't tell us what's wrong (wouldn't it be great if they could?), we have to figure it out for ourselves. If you're struggling with breastfeeding, know that you're not alone, and there are resources and support available to help you and your baby through this challenging time.
Babies can fuss or reject the breast for a variety of reasons, including:
If a baby is very hungry, it may become agitated and fussy, making it difficult for them to latch on to the breast.
If a baby is overtired, it may have a hard time staying awake and alert enough to nurse.
A baby may fuss or reject the breast if they are uncomfortable due to a dirty diaper, tight clothing, or an uncomfortable position while nursing.
When a baby is teething, they may experience pain and discomfort in their mouth, making it difficult for them to nurse.
If a baby is sick or has an infection, they may be less interested in nursing or may have difficulty latching on due to congestion or a sore throat.
If a mother's milk supply is low or not coming in yet, the baby may fuss or reject the breast because they are not getting enough milk.
Certain foods or drinks that a mother consumes may cause discomfort or an upset stomach in the baby, leading to fussiness or rejection of the breast.
Parents need to pay attention to their baby's cues and try to identify the reason for fussiness or rejection of the breast. If the issue persists, seeking guidance from a pediatrician or lactation consultant can be helpful.
Parents may worry that if their baby does not nurse properly, or at all, in the first few hours, days, or weeks after delivery, they will never be able to breastfeed. However, the feeding reflexes that keep newborns seeking and clinging to the breast remain for at least two to three months after birth, and nursing can begin at any time during this period.
Breastfeeding in the first hour after delivery is ideal, but it's not the only opportunity for newborns to begin nursing. Parents need to understand that breastfeeding is almost always an option when there is milk and that many babies start nursing before the age of three months, and some even after being placed for adoption by a nursing mother who breastfeeds them.
If you're struggling with breastfeeding, remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution and that it's important to seek support and guidance from a lactation consultant or other healthcare provider. Don't hesitate to try different techniques, positions, and products like lactation drinks, lactation supplement drink mixes, or other lactation products to help improve your breastfeeding experience. With patience, persistence, and support, many breastfeeding challenges can be overcome.
Breastfeeding problems can be overwhelming, but it's important to prioritize and focus on the most urgent issues. After you make sure the baby is fed, via donor milk or formula, focus on maintaining your supply. Because a fed baby should be the priority. If your goal is to have a full milk supply, then increasing milk production should be your next priority, even if that means supplementing with donated breast milk or formula for the time being.
If your baby is not breastfeeding effectively, expressing milk can provide nourishment and stimulate milk production for the future. Engorgement, which can cause discomfort and swelling of the breasts, is a normal occurrence around 2-4 days after birth and should be treated promptly to keep the milk flowing well and maintain breast comfort. By prioritizing and addressing urgent issues first, you can make the most efficient use of your time and energy.
Don't worry if your baby refuses to breastfeed. Likely, your baby has not yet given up breastfeeding if he or she has been breastfeeding for a year or less. Here are some things you can try:
If you are experiencing challenges with breastfeeding, there are several strategies you can try to improve the experience for both you and your baby. For instance, if your baby only stops crying when breastfeeding, you can keep offering your breast to your baby when they show signs of hunger or sleepiness and after waking up. However, if your baby refuses to breastfeed, you may need to take a break if they become frustrated and try again later. In such a case, you can also experiment with different breastfeeding positions to find the most comfortable one for your baby.
To maintain your milk supply and prevent plugged ducts or engorgement, you can express your milk regularly by pumping or hand expression at the times your baby would normally nurse, and feed it to your baby. You can also consider using lactation products such as lactation support to support milk production.
It's also important to give your baby plenty of love and comfort through cuddles and skin-to-skin contact, especially during the postpartum period. Additionally, finding a calm and quiet spot to breastfeed, away from distractions like the TV or bright lights, can help create a relaxing environment.
If your baby refuses breastfeeding and won't stay latched on and cries, it may be helpful to consult with your baby's doctor to rule out any medical causes for their refusal to breastfeed and to seek advice. Nevertheless, keeping to a regular routine can provide stability for your baby, and by trying these techniques and seeking guidance if needed, you can work towards successful breastfeeding with your baby.
You’ve got this! And with the help of Organic Lactation and Postpartum Capsules by Freshly mom, you can get the extra support you need during this challenging phase. These capsules contain clean and powerful ingredients that work together to provide energy, healing, balance, and nourishment to postpartum mothers, helping them maintain breastmilk supply and recover post-birth.
The natural lactation support in these capsules is powered by proven galactagogues like Moringa Leaf, Blessed Thistle, and Fennel, which not only enhance milk production but also provide a rich source of nutrients to boost your energy and vitality.
But that's not all! These capsules also support all aspects of postpartum health. Powerful herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Raspberry Leaf encourage hormonal balance, cell rebuilding, and adequate energy levels, which are crucial for a smooth postpartum recovery.
So, whether you're struggling with a low milk supply or just need an extra boost during this time, Organic Lactation and Postpartum Capsules by Freshly mom are here to support you. Give them a try and feel the difference!
Ayurveda has been around for centuries and is considered one of the traditional Indian systems of medicine. Instead of solely treating illnesses and issues, Ayurveda is based on supporting the health and balance of the body and mind to prevent these problems. Prevention takes a holistic approach, including lifestyle changes, diet, and physical activity.
An important component of diet is supplementation with herbs and spices. Various plant-based ingredients are thought to help reduce issues, prevent disease, and improve aspects of both physical and mental health.
Herbs have been at the heart of Ayurvedic medicine since its inception. Many individuals have relied on them for centuries and found success with things like boosting fertility, decreasing inflammation, and improving mood. Today, science has proven many of these advantages and benefits.
Here are fifteen science-backed Ayurvedic herbs for a happy, healthy mind and body.
Ashwagandha is one of the foundational herbs of Ayurveda. Scientifically known as Withania somnifera, this woody plant hails from India as well as North Africa. Traditionally, the roots are ground into a powder that can be incorporated into teas, tonics, or taken in capsule form throughout the various stages of a person's life. Ashwagandha berries, also known as Winter Cherry, may also be used in Ayurvedic medicine. The primary advantage of the plant is that it is an adaptogen, helping the body adjust to and combat the damaging effects of oxidative stress. Research has shown that ashwagandha supplementation can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) levels. Other benefits of ashwagandha include vitality support, a libido boost, decreased inflammation, lower blood sugar, improved memory, and muscle growth.
Functional ingredient in Fertility Support for Her, Fertility Support for Him, Womb Rebalance, Mood Support, Golden Milk.
Asparagus racemosus, or Shatavari, grows in Africa and Southern Asia at high elevations. Its tuberous roots can be ground into a powder, much like Ashwaghnda. In Ayurveda, it is known as the "Queen of Herbs" or "100 Spouses," thanks to its benefits for the female reproductive tract, libido, and vitality. It makes an excellent fertility supplement but can also be used for lactation support and hormonal balance pre and post-menopause. Shatavari, as a stress-busting herb, can also be effective in aiding male fertility.
Functional ingredient in Fertility Support for Her, Fertility Support for Him.
Moringa is packed with nutrients and is known as "the drumstick tree," where it flourishes in the Indian content. Every part of the moringa tree can be used. Still, the leaves and seeds are usually harvested for teas, tonics, and supplements. It's fantastic for boosting nutrient stores, increasing energy, promoting healthy sleep, and as an antioxidant to cleanse and detoxify.
Functional ingredient in Mood Support, Lactation and Postpartum Support.
Women with premenstrual syndrome may seek out Vitex for its known benefits of reducing PMS symptoms, decreasing fibroids, and helping with endometriosis. However, Vitex, which is also known as chaste tree berry, is also great for fertility support, as it works to increase progesterone levels. The fruit, native to Western Asia and Southern Europe, has long been a potent remedy in Ayurveda, where it is known as Nirgundi.
Functional ingredient in Fertility Support for Her, Womb Rebalance.
Ayurveda believes nettles to be rejuvenating and replenishing. Rich in minerals and vitamins, it's a wonderful way to boost your nutrient levels, particularly during the postpartum period. Nettles have been found to support the womb in other ways, too, namely increasing oocytes, oocyte quality, and fertilization rate, especially in those with PCOS.
Functional ingredient in Fertility Support for Her, Womb Rebalance.
Red raspberry leaf is commonly used as a uterine tonic in late pregnancy. Still, it can also be excellent after birth. It helps to tone and shrink the uterus, returning it to its pre-birth size. Red raspberry leaf is also believed to be a galactagogue, making it ideal for postpartum supplementation.
Functional ingredient in Lactation and Postpartum Support.
Ayurveda has used maca to support libido and fertility for ages. The root is particularly potent and works as an energy and vitality booster. This Peruvian tuberous plant has been found to aid semen levels in men, further supporting fertility. As an adaptogen, Maca root can fight stress and possibly even lower blood pressure.
Functional ingredient in Fertility Support for Him.
Turmeric has so many benefits, making it a staple of Ayurveda. From fighting inflammation to boosting the immune system, the sunny spice is perfect for uplifting beverages like golden milk. Turmeric has also been found to aid digestion, help regulate menstruation, and increase energy overall. It's a great herb to incorporate into your routine, no matter your life stage.
Functional ingredient in Golden Milk.
Ginger's heat and potency are revered in Ayurveda, where it is used to aid digestion, ease illnesses and congestion, and relieve joint pain. When included in a beverage, like golden milk, it has a lovely warming effect on the body. In Ayurveda, ginger is believed to be one of the most sattvic foods, imparting its essences of happiness and calmness to the body.
Functional ingredient in Golden Milk.
Tribulus Terrestris, the scientific name for gokshura, refers to a leafy plant with bright yellow flowers. Coveted for its ability to treat cough, headache, menstruation issues, rheumatic pain, and renal problems in Ayurveda, gokshura is incorporated into many supplements. Fertility remedies may often include gokshura because it is thought to support follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in women and boost libido.
Functional ingredient in Fertility Support for Her.
Also known as velvet bean, mucuna is a potent aphrodisiac. Aiding libido and boosting sexual energy, it's ideal for fertility supplements. Mucuna also affects smooth muscle contractions, assisting with digestion and elimination. Other benefits of mucuna supplementation include decreased stress, increased calmness, and better focus.
Functional ingredient in Fertility Support for Him.
Red clover, a common plant, may be more beneficial than you realize. It's great for circulation, helping to improve blood flow and reduce clotting. These traits can be especially beneficial when trying to rejuvenate the womb, such as after a miscarriage or preparing for pregnancy. Similarly, the plant's high isoflavone levels are thought to help with menopause, reducing negative symptoms like hot flashes.
Functional ingredient in Womb Rebalance.
Holy basil, known as Tulsi in Ayurvedic medicine, is revered for its clarity-promoting characteristics. It's excellent for fighting brain fog, promoting focus, and boosting energy. It can be a valuable addition to anyone's routine who is suffering from stress or burnout. The small leafy shrub is grown throughout Asia and India. It is celebrated for its many benefits, including adaptogenic support, increased circulation, better mental clarity, and improved lung health.
Functional ingredient in Hormonal Blance and Mood Support.
Rhodiola is a great adaptogen, although it doesn't get as much attention as ashwagandha. Its bright yellow flowers seem to allude to the vitality it can impart when used as a supplement, helping to lower stress, improve energy, decrease fatigue and burnout, and increase stamina. Rhodiola may also help combat depression and anxiety, making it a great ingredient to incorporate in supplements promoting overall health and happiness.
Functional ingredient in Mood Support.
Traditionally, motherwort was prescribed to "restore the spirit." Today, many Ayurvedic practices still rely on it to boost energy, decrease burnout, lower stress, and calm the nervous system. It may be particularly helpful for those with stress-induced anxiety. Additionally, motherwort is thought to help regulate menstruation, reduce PMS symptoms, and regulate the circulatory system.
Functional ingredient in Mood Support,.
While you can find many of these herbs as stand-alone supplements, taking a well-rounded supplement that combines these powerful plants is a simple and effective way to receive the many benefits they offer. Freshly mom supplements were carefully crafted by an Ayurvedic practitioner and tailored to suit the various stages and concerns of an individual's life, from preconception to parenthood.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly mom. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
Recurrent miscarriage can be devastating. If this is an issue you are experiencing, we want you to know that we are sorry for your losses and hope you can heal. Even though it is estimated around 1% of women experience repeated miscarriage, you are not alone. Because this experience can be traumatic, you should hopefully be referred to an expert or specialist who can help you overcome these circumstances.
Still, you may be seeking information on why repeated miscarriage can happen and what treatments may be recommended to you. If so, we hope this helpful article can provide insight.
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) defines recurrent pregnancy loss as having two or more miscarriages. However, some experts state that three or more consecutive miscarriages are considered recurrent miscarriages. Regardless, the condition is relatively rare, affecting just 1% of couples.
Recurrent miscarriage can fall into two groups, early recurrent or late recurrent. Early miscarriage happens within the first trimester, which is the first twelve weeks of pregnancy. It can often be due to genetic problems with the embryo. Late miscarriage can have multiple causes and happens after the first trimester.
These miscarriages typically only take into account the loss of a clinical pregnancy, not a chemical pregnancy. A clinical pregnancy is defined as a doctor being able to find clinical evidence of a pregnancy, such as placenta, fetal pole, or a gestational sac on an early ultrasound. A chemical pregnancy happens before there is evidence of a pregnancy other than a positive test. At either the early or late stage generally requires a visit to a specialist who may be able to find out a possible cause.
They are not considered common. Miscarriage, on the other hand, is more common and is thought to affect 15 to 20% of all pregnancies. It only happens to around 1 to 2% of couples trying for a baby.
Certain risk factors are associated with repeat pregnancy loss. Generally, they are linked to the possible causes of miscarriages.
Uterine problems like an abnormally shaped womb
Thyroid disorders
Immune disorders
Blood clotting disorders
Age
History of miscarriages
There are various possible causes of multiple miscarriages. Unfortunately, even a specialist may be unable to determine the root cause. However, having more than one miscarriage does not automatically mean you won’t go on to have a healthy baby in the future. Investigations and treatments may be able to help you conceive and deliver.
Thyroid problems are associated with an increased risk of miscarriage and other pregnancy issues. In particular, hyperthyroidism can be problematic. If you have immune disorders related to the thyroid, you may have higher levels of thyroid antibodies. Increased thyroid antibodies can pose a higher chance of miscarriage. It is important to try to control thyroid conditions and levels before conceiving. Many doctors should also check thyroid levels during early pregnancy.
Blood clotting disorders may have “sticky blood” as a symptom. This can affect blood flow to the placenta, sometimes resulting in clots that impair function. Disorders may also lessen the amount of oxygen and nutrients the embryo receives, elevating the risk of miscarriage. Blood clotting disorders can include antiphospholipid syndrome or systemic lupus erythematosus. Typically, women can be screened for antibodies and prescribed treatment if necessary.
Individuals with an abnormally shaped womb may be more susceptible to miscarriages. A bicornuate uterus is when the womb is heart-shaped and looks like it has two sides rather than one pocket. It’s the most common abnormal shape compared to others like unicornuate. Fibroids and polyps might also be linked to repeated pregnancy loss. Generally, womb issues can be picked up on an ultrasound.
Rarely, one or both individuals in a relationship may pass on an abnormal chromosome each time an egg is fertilized, leading to recurrent miscarriage. Such as translocation, when a piece of one chromosome is transferred to another chromosome. Alternatively, there is a chance that an embryo can receive an abnormal number of chromosomes during fertilization. This is not linked to a medical condition and happens randomly, but the chance of it occurring can increase with age.
Cervical weakness or incompetence is when the cervix does not stay long and tightly closed during pregnancy. Instead, it becomes shorter, weaker, or opens before you are ready to deliver. It is linked to miscarriage as well as premature birth. Fortunately, there are treatment options for cervical insufficiency.
Low progesterone in pregnancy is thought to be associated with recurrent miscarriage. However, more research needs to be done, and doctors are still unsure why this happens. In some cases, women who had recurrent miscarriages were asked to supplement with progesterone and went on to have healthy, successful live births.
More than half of women experiencing repeated miscarriages may never learn of the cause of the loss. Though doctors might find clues, a definitive answer may not become apparent. Still, your doctor may use the following to determine the reason for the repeated loss.
Evaluation of medical history and previous pregnancies
A physical exam and pelvic exam
Blood tests to determine genetic causes
Imaging such as ultrasound
Blood clotting studies
The key to treating and managing your multiple miscarriages is finding a cause. If a cause is found, your doctor will likely be able to prescribe miscarriage treatments. Unfortunately, causes aren’t always easy to diagnose, and your doctor may not have guaranteed ways to avoid a future miscarriage.
Examples of possible treatment options include:
Medications for blood clotting disorders, thyroid problems, and immune disorders
Corrective surgery for uterine problems
A cervical stitch (cerclage) for an insufficient cervix
Genetic counseling
Fertility treatments using donor eggs or sperm for chromosome translocation
If the cause cannot be found and a treatment isn’t readily available, all is not lost. Your doctor may be able to prescribe other treatments and recommend changes to increase your chances of having a successful pregnancy. Progesterone supplementation, early testing, lifestyle changes, and supporting your overall health may be able to help.
That being said, if you are experiencing repeated miscarriages, make sure you’re emotionally healed as well as physically healed before trying again. While your doctor can give you the medical all-clear, you and your partner are the only ones who know when you’re mentally ready. Seek support from friends, family, or an online community if you desire. You can also privately support your mental health through journaling, meditation, or other activities. If you decide not to try and get pregnant again, that is okay too. There are no right or wrong answers, only what’s best for you and your health.
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with organic, ethically-sourced herbs to support female uterine health. It is the support you may need if you feel naturally out of balance, or want to offset the effects of pregnany loss.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly mom. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
Michelle is forty years old and a mother of two with one on the way. Getting pregnant closer to forty isn't always easy. Additionally, the mental and emotional side of pregnancy at age 35 and beyond can be complicated and overwhelming. However, for most couples, it is possible. Michelle and her husband are proof of that!
When you're trying to conceive, getting pregnant is a priority. However, Michelle and her husband knew they wanted to set themselves up for the healthiest possible pregnancy. So, they searched for a supplement that could support healthy sperm and egg development as well as top-up nutrient stores to support the healthy development of a baby.
"I was looking for a product that would support egg quality as well as build up nutrient stores before going into pregnancy," stated Michelle.
Michelle and her husband took Freshly mom Fertility Support for Her and Him, respectively.
They began taking the supplements 3 months before starting to try for their third child.
Yes! Freshly mom has a separate formulation for men. Since it takes two to start a family, adding Fertility Capsules for Men into your partner's routine may help to improve sperm count and motility and reduce oxidative damage to developing sperm, promoting sperm quality.
I know how important mom’s nutrition levels at conception, during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding impact both baby’s long-term health and how mom is able to recover. With 2 kids, a husband, and a full-time job, I wanted to continue to feel the best I could during pregnancy. Using the Freshly mom products for both egg and sperm health before getting pregnant gave me the best chance at having a healthy baby, and continuing to focus on nutrition during my pregnancy will continue to set my baby up for life-long health.
I focused a lot on nutrition and I also worked with an acupuncturist. To make sure my body was healthy enough to get pregnant, I did some blood work including a hormone panel. Everything looked good! I also worked with my acupuncturist to regulate my cycle before trying to conceive.
Speaking of nutrition and supplements, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients in Freshly mom Fertility Support.
“Freshly mom checked all the boxes"
Eventually, they found Freshly mom Fertility Support for Her and for Him. "Freshly mom checked all the boxes," continues Michelle, "it has CoQ10 to support egg quality, Ayurvedic herbs to support hormonal balance and a healthy cycle, and it contains vitamins and minerals." Freshly mom blend of science-backed, Ayurvedic-inspired ingredients offers a holistic approach. Fertility-boosting substances like CoQ10 help encourage egg development and fight the damaging effects of oxidative stress and aging. Herbs, such as Shatavari, are rich in nutrients. Adequate nutrient stores before conceiving help to support a nourished womb that will soon be a healthy and harmonious environment for your baby.
Michelle, a nutritionist, profoundly understands this and relies on it as one of her standards in finding a fertility supplement. "Did you know that the greatest needs for folate during pregnancy are in the first four weeks after conception? Your baby's neural tube is developing before you even know you're pregnant," states Michelle.
“Support pregnancy before you even know you're pregnant!"
Folate is just one of the essential nutrients for mothers-to-be.
Folate is essential for any mother-to-be, helping prevent significant defects in a developing baby's brain and spine. You already have enough to worry about when you're trying to conceive over thirty-five. A well-rounded supplement like Freshly mom Fertility for Her may be able to help relieve some of your worries about adequate nutrition. It was specially developed with methylated folate, which is more easily absorbed than folic acid. Michelle noted that it gave her the peace of mind that she was taking steps to "support pregnancy before you even know you're pregnant!"
Maca root has been shown to promote sperm health, motility, and count. In women, it has been found to promote hormonal balance and regular menstrual cycles. As an adaptogen, this potent herb can help the body fight oxidative stress, reducing damage to developing eggs or sperm. Plus, as a known aphrodisiac, Maca may be extra beneficial when TTC.
CoQ10 is excellent for sperm and egg health. It’s an antioxidant, decreasing the effects of oxidative stress on a cellular level. The supplement may help protect sperm and eggs as they are developing, promoting better quality eggs and sperm. For women 35+, CoQ10 may positively affect ovarian reserve, oocyte defects, and embryological parameters. However, women of any age may benefit from CoQ10’s ovarian reserve protecting qualities.
Ashwagandha is a beloved Ayurvedic herb. It has been used for centuries to reduce the negative effects of stress and calm the body. A potent adaptation, Ashwagandha is excellent for those trying to conceive as this phase can be stressful and overwhelming. The herb may also help during conception and early pregnancy by increasing blood circulation which helps nourish the womb.
Freshly mom Fertility Support for Her and for Him should be started one month prior to trying to conceive. Michelle and her husband began the supplements 3 months before they began trying to conceive to support sperm and egg health. As a result, they got pregnant naturally at almost forty after just one month of trying.
Our products aren't magic pills. However, they were developed by women for women, with an immense amount of thought put into their safety and efficacy. Powerful, science-backed ingredients tested over time through their use in Ayurveda are the foundation of our formulas.
We then focused on incorporating them into a supplement that was effortless to take and easy on the stomach. Our fertility supplements, along with diet and lifestyle changes, as well as guidance from your doctor, may be able to make your fertility journey smoother and shorter.
While there may be moments of worry during pregnancy over thirty-five, we hope you continue to have faith that you will be able to conceive naturally and go on to carry and deliver a healthy baby. We're honored to be a part of success stories like Michelle's!
