Treating Infertility
A Program of Hope: A Comprehensive
Approach to Treating Infertility

A Full-BOdy Experience

FirstHealth of Andover is launching a new comprehensive program created to maximize every couple’s fertility potential. Our mission is to offer renewed hope to couples suffering the trials of infertility. To accomplish this, we are offering assistance in the form of acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, nutrition, and relaxation. This program - based on Chinese medicinal principles - is designed to thoroughly address the barriers to a successful pregnancy and child.

Discover Your Fertile Potential

Whether it is a female or male factor problem, at FirstHealth of Andover we offer multiple programs to suit the needs of every couple. We work closely with each couple to identify the complex challenges affecting their fertility and recommend advice to maximize their chances of success.

If you are currently struggling with infertility, or know someone who is, we are currently offering a free 30-minute fertility consultation with an experienced acupuncturist. Call today to learn about our programs and unlock your fertile potential.

A Program Catering to Your Needs

At FirstHealth of Andover, we understand that every couple’s experience with infertility is unique. Some couples are using conventional Assisted Reproductive Therapies (ART), while others are trying alternative methods to reach their goals of childbirth. Because of the diversity of circumstances we have created three unique programs based on Chinese medicine to meet the needs of every couple. These programs are formatted in three month, one month, and one day procedures. The three-month procedures are designed for couples looking to conceive naturally or prepare for ART. The one-month program is geared to maximize a couple’s chances of ART success, and minimize its side effects. And the one-day procedure is specifically for those looking to maximize the success of embryo transfers during in-vitro fertilization.

Chinese Medicine: Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Day

Chinese medicine has been treating infertility for thousands of years. Recently, there has been a growing interest in Chinese medicine’s effectiveness in treating infertility. In 2002, a landmark German study concluded that acupuncture could enhance the success rates of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures by almost 50%.¹ In 2006, the medical journal Fertility and Sterility published two additional independent studies that replicated these results.^{2 3} Although more studies are needed to fully understand the wonders of Chinese medicine, we are confident it enhances fertility in the following ways:

• Reduce stress

• Improve ovarian function

• Regulate hormones

• Thicken the uterine lining

• Regulate menstruation

• Reduce uterine contractions

• Decrease chances of miscarriage

• Improve sperm count, morphology, and motility

• Strengthen the immune system

• Reduce side-effects of hormonal treatments

Nutrition: You Are What You Eat

Most of us have heard the expression “you are what you eat”. The wisdom within these words many times can determine a couple’s success in having children. Modern day nutrition is composed of foods that are quick and easy to prepare, and many times unhelpful additives. Nutritionally deficient food is rampant in our society and its effects are severe, especially for those seeking to become pregnant. While most couples know this to be true, few know the necessary components of a fertility promoting diet.

To assist those interested in improving their diet we have incorporated the expertise of a naturopathic Doctor, Jill Kenney. Dr. Kenney will advise each couple on the necessary dietary changes and appropriate supplementation of vitamins, minerals and amino acids. She will discuss good dietary guidelines, including healthy fats and quality proteins, while educating you on how to eliminate environmental exposure to hormones and pollutants. Dr. Kenney considers all of these factors and offers individualized recommendations for both men and women struggling with infertility.

Relaxation: Experience the Endorphin Release

Relaxation is vital to any successful fertility program. Deeper states of relaxation cause the release of endorphins, the feel good chemical messengers in the brain. These chemicals help regulate hormones, and assist reproduction. Unfortunately, the rigors of daily life make it difficult for couples to find the time to relax. Compounded by difficulties with fertility, many times stress can be an overwhelming obstacle to parenthood.

To address the need for relaxation, we have partnered with Maureen Saba, of Maternal Health and Fitness. Maureen has been featured on Good Morning America for her work with pregnant women. Working with Maureen will teach you the importance of practicing relaxation, breathing and visualization techniques. As a couple you will learn how to support each other through light-touch massage and positive affirmation. You will learn tools to facilitate endorphin release and relaxation.

We feel strongly about the potential benefits our comprehensive fertility program may bring to couples struggling with infertility. If you or someone you know is currently dealing with infertility, we hope you will come see us for a free 30-minute fertility consult. Please feel free to contact our clinic at your convenience.


1. Paulus WE, Zhang M, Strehler E, El-Danasouri. Influence of acupuncture on pregnancy rate in patients who undergo assisted reproduction therapy. Fertil Steril 2002; 77:721-4.

2. Westergaard LG, Mao Q, Krogslund M, Sandrini S, Lenz S, Grinsted J. Acupuncture on the day of embryo transfer significantly improves reproductive outcom in infertile women: a prospective randomized tiral. Fert Steril 2006; 85: 1341-46.

3. Dieterle S, Ying G, Hatzmann W, Neuer A. Effect of acupuncture on the outcome of in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection: a randomized, prospective, controlled clinical study. Fert Steri 2006; 85: 1347-51.

- Jose Ruiz, Lic.Ac., MAOM