I have very recently completed an Advanced Level Diploma in Fertility Acupuncture.
This course has been quite an achievement. Not only because of the time it needed, but the content was extremely technical in the western medicine component.
It delivered far more detail than most acupuncturists would want or need from a course.
My love for Chinese Medicine and working with couples to help them conceive healthy babies was my driver to do this course. Not only do I believe in the importance of an integrative approach and understanding when it comes to fertility, but quite simply, this course was so interesting!
The western medicine aspects of this course has reignited my love for knowledge and for the amazement of what is happening in our bodies.
How intricate her workings are and how one small malfunction can lead to so much dysfunction, pain and heartbreak in those who are struggling with their fertility.
Hormones, the brain, stress, diet, genetics - how it all has to come together in harmony to create life interests the hell out of me. I love fitting the pieces of the puzzle together so get to the bottom of what has been termed, unexplainable.
The course covered reproductive immunology, complex diseases in pregnancy, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TMC) approach to treating PCOS, OHSS and other hormonal issues, plus using TCM to support artificial reproductive techniques.
While still rooted firmly in Chinese Medicine, my history taking and questioning considers blood test results, sperm testing and other western medicine investigative testing to support both my diagnosis and treatment in the clinic.
Now, when I need more understanding or support with a particularly tricky case, I have a network of some of the most amazing fertility practitioners to call on. We are a large, supportive group from all over the world, with an incredible reservoir of knowledge and experience.
So far, I am the only person in NZ to have done the course.
I really hope more acupuncturists will join the course because I know the value this medicine brings when it comes to fertility and reproductive health.