Irregular periods can be irritating to deal with. You never know when to carry products with you or if PMS is to blame when you're extra tired and irritable. While period irregularity can be irksome when you're not TTC, it can be downright worrisome if you're trying for a baby. It's not uncommon to wonder if you can get pregnant with an irregular period.
The answer depends on a variety of factors. However, know that in most cases, women with period irregularity can conceive. To do so, though, you may need to work with your doctor to address the cause of irregular periods.
An irregular period might seem like a period that comes on day 28 of one cycle and day 30 of the next. But there are actually more rigid guidelines regarding what qualifies as period irregularity.
The "typical" cycle is around twenty-eight days. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), an abnormal period is one that "changes a lot from month to month," particularly a period more often than every 21 days, less often than every 45 days, more than 90 days apart, or lasting for greater than seven days. If your cycle length varies only by two to three days and the variation only lasts for a month or two, it may not be irregular.
Period irregularity tends to last for longer than a couple of cycles. Having only one cycle shorter than the next could be due to acute conditions. For example, illness, stress, or even travel can throw off your period. However, if you're finding that your cycle is all over the place consistently, you could have an abnormal period.
Abnormal periods and cycle irregularity can have a variety of causes. Not all of them mean your irregular periods are cause for concern. Such as:
Health conditions. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), sexually transmitted diseases (STIs), hormonal problems like hyper or hypo- thyroidism, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and other issues can affect your cycles.
Weight fluctuations. Extreme fluctuations in weight can impact your hormones, in turn disrupting your cycle. Intense exercise can also lead to period disappearance, known as amenorrhea.
Medications. Certain drugs, like birth control, can cause your period to fluctuate, especially when you are starting or stopping the medication.
Lifestyle. Your lifestyle may play a role in cycle regularity. Times of extreme stress might cause your period to be late as stress hormones upset the balance of other hormones in your body. Extreme sleep disruption, often caused by travel, may also affect when your period comes.
It's important to note that there are times in a woman's life when an irregular period can be considered normal. For example, when a woman is pregnant, her period (usually) ceases. Similarly, those who are breastfeeding also experience a pause in their period. When it does return, it may not be regular for a few months.
In most cases, you can get pregnant with an irregular period. Many women experiencing an irregular period will still ovulate, and ovulation presents a chance to conceive. That being said, irregular periods and pregnancy success can be trickier.
You've probably heard of ovulation. It is the phase of your cycle when one of your ovaries releases an egg. For those with a 28-day cycle, it happens around day 14, two weeks before your period begins. After the egg is released, it journeys down the fallopian tube, where it can meet with sperm. The mature egg only stays there for 12 to 24 hours, the window in which it can be fertilized. Due to this, timing ovulation and intercourse is key.
With irregular periods, that's where the difficulties lie. Erratic periods can make it much harder to track and time ovulation. The chance of successfully getting pregnant for a healthy woman is around 30% each cycle. Chances can decrease if your periods fluctuate by more than ten days. Still, some signs can help you predict ovulation. Additionally, ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) may be able to help you more accurately pinpoint the days' ovulation is likely to occur.
In some cases, irregular periods can signify anovulation. When a mature egg is not released, ovulation does not occur; this cycle is called anovulatory. Anovulation can be consistent or irregular, with consistent anovulation possibly pointing to an underlying hormonal or fertility concern. If you do not ovulate, you cannot become pregnant naturally. Fortunately, doctors can often treat anovulation with fertility drugs or treatments.
If you have irregular periods and are trying to conceive, your first question may be, "am I ovulating?"
To figure out ovulation, you can try at-home methods. Yet, for some, these may not be accurate enough to tell if you are ovulating definitively. In that case, you should work with your doctor.
To try and discern if you're ovulating at home, you can try the following:
Track your menstrual cycle. You'll want to have a good idea of how long your cycles are on average. It can also help you see if your cycles are truly irregular.
Check your cervical mucus (CM). CM typically changes around ovulation, becoming clearer, wetter, and slippery; often called egg-white in consistency.
Track your basal body temperature. Known as BBT, it should rise slightly after ovulation takes place. To track BBT, you must follow precise guidelines about how and when to take your temperature.
Try an OPK. An ovulation predictor kit measures hormone levels found in your urine. You'll need to dip a test stick into your pee and read the results like a pregnancy test.
Most women will use a variety of these methods to help pinpoint ovulation. Other symptoms like bloating, cramping, or breast tenderness can accompany ovulation. However, they're not accurate predictors on their own.
A fertility specialist may use blood testing, urine tests, ultrasound, or biopsy to check for ovulation or underlying fertility issues. If you believe you aren't ovulating, contacting your doctor is best.
Irregular periods may not prevent you from becoming pregnant. However, they can make predicting ovulation and therefore achieving pregnancy more challenging. Additionally, if irregular periods occur with anovulation, pregnancy may be near impossible.
If you are experiencing irregular periods or are concerned about ovulation, it's best to reach out to your doctor. After they assess your concerns, they can help guide you to the best next steps. In some cases, you may need treatment. Alternatively, your doctor may suggest a mix of lifestyle changes like supplements and diet, and cycle tracking, which can help promote regular periods and fertility.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly mom. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
Ashwagandha is a traditional herb used for centuries, especially in Ayurveda. Recently, it has gained mainstream popularity due to its stress-reducing, adaptogenic properties. After hearing about its calming effects and ability to promote restful sleep, breastfeeding moms may wonder if they can use this herb. After all, postpartum and early motherhood is one of the most stressful and chaotic times in a woman's life.
If you want to know if you can take Ashwagandha while breastfeeding, read on!
The scientific name for Ashwagandha is Withania somnifera. It is a herb that is found in both Asia and Africa. There, it has been used for centuries. Sometimes referred to as "Indian Ginseng." Ayurveda has long relied on Ashwagandha to reduce stress, treat inflammation and pain, promote restful sleep, and increase nutrient intake.
Though many have received its benefits for thousands of years, science has recently begun to verify those claims. Ashwagandha is an adaptogen. Adaptogens help your body to fight off free radicals and better manage oxidative stress. Many studies on Ashwagandha have found that this herbal supplement can have significant health benefits.
The primary benefit of Ashwagandha is its ability to fight the adverse effects of stress and restore calm. However, that isn't the only advantage of this powerful herb.
Ashwagandha is considered to have bitter, warm, and dry properties. It also has a calming effect as it is an adaptogen. However, Ashwagandha typically doesn't make you feel sedate or groggy, making it an excellent choice for busy mums.
If you find yourself facing postpartum insomnia, Ashwagandha may be able to help you return to sleep.
Traditionally, Ashwagandha is translated as the "strength of a stallion." This is because it is known for providing energy, strength, and stamina, often due to its ability to promote restorative sleep so that you wake up feeling energized.
One study found that Ashwagandha reduced arthritis symptoms caused by inflammation and swelling.
Ayurveda believes Ashwagandha helps to promote youth, support longevity, and enhance vigor.
Ashwagandha has been found to reduce blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
It's easy to see why you may want to consider Ashwagandha during any stage of motherhood, but can you consume Ashwagandha during breastfeeding?
Like most herbs, Ashwagandha's effect on nursing mothers has not been studied in depth. However, it is generally considered safe for breastfeeding. This is great news because this plant-powered supplement can have excellent benefits for nursing or pumping moms in particular!
Rich in iron. Ashwagandha contains some excellent nutrients, like iron. Iron is vital for postpartum mothers who went through childbirth and are now nursing a little one. It may help with iron deficiency.
Reduce swelling. Ashwagandha is thought to reduce inflammation, which can help treat swelling, aches, and pains. Breastfeeding can sometimes lead to poor posture and cause aching shoulders, back, or neck. Ashwagandha might be able to help with this muscle pain.
Endocrine regulation. Ashwagandha is believed to assist with thyroid regulation and adrenal gland balance. Typically, post-birth, thyroid levels can be a concern for some mothers. They can also play a role in breast milk production.
Relieves stress, anxiety, and brain fog. Ashwagandha is a powerful stress fighter. Stress and anxiety can often play a role in milk supply, so promoting calm is essential. Additionally, postpartum "mom brain" or brain fog is real and can be pretty frustrating. Ashwagandha may help provide clarity and reduce cloudy thinking and fatigue.
Reduce insomnia. It can be an awful feeling when you are wide awake, and your little one is finally asleep. Ashwagandha can be excellent for promoting restful sleep, decreasing insomnia, and helping you fall asleep when you wake up in the middle of the night. However, it doesn't cause grogginess or fatigue if taken during the day.
For many mothers, Ashwagandha is a match made in heaven during the sometimes chaotic and tiring fourth trimester.
Ashwagandha is considered Lactation Category C. This means that Ashwagandha and breastfeeding are considered compatible. However, it's always very important to talk to your doctor before taking any herb or supplement or making dietary changes while breastfeeding.
Generally, substances can pass into your breast milk and be transferred to your baby. Some have a more powerful effect than others and last longer in breast milk. Due to the lack of research on herbs and breastfeeding, finding concrete evidence about which supplements are safe can be challenging.
However, leading companies in the industry, like Parents.com, have touted Ashwagandha's benefits for nursing moms. Even placing it on their list of best breastfeeding foods. Other entities have suggested that breastfeeding moms take Ashwagandha with caution.
We understand that it can be tricky to know which substances are breastfeeding-safe. In cases where the herb or medication is considered safe or compatible, it can come down to what works for you and your little one. Always operate under your doctor's guidance, and trust your mom-gut.
Most women can safely enjoy the benefits of Ashwagandha while breastfeeding as long as they receive the herb from a trusted and safe source and consume it properly.
Thankfully, Ashwagandha's side effects for breastfeeding moms are minimal and rare. The most common is gastrointestinal discomfort. In most cases, GI distress, including diarrhoea, ceases when you stop taking Ashwagandha. Sometimes, you may be able to alleviate side effects by taking a lower dose or taking the supplement with food and water.
Moms with thyroid disease should check with their doctor before taking Ashwagandha, as it affects the thyroid and adrenal glands. Furthermore, those who take medications, including benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, or barbiturates, are not advised to consume Ashwagandha.
Ashwagandha is a match made in heaven for most postpartum and breastfeeding moms. If you're taking a certified and safe supplement from a trusted brand like Freshly Moms and doing so in the proper manner, you'll likely be able to reap the benefits with little to no side effects or concerns.
Ashwagandha is a powerhouse plant that can have significant benefits for breastfeeding and postpartum moms. Its ability to promote sleep, help you manage stress, and return your body and mind to balance are just a few of its amazing advantages.
This is why we include it in our Golden Milk for Motherhood and Lactation and Postpartum Support Capsules. As a nutrient-rich herb, it's an ingredient that adds an extra nutritional boost. With its calming and restorative properties, Ashwagandha is an ingredient all postpartum moms should consider!
Shruti is the founder of Freshly Moms. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
You are likely familiar with the term IVF or in vitro fertilization. It is one of the most common fertility procedures in modern times. However, options for couples continue to advance, and reciprocal IVF allows both partners to participate in conception even if they are both of the same gender.
What is reciprocal IVF, and how does it work for LGBTQ couples? Read on to find out!
Reciprocal in vitro fertilization is sometimes referred to as partner-assisted reproduction. You may have heard a handful of other names, such as co-IVF, partner IVF, shared motherhood, or ROPA (reception of oocytes from partner). It is used for lesbian couples or trans men partners. During the process, one person will act as the egg donor for the other.
To understand reciprocal IVF, you must first know how standard IVF works. Traditionally, an individual's ovaries will be stimulated with synthetic hormones to encourage them to mature multiple eggs. The eggs will be harvested using egg retrieval. Then, the eggs will be combined with sperm in a lab in order to fertilize them. If everything goes correctly, an embryo will form from the fertilized egg. Embryos are given three to five days to develop before being transferred back to the uterus of the individual who will carry the baby. If the embryo successfully implants, pregnancy will occur.
Reciprocal IVF is quite similar. One person in the relationship will go through egg stimulation and retrieval. Their eggs will be fertilized using donor sperm in a lab and then allowed to develop. When the embryos are ready to be transferred, they are placed into the uterus of the other person in the relationship.
In medical terms, it would be the same as a woman using an egg donor or a gestational carrier. However, for same-sex partners, it is much more than that. It allows both individuals to participate emotionally and biologically in a pregnancy. Alternatively, if a sperm donor was used for IUI or IVF of one person, the other person would not get to share in the experience as much.
Two different biological relationships occur during reciprocal IVF, one linked to each partner.
First, the partner donating the egg is genetically linked to the baby. Secondly, the other partner is biologically connected through pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding (if they so choose). Each important experience ties the child to their parents. Some studies indicate that pregnancy may result in a stronger biological link than previously thought. A 2015 study noted how specific uterine environments influenced the expression of particular genes. Termed "endometrial milk," these microRNAs secreted by the uterus lining influence gene regulation and are thought to play a role in the child's long-term health.
Which partner is the donor and which will carry the pregnancy during reciprocal IVF is a very personal decision. Both individuals should consider their emotional, physical, and psychological health, desires, and needs. For example, a trans man may choose not to carry the pregnancy because it doesn't align with their gender. Or, he may have to forgo treatment, like testosterone. Physically, one partner may be younger than the other, which usually means they have a more robust ovarian reserve for egg retrieval. Or, it might be determined that one individual has a stronger, healthier uterus that is more conducive to carrying a pregnancy.
The reasons are varied and unique to each couple. It's often a good idea to have a conversation with your partner, then consult your doctor to seek their guidance.
Reciprocal IVF is less than twenty years old, making it a relatively new procedure. Therefore, there aren't many studies that illustrate the technique's success rate. Early research, though, is promising. One study found that 60% of couples who were 32 (average donor age) achieved pregnancy through co-IVF. It's important to note, too, that traditional IVF success rates may be lower than reciprocal IVF rates. The discrepancy is due to the fact that partners using reciprocal IVF often are infertile. Instead, they use IVF for reasons important to their relationship rather than biological factors.
Therefore, egg donation success rates may paint a more accurate picture. Nationwide egg donation and IVF statistics indicate that embryos from egg donation result in a live birth in more than 50% of cases consistently. However, it's critical to consider the egg donor's age as this factor most strongly influences success. This would be the partner going through the egg retrieval process for reciprocal IVF. The better your ovarian reserve, or the younger your eggs, the higher your chance of a successful and healthy pregnancy.
Now that you know the reciprocal IVF meaning and how the procedure works, you may wonder if the technique is right for your relationship. That is a very personal decision that you shouldn't consider lightly. Along with your personal goals and emotions, other factors must be considered, such as reciprocal IVF cost. Before you start the journey to a baby, take some time to sit down with your partner and discuss all of the factors.
Additionally, if you do want to move forward with reciprocal IVF, fertility supplements before the procedure may help optimize your womb and fertility. Of course, checking with your doctor before beginning any supplements helps. With a physician's approval, consider natural, plant-based supplements like Fertility Support for Her that encourage hormonal balance, a nourished womb, and optimal egg health.
This supplement contains a blend of Ayurvedic herbs, including CoQ10, Shatavari, and Ashwagandha that help regulate hormonal cycles and boost fertility. Also included is an essential vitamin blend that boosts your nutrient reserves, preparing you for a healthy pregnancy.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly mom. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
Secondary infertility is a type of infertility that occurs when a couple who have previously been able to conceive a child are unable to conceive again after trying for a year or more. It is called "secondary" because it occurs after the couple has already had at least one successful pregnancy.
Secondary infertility can be caused by a variety of factors, including age-related changes in fertility, medical conditions such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hormonal imbalances, or lifestyle factors such as stress, poor nutrition, or excessive alcohol or drug use. In some cases, the cause of secondary infertility may be related to the previous pregnancy, such as scarring or damage to the reproductive organs.
Like primary infertility, secondary infertility can be a challenging experience for couples who are trying to conceive. It can cause feelings of frustration, disappointment, and sadness, and may require medical intervention or fertility treatments to overcome. If you are experiencing secondary infertility, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and explore your options for treatment.
Secondary infertility is not solely caused by one of the partners; it may happen to anybody and is as prevalent as primary fertility; there is no one precise explanation that can be declared and claimed by everyone.
Around one-third of instances are caused by women, while the other one-third is caused by males. In the remaining one-third of cases, the etiology is a mix of circumstances or is unknown.
Secondary infertility can be caused by a variety of factors:
The causes of secondary infertility in women can vary, but some of the most common causes include:
As a woman gets older, her fertility declines, and the quality and quantity of her eggs decrease, which can make it more difficult to conceive.
Disorders that affect ovulation, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can cause irregular or absent ovulation, which can make it difficult to conceive.
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This can cause inflammation and scarring, which can interfere with fertility.
Blockages or damage to the fallopian tubes, often caused by pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), can prevent the egg from reaching the uterus or the sperm from reaching the egg, which can cause infertility.
Abnormalities in the uterus, such as fibroids or adhesions, can interfere with implantation and cause infertility.
Changes in the consistency or amount of cervical mucus can make it difficult for sperm to reach the egg, which can cause infertility.
Surgeries such as C-sections, myomectomies, or tubal ligation can cause scar tissue, which can interfere with fertility.
Medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, and diabetes can also affect fertility.
The causes of secondary infertility in men can vary, but some of the most common causes include:
A low sperm count (oligospermia) can reduce the chances of fertilization and lead to infertility.
Poor sperm motility (asthenospermia) can also affect the ability of sperm to reach and fertilize an egg.
Abnormal sperm shape (teratozoospermia) can make it difficult for sperm to penetrate the egg and cause infertility.
Varicocele is a condition where the veins in the scrotum become enlarged, leading to decreased sperm count and motility.
Hormonal imbalances, such as low levels of testosterone or high levels of prolactin, can affect sperm production and lead to infertility.
Erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation can make it difficult to achieve pregnancy.
Infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause inflammation and scarring in the reproductive system, leading to infertility.
It's important to note that many cases of secondary infertility have no obvious symptoms, and the only way to diagnose the condition is through fertility testing with a healthcare provider.
Fertility support developed by experts. Freshly mom Fertility supplements contain a blend of natural herbs and vitamins, including CoQ10, Shatavari, and Ashwagandha to gently restore hormonal balance and improve egg and sperm health.
Diagnosing secondary infertility typically involves a thorough medical history and physical exam, as well as fertility testing for both partners. Here are some of the common tests and procedures used to diagnose secondary infertility:
Ovulation testing: This involves tracking ovulation to determine if and when an egg is being released.
Hormone testing: This involves blood tests to measure levels of hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are important for ovulation and fertility.
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): This is an X-ray test that uses dye to visualize the fallopian tubes and uterus to check for blockages or other abnormalities.
Transvaginal ultrasound: This test uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the reproductive organs and check for any abnormalities.
Semen analysis: This is a test that evaluates the quantity and quality of sperm in the semen.
Hormone testing: Blood tests can be used to measure levels of hormones such as testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are important for sperm production and fertility.
Testicular ultrasound: This test uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the testicles and check for any abnormalities.
Treatment for secondary infertility depends on the underlying cause, and may involve fertility medications, surgery, or assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). In some cases, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, reducing alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking may also be recommended. It's important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly mom. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
CoQ10, or Coenzyme Q10, has been getting much media attention lately, however, not for its traditional uses of decreasing inflammation and promoting joint health. Recently, the supplement's fertility benefits have come to light, and both men and women are seeking coenzyme q10 for fertility.
How can CoQ10 support your fertility journey? Is it safe? How do you take CoQ10? We'll answer these questions and more in this helpful guide!
Coenzyme Q10 reduces sperm DNA fragmentation
Coenzyme Q10 can help improve sperm quality
CoQ10 can help with cellular energy production, supporting sperm motility
CoQ10 has been found to lead to a 53% increase in sperm count
CoQ10 may help slow down and reverse the decline of oocyte quantity and quality in women
Coenzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cell health
CoQ10 is the colloquial name for ubiquinone or coenzyme 10, a powerful antioxidant. The compound is found naturally in your body but tends to decrease as you age. Along with protecting cells from free radicals, it also helps to support metabolism and cellular energy through the electron transport chain.
CoQ10's ability to protect and facilitate cell energy makes it an excellent fertility aid. The substance has been found to protect sperm and egg cells during their developmental processes. At that time, oxidative stress and harmful free radicals can decrease their quality. Additionally, its enhancement of cell energy levels is believed to lead to higher-quality sperm and eggs. Why? Because more cell energy equals higher cell function, which can result in better quality eggs and sperm that go on to be protected by CoQ10's free radical fighting properties.
When it comes to women's fertility supplements, CoQ10 is often mentioned as a must. As an ingredient in fertility supplements, it helps to improve egg quality. A woman begins life with nearly six million oocytes (premature eggs) that decrease to 300,000 to 400,000 around puberty. After puberty, 1,000 eggs die each month, and the number of mature eggs decreases. The ever-decreasing number of oocytes and quality of mature eggs is why your fertility wanes as you age.
CoQ10 drops as you get older, too, leaving your eggs more susceptible to free radical damage. One study found that supplementing with CoQ10 helped combat decreasing egg quality. For some women in the study, CoQ10 slowed the process and helped reverse the decline of oocyte quantity and quality.
Therefore, CoQ10 may be helpful for women experiencing decreased fertility due to age. CoQ10 for infertility due to age may also be beneficial. However, young women can also supplement with coenzyme Q10 to retain their oocyte quantity and support mature egg health.
Sperm can benefit from coenzyme Q10 in a few different ways. First, it helps to protect them from free radical damage. In order for a sperm to fertilize an egg, it needs to be able to swim to reach the egg and then actually fertilize it. For this to happen, the sperm must be the proper shape and size to swim and meet a woman's egg.
The shape and size are known as morphology, while its swimming ability is called motility. In one study, CoQ10 was found to increase the number of rapidly mobile sperm and reduce the number of slow-swimming sperm and non-motile sperm. Another study found a modest improvement in morphology after taking CoQ10. CoQ10's antioxidant properties also improve sperm quantity, with one study illustrating that the supplement reduced sperm DNA fragmentation levels.
Finally, CoQ10's cellular energy benefits may boost not only sperm quality but quantity too. Researchers reported an increase in sperm count of greater than 50% after men took CoQ10 for six months. A larger number of higher-quality sperm can improve the chances that a healthy sperm will meet the egg and result in pregnancy.
You can get CoQ10 through your diet, as it is found in oily fish, organ meats, and whole grains. However, most individuals only get 3 mg to 6 mg a day through their food choices. Comparatively, the daily supplementation recommendation for adults 19 years of age and older is 30 to 200 mg. This means that for some, CoQ10 is a helpful supplement to add to your routine. Furthermore, fertility experts may recommend as much as 100 mg to 600 mg per day. However, it is always important to consult with your doctor first to figure out the correct dosage for you.
As we've established, CoQ10 for fertility is a great supplement. CoQ10 benefits fertility for males and females in a variety of ways. If you are looking to take coenzyme Q10 for fertility, you could take a stand-alone CoQ10 supplement.
However, fertility supplements that include CoQ10 alongside other powerful ingredients may be a better way to go. Products like Fertility Support for Him and Fertility Support for Her by Freshly mom incorporate CoQ10 into a potent blend of fertility-boosting compounds. Traditional plant-based ingredients like Vitex and Ashwagandha come alongside modern science-backed compounds such as CoQ10 to create a well-rounded supplement that supports many facets of fertility.
Freshly mom Fertility Support for Her uses Ayurvedic herbs and vitamins to promote hormonal balance, nourish the reproductive system, and maintain nutrient stores for conception, pregnancy, and beyond. CoQ10, Vitex, Tribulus Terrestris, Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Folate, and more come together to promote regular cycles, boost libido, reduce stress, increase nutrient stores, and promote egg health.
Freshly mom Fertility Support for Him relies on nature's most powerful ingredients to help to nourish and support the male reproductive system. By combining CoQ10 with Mucuna, Maca, Ashwagandha, and Shatavari, we have created a supplement that supports libido, assists with healthy sperm production, increases sperm count, balances hormones, and lowers stress.
CoQ10 is a great fertility aid for men and women. Most notably, its ability to support cellular energy and protect against free radical damage allows it to produce higher-quality eggs and sperm while preventing a decrease in both oocyte number and sperm concentration. To benefit the most from CoQ10, consider choosing a product that includes it alongside other fertility-boosting ingredients rather than a stand-alone supplement.
Fertility support developed by experts. This supplement contains a blend of Ayurvedic herbs and vitamins, including CoQ10, Shatavari, and Ashwagandha.
Fertility support developed by experts. This supplement contains a blend of Ayurvedic herbs and vitamins, including CoQ10, Maca Root, Shatavari, and Ashwagandha.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly mom. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
Irregular periods can be annoying. But unfortunately, they can also be a symptom of a more concerning underlying health issue. If your period isn’t consistent in length from cycle to cycle, it could be related to something benign, like stress, or it might be a sign of an autoimmune disease. If you’re experiencing cycle irregularity, you should talk to your doctor. But in the meantime, continue reading for an understanding of the various reasons behind irregular periods.
An irregular period is any menstrual cycle shorter or longer than 21 days or 35 days (respectively) for consecutive months. Your menstrual cycle begins on the first day of your period and lasts until the first day of your next period. The average cycle length is 28 days, but ACOG considers anything between 21 and 35 days normal.
If the length of your cycle varies each month by 7 to 9 days, you could be considered irregular. Spotting between cycles and bleeding lasting longer than a week are irregular symptoms.
You know your body best and likely understand what is normal for you and what is not. However, cycle tracking can be a great way to better understand your reproductive health.
If your period is consistently regular for longer than three cycles (or three months), it’s best to contact your doctor. They will likely be able to help you determine possible causes of irregular periods and how to get your cycle back on track.
There can be many different causes of irregular periods. Some causes aren’t of major concern, like occasional stress. Alternatively, other factors, like serious underlying medical conditions, are more concerning.
If your stress is great enough to impact your hormones, it could lead to irregular periods. Chronic stress may cause your hormones to fluctuate, which can delay ovulation. If ovulation is thrown off, your period will be too. In most cases, extreme stress will result in a late or missed period.
Stress can come in different forms. You may be worried about a presentation at work or school or dealing with family issues. But lifestyle factors can also result in a stress response from your body. Extreme exercise routines, irregular sleep, and gaining or losing a significant amount of weight quickly can elicit a stress response and result in inconsistent menstruation.
Viruses and other illnesses can make your period come late, early, or not at all. Certain illnesses can stress your body as it fights to get better. As you now know, stress impacts processes like ovulation, which can delay your period.
If your weight falls to around 10% below normal weight, you may experience period disruption. Low body weight impacts many processes, including hormone regulation and production. When ovulation is halted, menstruation isn’t triggered, lengthening your cycle.
Conditions that affect your reproductive system often produce menstrual symptoms like irregular periods. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), and Endometriosis are all linked to cycle inconsistencies. Most of them result from hormonal issues, but some also involve factors concerning reproductive tissues and organs. Conditions like PCOS or PID share other symptoms, too, such as painful periods, infertility, and abnormal bleeding.
Certain medications, namely steroids and anticoagulant meds (known as blood thinners), may result in an inconsistent menstrual cycle. Generally, periods are only impacted when you use the medications long-term. Period delay or prolonged bleeding occurs because the steroid impacts the hormones responsible for ovulation and menstruation.
You likely know that birth control can affect your cycle. After all, the medication is taken to alter ovulation and implantation so that pregnancy does not occur. Different types of birth control can result in various symptoms. Some forms of the pill, like low-dose progestin-only, may be less likely to cause irregular periods than a combination pill or ring. Going on the pill or coming off the pill usually results in changes to your period. Period irregularities can last six months or longer, even after you stop taking birth control.
Specific autoimmune diseases, like thyroid conditions, cause your hormones to fluctuate. Hormonal imbalances then affect other bodily processes, such as menstruation. Gland disorders that may result in an irregular period include hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), and pituitary conditions.
Ectopic pregnancy is when the fertilized egg implants somewhere outside your uterus. When you’re pregnant, your period typically stops. Ectopic pregnancy, however, may not completely halt your period. Instead, you might experience irregular periods and spotting. Miscarriage causes your hormones to fluctuate, disrupting normal ovulation and menstruation.
Women who are breastfeeding typically experience irregular periods too. Prolactin, which triggers milk production, works to prevent ovulation. Without ovulation, periods don’t regularly occur. Some women might see a return of their period while nursing. In contrast, others won’t resume menstruating until after they’re done breastfeeding or pumping.
Any procedure that affects your uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries can disrupt your menstrual cycle. Surgery that results in scarring or blockages to these areas might cause delayed, missed, or absent periods.
You may not need to worry if your cycle is shorter or longer for one month and then returns to normal. Occasional factors like sleep or stress can impact menstruation. But if your period is inconsistent from month to month, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor. Other concerning symptoms, like pelvic pain, strange odor, or passing heavy clots, also mean it’s time to phone your physician.
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with organic, ethically-sourced herbs to support female uterine health.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly Moms. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
Spontaneous abortion is a medical term for a pregnancy that suddenly ends in a miscarriage. Planned termination of a pregnancy can also be called an abortion. This article will use the term abortion to refer to planned or induced abortion.
Choosing to have an abortion is an incredibly personal decision. Many women consider not only their current circumstances but also their future plans. Even if you don’t desire children now, you may wonder, can abortion cause infertility?
In most cases, having an abortion won’t affect your chances of getting pregnant at a later date. However, there are one or two exceptions. If you’ve wondered, “does abortion affect fertility?” read on.
There are two predominant forms of abortion. One of them, surgical abortion, may be more likely to pose a risk to your future fertility. The type of abortion required depends on how far along the pregnancy is and the timing.
Medical abortion is when a woman takes medications intended to induce abortion. These drugs may also help clear the uterus of tissue following a miscarriage. Depending on how far along the pregnancy is, your doctor may recommend one medication, like misoprostol (Cytotec), or a combination of medications. Generally, medications are only an option if you are ten weeks pregnant or less.
A surgical abortion can similarly terminate a pregnancy or empty the womb following a miscarriage. A handful of methods are used, including vacuum aspiration, dilation and evacuation (D&E), dilation and curettage (D&C), or induction abortion. The procedure your doctor selects generally depends on how far the pregnancy has progressed.
Just like any medical procedure, there are risks associated with having an abortion. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) usually considers abortion low-risk, especially if it is conducted in a clean and safe medical environment. The further you are along in your pregnancy, the greater the risks may become.
Complications of abortion can include:
In some cases, extreme blood loss may require a transfusion.
When tissue or other products are left in the uterus, removal is required.
The risk of infection, either from the procedure or tissues remaining in the womb, can sometimes be lowered with a pre-treatment course of antibiotics.
In the case of surgical abortions, nearby organs, like the bladder, can sustain accidental injury.
Abortions can also cause the uterus to become inflamed. Inflammation typically poses a threat to future fertility. However, this threat is often considered minimal.
Signs of infertility after abortion can be a scarred or inflamed uterus. Asherman syndrome is a complication of surgical abortions in which the uterine lining becomes damaged. Scarring develops in the uterus cavity, increasing a woman’s chances of miscarriage or difficulty conceiving in the future.
Asherman’s syndrome is considered rare. It can sometimes be treated by surgically removing the scar tissue and placing a balloon inside the uterus to keep it open while it heals.
ACOG states that having an abortion doesn’t usually affect a woman’s ability to conceive in the future. Furthermore, it generally doesn’t increase your risk of pregnancy complications or miscarriage if you get pregnant again.
Once you begin ovulating after your abortion, pregnancy is possible. For this reason, your doctor may prescribe birth control pills immediately after the abortion to avoid pregnancy. You will likely want to avoid sexual intercourse until your body heals.
If you have trouble conceiving after an abortion, the procedure may not always be the culprit. Various factors can affect a woman’s ability to get pregnant. Some fertility factors include:
Age. Fertility decreases with age, especially for women aged 35 or older.
Lifestyle. Smoking, excessive alcohol use, drug use, and other lifestyle habits can affect fertility. The same applies to your partner.
Health. Physical factors like being significantly under or overweight can impact fertility. Intense and frequent exercise regimens that affect ovulation and menstruation can make it hard to conceive.
Medical history. Certain conditions, like a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), chronic diseases such as diabetes, hormonal disorders like PCOS, and autoimmune disorders, can all affect your fertility.
Partner’s fertility. Women are not the only sex to suffer from fertility issues. Men’s fertility is based on semen quality. Lifestyle factors and health conditions can impact the quality and quantity of a man’s sperm.
Regardless of what you believe might be causing your infertility, contact your doctor if you are having trouble conceiving. They can suggest lifestyle changes and tests while determining whether you should see a fertility specialist.
Sometimes, habit changes, like improving your diet and returning to a healthy weight, are enough to help you conceive. Nutrient levels are essential for a healthy womb. Supplements like Fertility Support for Her can help boost your nutrition, lower your stress with adaptogens, and encourage hormonal balance, creating a supported and nourished womb.
However, in some cases, fertility supplements for women may not be enough to achieve conception, especially if the cause of infertility is uterine scarring from an abortion. Because fertility is multifaceted, reaching out to your doctor or gynecologist is always an excellent first step.
An abortion, whether to induce the termination of a pregnancy or help clear the uterus following a miscarriage, does come with risks. Doctors generally consider the risks to be minimal and the procedures, both medical and surgical, to be very safe.
Having an abortion does not guarantee you will have fertility issues in the future. However, if you are having trouble conceiving, reach out to your health professional.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly Moms. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
While it's true that not all fertility concerns can be easily remedied, such as genetics or reproductive conditions like PCOS, some difficulties in conceiving can be improved by lifestyle changes.
Things like diet, stress and smoking can all impact your chances of conceiving, sometimes working to boost fertility. At the very least, major or minor lifestyle shifts might help prevent fertility from worsening.
If you're having difficulty getting pregnant, you may want to consider the following factors and if they're contributing to your TTC struggles.
You can get pregnant from having sex once, but it's a misconception that getting pregnant is that simple. For most couples, timing intercourse is key. The only way to conceive is if you have intercourse around the time an egg is released, called ovulation. When a woman ovulates, the egg lives for fewer than twenty-four hours. Comparatively, sperm can live three to five days. Therefore, it's ideal to have sperm waiting to meet the egg or introduce sperm as soon as ovulation occurs.
Whether you're having lots of intercourse or only opting for a few key times, ensure the days you do "do the deed" are timed to optimize conception.
Your body weight may be affecting your fertility. Having a too-high or low weight can negatively impact your chances of getting pregnant. One study found that infertility risks for those women considered obese can increase by 78%. If both you and your partner are obese, it could take almost 59% longer for you to get pregnant than couples who are both within a healthy weight range.
Similarly, being underweight can negatively affect your chances. Low weight can play a role in hormone production, namely estrogen. With too little estrogen, your cycles can be thrown off. Some women with very low body weights may cease menstruating entirely, a condition known as amenorrhea. Pregnancy may be nearly impossible if your body weight is too low for ovulation.
It can be a vicious cycle. You're stressed about getting pregnant, then when it doesn't happen, you're even more stressed, only to find out that stress can negatively impact your fertility. Now you're stressed about being stressed!
The solution? Have plenty of coping strategies to lower your stress levels. Some stress-reducing activities can include:
Going for a walk
Meditation
Yoga
Positive self-talk
Journaling
Reading a book
There's no conclusive link yet established between stress and fertility. Still, experts do know that too much stress, in general, is bad for your health. We also know that when you're not getting pregnant as quickly as you hoped, it can cause stress and anxiety. Try to give yourself grace and embrace the process!
Your body needs to feel nourished and balanced before welcoming a baby. Low levels of certain nutrients can adversely affect hormones, impacting ovulation and fertility. A well-rounded diet with healthy fats, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains can help boost your nutrient stores. You may also consider a supplement if you feel that your diet is lacking. Various vitamins and minerals in foods and herbal supplements can help support male and female fertility. Such as:
CoQ10
Vitamin E
Maca
Shatavari
Ashwagandha
Eliminating refined sugars and unhealthy fats might further boost your fertility. One study found that having these processed foods in your diet can decrease fertility.
Exercising too much can impact your weight and your stress levels. Physical activity is wonderful, but you can have too much of a good thing. High-intensity exercises greatly increase your heart rate and often make it difficult to talk or breathe.
You don't need to avoid your HIIT workouts, but you should be mindful of how long and how frequently you engage in rigorous exercise. Exercising intensely for long periods has been shown to adversely affect male fertility and female fertility, particularly ovulation and implantation. Instead, aim for moderate activity for 150 minutes each week.
Smoking and alcohol consumption aren't helpful for couples TTC. Smoking has been found to decrease fertility in a few ways, such as:
Interrupting hormone production
Increasing the risk of infertility
Harming the reproductive system of females and males (especially sperm DNA)
Quitting smoking may help boost your chances of getting pregnant. Similarly, too much alcohol consumption can impair fertility. Moderate to heavy drinking can affect a woman's ovulation menstrual cycle. In men, it may lead to decreased sperm quantity and quality. Furthermore, as alcohol should be avoided entirely when pregnant, reducing your intake when TTC can prove to be very beneficial.
Sleep and your circadian rhythm play an important role in bodily functions like hormone production. It's been found that women who work odd schedules outside the 9-5 hours may suffer from decreased fertility. Getting pregnant is still possible if you tend to work night shifts or long hours. Make sure you prioritize sleep in addition to a healthy diet and lifestyle to keep your body balanced and happy.
The causes above may be impacting your fertility. However, you could also have an underlying condition, like endometriosis, affecting your chances of trying to conceive. Lifestyle changes and supplements certainly can improve your overall health and mental wellness, in turn boosting fertility.
Still, it's important to consult with your doctor if you're having trouble conceiving. Speaking with your healthcare provider about your concerns can provide you with peace of mind and give you the next steps for your fertility journey.
Selenium may not be as popular as supplements like Vitex or CoQ10, but there's no denying its excellent health benefits. An essential mineral, selenium benefits can support many facets of your health. It's important to know that selenium can only be obtained through your diet.
How can minor amounts of this crucial nutrient make such a significant difference? Read on to learn about the benefits of selenium and how to add it to your diet!
Selenium is an essential mineral that your body does not naturally produce. It is commonly found in the soil, making it appear in some foods and water. As you can't make your own selenium, you must obtain it from what you eat. Thankfully, most individuals only need small amounts of this mineral.
Nevertheless, it plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, such as metabolism, thyroid function, and immune system health. It is needed to produce proteins, called selenoproteins, and some enzymes. These compounds help make DNA and protect your cells against damage and infection. Some individuals also take selenium for fertility as the mineral plays a role in reproduction.
The mineral is excellent for a variety of things, and there are selenium benefits for men and women. Here is a breakdown of the many reasons why you want to ensure adequate selenium levels.
1. It is necessary for thyroid health
Your thyroid gland relies on selenium to function correctly. Not surprisingly, the highest concentrations of selenium in your body are found in this organ. As an antioxidant, selenium helps to protect your thyroid against harmful oxidative damage. It also plays a role in thyroid hormone production.
Poor thyroid function can wreak havoc on your metabolism, translating into issues with energy, weight, temperature regulation, and more. Additionally, your thyroid is responsible for growth and development. Too little selenium may correlate with thyroid conditions like hypothyroidism or Hashimoto's. Your thyroid hormone levels are also important when you are TTC or pregnant, so maintaining adequate selenium levels is crucial for mamas and mamas-to-be!
2. It's an Antioxidant
Free radicals are unstable atoms that can lead to cell damage, resulting in illness and aging. Although they're normal and serve a purpose in your body, too many of them, from things like oxidative stress, can cause issues. Alternatively, antioxidants prevent cell damage from free radicals.
Antioxidants are found in food, and selenium is a potent free-radical fighter. Adequate levels of selenium and other antioxidants help control oxidative stress, reducing free radical levels. When free radicals are neutralized, they can no longer result in damage linked to chronic conditions such as Alzheimer's, heart disease, premature aging, stroke risk, and cancer. Staying topped up on selenium is a great way to defend your cells.
3. Can Help Prevent Heart Disease
It is thought that selenium plays a role in heart health. Inadequate selenium has been correlated with a higher risk of heart disease. The decreased risk may stem from selenium's ability to lower inflammation, a significant risk factor for heart disease.
Oxidative stress is also linked to plaque buildup in arteries, known as atherosclerosis. Selenium helps defend against oxidative stress, possibly decreasing your chances of heart disease, stroke, and heart attacks.
4. May Lower Your Risk of Certain Cancers
Oxidative stress and high free radical levels are linked to many adverse health outcomes, including cancer. Selenium's power to fight oxidative stress and lower DNA damage equals an immunity boost, which can help destroy cancer cells.
One study found that high selenium levels in an individual's blood were associated with lower lung, breast, prostate, and colon cancer risks. However, this study focused only on food-based selenium and not supplements. Nevertheless, selenium obtained through supplements has been found to reduce radiation-induced diarrhea in women undergoing treatment for cervical and uterine cancer, improving their quality of life.
5. Is Great for Fertility
Selenium is excellent for fertility due to its part in fighting oxidative stress. Less cell damage from free radicals means better sperm and egg quality. A selenium deficiency is linked to low-quality semen, reduced sperm count, and poor sperm motility. The mineral is also essential for testosterone, an important reproductive hormone.
In women, selenium contributes to healthy ovarian follicle development, the site of egg development. It may also help support a healthy egg environment by decreasing free radical levels. Selenium deficiency in pregnant women has been associated with lower birth weight. If you're TTC, adding selenium-rich foods to your diet won't hurt!
Fertility support developed by experts. This supplement bundle contains a blend of natural herbs and vitamins, including Selenium, CoQ10, Shatavari, and Ashwagandha.
6. Improves Cognition as You Age
As you age, your memory and cognition can decline. Alzheimer's, in particular, severely affects your memory and harms your behavior and thinking. While there is no cure or guaranteed prevention for the degenerative disease, it's thought that high levels of free radicals and oxidative stress may play a role. This is true of other neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's.
One study found that Alzheimer's patients possessed lower selenium levels. Furthermore, antioxidants may benefit those patients' memory. Experts also discovered that the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in selenium-containing foods, is linked to a decreased risk of Alzheimer's. Eating foods or taking supplements containing high selenium levels might help to delay the onset of neurological diseases and improve memory.
7. Supports Your Immune System
Your immune system is important in keeping you healthy by defending your body from parasites, viruses, and bacteria. As an antioxidant, selenium assists your immune system by lowering oxidative stress. Reduced oxidative stress helps decrease inflammation levels, which boosts immunity.
Some studies show that adequate selenium levels result in enhanced immunities. Those deficient in selenium may experience decreased immune cell function and delayed immune response. If you have a condition like HIV, tuberculosis, or even influenza, proper selenium intake may help boost your immune system and result in fewer hospitalizations.
8. May Support Respiratory Health
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition affecting your airways. Inflammation is a predominant symptom, leading to wheezing, tightness in your chest, and difficulty breathing. Like other conditions, asthma is linked to oxidative stress.
As an antioxidant that fights this type of stress, selenium may help to reduce inflammation. As a result, the mineral might help lessen asthma symptoms. Though those with asthma have been found to have lower levels of selenium, more research is needed to learn if selenium supplementation could help control asthma symptoms.
9. Can Improve Hair & Nail Health
Selenoproteins, the type of proteins associated with selenium, are essential for hair and nail health. Splitting hair or brittle nails is thought to be linked to nutrient deficiencies, like low levels of selenium. Additionally, its antioxidant properties prevent cell damage and aid hair and nail maintenance and growth.
Selenium is found in the following foods:
Brazil nuts
Oysters
Eggs
Sardines
Sunflower seeds
Halibut
Chicken breast
Shiitake mushrooms
There are some plant-based foods as well, but their selenium levels can be affected by the selenium levels in the soil where they were grown. As a result, a diverse diet rich in many different selenium sources may be best. Alternatively, selenium supplements may be recommended, but it's best to speak with your doctor first.
A potent and important mineral, selenium is vital for many bodily functions. Whether you're TTC, want to support your immune system, or simply hope to improve your overall health, selenium is an excellent nutrient to add to your diet.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly Moms. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
Miscarriage can be scary, often because it is surrounded by so much uncertainty. If you've recently been told to expect a miscarriage or that you are miscarrying, you likely have hundreds of questions. While information can't mend your heart or speed healing, it can offer some individuals comfort in understanding the process of miscarriage.
Common questions women may have are how long does it take for a miscarriage to happen? What happens during a miscarriage? And how long does a miscarriage last? You're in the right place if you have any of these concerns. Hopefully, this guide will provide you with the information you need and the peace of mind that you're not alone. You won't be in this place forever.
A miscarriage is classified as the ending of a pregnancy before the 20th week. It is the most common type of pregnancy loss, with an estimated 10 to 15 out of 100 pregnancies ending in miscarriage. Most miscarriages occur within the first three months of pregnancy. Sometimes, a woman may not even realize she is pregnant before miscarrying.
Unfortunately, many women do know when they are miscarrying. Miscarriages can be physically difficult and painful, especially if they occur later during the first twenty weeks. They can also be mentally and emotionally hard. Most women report feelings of grief, loss, and sadness.
Your doctor may use the medical term for miscarriage which is spontaneous abortion. They may also tell you that you are experiencing one of five types of miscarriage. The types of miscarriage are:
Threatened miscarriage - when you have symptoms of a miscarriage, such as bleeding and cramping, but your cervix remains closed. Usually, there is a 50% chance a threatened miscarriage will progress.
Inevitable miscarriage - when signs of a miscarriage are accompanied by the opening of your cervix, meaning that it will inevitably progress.
Incomplete miscarriage - you pass some of the pregnancy tissue, but other tissue still remains in your uterus.
Complete miscarriage - you pass all of the pregnancy tissue.
Missed miscarriage - you do not have symptoms of a miscarriage, but an ultrasound reveals the embryo has not survived.
Each type of miscarriage can have different symptoms, causes, and treatments. Possible causes of miscarriage include chromosomal abnormalities, specific illnesses, a serious infection or injury, or uterine abnormality. In some cases, the cause of miscarriage is unknown. Regardless of why or how a miscarriage occurs, feelings of grief, loss, confusion, anger, and sadness are common for both the mother and her partner. Sometimes, gathering facts and information about miscarriage can help a woman feel more prepared and in control, providing some sense of comfort during a difficult time.
Once a miscarriage has started, nothing can stop it. Threatened miscarriages are different in that the pregnancy has not yet ended, but there is a 50% risk that it will. A threatened miscarriage is usually considered to have passed when symptoms taper off, and the pregnancy progresses normally. A true miscarriage usually cannot be prevented, and doctors cannot stop it.
A miscarriage can happen gradually or suddenly, and in some cases, you may not be aware it is occurring.
When your doctor diagnoses a miscarriage, it can be scary and sad. You may wonder how long it takes until it is all over. The passing of pregnancy tissue can take anywhere from a few days to four weeks. During this time, your body is working to pass the pregnancy tissue. If it cannot expel all the tissue, treatment may be necessary.
A miscarriage can begin with symptoms such as vaginal bleeding and cramping. Alternatively, your doctor may find via ultrasound that your embryo no longer has a heartbeat, or they can find only an empty sac. If you have symptoms of miscarriage and the process appears to be progressing normally, your doctor will likely prescribe expectant management. This type of treatment is a "wait and see" approach. Your body will work to pass the pregnancy tissue through cramping, which is very similar to contractions.
You may require medical intervention if you have heavy bleeding, are at risk of an infection, or your body is not actively working to pass the pregnancy tissue. Sometimes, a woman may wish to speed up the process through medical intervention. Usually, the intervention will be either medicine or a surgical procedure.
Misoprostol, also known as Cytotec, can assist a woman with miscarrying at home. It stimulates uterine contractions to pass the tissue. The surgical intervention usually performed is called a dilatation and curettage (D&C), in which your doctor will remove the tissue. Afterwards, you will likely be able to go home the same day. Depending on the treatment prescribed and the type of miscarriage, how long the process lasts can vary.
A miscarriage is complete when the embryo or baby, pregnancy sac, and placenta have been passed. A very early miscarriage can only last a few hours. For some women, the miscarrying process can take a few days, while others can experience miscarriage symptoms for weeks. However, the passing of the tissue and heavy bleeding usually takes around 3 to 5 hours. The further along you are in your pregnancy, the more pronounced the bleeding and pain will likely be. Once the bleeding and pain have ceased, your miscarriage is likely over. Usually, your doctor will confirm that your uterus is clear via an ultrasound.
In the case of medically treated miscarriages, it will likely only last a few days. Surgical treatment of miscarriage means that it is over immediately after the procedure.
However, emotional symptoms can remain even though symptoms have subsided and tissue has passed.
After a miscarriage, you may experience light bleeding and minor cramping. It will generally taper off within a couple of weeks. Pregnancy symptoms like morning sickness and breast tenderness will gradually fade as your hormone levels return to normal. Some women can see a return of their period within four to six weeks. Although for many women, it can take much longer for their periods to regulate and their hormones to balance.
You may feel your grief isn't real because you didn't get to hold or see your baby before the loss. This is not the case. A miscarriage at any point during pregnancy is difficult and can produce real feelings of loss. Grief is a common feeling experienced by both partners. You may also feel shocked, angry, and confused.
Women may suffer from shame and guilt post-miscarriage, even though they did nothing to cause the miscarriage, nor was there anything they could do to prevent it. You may feel jealousy, resentment, fear, loss of faith or trust (especially in your body), and loneliness.
While there is no "right" way to grieve, you should know a few things. Don't try to rush back into things or push yourself to feel a certain way. Feeling sad is a normal part of the process. You should feel comfortable expressing yourself however you feel, whether talking to your partner, journaling, or going to therapy. You may wish to commemorate your loss in some way, which is a natural part of grieving.
While healing physically and mentally, be sure to maintain a healthy diet, get regular sleep, and participate in gentle movement. Stay away from things like alcohol in an attempt to numb the pain. These things will help your body heal and promote a healthy state should you want to try and conceive again in the near future.
Promoting a healthy womb is key when you decide to try again. Making sure your hormones are balanced and your cycles are regulated can help encourage fertility and make it easier to know when to have intercourse. Be sure to work with your doctor to understand when you can try again and how to optimize your chances for a healthy pregnancy. At home, you can do things like maintain a healthy diet, get regular sleep, and consider a supplement. A well-rounded supplement like Freshly Moms Womb Rebalance can help boost your nutrient levels, promote restorative sleep, encourage hormonal balance, and support regular menstrual cycles. For women who experienced a miscarriage and are struggling to return their womb to balance, it can be a beneficial part of a preconception routine.
Miscarriage recovery, especially emotionally, is never easy. Please know that a miscarriage is not the result of something you did or didn't do. Furthermore, you are not alone. If you feel especially sad or isolated, reach out to friends, family members, or a medical professional.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly Moms. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
You likely know the average period cycle length. Most resources and products will often refer to this 28-day cycle, making it seem normal for everyone. However, many individuals don’t have 28-day cycles. Your period may occur every 30 days or sometimes even longer. And for a few individuals, their period length can vary, leaving them feeling far from the “regular” 28-day cycle.
If your cycle isn’t just a bit longer or shorter than 28 days but seems to come and go whenever it pleases, you may have irregular periods. Some variability in your period length or frequency often isn’t a cause for concern. On the other hand, irregular periods can signal that something is out of balance with your body and usually necessitate further investigation. Here are the basics of period irregularities you should know.
Irregular periods are defined as varying menstrual cycle lengths from month to month. Most periods are 5-7 days long, but your menstrual cycle includes the days of your period and the gap between periods. It spans from the first day of your period to the start of your next period. If this gap keeps changing, you may have irregular periods.
Before puberty and closer to menopause, it is common for this gap to vary in length. But after puberty, through their fertile years, most women will develop a regular period pattern only varying by a few days. If your period lasts 15 days one cycle and 30 days the next, this could indicate irregular periods. Here are a few other signs to look for.
The primary symptom of irregular periods is varying cycle lengths. How can you tell if your period is irregular?
Tracking is a great place to start. The first day of your period is generally considered your first day of actual flow, not spotting. Mark this day and then track to the first day of your next period. The number of days in between is your menstrual cycle length. Continue to track for a few more cycles. Irregular periods don’t have to vary widely. Still, they can be as changing as a 21-day cycle followed by a 30-day cycle and then a 25-day cycle.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states a normal menstrual cycle length can be between 21 and 35 days. It is considered irregular if your period comes less often than 35 days or more frequently than 21 days. ACOG also considers a period between 21 and 35 days that vary from cycle to cycle by 7 to 9 days irregular.
Cycle tracking is important when figuring out if you have irregular periods. Most other symptoms associated with period irregularity are usually tied to an underlying condition, like PCOS, of which irregular periods can also be a symptom. These symptoms can also signal that something is out of balance with your body. Common symptoms you may experience with irregular periods include:
If you bleed very little, or sometimes not at all (amenorrhea), it may be linked to the same cause as your irregular periods, such as being underweight or overweight.
Excessive bleeding (menorrhagia) or bleeding for more than seven days isn’t usually considered normal. ACOG considers bleeding through a single pad or tampon every hour for several hours or experiencing clots the size of a quarter or bigger to be excessive bleeding.
Lightly bleeding or spotting in between true menstrual cycles is another common symptom experienced by those with irregular periods. Usually, it is tied to your hormones.
Dysmenorrhea, or very painful cramps, shouldn’t be the norm with your periods and could signal an underlying condition like fibroids.
Irregular period causes can range from underlying health conditions to stress.
Illness, a traumatic event, or stress at work or home can disrupt hormone production, leading to irregular periods. However, stress won’t usually cause your periods to be irregular continually from month to month. A trip to a new time zone that affects your sleep patterns can cause cycle irregularity too. But again, if your period goes back to the normal length the next time you menstruate, there likely isn’t cause for concern.
Other factors that cause unalarming period irregularity include pregnancy and breastfeeding. Menopause or perimenopause causes cycle length to vary too. These conditions are known to make periods irregular and typically don’t cause doctors to worry.
If you drastically increase your activity level, such as training for a marathon, you could also find that your cycle length varies. Variation is most seen if you experience rapid weight loss. While experts know that this happens, it can still be problematic, especially if you are trying to conceive or hope to start trying soon.
Finally, underlying conditions can cause irregular periods. Generally, these conditions are associated with your hormones and reproductive organs, such as PCOS or endometriosis. They can be a cause for concern and should be evaluated by your doctor.
Even if you don’t religiously track your menstrual cycle, you likely know your cycle patterns. You can tell when your period is atypical. An irregular period for one to two cycles and then goes back to normal often isn’t a reason to stress. However, if your period irregularity persists or you are experiencing other symptoms, it’s wise to consult your doctor.
Because irregular periods can have several causes, they can’t always be prevented. However, taking care of your body and hormones is one way to help lessen the chances of having an irregular cycle.
Paying attention to your diet and weight is beneficial. Include healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, protein, grains, healthy fats, and oils. Cutting out over-processed foods and refined sugars that may affect hormone production can also help. You may need to gain or lose weight as your doctor advises.
Sleep and stress are linked to hormone production as well. Avoid stressing your body with irregular sleep cycles, and get adequate rest. You may find that calming practices and relaxation techniques help lower stress levels. Moderate, regular exercise is important for health. Still, you may want to cut back if you have a frequent and intense exercise regime.
Check-ups with your gynaecologist are important to rule out health issues that can contribute to irregular menstrual cycles. If you take hormonal birth control, do so only as prescribed, as missing or skipping doses can cause irregular periods.
Finally, you may want to consider a supplement. Nutrients are necessary for hormone production, and if you don’t feel that your diet is enough to meet your nutrient needs, a supplement may be able to help. Freshly mom Womb Rebalance and Freshly mom Hormonal Balance and Mood Support are each carefully crafted with nutrient-packed ingredients. Additionally, Ayurveda-inspired herbs traditionally used to balance hormones and promote womb health are included, supporting cycle regularity.
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with organic, ethically-sourced herbs to support regular hormonal cycles
If your period is 25 days one cycle and 30 the next, then goes back to its typical 28-day schedule, there is likely no reason to worry. But if you can’t predict when your period is coming from one month to the next, it could be irregular periods.
Furthermore, your cycle irregularity could signal that something is off with your body. Always check with your doctor if you’re concerned about period issues. Irregular periods aren’t always a cause for concern, but cycle variability can be annoying nonetheless! Following the irregular period prevention tips above can help promote hormonal balance and cycle regularity for happy and healthy periods.
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with natural, ethically-sourced herbs to support hormonal health and mood.
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with organic, ethically-sourced herbs to support female uterine health.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly mom. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
Hormones are responsible for numerous processes within the body. It is a delicate balance in which too little or too much hormone can disrupt your body’s harmonious ecosystem. While all hormones are necessary, you may notice symptoms when specific hormones are out of balance. Estrogen, for example, is a crucial hormone linked to menstruation, fertility, and reproductive health in females. While your estrogen levels tend to fluctuate depending on which stage of womanhood you are in, low estrogen can occur.
If you find yourself experiencing things like night sweats, loss of menstruation, or dry skin due to too little estrogen, you’re likely wondering what can be done. Can you increase estrogen naturally?
We always advise discussing hormone issues with your doctor. But if you’ve already had the conversation and are looking to boost estrogen naturally, this article is for you!
First, let’s refresh our knowledge about what estrogen is. Estrogen is a hormone that plays a role in both males and females. However, for the purpose of our article, we’ll primarily stick to how it affects women. Estrogen is tied to bone health, cognitive health, cardiovascular health, and, most notably, reproductive health.
Estrogen has different forms in the body. Estrone is a weak form of estrogen that is found after menopause. Estradiol is found in men and women and is most present during a woman’s reproductive period. Estriol is present in rising levels during pregnancy and peaks just before birth.
Estrogen is commonly balanced by progesterone, your body’s other primary sex hormone.
Estrogen is responsible for many functions, including stimulating the growth of the egg follicle in the ovaries, supporting the uterus’s mucus membrane, maintaining the vaginal wall’s thickness and lubrication, and ceasing milk production after breastfeeding is ended.
Throughout your life, estrogen levels may rise and fall. Life milestones like puberty, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause can affect estrogen levels. As can things like being significantly over or underweight, medications, diabetes, PCOS, and ovarian tumors.
Estrogen is essential to female reproductive growth during puberty, fertility, and pregnancy. Too little or too much of the hormone can have adverse effects.
If you have too little estrogen, you may notice some uncomfortable symptoms. These can include:
Hot flashes
Trouble sleeping
Night sweats
Missed periods
Lack of a period
Fatigue
Vaginal dryness
Dry skin
Poor libido
Mood problems
Brain fog
Abdominal weight gain
These symptoms can be associated with specific life changes, like menopause. Therefore, your doctor may recommend that you continue a healthy and balanced lifestyle while you wait for the symptoms to fade as your body gradually regains balance. In other cases, medical treatment may be necessary.
Increasing estrogen isn’t always medically necessary, although, in some cases, it may be advised.
Women who require treatment for low estrogen, either in menopause or postmenopause, may be advised to begin hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Generally, this treatment is only recommended for women suffering from low bone mineral density or intense and frequent hot flashes. Your doctor will prescribe you a synthetic form of the hormone estrogen and sometimes progesterone as well. Estrogen therapy and estrogen-progesterone/progestin hormone therapy (EPT) are the most common forms. Estrogen therapy is only prescribed for women who have had a hysterectomy.
In the case of EPT, you’ll take both so that the hormones can balance one another. The synthetic hormones are absorbed through your skin via a patch or taken orally in pill form. These forms are known as “body-wide” estrogen treatment. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe vaginal estrogen, which can be taken as a suppository or in the form of a ring. Usually, vaginal estrogen is a treatment for painful intercourse or vaginal dryness.
Because HRT can include risks, it isn’t recommended for everyone.
If you are not a candidate for HRT or your doctor suggests a wait-and-see approach to your hormonal imbalance, you may desire to seek natural hormone remedies. A combination of lifestyle changes and a supplement may be beneficial. Consider these natural hormone treatments if you seek a way to boost your estrogen levels without synthetic hormones!
Phytoestrogens are plant-based estrogens that mimic your body’s natural hormones. They can bind to your body’s estrogen receptors and can result in reduced symptoms of low estrogen. Foods with these plant-based estrogens include soy products, legumes like lentils or beans, nuts, and seeds, certain fruits such as plums and pears, whole grains, eggs, milk, and specific veggies like alfalfa, cabbage, and broccoli.
Along with diet, maintaining a healthy weight can help you regulate hormones. When you’re too far above or below a healthy weight, your body can struggle to keep up with hormone production.
Almost everyone knows that stress can wreak havoc on your body. High levels of chronic stress can negatively impact hormone production thanks to too much cortisol (the stress hormone). Taking steps to lower your stress through meditation, gentle exercise, and self-care may help you relax and decrease your cortisol levels.
Your body needs sleep to function properly, which includes hormone production and balance processes. For most adults, at least seven hours of restorative sleep is recommended each night. If you have trouble falling asleep, you can try removing electronic devices from the bedroom, instituting a sleep/wake cycle, or adding a relaxing supplement like Golden Milk to your diet.
Supplements that support hormonal balance and the female reproductive system can be an excellent addition to your daily routine. Some contain phytoestrogens, while others can aid your body in different ways (like adaptogens). Our favorite herbal ingredients for hormonal balance include:
Red clover: a plant that contains phytoestrogens in the form of isoflavones.
Chasteberry: also known as Vitex, is a traditional ingredient known to help with PMS symptoms by promoting estrogenic effects in the body thanks to apigenin (a phytoestrogen).
Ashwagandha: a classic adaptogen that can help your body manage the negative effects of oxidative stress, helping you sleep better.
Tulsi: also called Holy Basil is another adaptogen that can help promote hormonal balance through its cortisol-reducing properties.
Shatavari: nicknamed the one who possesses 100 husbands, contains phytoestrogens that may help to boost estrogen along with progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicular-stimulating hormone (FSH) to act as a complete female reproductive tonic.
Freshly Moms has two products that can be excellent for women looking for natural low-estrogen support. Womb Rebalance is formulated for women coming off birth control, those who have experienced a miscarriage, or those looking to reset and rejuvenate their womb. Many of the above ingredients and deeply nourishing herbs like Moringa come together to restore and replenish the female reproductive system.
For women looking for hormonal support post-childbearing years, Hormonal Support and Mood Balance is a fantastic way to boost your energy, clear brain fog, promote sleep, and, most importantly, support hormonal balance to improve uncomfortable low estrogen symptoms! It contains the ingredients listed and other powerful plants like Rhodiola and motherwort.
Adding an easy-to-take supplement can be the simplest part of your self-care routine, helping you to feel more energized, have healthier skin and hair, and be ready to tackle whatever womanhood throws your way!
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with organic, ethically-sourced herbs to support female uterine health.
Helps balance your hormones and mood with natural Ayurvedic herbs.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly Moms. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
CoQ10 is undoubtedly having a moment right now when it comes to fertility. However, other supplements are equally beneficial for healthy sperm and eggs. One of them is selenium.
Most commonly praised for its antioxidants, this mineral is crucial to sperm morphology and motility in men, as well as for follicle development in females. Selenium is an essential nutrient that humans cannot produce. Including it in your diet is necessary but not always easy.
If parenthood is in your future, here’s a fertility-friendly supplement you won’t want to overlook and the best way to meet your intake needs!
Selenium is naturally found in the soil, water, and some foods. Our body relies on selenium for various processes, but we cannot produce it ourselves. Therefore, we must obtain selenium from our diet.
Though only small doses of selenium are required for most people, too little can have adverse effects. You need the nutrient for metabolism, reproduction, and to protect against cell damage. Selenium is essential for producing selenoproteins, which describe a handful of proteins and enzymes. Selenoproteins are vital to thyroid function and the metabolizing of thyroid hormones, which is why the highest concentration of selenium is often found in the thyroid gland. The rest of your body’s selenium stores are located in muscle tissues.
Selenium male fertility is all about sperm health. Selenium is imperative in male reproductive health as it influences sperm growth and development, affecting sperm morphology and motility.
Morphology describes the sperm’s size and shape. Normal morphology elicits the highest chances of conception as normal sperm are the right size and shape to swim correctly, reach the egg, and, hopefully, fertilize it. High amounts of abnormally shaped sperm are often linked to infertility and sperm irregularities, including low sperm count. Motility refers to how well sperm can swim. Like morphology, proper motility helps increase the chances of conception.
Selenium affects sperm development in a few ways. Low selenium can impair testosterone production and, as a result, sperm development. Additionally, selenium is a known antioxidant. Antioxidants help to protect sperm in its most early stages when free radicals can cause damage. Selenium has been found to improve DNA fragmentation and fight the effects of oxidative stress in males with poor sperm motility.
There are also many selenium benefits for women.
In females, selenium similarly plays a role in reproductive development. Follicles are tiny sacs filled with fluid in the ovary. They are where a woman’s immature eggs are stored. Each ovary has thousands of follicles, and one grows to be the dominant follicle that will release an egg. Selenium plays a key role in follicle development and ovulation.
Its antioxidant properties are important, too, helping protect the dominant follicle from free radicals and oxidative stress. Selenium helps prevent damage to the endometrium post-ovulation, keeping it healthy so that a fertilized egg can implant and grow. Similarly to selenium’s role in male fertility, the mineral is also linked to progesterone and estrogen hormone production in women.
Selenium is excellent for reproductive health, regardless of gender!
Aside from sperm and egg health, selenium can benefit overall wellness. Its antioxidant properties help to protect cells in general, supporting cell and DNA health, reducing the risk of disease and infections, and decreasing the adverse effects of oxidative stress. Selenium is associated with a reduced risk of cancer, improved heart health, and better mental function related to memory and cognitive ability.
As we mentioned, selenium is typically concentrated in the thyroid gland. This is because it is imperative for thyroid health. The powerful mineral both protects the gland from oxidative stress and boosts function. Thyroid hormones, aided by selenium, play a role in metabolism, growth, and development. Some thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s have been linked to selenium deficiency.
Selenium’s antioxidant potency also makes it excellent during pregnancy as it helps to protect the placenta, having a positive role in lessening the chances of pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm labor.
With all the selenium benefits we’ve covered, you’re probably wondering how to include selenium in your diet. It can be found in protein-rich food sources, such as pork, beef, poultry, eggs, and fish. Vegetarian protein sources, like nuts, lentils, whole-wheat bread, and beans, contain some selenium. In fact, Brazil nuts pack the most selenium of all food sources, with 100 to 200 mcg found in just two nuts.
A supplement can aid those who don’t get enough selenium from their diet. Most individuals only need 55 micrograms daily. Pregnant or lactating individuals are advised to increase this amount to 60 to 70 mcg daily.
Too much selenium can be associated with adverse health effects. Be mindful of adding a supplement if the multivitamin or other products you take already contain selenium. The maximum upper intake level, or how much you can take without incurring negative health outcomes, is 400 micrograms daily.
You can take a selenium supplement for fertility. Or, you could take a well-rounded supplement that includes selenium as part of its fertility-boosting ingredients. Both Freshly Moms fertility products, for Him and for Her, are designed to support reproductive health and contain 50mcg of Selenium. These supplements are formulated by one of the top Ayurvedic practitioners in the US and made with natural herbs and vitamins.
Fertility support developed by experts. This supplement contains a blend of Ayurvedic herbs and vitamins, including CoQ10, Shatavari, Selenium, and Ashwagandha.
Fertility support developed by experts. This supplement contains a blend of Ayurvedic herbs and vitamins, including Selenium, Maca Root, Shatavari, and Ashwagandha.
Shruti is the founder of freshly Moms. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
There's no avoiding stress and anxiety. We encounter it every day during our normal routines. Whether you're trying to get the kids out the door in the morning or working on a big project at work, we all face stress at some point or another.
If you're feeling burned out, reaching for a cup of coffee, down an energy drink, or flop down on the couch in a stupor is tempting. While these quick fixes may be able to temporarily boost your energy, they usually aren't the healthiest or most effective. Instead, consider these eleven natural remedies for anxiety that can offer you the pick-me-up you need at the moment and hopefully get you on the path to less stress and anxiety permanently.
A better question may be what doesn't cause stress and anxiety. Your triggers may be the same as someone else's, or they can be different. We all face challenging moments and can process them in different ways. For example, stay-at-home moms may feel stressed when they spend all day nurturing and loving on their little ones only to realize their significant other will be home soon, and they have yet to pick up the toys or put away the dishes. Working parents can feel stress commuting to and from work and trying to make it to their kids' sporting events or family activities.
The point is we all feel stress, and no matter what triggers it, it is a valid stressor if it causes you worry and discomfort.
Technically speaking, there is a difference between stress and anxiety, though we tend to use the terms interchangeably. Stress is an emotional response triggered by external stimuli, like work deadlines. Anxiety is chronic, persistent worries that aren't caused by a single stressful event. Mild anxiety may benefit from natural anxiety relief and stress-relief techniques. In contrast, more persistent anxiety should be discussed with your doctor.
Besides making you uncomfortable and "stressed-out," stress can have adverse physical impacts. Often, your heart rate will increase, your blood pressure will rise, and muscles will contract (tighten). You may experience headaches, digestive issues, chest pain, and sweating. Prolonged stress can contribute to high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Regardless of whether you're experiencing acute stress or chronic stress, natural remedies, and techniques may be able to help!
These alternative treatment options can help you relax, reframe stressful situations, and soothe your nervous system. However, suppose these anxiety relief and stress relief tactics aren't working. In that case, having a conversation with your doctor is a good idea.
Diet isn't just important for your physical health, but your mental health too. You may be more susceptible to stress if you regularly consume overly processed foods containing a lot of extra sugar. A diet lacking vital nutrients can also predispose you to heighten stress levels if you are deficient in vitamins and minerals that help your body to regulate mood and stress. A well-rounded diet of fresh, whole foods can strengthen your body to fight stress and its negative effects.
Similarly, exercise is great for more than just building muscle and cardio endurance. Moving your body can help to reduce perceived stress and increase endorphins, which are your feel-good neurotransmitters. Studies have found that daily exercise can lower stress, improve sleep, and boost mood.
Many supplements promise to reduce stress, but not all are effective. Screen supplements carefully. You may benefit from a multivitamin if you feel like your nutrient levels are lacking. Alternatively, a supplement that contains powerful stress-fighters called adaptogens may help your body to fight the negative effects of oxidative stress. You may consider a daily supplement, like Hormonal Balance & Mood Support, or an in-the-moment stress buster like Golden Milk.
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with natural, ethically-sourced herbs to support mood, reduce stress and promote restful sleep.
When you feel stressed, do you reach for another cup of coffee? Too much caffeine from energy drinks, coffee, tea, or chocolate may only heighten your anxiety and nervousness. Additionally, it may make you too alert, detracting from restful sleep and further promoting stress. Instead, stick to consuming caffeine in moderation and try natural remedies to boost energy and alleviate stress.
In truth, we all spend too much time on phones, computers, and tablets. High levels of stress have been linked to excessive use of smartphones. Furthermore, social media and too much screen time have also been associated with decreased mental health. Minimizing the time spent in front of a screen may help to lower stress and improve sleep.
Spending time in nature can be like natural anxiety medication. Studies have found that getting outside, whether through forest bathing or gardening, can help our brains and bodies relax. Additionally, sunshine is excellent for maintaining Vitamin D levels. Vitamin D deficiencies have been linked to stress and mood disorders.
By now, you likely know that self-care is important. Setting aside time to do things that improve your mood is a natural way to stop stress and unwind. You could cook, read, stretch, take a bath, cuddle with your pet, or do anything that helps you to feel rejuvenated, valued, and happy. Adequate self-care has been found to lower stress and help individuals feel that they have a better quality of life.
Procrastinating is often setting you up for stress. Using proper time management techniques, and boundaries, and knowing when to say "no" helps prevent anxiety and stressful situations. You may have chronic stress if you always feel like you're struggling to catch up. Instead, prioritize, delegate, and break tasks into chunks so that you can stay ahead of the game.
Sometimes our family can be the source of our stress, but more often than not, their support can help us cope in challenging times. Playing friendly games, having heartfelt conversations, or even just relaxing on the couch can boost mood and promote relaxation. Joining a community group or club can be an excellent way to get social support outside your home.
Aromatherapy may help to relieve stress, though the evidence is limited. However, some individuals naturally find certain scents calming, such as lavender. You can engage in aromatherapy by adding oils to your bath, diffusing them, or using scented lotions. A note to mamas: be careful when diffusing oils around your little ones as they're often more sensitive.
There are a myriad of stress-relief tools you can try that can help calm you down when life's little moments build up. From weighted blankets to gel eye masks, relaxation tools can be great when stress sneaks up on you!
Unfortunately, there's no way to get rid of stress permanently. But investing in your physical and mental health can help lower anxiety levels and boost your body's resilience to stress.
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with natural, ethically-sourced herbs to support mood, reduce stress and promote restful sleep.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly Moms. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
Did you know that fertility concerns aren’t a woman-only issue? It is estimated that of the couples who have trouble conceiving, nearly 50% of the time, it is due to a male fertility issue. Male-factor infertility is thankfully being more widely discussed, and couples are becoming aware of male-based issues that can affect their ability to conceive.
Different factors can lead to male infertility, one of them being low sperm count. How many sperm your partner has and their quality typically becomes a concern when couples try to conceive. If you want to have a baby and are having difficulty, low sperm count may be the reason. Only a doctor can diagnose low sperm count. Still, this article will review the signs, causes, and possible treatment options so you can have a better understanding of the condition.
Oligospermia is the medical term for having fewer sperm than is considered normal in the ejaculate. Most men have around 75 million sperm per millilitre of semen. A low sperm count diagnosis is applied to men with fewer than 15 million sperm per millilitre or 39 million sperm total per ejaculate. Low sperm count isn’t something most men notice. In fact, there are few to no signs of low sperm count. That is, until you begin trying to conceive. The predominant low sperm count symptom is infertility.
All other symptoms experienced in conjunction with poor sperm count are often related to a condition that includes oligospermia as a side effect. For example, suppose you’re experiencing poor libido or less body and facial hair. In that case, these may be symptoms of a hormonal deficiency, which can also lead to low sperm count. Other common symptoms felt alongside oligospermia include erectile dysfunction and pain or swelling in and around the testicles.
But have you ever thought about how long does sperm live and what are the causes of low sperm count?
If you feel like you’re noticing low sperm count signs, you probably wonder what it could be attributed to. The possible causes of low sperm count are typically divided into three categories.
Certain health conditions can cause low sperm numbers. Injuries and surgeries involving the testicles are known causes, as are genetic conditions like Noonan syndrome. If you have a history of testicular symptoms, such as swelling, your sperm count may be affected.
Other medical-based causes include:
Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation can affect sperm-producing cells and hormones responsible for sperm production.
Varicocele is a condition in which the drainage veins of the testicles swell.
STIs or other infections can damage or block veins and tubes of the reproductive system.
Some medications, such as those for cancer or antifungal drugs.
Reproductive system problems such as retrograde ejaculation or erectile dysfunction.
Various health and genetic conditions like cystic fibrosis, tumors, or Klinefelter syndrome.
The testicles hang outside the body to provide an adequate environment for sperm, which is slightly lower than the average body temperature. Too hot of temperatures can adversely impact sperm count. Environmental factors like frequently spending time in hot tubs, regularly working outside in the heat while wearing tight underwear or pants, or routinely sitting with your computer on your lap can harm sperm.
Aside from overheating, sperm face environmental hazards from pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, solvents, and other industrial chemicals. Other occupational hazards can include regular radiation exposure, such as from X-rays.
A variety of substances that can be ingested or inhaled can negatively impact sperm production. Heavy drug use, smoking, and moderate to heavy alcohol consumption have been shown to decrease sperm count. Also, anabolic steroid use from workout supplements or testosterone boosters can harm sperm.
Finally, mental health conditions that are severe and long-term may affect sperm count if they disrupt hormonal balance. Stress or depression, for example, may increase your risk of low sperm count.
Certain risk factors can increase your chances of experiencing a low sperm count. Being overweight, including obesity, can predispose you to a low sperm count. In addition, surgery or traumatic events involving the testicles may result in low sperm count.
Fertility support developed by experts. This supplement contains a blend of Ayurvedic herbs and vitamins, including Maca Root, Shatavari, and Ashwagandha.
The main side effect of low sperm count is decreased fertility. Low sperm count likely won’t prevent you from conceiving, but it can make it more challenging. It may also mean that it takes you longer to conceive a baby with your partner. However, suppose your sperm count is zero, a condition known as azoospermia. In that case, you will not be able to get your partner pregnant. A count of zero isn’t common. When does your body stop producing sperm? Never. Although production does start to decrease slightly after age thirty-five.
Other side effects of low sperm count are not related to the number of sperm but to the condition producing the low sperm count. For example, low libido results from stress and high cortisol levels.
How do you know if you have low sperm count? Only a doctor can tell you for sure. It can be helpful to see a medical professional if you have been trying to get your partner pregnant for a while with no success. Some recommend seeing a doctor after six months of unsuccessful trying, while others advise waiting a year. If you are having other hormonal or health-related symptoms, it is always advisable to see your doctor.
Your doctor will likely perform a physical exam and talk to you about your concerns. A semen analysis, in which your ejaculate is collected and then viewed under a microscope, can help your doctor determine sperm count, morphology (shape), and motility (movement). Blood tests, an ultrasound of the reproductive system, and a biopsy may also be required.
Depending on the cause of low sperm count, treatment can range from surgery to lifestyle changes as well male fertility supplements.
Surgery may be required for conditions like a varicocele or if there is a blockage. Medications are often helpful in treating infections impairing sperm production or addressing inadequate hormone levels. Lifestyle changes, such as counseling for premature ejaculation, weight loss with diet and exercise, and avoiding frequent trips to the hot tub, may help boost sperm count.
If you have a dietary deficiency, certain vitamins and supplements may be able to help. But it is recommended that you talk to your doctor first.
For some causes of low sperm count, there is no guaranteed way to prevent the condition. However, for men who are healthy and without a known condition or issue, certain supplements may help boost their sperm numbers.
Herbs such as Mucuna, Maca, Shatavari, and Ashwagandha have been found to support sperm count. Additionally, compounds like CoQ10 have shown promising research results for aiding sperm count and quality.
Even if your sperm levels are fine, a supplement like Freshly Moms Fertility Support for Him can benefit your sperm parameters. Supporting motility, morphology, and count. It’s also beneficial for hormone levels, stress, and overall health. Because sperm is half of the equation when it comes to conceiving a healthy baby, taking a preconception supplement can’t hurt!
Fertility support developed by experts. This supplement contains a blend of Ayurvedic herbs and vitamins, including Maca Root, Shatavari, and Ashwagandha.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly Moms. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
If you're trying to conceive, you likely know that your partner's sperm is half the equation. Sperm is needed for fertilization. However, determining exactly when sperm should be waiting to meet the egg can be tricky. Many couples trying to have a baby are familiar with all the math required to determine when ovulation might occur and when they should have intercourse. As a result, if ovulation was ill-timed, did their partner's sperm live long enough to fertilize the egg? It can be overwhelming!
If you've ever wondered how long sperm lives, we've got your back. Our helpful guide will cover the sperm life cycle and other factors impacting sperm health. Hopefully, making your journey to baby just a little less stressful.
How long does sperm live in the body? According to NCBI, sperm live for around three to five days. However, the environment plays a huge role in their survival. They need moisture and warmth to survive. Sperm can live up to five days in the genital tract, which includes the vagina, uterus, and fallopian tubes. A woman's reproductive tract is very acidic, which can harm sperm as most healthy sperm are alkaline.
Fortunately, a woman's cervical mucus changes around the time of ovulation to better protect sperm and help them reach the egg. Sperm-friendly cervical mucus is generally only present around the time of a woman's fertile window.
Hormones in your body help to change the mucus, making it thin, clear, and stretchy instead of opaque. Commonly, this cervical mucus is referred to as having an egg-white consistency. The consistency of the CM helps to protect sperm. Still, it does not prevent it from swimming into the cervix and the fallopian tubes. The cervix also features small channels known as crypts that can hold onto sperm and increase its chances of being released into the uterus and fallopian tubes instead of expelled from the body.
Initially, the semen or ejaculate will help the sperm once it is inside a woman's vagina. Semen is thicker, and its gel-like consistency is sperm's first layer of protection inside the acidic female reproductive tract. A buffer, if you will. Then, over thirty minutes, the semen will become more watery in a process called liquefaction. The sperm will be free to enter the cervix and swim up to meet the egg, should one be coming down the fallopian tube. During this period, sperm-friendly cervical mucus can increase their chances of survival.
But what if an egg is not there? How long can sperm survive in the female reproductive tract? Strong sperm aided by cervical mucus can live up to five days in the genital tract. There, they will wait to meet an egg and fertilize it. Intercourse must be timed right because once an egg is released, it only lasts about twelve to twenty-four hours. If the sperm reach the fallopian tubes too early and cannot survive long enough, they will die before the egg arrives. Sperm reaching the genital tract too late will miss the egg entirely.
Don’t be dismayed though, if semen (and sperm) leak or fall out after intercourse. This inevitably happens when a woman changes positions, like standing up or doing other physical activity. In most cases, some sperm remains in the vagina, and some often make it through the cervix and into the fallopian tubes. Meaning pregnancy is still possible. Nevertheless, we won’t fault you if you choose to lay on your back with your legs up the wall. It can’t hurt!
Outside the genital tract, sperm can only live for about fifteen to thirty minutes. This is because once the semen is dry, sperm can no longer survive. How long does sperm live inside warm water? It is a myth that sperm can survive longer in a bath or hot tub, as the water quickly disperses the semen surrounding the sperm, which acts as a protective layer.
Furthermore, chemicals like those found in soap will kill sperm. Sperm truly can't swim that far; they need to be helped along by the female genital tract. Making it unlikely (but not impossible) that sperm ejaculated into a bathtub or hot tub could result in pregnancy. Also, sperm are not immune to heat. Temperatures that exceed the temp of the human body kill sperm more quickly.
Speaking of semen, this liquid is essential to the sperm's survival and part of the sperm's lifecycle.
Millions of sperm are produced by a man's testicles each day. This process, known as spermatogenesis, takes around three days. Once sperm are mature, the testicle's storage, called cauda epididymis, holds them where they continue to develop for about five weeks. Here they can survive for a few weeks before being reabsorbed. In all, it takes around two-and-a-half months for sperm to fully mature.
During intercourse, 200-400 million combine with seminal fluid from the seminal vesicles and a liquid produced by the prostate. This mixture is called semen and is what is ejaculated into the woman's reproductive tract.
Because a man's body is constantly producing new sperm to replace the old (or ejaculated), a man will likely never run out of semen or sperm. Even after multiple ejaculations within a short period, sperm are still present in semen. However, sperm quantity and quality can decrease as a man ages or due to other factors.
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If you're having trouble conceiving, it's unlikely that your sperm are just not surviving long enough. Instead, you may want to consider other factors like low sperm count, poor sperm motility, and decreased sperm health.
Talking to your doctor about sperm parameters and possibly a semen analysis can help give you a better understanding of your sperm health and your fertility options. In addition, you can make small changes to improve the quality and quantity of your sperm. Such as:
Provide a conducive environment for sperm by keeping the testicles cool. Loose underwear and regular breaks from hot environments may help.
Reduce alcohol consumption, as regular drinking can worsen semen quality.
Quit smoking; smoking cigarettes is linked to lower semen volume and sperm count.
Lower stress. Stress is believed to be linked to lower semen parameters.
Eat a well-rounded diet. Eating a balanced diet can help provide your body with the necessary nutrients and maintain a healthy weight for optimal sperm health.
Consider a supplement. Sperm-specific supplements, like Freshly Moms Fertility for Him, are crafted with sperm-nourishing ingredients like CoQ10 that can aid in sperm motility, morphology, and count.
Fertility support developed by experts. This supplement contains a blend of Ayurvedic herbs and vitamins, including Maca Root, Shatavari, and Ashwagandha.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly Moms. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
You probably know all about vitamins. Such as Vitamin C for immunity and Vitamin D for strong bones. But what about vitamins' role in hormonal balance?
Hormonal balance and imbalance have become more common in conversation. Especially when women feel the side effects of a hormonal imbalance, such as mood swings, weight gain, and fatigue; while these things used to be thought of as a natural part of postpartum, breastfeeding, motherhood, and womanhood in general, many women are now putting a name to the uncomfortable symptoms they feel when their hormones are out of whack.
Along with identifying the possible cause of hormonal balance, many women are looking for ways to help their bodies return to harmony – naturally. This is where vitamins for hormonal imbalance come into the picture! Some vitamins and supplements can be excellent for regulating hormones and providing balance. In fact, this article rounds up the seven best vitamins and supplements to support your hormone health!
Vitamins and minerals are what are known as micronutrients. These micronutrients are needed for bodily processes and functions, like cell growth and development. Alternatively, hormones are your body's chemical messengers. They help trigger certain processes in the body.
Your body needs nutrients for energy conversion, metabolism, enzyme function, and much more. Keeping your nutrient levels satisfied promotes overall health, which can affect hormone production and regulation. It is a closely linked cycle.
For example, hormones like those produced by your kidneys require certain micronutrient levels for adequate hormone production and conversion. In the case of your kidneys, they modify and activate vitamin D to trigger calcium uptake from the foods you eat to support bone health. Kidneys also are responsible for prostaglandins which rely on lipids. These substances stimulate an enzyme known as renin which is necessary for blood pressure control. Your hormonal balance can be disrupted without adequate nutrients for conversion and activation.
Some vitamins can even act as hormones. One study found that vitamin A "exhibits properties of skin hormones," which can help fight the effects of aging and prevent acne.
As you can see, vitamins and hormones are closely linked, each one playing a vital role in the process of another.
Vitamins and herbs can be excellent natural tools to promote your body's hormonal balance. Because your hormones are affected by your lifestyle, environmental factors, and health conditions, adding supportive supplements to your diet can give you the extra boost you need to restore hormonal harmony.
Chasteberry, also known as Vitex, has been proven to increase luteinizing hormone (LH) levels and, subsequently, progesterone levels. LH is important because it triggers ovulation, increasing progesterone levels. Regular ovulation and monthly cycles are essential to hormonal health. Because chasteberry helps with period irregularities (including menopause), you may also notice a decrease in PMS symptoms, breast tenderness, sleep issues, hot flashes, and night sweats.
Vitamin D is often associated with healthy bones. Still, your thyroid also depends on vitamin D. The micronutrient is essential for producing thyroid hormones. It is also required for insulin regulation. You need vitamin D during pregnancy to support your growing baby and your needs. Too little vitamin D has been associated with gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia. Interestingly, low vitamin D levels are common in women of reproductive age. But this is one vitamin you don't want to have too little of!
Vitamin K2 is still being researched, but it is thought to be linked to vitamin D, helping to support bone and skin health and brain function. A recent link found that it also plays a role in estrogen metabolism and works as an activator for the hormone that supports testosterone levels (osteocalcin) in men. As an estrogen metabolizer, it can help ensure that the hormone is properly processed and removed from the system, lessening estrogen dominance. For women in menopause, vitamin K2 can help decrease night sweats and insomnia while fortifying bones.
Vitamin E has long been touted as an excellent vitamin for skin health. But did you know it can also help with hormone health? It may help ease mood swings, stress, and depression. Those going through menopause will appreciate its hot flash soothing capabilities. Vitamin E is excellent for balancing the endocrine system and regulating hormones.
Vitamin B6 is another substance that is necessary for hormonal balance. Low levels of this vitamin are associated with an imbalance of estrogen and progesterone, which can hamper fertility. Increasing your levels of Vitamin B6 often prevents estrogen dominance and increases progesterone, which is the optimal state for many women. It also aids your body in producing norepinephrine for stress management and serotonin, a mood regulator.
Different types of magnesium can aid your body in various ways, from reducing restless leg syndrome to improving heart health. Broadly speaking, it's an excellent fuel source for mitochondria, which produces steroid hormones. Supplementing with magnesium may result in regulating progesterone and normalizing how it interacts with your central nervous system, meaning fewer headaches, PMS, and perimenopause symptoms.
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, may be able to combat mood swings, stress, and irritability. Studies have shown that this vitamin helps your body make certain sex hormones, like estrogen, in other body parts, such as your adrenal glands, instead of your ovaries. This results in balancing hormones, meaning fewer hormonal imbalance side effects.
Of course, obtaining vitamins from your diet is best. But in some cases, it can be challenging to get all the vitamins you need depending on the diversity of your diet and how often you find time to eat a well-rounded meal. So if you feel that your diet is lacking, hormone balance supplements with vitamins or micronutrients may be able to help!
The best supplements for hormone balance contain various vitamins and minerals, often from plants. Freshly Moms Hormonal Balance and Mood Support is a well-rounded dietary addition backed by research and inspired by Ayurveda. When it comes to supplements to balance hormones, many women want something effortless to add to their routine, easily absorbed by the body, and beneficial to their health. Our supplement is all those things.
Traditional herbs rich in nutrients, like Moringa, and soothing ancient adaptogens, such as Ashwagandha, support the many aspects of hormonal imbalance. For example, you can expect improved mood, better sleep, increased energy and clarity, and healthier skin and hair! It's the simplest part of a self-care routine for women of any age.
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with natural, ethically-sourced herbs to support hormonal health and mood.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly Moms. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
Do you know that of the 72.2 million women in the United States aged 15-49, nearly 65% were using contraception? For many women, that contraception comes in the form of birth control, whether it be a patch, pill, injection, or insertable device. These forms of hormonal birth control are usually sought after for pregnancy prevention. However, they are occasionally used to help with conditions like PCOS.
Those 46 million women using contraception may not realize that when you stop birth control, your body can go through an uncomfortable adjustment period. This withdrawal period is sometimes referred to as post-birth control syndrome, especially when things like mood swings, acne, digestive upset, and intense menstrual symptoms are experienced. What is post-birth control syndrome, and how can you support your body during this time? We’ll cover it all in our guide!
Post-birth control syndrome, referred to as PBCS, is characterized by its symptoms. These symptoms occur when you stop hormonal birth control. Though women have likely been going through this collection of symptoms since birth control was invented, the term wasn’t introduced until 2008 when Dr. Aviva Romm used it in her book Botanical Medicine for Women’s Health.
In her book, she finally put a name to the experience lots of women have had for months after stopping birth control. However, scientific studies have yet to back up these claims and classify post-birth control syndrome as a real medical condition.
The hormones from contraceptives don’t take too long to leave your body. However, their effects can last longer, usually for months. Some women may notice that their natural cycle and physiology become disrupted, leading to the following symptoms:
Women who are very in tune with their bodies may also notice adrenal issues, immune imbalances, systemic inflammation, and gut health concerns.
The reason why some women expect post-birth control syndrome is thought to be linked to how birth control works. Hormonal birth control contains synthetic hormones, specifically progesterone and estrogen. Different forms of birth control use different synthetic hormones.
The combination pill uses estrogen and progesterone, while the mini-pill only contains progestin. They work in slightly different ways, but both prevent conception from occurring. Progestin helps to thicken cervical mucus, preventing sperm from entering the uterus and meeting the egg. In some cases, it may also entirely prevent ovulation, which is how the combination pill works. Both hormones can cause the lining of the uterus not to develop and instead thin, further preventing pregnancy from occurring.
Because you are adding hormones to your body, you are disrupting its natural levels and rhythm. While this does indeed prevent pregnancy, it also means that when you stop the hormones, your body will take some time to get back to “normal.” Your body will need to readjust to not having synthetic progestin and estrogen circulated, and it can take some time to regulate. During this time, you may experience the symptoms mentioned above.
Most forms of hormonal birth control, including oral contraceptives, leave your system around two to three days after you stop taking the medication. The injection can take longer, usually lasting around eight months to a year. However, just because the hormones have left your body does not mean everything will return to normal.
For many forms of contraception, it can take a woman around three to six months to resume normal ovulation and menstrual cycles. Because the injection provides months of protection with just one dose, meaning it is stronger, its effects on your cycles can last up to a year and a half.
How long it takes for birth control to clear out of your system can depend on a few different factors. Age is one of them. As you get older and your metabolism slows down, it may take your body longer to clear out any remaining hormones. Certain medications can also affect birth control, making them clear out faster or slower. Some women regain regular cycles and ovulation within four weeks, meaning you can get pregnant right away. For others, the process can be slow and uncomfortable, as in the case of post-birth control syndrome.
Thankfully, your symptoms likely can dissipate without treatment. Many women who have taken birth control can go on to have healthy pregnancies. That being said, there is no reason to suffer through symptoms.
If your symptoms seem particularly severe or are not going away on their own, you should speak to your doctor. Missing your period for longer than three months is another reason to reach out to a medical professional. If you’re experiencing unpleasant symptoms or want to support your body as it readjusts, you may want to try home remedies.
Keeping up with your nutrition is key, as many nutrients are necessary for reproductive function. Being overweight or underweight can disrupt menstrual cycles.
Your menstrual cycle and circadian rhythm share a link; getting adequate rest can help your body function properly.
Stress and anxiety can cause fluctuations in your hormone levels. Engaging in practices like mindfulness and meditation is a great way to combat mood swings.
Some research has pointed out that hormonal birth control in the form of oral contraceptives may deplete nutrients in your body. Low levels of certain nutrients can lead to a host of symptoms, like low energy, poor skin, and hair health, moodiness, and disrupted menstrual cycles. If you feel that you aren’t getting all the necessary nutrients from your diet, vitamins or a supplement may be able to help.
Supplements like Womb Rebalance can be particularly beneficial. Womb Rebalance contains helpful nutrients found in plant sources like Moringa and herbs that encourage hormonal balance, cycle regulation, and womb health. Our ayurvedic-inspired blend uses carefully selected herbs that are known to promote ovulation, optimize the health of the uterus, and support positive mood, energy, and libido. It has multiple benefits because post-birth control syndrome is a multifaceted issue.
When you stop taking birth control, it can be normal to experience uncomfortable symptoms. But if you want to restore balance to your body or prepare for pregnancy, a supplement like Freshly Moms Womb Rebalance can help your readjustment period go much more smoothly!
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with organic, ethically-sourced herbs to support female uterine health.
Shruti is the founder of Freshly Moms. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to treatments or supplements.
Until recently, fertility preservation wasn’t an option, much less something that was openly discussed. Today, news articles or stories about babies conceived from preserved eggs, sperm, or embryos happen somewhat frequently.
If you’re facing a complicated issue, such as cancer, your doctor may have suggested fertility preservation. Alternatively, you may have considered fertility preservation if you desire kids in the future but feel that right now isn’t the ideal time.
Regardless of your reasons, fertility preservation can be a significant decision. If you’ve ever wondered what fertility preservation is and if it is right for me, this article is for you!
According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, fertility preservation is the process of saving or protecting eggs, sperm, or reproductive tissue so that a person can use them to have biological children in the future. A person can seek fertility preservation for both personal and medical reasons. Acute conditions such as treatment for cancer that can damage reproductive tissues, environmental hazard exposure, or benign tumors may spur you to take action for your fertility. Alternatively, unforeseen health conditions such as early onset menopause, fibroids, or premature ovarian insufficiency, in which your ovaries stop producing eggs sooner than they should, can make you want to plan for your future fertility.
However, health risks that can cause infertility are not the only reasons someone may seek fertility preservation options. Personal reasons can have a major influence. Age affects fertility, though more so for women than men. Nevertheless, both may wish to postpone childbearing for many reasons, such as careers or relationships.
Modern advances in fertility preservation have increased opportunities greatly.
As we age, our fertility decreases. This is especially true for women who have a limited number of healthy eggs. If you want to postpone childbearing and birth, you may want to find a way to ensure that you can have a biological child when the time comes. Personal reasons for fertility preservation include waiting to meet the right companion or wanting to wait for children until they are satisfied with their careers. Unfortunately, our bodies aren’t always in tune with our personal desires. Meaning our fertility will still decline with each passing year.
When a female is born, she has about a million oocytes. This number will consistently decrease as she gets older. All the way to 400,000 by puberty. A sharp decrease happens during her late thirties, and by her forties and beyond, the chances of pregnancy significantly decrease. Not only because of the number of eggs but also the health and quality of eggs, which also declines as a woman ages.
While fertility preservation for postponement of childbearing tends to be a popular option for modern women or men, other unforeseen factors can lead to fertility preservation. The most common being cancer. While cancer can directly affect reproductive organs, like testicular cancer, damage can also be caused by cancer treatment. Chemotherapy and radiation can both harm fertility. Meaning that while the patient will likely survive their ordeal, it may leave them unable to have a child. For this reason, many individuals preparing to undergo cancer treatment may choose to preserve their eggs or semen prior to beginning a course of drugs or radiation therapy.
Other reasons for fertility preservation include:
Autoimmune diseases
Surgical removal of reproductive organs
Transgender individuals going through transition
Exposure to harmful chemicals in the environment or workplace
Non-cancerous tumors like uterine fibroids
Early menopause
Endometriosis
Genetic or hereditary issues
As you can see, there are a variety of reasons why a man or woman may wish to save their reproductive tissues for later use.
A fertility specialist commonly performs fertility preservation. Your healthcare provider can get you started on the process. They will recommend you to a fertility clinic. A fertility clinic specializes in human reproduction and often contains laboratories and equipment necessary to retrieve and maintain preserved specimens for extended periods, usually decades!
Generally, fertility preservation is divided into two categories. The first is freezing, also known as cryopreservation. Cryopreservation is useful for women and people born female (DFAB) and men and people born male (DMAB).
When a woman’s eggs are frozen, it is known as oocyte cryopreservation. The patient will usually be given medication consisting of injectable hormones to stimulate the ovaries, just like in a course of IVF. Then, the oocytes and any fluid surrounding them in the ovarian follicles will be vaginally aspirated, meaning they will be drawn out through a needle-like tube inserted through the vagina and cervix. They are then frozen so they can later be fertilized and grow into an embryo so they may be implanted into the uterus. Sperm cryopreservation is when male sperm is placed into vials and frozen for future use. Frequently, this type of preservation is sought by people who may not have a committed partner at the time or a partner who is unwilling or unable to produce children.
Embryo cryopreservation is when an embryo is preserved for later use. A woman must first undergo an IVF round, including ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval. Then, the egg is fertilized with sperm collected from a man, often her partner. When the fertilized egg matures into an embryo, it can be treated with cryoprotectant agents and then stored for later use.
There are other fertility preservation methods, though they tend to be used less frequently. A woman facing an immediate threat to her fertility can cryopreserve ovarian tissue. In this process, the ovarian cortical tissue that contains the eggs is removed and preserved. After treatment, it can be thawed and returned to her body, where ovarian function typically resumes within four months of the procedure. This method is still advancing. Currently, researchers are testing a new technique if there is a risk of transplanting tissue that could turn cancerous. A doctor will combine the extracted ovarian tissue with a biomaterial called fibrin to create an artificial ovary that can be transplanted at a future date. The fibrin breaks down, and the body grows new, non-cancerous ovarian tissue. Testicular tissue can be cryopreserved for men and people born male (DMAB). This tissue may contain sperm and can be useful if sperm are not yet found in the patient’s semen, such as in prepubescent males.
The second method of fertility preservation is radiation shielding and protection from radiation. Both men and people born male (DMAB) and women and people born female (DFAB) can use radiation shielding. In this process, a shield is placed over the ovaries or testicles to reduce the amount of radiation reaching the organs. If men want Natural Fertility Support for him A rich blend of herbs and vitamins helps to maintain a healthy libido, support hormone levels, and improve sperm parameters. For women and people born female (DFAB), ovarian transposition (oophoropexy) can be used. In this process, the ovaries are surgically moved up and out of the pelvis into the ovaries to reduce their radiation exposure.
If a child has not reached puberty, ovarian and testicular tissue freezing is recommended. Post-puberty children can choose sperm, egg, or embryo freezing if desired.
The primary benefit of fertility preservation is that you have a chance to have a biological child, regardless of factors like your age or health conditions.
However, there are risks associated with fertility preservation, such as:
Bleeding or infection as a result of tissue, egg, or sperm collection
IVF may boost the chances of premature delivery, low birth weight, miscarriage, or ectopic pregnancy.
Ovarian stimulation may result in elevated estrogen levels that can increase your risk of blood clots or estrogen-dependent cancers.
Ovarian transposition can cause the ovaries to rotate or form cysts.
Frozen eggs, sperm, embryos, and reproductive tissues are stored and monitored at special labs. Most can be safely stored for ten years or longer. When ready for use, they are carefully thawed before being checked for viability. You can choose to discard your samples, in which case the lab will thaw them, rendering them no longer viable, before properly discarding them.
Of course, fertility preservation success rates depend on various factors, such as health conditions, age, past fertility treatments, and past pregnancies. Cryopreservation of eggs, sperm, and embryos has a more extended history of positive outcomes than new technologies like ovarian tissue transplantation. However, ovarian tissue transplantation has currently resulted in over 130 live births.
If you’re considering fertility preservation, it’s best to talk to your provider as soon as possible, definitely before cancer or gender-affirming treatment. Additionally, women who are thirty-five or older with no plans to have children in the near future or those who have received a diagnosis that could harm their fertility should speak to their provider as soon as possible, or if women want natural Fertility Support For Her which will help with Healthy, regular periods, Chaste Tree Berry, Shatavari, and Gokshura improve hormone balance, regulate cycles, and aid to normalise ovulation.
Though things can impact your ability to have a biological child, modern technologies have made it possible to carry a healthy pregnancy yourself or via a surrogate in the future. Early fertility preservation is optimal, so be sure to discuss your options with your healthcare team as soon as possible.
No matter what stage of life you're in, stress can get the best of us. However, during pregnancy, we may be particularly susceptible to high cortisol levels, leading to decreased sleep, increased irritation, moodiness, and weight gain. Stress can also have a negative effect on different facets of a woman's health, such as menstruation and fertility.
Ashwagandha is a beneficial herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. It has been sought after for stress relief, its ability to increase vitality and strength, and as a mood stabilizer. In modern times, studies have found that, as an adaptogen, Ashwagandha possesses many of these benefits.
Ashwagandha is finding mainstream popularity as a stress-fighter, leading expecting moms to wonder if they can consume Ashwagandha while pregnant. We'll do our best in this article to answer all your questions about Ashwagandha during pregnancy.
Ashwagandha's scientific name is Withania somnifera. It's a herb found in Asia and Africa, where it may be referred to as "Indian Ginseng ."This is also where it has been relied upon for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for its health-boosting properties.
For thousands of years, Ashwagandha has been used to treat pain, inflammation, insomnia, and mood. Today we know that it is an adaptogen.
Adaptogens are substances that help your body better react (or adapt) to stress. They do this by helping your hypothalamic, pituitary, and adrenal glands regulate. These are the glands involved in your body's stress response. An adaptogen helps decrease the exhaustion or fatigue you feel after encountering a stressful situation by balancing out the hormones released during stress.
For this reason, stress relief is the most prominent benefit of Ashwagandha. But there are other benefits too. Here are a few of Ashwagandha's most valuable properties:
Ayurveda notes Ashwagandha's bitter, warm, and dry properties that can soothe a stressful body. Its adaptogenic qualities make it very calming without the sedation or grogginess of other stress-relief supplements.
Ashwagandha is helpful for both promoting rest and helping you to fall back asleep should you wake in the night (hello, pregnancy insomnia!).
Ashwagandha is translated traditionally as the "strength of a stallion." It has been used to provide energy, strength, and stamina (usually, thanks to its great sleep-promoting qualities), which can make it excellent for pregnancy fatigue.
One arthritis study found that Ashwagandha reduced inflammation and swelling.
Ayurvedic medicine has relied on Ashwagandha to promote youth, support longevity, and enhance vigor.
Ashwagandha may help to stabilize and reduce blood sugar levels, improving insulin sensitivity.
Ashwagandha has been used as a nutritional aid. It contains potassium, niacin, phosphorus, dietary fiber, iron, protein, calcium, and Vitamin C.
Many excellent properties can make Ashwagandha during early pregnancy beneficial. That being said, we always advise that you talk with your doctor before taking any supplement, especially if you are pregnant.
Ashwagandha's stress-relief qualities make it a go-to for those feeling overwhelmed or anxious; pregnancy can be pretty overwhelming. Too much stress equates to high levels of cortisol, your body's stress hormone. Increased cortisol levels can lead to headaches, fatigue, sleeplessness, weight gain, and digestive problems.
Ashwagandha is also effective at decreasing inflammation. Not only is this great for swollen and aching joints, but also for the prevention of diseases like cancer. Withanolides (compounds found in Ashwagandha) have been found to halt the inflammatory response and debilitate special enzymes involved in cancer progression.
Additionally, the above benefits, such as blood sugar stabilization and decreased insomnia, can be welcome benefits of Ashwagandha for expecting moms.
Ashwagandha should also be on your radar if you're hoping to become pregnant. Stress can be the enemy of conception, wreaking havoc on your reproductive system. The adaptogenic qualities of Ashwagandha can help your body better manage stress, possibly increasing fertility. Additionally, as an anti-inflammatory, it may make your womb more conducive to conception and pregnancy.
Ashwagandha is believed to help support egg development and ovulation by affecting Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Healthy eggs and regular ovulation are essential when TTC.
Finally, Ashwagandha has long been believed to be an aphrodisiac in Ayurvedic medicine. For thousands of years, it was sought after to support healthy libido, a benefit when trying to become pregnant.
For men, Ashwagandha can also boost libido. One study found that males who supplemented with Ashwagandha for three months not only had decreased stress but improved semen quality too.
Ashwagandha is considered safe to use before pregnancy. In fact, you'll often find it as part of fertility supplements, like our Fertility Capsules.
However, you may want to reach out to your doctor before beginning a new supplement. Those with thyroid issues should exercise caution as Ashwagandha is known to affect the thyroid gland.
During pregnancy, the safety of Ashwagandha hasn't been thoroughly studied. Much research that has been done has been carried out with animals. In these studies, scientists observed no toxicity effect on the mother or the developing fetus at levels of consumption of 2000mg/day or less.
High levels of Ashwagandha can negatively affect pregnancy, possibly causing miscarriage if taken in high doses. However, if your doctor gives you the go-ahead, many supplements and products that include Ashwagandha do not contain a high amount of the herb. They may be considered safe if taken correctly.
If you're hoping to conceive, Ashwagandha for fertility can be an excellent supplement. And, in the levels included in our fertility capsules, you should not have to worry about side effects should you become pregnant and continue to take the capsules while you wait to test.
In Freshly mom Fertility Support, you'll find Ashwagandha combined with other helpful herbs known to benefit both male and female fertility. The capsules are easy to swallow and can be effortlessly added to your routine. You can also combine them with liquid (we recommend a fat like milk and ghee) to make a tonic.
Generally, 250-500mg/day should effectively reduce stress and inflammation, promote sleep, and boost fertility. Though Ashwagandha for infertility may be a natural route for many, those with PCOS should discuss the supplement with their doctor first as it can affect hormone levels, namely testosterone.
Fertility support developed by experts. This supplement contains a blend of Ayurvedic herbs and vitamins, including CoQ10, Shatavari, and Ashwagandha.
Whether you are trying to conceive or are already expecting, Ashwagandha has numerous potential health benefits.
Rich in iron. Ashwagandha contains some excellent nutrients, like iron. Iron is vital for pregnancy and postpartum. Ashwagandha also may help with iron deficiency.
Reduce swelling. Ashwagandha is believed to decrease inflammation, which can help treat swelling, aches, and pains commonly felt during pregnancy when joints soften and relax.
Endocrine regulation. Ashwagandha is believed to assist with thyroid regulation and adrenal gland balance. This can be helpful during conception, pregnancy, and postpartum when these levels fluctuate.
Relieves stress, anxiety, and brain fog. Ashwagandha is a potent stress fighter. Stress and anxiety can affect fertility, making calmness essential. Additionally, pregnancy brain can be real and really frustrating. Ashwagandha may help increase cognitive clarity and reduce brain fog.
H3- Decrease insomnia. If you suffer from pregnancy insomnia or simply an overactive mind (welcome to motherhood!) Ashwagandha can be excellent for promoting restful sleep, reducing insomnia, and helping you fall asleep when you wake in the night.
Side effects from Ashwagandha aren't widespread, especially when taken in proper doses. Side effects can include:
GI distress such as nausea and upset stomach
Diarrhea
Drowsiness
In most cases, when you cease taking Ashwagandha, the side effects will resolve quickly.
Ashwagandha during pregnancy can be a valuable part of an expecting mother's daily routine, as long as you consult with your doctor first. Additionally, Ashwagandha for female fertility is a powerful herb that has been used for centuries as Ashwagandha's benefits for female fertility and male fertility are abundant. If you're seeking less stress, better mood, improved sleep, and fewer aches and pains, Ashwagandha may be just the powerful plant-based supplement you're looking for!
Many times hormonal imbalances are brushed off as mood swings or PMS. But you may have seen ads on social media or television listing various symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance and urging you to check your hormones. Is hormonal imbalance something natural that happens every month and is nothing to worry about? Or should you be concerned about your fluctuating hormone levels?
Sometimes, hormonal imbalance can be more concerning than just a bad mood. It has the ability to affect your cognitive function and physical health too. Taking care of your hormones can help you have the energy, mood, and mental clarity needed to go about your day, whether it's chasing kids or deadlines at work!
Hormones are responsible for many bodily functions. They assist with the metabolism of food, growth, sexual function, reproductive health, sleep cycles, cognitive function, and mood. Hormones also help to regulate your temperature and let you know when you're thirsty. They're your body's way of communicating, chemical messengers, if you will.
Your endocrine glands secrete these hormones into your bloodstream so that they can react with receptors. Major endocrine glands found in your body include the thymus, thyroid, pineal gland, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands. Researchers have identified around fifty hormones that make up your endocrine system, a carefully regulated symptom essential for health and wellness.
Your body only needs a tiny amount of hormones to make significant changes. Slightly too much or too little secretion can have big effects. This is known as a hormone imbalance when your hormone levels fluctuate or are at incorrect levels. Hormonal imbalance can describe a variety of hormone-based issues as it is relatively broad. Each type of hormone imbalance can create slightly different symptoms and outcomes.
Hormone imbalances can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Some of them may need to be treated by a medical professional. In contrast, others can be cared for with natural remedies.
Typical forms of hormone imbalances include:
Irregular menstrual cycles can look like too few periods or too frequent periods. Your period may also vary in length and flow. There are around eight hormones involved in the menstrual cycle, and any one of them can be imbalanced. In addition, certain health conditions like PCOS are hormone related and known to cause irregular periods.
Like the menstrual cycle, several hormones are associated with ovulation, conception, and pregnancy. Hormonal imbalances are the leading cause of infertility among women. However, men can also experience hormonal imbalances, like low testosterone, that affect fertility. Many hormone-related conditions, such as amenorrhea and PCOS, can play a role in hormone health and a woman's ability to get pregnant.
Hormones play a role in food metabolism and hunger. They can signal to your body when you need food and affect what your body does with that food. A hormonal imbalance can cause your body to store fat, leading to weight gain. In some cases, this can lead to obesity. Specific medical conditions, like hypothyroidism, can contribute to hormone imbalances that cause weight gain.
Adult acne that happens outside of puberty is commonly known as hormonal acne. Clogged pores often aren't only caused by hormones, but hormonal fluctuations can undoubtedly play a role. They can cause your skin to produce excess oil, leading to more breakouts. Pregnant, newly postpartum women or those going through menopause commonly experience hormonal acne.
Many individuals with thyroid disease either experience hyperthyroidism (too much thyroid hormone) or hypothyroidism (too little thyroid hormone). Each condition has different causes and both present with various symptoms. Most thyroid diseases require medical treatment.
Other hormonal imbalances can affect health. Poor sleep can be both caused and furthered by a hormonal imbalance. Mood disorders are another possible indicator of a hormonal imbalance.
Depending on what hormones are irregular or fluctuating, you can experience a host of symptoms. Keep in mind, though, your symptoms may not always be related to your hormones. Some may be the result of another underlying medical condition.
Symptoms of a metabolism imbalance:
Unexplained weight loss or gain
Fatigue
Constipation or diarrhea
High cholesterol
Depression
Temperature sensitivity
Irregular body fat distribution
Frequent, extreme thirst
Symptoms of a reproductive hormone imbalance:
Heavy periods
Irregular menstrual cycles
Acne
Hair loss
Hot flashes
Infertility
Low libido
Vaginal dryness
Remember, with over fifty hormones in the body, other imbalances can trigger different symptoms. These are only two of the most common types of imbalances and their symptoms.
Hormone imbalances can be triggered by significant life events, like pregnancy, or smaller, ongoing issues, such as lack of sleep. Your hormone levels naturally fluctuate throughout your life but also throughout each day.
For women, life events that can trigger hormonal imbalance include:
Pregnancy
Menopause
Puberty
If your hormones seem imbalanced outside of significant events like these, there are various things that could be triggering it. Such as:
Poor sleep
Stress
Certain medications
Steroids
Injury or damage to an endocrine gland
Autoimmune disease
Growth or tumor affecting a gland
Because the cause of hormonal imbalance can be so varied, it is important to check with your doctor. They may be able to determine which hormones are imbalanced and help identify a possible cause. After you know the reason for your hormone fluctuations, you can begin working towards restoring balance to your body.
For many types of hormone imbalances, there are tools you can try outside of traditional medications. Things like diet, supplements, and lifestyle can all have a positive effect on hormones and hormonal regulation.
Herbs can have a surprisingly powerful effect on your hormones. Many of these herbs have been used for centuries in Ayurveda to reduce hormonal imbalance symptoms while working to restore harmony to the body.
Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is a highly researched adaptogen. It is sometimes called Indian Ginseng or Withania somnifera. As an adaptogen, it excels in helping your body manage stress. The stress hormone cortisol is released by your body's hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This center helps trigger your body's stress response, like flight or fight. Ashwagandha helps to regulate the HPA axis for decreased stress, better sleep, and lower cortisol levels.
Shatavari: Shatavari has long been used in Ayurveda, where it is known as "100 spouses" to treat infertility. Today we know that this potent herb assists with producing the hormones progesterone, estrogen, follicular-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). It is helpful in balancing hormones in women with PCOS or who are struggling with fertility. Shatavari is also an excellent uterine tonic that helps to promote healthy, regular menstrual cycles.
Holy Basil: Holy Basil is native to India and has been used in Ayurveda for centuries. It has a profound effect on the body's cortisol levels, helping to regulate them. In turn, it offers lower stress, improved mental clarity, and better focus, essentially soothing the nervous system. It is also helpful in regulating other hormones that play a role in sleep, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels.
Rhodiola: Rhodiola is an herb that contains a phytochemical called Salidroside. Salidroside helps to manage your body's cortisol levels. Not only does this reduce anxiety, but it can also fight the effects of aging. Rhodiola is great for fighting burnout caused by work, family, or other activities.
Motherwort: Motherwort produces estrogen-like actions in your body. It contains a substance called leonurine that offers benefits for women. Leonine produces mild uterine contractions, which can help ease postpartum after-birth pains. As an emmenagogue, it also stimulates blood flow to the uterus, promoting regular menstrual cycles if your period is delayed. Finally, Motherwort is known to soothe the nerves, lowering stress and anxiety while having a calming effect.
Eleuthero: Also known as Siberian Ginseng, Eleuthero is an adaptogen. As such, it helps the body fight the effects of stress. It can help improve mental clarity, promote calmness, increase energy, and boost stamina. Certain substances within it bind to estrogen receptor sites. In women going through menopause, estrogen can cause uncomfortable symptoms. When eleuthero binds to the receptor sites, it may help reduce withdrawal effects.
These herbs can work together to regulate many different hormones that can affect women of post-childbearing age. Freshly mom Hormonal Balance and Mood Support contains all of the herbs mentioned above and a few other plant-based hormone rockstars that promote wellness from the outside in.
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with organic, ethically-sourced herbs to support hormonal balance and mental well-being.
Certain foods, as well as a well-rounded approach to your diet, can have positive effects on your hormones. Protein is one way in which you can help your body regulate its hormones.
You should try to get protein, in some form, at every meal. Your body cannot produce certain amino acids, and protein can help you meet these needs. These amino acids are essential because your body needs them to produce peptide hormones derived from protein. These protein-derived hormones are essential for stress regulation, appetite, and energy.
Cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli and brussels sprouts, are also fantastic for hormone regulation. They contain a phytochemical called Indole-3-Carbinol. This phytochemical helps your liver flush out "spent" or old hormones. Other nutrients from foods that are helpful in hormone balance include:
Lignans, a phytoestrogen that helps to promote the production of estrogen while clearing out spent hormones. Often found in flaxseeds.
Fiber, such as from quinoa or brown rice that, also includes B vitamins for flushing out old hormones.
Natural sugar from whole fruits (in moderation) can assist in regulating blood sugar levels.
Magnesium is essential in allowing your body to better assess blood sugar levels and use insulin. Found in avocados, dark leafy greens, legumes, and nuts.
As you can see, eating a well-rounded diet that includes protein, slow-release carbohydrates, and fresh produce is ideal for helping your body produce and eliminate hormones.
In some cases, natural remedies aren't enough to support hormone regulation. For example, in the case of a thyroidectomy, the thyroid gland is removed from the body. Without this gland, the body can no longer produce enough thyroid hormones for metabolism and other vital functions.
In situations like these, your doctor may advise man-made hormones. A regime of synthetic hormones is known as BHRT (Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy). Suppose your body is unable to produce enough hormone or can't make the hormone at all. In that case, your doctor will likely want to start with Bioidentical because they are the closest to the hormones your body naturally produces. They can come in the form of pills, injections, creams, and gels.
Other synthetic hormones are available but aren't as readily absorbed. You can also find natural hormones sourced from ingredients such as yams. However, these, too, must go through rigorous FDA approval and are often processed in some way.
Hormone therapy can help relieve symptoms of your hormonal imbalance. However, there is often an adjustment period as your body gets used to the hormones. Additionally, depending on why you are taking hormones, it could mean taking medication every day for the foreseeable future. Unless prescribed by your doctor, Bioidentical hormones are not an option for most people.
Suppose you are dealing with hormonal imbalance that is not a symptom of a medical condition requiring treatment. In that case, you may be interested in female hormone balance supplements. Herbal hormonal support can be a surprisingly effective way to promote hormone regulation which may help with hormonal acne, weight gain, sleep, stamina, energy, and mental clarity. It can also be a wonderful mood enhancer.
Freshly mom Hormonal Balance and Mood Support is a well-rounded hormonal support supplement. Unlike other female hormone balance supplements, it isn't focused solely on fertility or other singular aspects of a woman's well-being. Our women's hormone balance support is ideal for women who want to regulate their menstrual cycle, improve their mood, and reduce burnout. A carefully crafted blend helps to soothe, balance, and support every aspect of you!
Miscarriages can be traumatic, both physically and mentally. In times like these, when we feel that we're not in control, some of us find a sense of security in information and facts. If you're experiencing a miscarriage or worried that you may in the future, this helpful guide can hopefully present the symptoms, possible causes, and next steps to you in a reassuring and informative matter.
Of course, if you are concerned about your health in relation to a miscarriage, your first step should always be talking with your doctor. A medical professional can assess your situation and discuss a plan of care with you.
Miscarriage is the term used for the loss of a pregnancy before twenty weeks gestation. It is used to describe a spontaneous abortion. Miscarriage does not happen because of something you did or didn't do. It is not something you caused.
Most miscarriages happen within the first three months of pregnancy, a period known as the first trimester. There isn't always an identifiable cause behind a miscarriage. However, understanding the signs, symptoms, and risks may be able to help you better understand what's happening and find the necessary support.
Because a miscarriage is a pregnancy loss at any point before week twenty, the signs can vary depending on how far along in your pregnancy you are. Signs of a miscarriage may mimic your period if the loss is very early. Regardless, if you are pregnant and experience any of the following miscarriage symptoms, you should reach out to your doctor as soon as possible.
Vaginal bleeding
Frequent or heavy spotting
Cramping
Severe abdominal pain
Loss of fluid or tissue from the vagina
Mild to severe back pain
When you are pregnant, any of these symptoms can cause alarm. If you experience any of these, contact your doctor right away. Though you may still have these symptoms and not be experiencing a miscarriage, your doctor will need to evaluate you and your baby.
Miscarriage can have different causes; in some cases, the cause is unknown. For example, research estimates that most miscarriages, around sixty percent, occur randomly as part of a genetic problem. And while studies report that an estimated ten to twenty percent of pregnant women will experience a miscarriage, the risk of miscarriage drops to about four percent after a fetal heartbeat is detected.
These days, we're talking about miscarriage more, which can make it seem quite common. However, the threat of miscarriage needn't cause anxiety in most women. If you are concerned about conditions that could put you at higher risk or about the possibility of miscarriage, reach out to your OB. Understanding the possible causes can help you decide if you want to be in closer contact with your doctor due to the risk of miscarriage.
Causes of first-trimester miscarriage are often the result of a genetic issue. The embryo commonly receives an incorrect number of chromosomes during fertilization. Genetic issues may also cause the fetus to develop improperly. These factors can include the following:
Blighted ovum when no embryo forms.
Intrauterine fetal demise occurs when the embryo stops growing before you experience signs of a miscarriage.
Molar pregnancy is when the egg contains no chromosomes, and all the genetic material is only from the father.
A partial molar pregnancy occurs when two sperm fertilize an egg providing two sets of chromosomes in addition to the mother's chromosomes.
Issues with cell division and a damaged egg or sperm can also cause abnormalities during development that lead to miscarriage.
Certain health conditions or lifestyle factors may contribute to miscarriage. However, in most cases, the mother is unaware of the underlying condition or the risk to her pregnancy. Things that you do, such as exercise or sexual intercourse, are often not a cause of miscarriage. Instead, factors can include:
Drug and alcohol abuse
Malnutrition
Infections
Trauma
Advanced maternal age
Underlying thyroid conditions
Hormone issues
Unmanaged diabetes
Obesity
Cervix issues
Food poisoning
Abnormally shaped uterus
Certain medications
Extremely high blood pressure
Checking with your doctor before conception can help prevent these issues from going undiagnosed and unmanaged. When you become pregnant, bring any new symptoms to your doctor's attention and check with them before taking any new medications.
You likely won't accidentally cause a miscarriage, as most are spontaneous and a result of unpreventable genetic or developmental abnormalities. However, certain risk factors can increase the chance that you will experience a miscarriage. Such as:
Exposure to radiation or harmful chemicals
Trauma to your body
Excessive caffeine
Drug use
Alcohol abuse
History of miscarriages
Excessive smoking
Uncontrolled health conditions such as hyperthyroidism or diabetes
Being overweight or underweight
Reproductive issues with the cervix or uterus
As you age, your risk of miscarriage can also increase. Women who are thirty-five or older face a higher chance of miscarriage, which increases as they age. Having one miscarriage does not change your risk of having a future miscarriage. However, after two consecutive miscarriages, your risk increases to around twenty-eight percent. It is important to note, though, that only around one percent of women will have three or more miscarriages, with an estimated eighty-seven percent of women going on to have a full-term pregnancy after one miscarriage.
Most miscarriages occur during the first trimester, which is weeks one to thirteen of pregnancy. Around eighty percent happen during this period. You are most at risk for a miscarriage during the earliest weeks of pregnancy. In some cases, it can happen so early that you may not even realize you are pregnant. Beginning at the sixth week of pregnancy, your risk of miscarriage drops.
During weeks 1-6, the risk of miscarriage is around ten to twenty percent. Though women 35-39 have a 75% higher risk of miscarriage compared to those under 35.
At week six, after a fetal heartbeat is confirmed, the risk lowers to ten percent. It remains around ten percent until week twelve, but some studies suggest that as gestational age increases, the risk continues to decline slightly.
At week thirteen, the risk becomes five percent. Generally, the risk is thought to stay at around five percent for the remainder of the pregnancy due to possible pregnancy complications.
Another drop is seen beginning at the thirteenth week of pregnancy and continuing to lower until the twentieth week. After week twenty, your risk of miscarriage is not completely gone, as complications can still occur. Pregnancy lost past the twentieth week is known as a stillbirth.
As mentioned, miscarriages can occur so early on in pregnancy that you may not even realize you are miscarrying. Additionally, because symptoms like cramping or spotting can be similar to both, it can be tricky to differentiate a miscarriage from a period during the earliest weeks.
If you are trying to determine if you are having a regular period or a miscarriage, consider these factors:
A period may be possible if you haven't yet confirmed pregnancy. Once pregnancy is confirmed, bleeding is unlikely to be a period. Furthermore, bleeding is not likely to be a period after eight weeks of pregnancy.
Miscarriage can be more painful than a period, often producing severe abdominal and back pain. Fluid or tissue passing can be more common with a miscarriage than a period.
If the symptoms don't follow the normal pattern of your menstruation and seem like they are lasting longer or getting worse, it could be a miscarriage.
If you are pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant and are experiencing pain or heavy bleeding, contact your doctor.
A woman can experience various types of miscarriage. In order to determine which type, you will need to be diagnosed by a doctor. The type of miscarriage can also guide which kind of treatment you will require.
Missed miscarriage: the embryo does not survive, but the body does not expel it
Incomplete miscarriage: some of the tissue from the embryo or placenta is passed while some remains inside your body.
Complete miscarriage: the embryo and pregnancy tissues are expelled completely from the body.
Threatened miscarriage: symptoms like bleeding and cramping make a future miscarriage likely.
Inevitable miscarriage: bleeding and cramps, along with dilation of the miscarriage, indicate that a miscarriage will occur.
Septic miscarriage: a uterine infection tied to a miscarriage.
It is important to see your doctor for all types of miscarriages, even if you believe you have had a complete miscarriage and passed all pregnancy tissue.
Unless the miscarriage is linked to something like unmanaged diabetes, which can be controlled with treatment and lifestyle changes, miscarriage can rarely be prevented. However, there are things you can do to stay healthy during pregnancy and promote the health of your developing baby. Such as:
Seeing your doctor for regular prenatal check-ups and care
Stopping smoking and avoiding alcohol and drugs
Maintain a healthy weight
Keep away from illness and infections
Eat a well-rounded, healthy diet
Take prenatal vitamins and supplements
Limit caffeine intake
Just because you forgot to take your prenatal one day or had an extra cup of coffee does not mean you will have a miscarriage. Having a miscarriage doesn't necessarily mean you won't go on to have a healthy pregnancy in the future.
What happens if you do have a miscarriage? You will need to be evaluated by your doctor as the treatment depends on the type of miscarriage you experience. A complete miscarriage in which your body expels all pregnancy tissue often doesn't require any sort of treatment. You will still likely need to be monitored by your doctor to ensure all the tissue passes.
If your body does retain tissue, treatment will generally be required. There are different options in this case:
Expectant management: A watch-and-wait treatment where your doctor monitors you, watching for the rest of the tissue to be passed from your body.
Medical management: You can take medication that will help your body expel any remaining tissue. Usually, this is misoprostol (Cytotec) which can trigger cramps to help the uterus pass the tissue.
Surgical management: Remaining tissue is surgically removed. This is often known as a Dilation and curettage, or D&C, in which the cervix is dilated so that the contents of the uterus and the uterine lining may be surgically removed.
There are very minor risks to the type of treatment your doctor proposes. It's important to note that even after your body no longer contains pregnancy tissues, there can be lasting wounds in the form of mental and emotional trauma. Just because your miscarriage is complete does not mean that you have to feel healed or that others should view you as healed.
A miscarriage is a traumatic event that can take longer to heal from emotionally than physically. Pregnancy loss can be devastating, no matter the type of miscarriage or when in your pregnancy it occurred. Ways that you can take care of your emotional and mental health include:
Allowing yourself to grieve. Giving yourself space to grieve and honor your baby's life is an important step. Miscarriage is a true loss that deserves to be acknowledged however you choose to do so.
Talk or journal. Sharing your experience can help. You can talk with others who will listen and support you. Connecting with others who experienced a miscarriage can also be beneficial. If you don't feel like sharing with others, journaling is a private way to work through feelings and thoughts.
Let go of your guilt. Miscarriage can make some feel guilty as if they were responsible for the pregnancy loss. Miscarriage often can't be prevented, and you likely had little to no control over the loss. Remind yourself that you are not the cause and that you were a wonderful home to your little one, no matter how short a time.
Slowly return to things. When you are ready physically, emotionally, and mentally, slowly ease back into things. Start with things that you enjoy, such as self-care, spending time outside, or hanging with your friends. Surround yourself with happiness and positivity, not feeling obligated to engage with things or those who don't serve you.
The emotional and physical process of recovering from a miscarriage can be challenging; take it slow and give yourself grace.
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with organic, ethically-sourced herbs to support female uterine health, and bring back the womb balance.
Many couples want to know when they can begin trying to conceive again after a miscarriage. Regardless of the type of miscarriage, intercourse usually isn't advised for at least two weeks to prevent the risk of infection. In most cases, it is around this time that you can ovulate and become pregnant.
Though remember, even if your body is physically ready, you may not be emotionally ready. Be sure to communicate your feelings with your partner. After one miscarriage, you can usually start trying as soon as your doctor clears you. Two or more miscarriages may necessitate medical testing before you try again. This can help rule out any underlying conditions and better allow your doctor to care for you in subsequent pregnancies.
Just as there is nothing that can usually be done to prevent a miscarriage, there is no guaranteed way to ensure a future healthy pregnancy. It's often recommended to create a healthy space for your baby by eating a healthy diet, taking your prenatal vitamins, and getting light to moderate physical activity.
Some women may wish to optimize their wombs using natural supplements. The herbs in Freshly mom Womb Rebalance were selected because they support women after miscarriage. Shatavari encourages hormonal balance and a return to regular menstrual cycles. Moringa is packed with nutrients to fortify the uterus, while Chaste Tree Berry supports egg health. Nettles may help increase the number of oocytes, oocyte quality, and fertilization rate. Red Clover can fight inflammation and encourage healing. These Ayurveda-inspired superfoods are ideal for those who are post-miscarriage and looking to promote uterine health.
When you do become pregnant, you will likely experience a range of emotions. You undoubtedly be excited but probably a little anxious too. Some women feel that becoming pregnant again is a healing and validating experience. Others struggle with anxiety and depression that may last past the healthy birth of a baby. Even when you become pregnant, it's important to talk about your feelings and concerns with your support system, including your partner, friends, family, and doctor.
If you have experienced a miscarriage, we're sorry for your loss. Your baby and your pregnancy are important, no matter how long you got to spend with them. You can be hopeful and sad simultaneously, and you can take as long as you need to decide to try again. Know that you are not alone in experiencing miscarriage, even though knowing the statistics doesn't always help. We hope that you find the support and care you need, and we are always there to help 💛.
From the time you begin thinking about conception, you'll become acutely aware of what you put into your body. You want to provide the best space possible for conception and for your baby to grow. Post-birth, you'll likely want to ensure that your little one is getting adequate nutrition through breastmilk and that your body is healing so you can be the best mother to your little one.
Throughout this entire period, you will probably hear a great deal about vitamins and supplements. Especially prenatals and postnatals. When it comes to postnatal vitamins vs. prenatal, what's the difference? As you may have guessed, prenatal vitamins are for the time before birth, including pregnancy and conception. Postnatal vitamins are for post-birth, known as the postpartum period.
In truth, however, their goal is the same. To provide optimum nutrition to mothers in the form of macro and micronutrients. Many may also contain herbs to promote mental wellness, breastfeeding, and other motherhood concerns. Increased nutrition is essential in both stages. During conception and pregnancy, your body puts a lot of energy into growing a baby, necessitating high levels of vitamins and minerals. After birth, your body is healing and draws on your nutrient stores to both keep you healthy and feed your little one.
You'll need the best postpartum and prenatal vitamins to support your (and your baby's) nutritional demands.
All vitamins are not created equal. However, we would also recommend that the best vitamins are ones that you'll actually take. Suppose your vitamins are difficult to swallow, have a bad taste, or just don't suit your tastes. In that case, you probably won't take them regularly. This is why you should find a vitamin that suits your needs and preferences so that you will consistently take them to keep up your nutrition.
That being said, there are a few things you should be mindful of when choosing vitamins.
Look for quality ingredients. You won't want to ingest anything with questionable ingredients. The FDA does not approve Vitamins and supplements, though they do regulate them. Nevertheless, you'll want to check where the ingredients are sourced from and how they're prepared. Sometimes, third-party companies will certify products, but usually, it's on the consumer to do their research.
Additionally, check out where the vitamins are made. Are they produced in a certified factory in the United States? For example, Freshly mom Lactation and Postpartum Support capsules are made in the US and tested for heavy metals in an FDA-regulated facility. Ensuring that the producer uses safe sourcing, processing, and production techniques is essential for anything you plan to put into your body!
Now that you know how to choose your pre or postnatal vitamins, let's talk a little bit more about each, including when to use them.
Remember, the difference between prenatal and postnatal vitamins is timing, and prenatal vitamins are meant to be used prior to birth. Does this mean they can only be used during pregnancy? No!
While you may receive better outcomes from a vitamin tailored to conception needs, like Fertility Supplements for her, prenatals can be used when you're trying to conceive (though you shouldn't use both fertility supplements and prenatal together). When you become pregnant, prenatal can help support your developing baby and boost your nutrient stores for birth and postpartum.
There are many benefits of prenatal vitamins. Including:
Support for your growing baby. Prenatal vitamins often contain essential ingredients, like folic acid, that help prevent specific issues with a developing fetus. In most cases, women aren't assured of getting all the micro and macro nutrients they need from their diet, which makes supplementation necessary.
Support for you. Adequate levels of vitamins and minerals can have lots of health benefits. Getting enough iron can help prevent anemia, which could negatively affect oxygen delivery to your baby. Vitamin C can help your body fight off germs at a time when your immune system is suppressed. Vitamin D can be tricky to get in northern climates during the colder month but is vital for bone health, especially in preparation for breastfeeding, which can deplete bones.
Support for the future. It's a great idea to build your nutrient stores during pregnancy in order to start postpartum off on the right foot. Birth takes a lot out of our bodies and requires time to heal; to do this, your body will need proper nutrition. Additionally, breastfeeding requires a lot from us, too, necessitating adequate nutrient levels. Why not prepare for the postpartum period during pregnancy?
By now, hopefully, you see just how great prenatal vitamins can be. However, as with all supplements, they can have a few side effects.
Nausea is the most common since the influx of vitamins and minerals can overwhelm an already touchy stomach during pregnancy. Other side effects include constipation from iron, bloating from omega-3 fatty acids, and DHA or fish oil gassiness. As with all foods or supplements, there is always the risk of an allergic reaction.
You should talk with your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms, hives, easy bruising, or dry and itchy skin since starting prenatal vitamins.
We recommend choosing a prenatal vitamin that uses quality ingredients and is produced by a reputable manufacturer. There are various types of prenatal vitamins, from pills to gummies. Find one that suits your tastes and preferences so you're sure to take it.
If you're trying to become pregnant, a fertility supplement can be an excellent way to stay on top of your nutrition while supporting your reproductive system. They can be taken in place of prenatal for three months before conception, then stopped once you conceive and replaced with a prenatal.
Ayurvedic Fertility support developed by experts. This supplement contains a blend of Ayurvedic herbs and vitamins, including CoQ10, Shatavari, and Folate.
The habit of taking your vitamins doesn't end when you give birth. Maintaining proper nutrition is essential to preventing postpartum depletion. Vitamins and nutrients can also help you heal quickly, promote mental wellbeing, and support breastfeeding goals.
It's important to note that there are lactation products, and then there are postnatal vitamins not only for breastfeeding. The best ones are often those that support both the mother's health and lactation. Also, some women carry on with their prenatals, but why take prenatals after birth when you can take supplements tailored to postpartum?
Here are some of the advantages of postnatal-specific vitamins:
Support for your baby. If you're nursing, your little one is relying on you for their nutrient intake. This means keeping your nutrition levels up to produce rich and nourishing breastmilk is essential. Supplements with vitamins and minerals can support this. In addition, they may contain herbs that promote breast milk production to increase your milk supply levels.
Support for your physical health. From blood loss to sleeplessness nights, birth and postpartum take a lot out of you – literally. You're giving so much to your baby, but your body still needs to heal. You also need energy and strength to take care of your little one. Vitamins and minerals can nourish your body to promote healing, balance your hormones, and promote vitality. They can also help fend off maternal depletion.
Support for your mental health. Maternal depletion is believed to be linked to an increased risk of postpartum depression. Adding a vitamin to your diet doesn't guarantee your mental health. Still, positive side effects such as balancing hormones and maintaining nutrient levels may promote cognitive well-being.
The side effects of postnatal vitamins are similar to prenatal vitamins.
The most common are stomach issues, including nausea, cramping, or stomach upset. Constipation can also occur due to increased iron levels. Taking our vitamins with meals and drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help combat these side effects.
Call your doctor if you experience side effects consistent with an allergic reaction, such as hives, itchiness, swelling, or rash.
As with all other supplements, choose a high-quality and safe postnatal supplement. Closely check the ingredients and review the manufacturer's commitment to safety.
Aside from safety and quality, choose a blend that best suits your needs. Nursing mothers may look for a supplement that supports their lactation goals. However, even products that include breastfeeding benefits can be helpful to mothers who don't plan to nurse. A well-rounded supplement should support all the facets of new motherhood, including physical and mental.
In many cases, postnatals are recommended to be taken for at least six months following the birth of your baby. You'll want to choose complete support to see you through life's changes during this sacred time.
Before taking any supplement, you should always consult with your doctor.
The possibility of receiving too much of a specific vitamin or mineral could have negative impacts. However, if you take the supplements as recommended, this usually is not a concern.
There is a lot that must occur for conception to happen. You likely know that an egg needs to be fertilized by sperm and implanted into the uterus, where it can grow and develop into a baby. However, have you ever thought about what happens before the egg and sperm meet? Necessary processes must take place in both the male and the female. Sperm must mature, and the egg needs to develop and mature as well.
All of these processes are sensitive to oxidative damage. When there is an imbalance in your body of harmful free radicals and the antioxidants that protect against them, oxidative stress can impact your cells, including those essential to conception.
Thankfully, some substances can help return your body to balance, improving antioxidant levels and fighting off oxidative damage. One of the best is Coenzyme Q10.
More commonly known as CoQ10, this enzyme is naturally produced in your body. As such, this biomolecule can be found in every cell in your body. In its natural state, it shifts between ubiquinone and ubiquinol.
Ubiquinol is the active form, while ubiquinone is the oxidized form. As we age, our body doesn't shift the state of the molecules as efficiently. Changing inactive ubiquinone to active ubiquinol becomes more difficult. The molecules will continue to shift back and forth between these states in your body. Still, supplemental CoQ10 often only exists in one form. Some research has shown that ubiquinol may be more readily absorbed by the body, especially as conversion becomes more challenging with age. However, no studies have been entirely conclusive.
In either form, CoQ10 is a powerful tool against oxidative stress. It helps your cells produce more energy, enabling them to fight off free radicals better. It works as an antioxidant, protecting cells. Because of its excellent ability to protect cells and improve their function, CoQ10 is commonly used to support fertility, improve heart health, and benefit overall wellness.
CoQ10 fertility benefits are thought to be the result of the molecule's protective properties and ability to enhance cell function.
Sperm and egg production requires a significant amount of cellular energy. CoQ10 may be able to boost cellular function as an essential part of the electron transport chain. Once developed, sperm and egg cells must continue to mature. In this stage, they are susceptible to oxidative damage.
An incorrectly developed sperm or egg cell may not be able to mature enough for conception. Those that do mature could result in unviable embryos. The protection of sperm and eggs is one of the most valuable CoQ10 benefits for fertility.
CoQ10 benefits for fertility in females are strongly linked to egg quality. A woman is born with around six million eggs. By the time she reaches puberty, she will only have approximately 300,000 to 400,000. Why? Because around 10,000 die each month prior to puberty.
The cycle goes on as you age. After puberty, only 1,000 eggs die each month, but the number of mature eggs continues to decrease. At the age of forty, a woman will typically have only 10% of the number of eggs she began life with. When menopause occurs, most women have fewer than 100 eggs.
For this reason, a woman's fertility tends to decrease as she ages. Your fertility declines because it is directly tied to how many eggs you have and the quality of those eggs. While you will permanently lose eggs naturally as you get older, the decrease in your egg quality doesn't have to be a given.
It's important to realize that Coenzyme Q10 does tend to go down as you age. Lower levels of CoQ10 have correlated to oocyte quality deficits and a part of your natural fertility decline with age, found one study. But the same study found that CoQ10 supplementation had fertility benefits, helping to slow and even reverse the decline of oocyte quantity and quality typical of aging women.
However, you don't have to be an older woman to benefit from CoQ10 benefits. Younger women may see improved quantity and quality of their eggs when supplementing with coenzyme q10.
Similar to eggs, sperm as susceptible to damage that can decrease their quality. When trying to conceive, there are various important factors concerning sperm.
Coq10 for male fertility in sperm morphology is linked to quality. Morphology is the size and shape of the sperm. Sperm with too small or large of a head or tail often won't be able to fertilize an egg. In most cases, abnormalities can impair their swimming ability, preventing them from ever even meeting the egg.
A sperm's ability to swim is known referred to as motility, which is whether or not the sperm move the right way. Other concerns include:
Sperm count: How many sperm are present in a semen sample.
Sperm concentration: sometimes referred to as density, how many sperm are found in each millimeter of semen.
Sperm DNA fragmentation: issues, changes, or breaks in one or both of the DNA strands of the chromosomes found within the sperm.
There are normal parameters for men in each of these categories, and CoQ10 can help with just about all of them.
The supplement's antioxidant qualities have been found to help with sperm motility. Supplementation resulted in a greater number of rapidly mobile sperm and reduced the number of slow-swimming sperm and non-motile sperm.
The count and concentration of sperm in semen were also improved after male study participants took CoQ10. Total sperm count increased by over 50% after men took CoQ10 for six months. This improvement in sperm concentration and count can improve the likelihood that sperm will meet the egg, resulting in conception.
If a sperm is missing a head or tail, has a misshapen head, or even two heads, it makes it highly unlikely that it will be able to swim or fertilize an egg. Poor sperm shape, or morphology, is thought to result from too much heat, exposure to environmental chemicals, or genetic causes. Supplementing with CoQ10 can help protect sperm against a few of these factors, namely damaging oxidative stress.
One study found a modest improvement in morphology after men were supplemented with CoQ10, showing improved morphology rates near 25%. The factors mentioned above, especially things like smoking and pollutants, can harm the inside of sperm, affecting its DNA. Oxidative stress is particularly harmful to sperm, causing DNA fragmentation in some cases.
Again, Coenzyme Q10's powerful antioxidant capabilities were able to reduce sperm DNA fragmentation levels by neutralizing free radicals from oxidative stress. One study showed improvement after only six months of supplementation with CoQ10.
CoQ10 is particularly beneficial to sperm health, no matter a man's age.
CoQ10 is produced naturally in your body and the body of animals. Therefore, most of us do get some CoQ10 from our diet. Eating meat usually results in around 3 to 6 mg of coenzyme Q10 daily. However, fertility experts often advise supplementing with 100-600mg of CoQ10 on a daily basis.
That being said, it is always important to consult with your doctor before taking any supplements. As every individual's natural level of nutrients varies, the amount of supplementation necessary can change from person to person.
Whether you want to take stand-alone CoQ10 or take it as part of a complete supplement is a personal decision.
A stand-alone CoQ10 supplement may help improve antioxidant levels and cellular function in both men and women. However, you can also take it as part of a complete supplement.
Many fertility aids include CoQ10 as part of their powerful blend, including both Freshly mom Men's Fertility Support and Freshly mom Women's Fertility Support. Coenzyme Q10 is found among other ingredients that can support a couple who is trying to conceive.
Powerful adaptogens like Ashwagandha help to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote restful sleep. Shatavari and moringa are rich in nutrients that support reproduction while helping to improve libido. Hormonal balance is also essential for men and women who can benefit from cycle regularity. Many of the ingredients in our Fertility Formulas, like Chaste Tree Berry and Gokshura, are fantastic at helping to normalize ovulation and promote healthy phase lengths in a women's cycle by way of hormone support.
All of these benefits, alongside beneficial CoQ10 and contained in an easy-to-swallow capsule.
Usually, coenzyme Q10 produces very few side effects. Symptoms that may occur are often mild. In most cases, side effects are related to digestive issues, including loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea, and upper abdominal pain.
Other side effects may include:
Insomnia
Headaches
Fatigue
Itching, rashes, or irritation
Agitation
Doctors advise that you shouldn't use CoQ10 if you are taking anticoagulants as there can be possible interactions with CoQ10 making these blood thinners less effective.
Like many supplements, the safety of CoQ10 in pregnant or breastfeeding women hasn't been established. For this reason, you shouldn't start taking CoQ10 if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor before starting coenzyme Q10 supplementation.
There are many benefits of coq10 for fertility, for both men and women. As a strong antioxidant, coenzyme Q10 can help protect both sperm and egg cells while they are developing and maturing. Additionally, the supplement is believed to improve cell energy and function, helping to support the processes necessary for creating quality eggs and sperm.
While you can take CoQ10 as a stand-alone supplement, CoQ10 and fertility herbs can be combined into a nourishing and supportive supplement, such as Freshly mom Fertility Support With CoQ10. This can offer a holistic and well-rounded approach to fertility, possibly improving a couple's chances of conception.
Fertility support developed by experts. This supplement contains a blend of natural herbs and vitamins, including CoQ10, Shatavari, and Ashwagandha.
Posted by Shruti Mishra
Shruti is the founder of Freshly mom. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY, and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition for over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to supplements.
Many women turn to birth control to prevent pregnancy, reduce period frequency and symptoms, and occasionally reduce acne. While birth control may be helpful in these circumstances, it can have lasting effects you may not consider when you begin the medication. It isn't until you start trying for a baby that you realize your body may need a reset after years of being on the pill.
If you've come across a birth control cleanse while researching post-pill information, you may have wondered what these detoxes are all about. Our helpful guide will cover what a birth control cleanse is, whether or not it's safe, and if there are any benefits.
Birth control or the pill is hormonal pregnancy prevention. There are various kinds of birth, including oral pills, a patch, a ring, and an injection. Some women may take birth control for other reasons, but its primary purpose is to stop ovulation to prevent fertilization. In order to interrupt ovulation, the medication contains hormones that inhibit your body's natural hormones. Birth control can also make the uterus uninhabitable to inhibit implantation and thicken cervical mucus, decreasing sperm's chance of swimming to an egg.
There are two forms of the pill. The mini pill only contains progestin. Combination pills, known as COCs, contain both progestin and estrogen. They both fool your brain into thinking your body is ovulating. At the same time, your ovary never receives the hormonal signal telling it to release an egg.
As you can imagine, if you take birth control for years that works against your body's natural hormones, there may be a few adverse side effects when coming off the medication. Doctors advise that most forms of birth control will be out of your system within a week, but it could be months before your periods return to normal. However, some women become pregnant immediately after stopping birth control.
Still, other women may desire to reset or cleanse their system after taking the pill. Even if they could become pregnant, they want their womb to be the most supportive and nourishing place possible for their growing baby, which can sometimes mean devoting time to pre-conception.
As the synthetic hormones leave your body, ovulation should eventually return. However, as your natural hormones begin to take over, signaling the return of your cycle, you can experience symptoms. Common post-birth control symptoms include:
Irregular periods
Mood swings
Heavy periods
Headaches
Acne
Fluctuations in sex drive
Withdrawal bleeding
The severity of these symptoms can vary from woman to woman. As your cycle returns to normal, the symptoms should ease up and eventually disappear. However, if you began taking birth control to reduce any of these issues, your symptoms may not dissipate. Tracking your cycle after you stop birth control can help you keep track of symptoms and determine when your cycle is returning to normal.
One way in which some women might try to rejuvenate their womb post-birth control is through a birth control cleanse. A birth control cleanser usually involves eating and drinking certain things or taking supplements that can help flush out the synthetic hormones and rebalance your body's natural rhythm.
Many birth control cleanse products will contain a combination of herbs, vitamins, and minerals. The main goal of these cleanses is to remove synthetic hormones from the body and rebalance the reproductive system.
There is currently no evidence that birth control cleanses work or if they are necessary. However, every woman's body is different and can have different needs. Additionally, many of the ingredients in pre-conception or post-birth control cleanse products may be supportive of a woman's reproductive system in general, whether or not she was experiencing negative side effects from the pill.
Most birth control cleanses work by suggesting you either take a supplement or products in drink form. One key ingredient you'll find in almost all birth control cleanses is chaste berry, also known as vitex. You may also find folic acid, vitamins, and iodine. These detoxes claim to help your body flush out synthetic hormones faster, regulating your cycle sooner and promoting uterine health.
You mix the supplement with plain water and take them daily. Usually, they suggest you take them for 2-3 cycles, with the first cycle beginning on the day your first period arrives post-medication.
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with organic, ethically-sourced herbs to support female uterine health.
There is currently no research to support birth control cleanses, and most medical experts don't deem detoxes necessary. This is because the human body naturally works to flush out unnatural substances, like synthetic hormones. In most cases, your liver can rid your body of birth control within a week.
However, many of the ingredients and herbs in birth control cleanses may still be quite beneficial to your reproductive system. Much of the vitamins, minerals, and herbs found in these supplements have traditionally been used to boost fertility. So, while your body may not need help ridding itself of birth control, it can certainly still benefit from some of these supplements.
For example, chaste tree berry (vitex) has been found to promote regular cycles and hormonal balance. It can also help stimulate ovulation, boosting fertility in women. Additionally, chaste tree berry has been found to ease premenstrual and menopause symptoms.
Nettles, another common ingredient, have been found to increase fertilization rates in those suffering from PCOS. Shatavari is believed to soothe the uterus, reducing contractions. Another herb, red clover, has been shown to help reduce menstrual symptoms, possess anti-oxidant qualities, and regulate blood sugar levels.
As you can see, many of the natural compounds found in post-birth control support supplements benefit women's reproductive systems. Furthermore, the best supplements don't necessarily have to be used only by women looking for support after birth control but anyone seeking womb rebalance.
As mentioned, many of the helpful ingredients in post-birth control supplements can reduce the negative effects of birth control. They can ease PMS symptoms, nourish the uterus, and promote healthy hormonal balance.
However, the severity of the side effects you experience often has to do with the reasons why you began birth control. If you decided to go on the pill to manage heavy periods, reduce hormonal acne, or decrease PCOS symptoms, many of these issues might return when you stop the medication.
As the medication leaves your system, you may notice a flare-up of symptoms. Thankfully, your body will work to re-regulate itself once again. Natural support from herbs, vitamins, and minerals can enhance your body's efforts. Many supplements can benefit women by balancing their hormones, regulating their cycles, increasing fertility, and decreasing menstrual symptoms.
As with any supplement, there may be certain risks. It's important to discuss any new supplement with your doctor before you begin taking it.
Side effects with Freshly Moms Womb Rebalance are infrequent and generally mild. They may include:
Upset stomach
Nausea
Diarrhea
Taking the capsules with a meal may help alleviate these side effects. Additionally, symptoms generally cease after stopping the supplement.
Along with natural supplements that are conducive to hormone and womb health, you can do a few other things to promote hormonal balance. Such as:
Eat a well-rounded nutritious diet
Stay hydrated
Get regular exercise
Maintain a healthy sleep schedule
It's also important to give your body time and grace to reset itself. It can be very challenging to wait when coming off birth control, especially if you are trying to conceive. However, devoting time to nourishing and regulating your system before pregnancy is essential. This helps to ensure your body is set up to support both you and your baby through pregnancy and postpartum.
If you are trying to conceive, you may also want to consider a fertility supplement. These supplements can help boost your fertility in a variety of ways. Freshly Moms Fertility Support Capsules contain ingredients like Moringa that nourish the womb with vital nutrients. It also includes adaptogens to reduce stress and decrease its damaging effects on the body. Female reproductive system herbs, used for centuries in Ayurveda, encourage healthy egg development, adequate cervical mucus, and healthy libido.
While their efficacy hasn't been proven by research, every woman is different. Your body will naturally flush out the synthetic hormones. However, natural supplements may be able to promote a return to normal sooner. Additionally, their ingredients can have many other positive benefits for women looking to promote the health of their reproductive system.
Formulated by Ayurvedic experts and made with organic, ethically-sourced herbs to support female uterine health.
Posted by Shruti Mishra
Shruti is the founder of Freshly Moms. She is a professional plant-based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY, and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition since over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every woman's body is different and may respond differently to supplements.
Fatigue isn't anything new for postpartum moms. There are sleepless nights, early morning wakeups, and care routines. Even as you enter the later stages of postpartum and motherhood, playdates, household responsibilities, and more can make you feel like you're in a daze.
However, how do you know if your postpartum exhaustion is usual or something more? Extreme postpartum fatigue that affects things like cognition and libido and doesn't seem to ease up could be a sign of adrenal fatigue.
You may have heard this phrase circulating in mom groups and holistic health communities. It seems like adrenal fatigue postpartum is a common affliction these days. But until recently, not much was understood about this condition; it was thought that postpartum tiredness was normal and nothing to worry about.
In truth, our hormones go through significant fluctuations after birth. These changes, combined with the energy-zapping routines and stress of the fourth trimester, can leave our adrenal glands and hormones struggling to keep up. Affecting our mood, sleep, energy, and libido.
Stress is known to affect the human body. In the case of postpartum adrenal fatigue, it is believed that chronic stress, either physical or mental, can fatigue the adrenal glands. You may feel the effects if they can't keep up with hormone production. Although the condition of adrenal fatigue is not yet recognized by the medical community, how you feel is likely genuine.
Stress is undoubtedly a common factor in many postpartum mums' lives. The baby crying, doctor's appointments to rush to, dinner to make, exercise, no sleep; the list of stressors seemingly goes on and on. When you're stressed, your brain will secrete a hormone that is received by your pituitary gland. In turn, the gland and the other adrenals secrete cortisol, epinephrine, and norephedrine.
Cortisol is commonly known as the stress hormone. It raises blood sugar, stops non-essential body processes, and helps promote the availability of tissue-repair substances in your body. Usually, this response is beneficial in "fight or flight" scenarios. However, chronic stress or a super high-stress event (like childbirth) can result in a hormonal imbalance. This disruption in the normal function of your hormones elicits a range of symptoms.
Many moms equate adrenal fatigue to postpartum exhaustion. They simply feel like they can't keep up with day-to-day responsibilities. Mainly because everyday stressors, such as trying to get children out the door for school or activities, can trigger overwhelming responses. It isn't unusual to experience anxiety, agitation, cravings, or strong emotions to the tiniest stressors.
Other symptoms of adrenal fatigue postpartum can include:
While it is normal to experience postpartum tiredness, adrenal fatigue postpartum will often feel like something more than a lack of sleep or the exhaustion that comes from birth and caring for a newborn.
Women with undiagnosed adrenal fatigue may wonder, how long does postpartum fatigue last, and when will I feel like myself again? That can be another clue. Postpartum fatigue is usually at its peak during the first month following birth. From months two to four, it decreases significantly. However, if you feel like there is no light at the end of the exhaustion tunnel, it may be time to work with a practitioner who can evaluate you for adrenal fatigue.
Adrenal fatigue is not yet a medically recognized condition. Therefore, finding a practitioner who listens to your concerns and is open to exploring the idea of adrenal fatigue can be essential. Additionally, checking for other health issues can also be beneficial because the symptoms can be vague and similar to other conditions.
Usually, your doctor will evaluate you and try to rule out the following:
They'll typically want to check for biological and mental health conditions that could explain your symptoms.
Treatment for adrenal fatigue can look different for everyone. Sometimes, your doctor may want to evaluate your diet and determine if any nutrients are lacking. They may recommend adjusting your lifestyle or trying to improve your sleep habits. Understandably, these things can be tricky when you're a new mom.
If you're looking for natural ways to help return your hormonal balance, here are a few ideas you may want to try. Remember, discussing supplements and lifestyle changes with your doctor is essential before trying them out is always recommended.
You don't need to try all of these things at once. Do what you can, and don't forget to take a moment to breathe. You're a fantastic mom doing your best; that's always enough!
We know you have probably seen adrenal cocktails, specific remedies, and single-ingredient supplements recommended for adrenal fatigue. But in the spirit of Ayurveda, we believe in taking a well-rounded approach to motherhood wellness. Our products are designed to support you in many ways, addressing the variety of concerns a woman may experience after giving birth to her child.
Our Lactation and Postpartum support Lactation and Postpartum support capsules are excellent for supporting breastfeeding goals. Still, they were designed with so much more in mind. They're full of herbs that help promote hormonal balance, reduce inflammation, increase vitality, promote restful sleep, and boost healing. The easy-to-swallow form is the most effortless part of your day!
Freshly Moms Golden Milk for Motherhood is a restorative and enjoyable way to settle down after a long day. Its ingredients, like turmeric and black pepper, are anti-inflammatories. At the same time, Ashwagandha is adaptogenic, helping to fight against the harmful effects of stress.
We know cravings can be a part of adrenal fatigue. While you're working on regaining hormonal balance, Freshly Moms Chocolate Lactation Drink Mix can be a delicious (and guilt-free) way to indulge while also doing something good for your body. Ingredients such as Moringa are packed with nutrients, Ashwagandha has been added for stress-fighting, and cinnamon for blood sugar control.
A lactation and postpartum support developed by experts. This supplement contains a blend of Ayurvedic herbs including Shatavari, Ashwagandha, Moringa, and Blessed thistle.
Freshly Moms Organic Chocolate Drink Mix is the easiest, and the most effective way to naturally boost milk production.
Posted by Shruti Mishra
Shruti is the founder of Freshly Moms. She is a profesional plant based chef from Natural Gourmet Institute, NY and a certified IIN health coach. She has been working with Ayurveda, food & nutrition since over 10 years and is also a fresh mom herself.
This article is not a medical advice and is not meant for every situation. Every man's body is different and may respond differently to supplements.