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Fertility Therapies Pregnancy

Common Cervical Health Concerns & Their Fertility Impact

Sarah Abernathy - Certified Herbalist
July 13, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

At only about 4 cm long, the functioning of the cervix is critical for fertility and pregnancy. The cervix is located at the lowest point of the uterus, attached to the vagina. The cervix acts as a passageway to the uterus and is known for its production of cervical mucus which helps sperm travel safely to the egg during a woman’s fertile window.

Sperm must travel from the vagina, through the opening of the cervix, through the cervical canal, then to the uterus and fallopian tubes for conception. At the end of pregnancy, the cervix then must dilate to an astounding 10 cm to allow for a vaginal delivery. Wow! That’s a lot of work for one very small part of the body!

Issues that Impact Cervical Health

The cervix, like the rest of the reproductive system, can face challenges that affect fertility and pregnancy. This article covers the most common cervical health concerns and offers suggestions on natural and medical approaches that can help promote a healthy cervix.

1. Let’s talk about cervical Incompetence.
If you’ve faced a cervical incompetence diagnosis, you’re understandably feeling concerned or may have had a recent loss. We’re sorry you’re going through this! Please know that having this challenge is not your fault. Cervical incompetence is not related to diet or lifestyle.

Unfortunately, cervical incompetence can raise your risk of miscarriage and pregnancy loss. In cervical incompetence, the cervix is weakened, may shorten or dilate early, potentially causing premature labor.

Many women reach out to us seeking natural methods to help correct this challenge. However, I must stress, natural therapies like herbs are much less effective for anatomical fertility concerns than they are for hormone balance problems, or even fibroids and endometriosis.

2. Demystifying the cervical stitch (cerclage).
If you have a history of cervical incompetence, consider learning about natural therapies like biofeedback, or herbs like Squaw vine, aka Partridgeberry (Mitchella repens) and Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa) to help tighten tissues as part of preparation for conception. However, using medical interventions like cervical cerclage (placing a stitch to help the cervix stay closed) is the best choice to address cervical incompetence and carry a pregnancy to term. This is perfectly ok!

Having a cervical cerclage or transabdominal cerclage (for the most serious cases) increases your chances for a healthy pregnancy and full-term delivery. Other research finds using progesterone vaginal suppositories, as directed by your healthcare provider or midwife, can also help women with cervical incompetence during singleton pregnancies.

Whatever your choice of treatments, work closely with your doctor and midwife. Networking with other women who have cervical incompetence is a good avenue for support, too.

3. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are another common problem that affects cervical health.

  • HPV: It’s estimated that about 80% of sexually active women experience an HPV (human papilloma virus) infection in their lives. Unfortunately, some strains of HPV can lead to cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer, which is bad news for health and future pregnancy. If you’re at risk, screening through an annual pap smear is highly recommended.

    If you have HPV, B vitamins can provide natural support. Some women see improvements by taking 1000mcg of both folic acid and vitamin B12 daily. Having a daily green juice or drink like Fertiligreens can give the immune system a boost while you address the infection. Whatever your choice of therapies, make sure to have follow-up testing to see if the infection has cleared or if you require more treatment. Cervical dysplasia and precancerous cell changes are highly treatable when caught and addressed early.

    Pros and cons of LEEP surgery: For stubborn cases of HPV and cervical dysplasia, LEEP surgery (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) may be recommended to prevent abnormal cells from turning into cervical cancer. In a LEEP procedure, a small electrical loop is used to remove the abnormal cells from your cervix. You will be given a numbing agent to prevent pain, and the procedure can be completed in about 10 minutes.

    While many women want to avoid LEEP, it may be necessary in some cases to help protect against cancer development and losing the cervix altogether. LEEP is not likely to harm fertility, although in rare cases, it can lead to complications like cervical incompetence or cervical stenosis (narrowing of the cervix). Preparing your body with a nutrient-dense Fertility Diet and supportive supplements like systemic enzymes is a good choice if your doctor recommends LEEP.

  • Other STIs: Other STIs like herpes 2, chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis lead to cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix), and also require medical treatment to resolve. Once treated, these STIs don’t typically lead to fertility or pregnancy health concerns.

    Antimicrobial herbs like Olive leaf extract (Olea europaea), Oregano oil (Origanum vulgare) or Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) can be considered after conventional medical treatment. For herpes, many natural healers find herbs like Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia), L-lysine and red marine algae can strengthen the immune system, help prevent outbreaks or reduce the duration of outbreaks.

4. Understanding Cervical Ectropion. Cervical ectropion occurs when the canal of the cervix (endocervix) turns outward. This causes the cells that are normally inside the cervix to be exposed to the acidic pH of the vagina. This can lead to sensitivity, watery discharge or spotting after intercourse or during late pregnancy.

While it’s important to evaluate the cervix if you suspect cervical ectropion, it’s not the same thing as cancer. Cervical ectropion is not thought to harm fertility and may require no medical treatment. While once suspected to be the result of infection or trauma, researchers now believe cervical ectropion is fairly common, may be related to hormone fluctuations or even present from birth.

Cervical health monitoring is important!

Working with your doctor and receiving regular screenings is vital for cervical health, especially if you’re planning to conceive. Ask questions if you’re unsure about a test result or recommended procedure. Consider natural therapies for nutritional and immune support in your challenge areas. For cervical health concerns, using a combination of natural and medical therapies can be the best option for your ongoing health and fertility.

More Resources:
The Role of the Cervix in Achieving and Maintaining Pregnancy
How Sexually Transmitted Infections Impact Fertility, Pregnancy & A Baby’s Health
How to Preserve Fertility & Cervical Health with HPV
Increase Cervical Mucous to Get Pregnant

References

  • Anatomy and Physiology of the Cervix. (2018). Retrieved from: http://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/cervical/cervical-cancer/the-cervix/?region=on
  • Conde-Agudelo, A. et al. (2013, Jan.). Vaginal progesterone vs cervical cerclage for the prevention of preterm birth in women with a sonographic short cervix, previous preterm birth, and singleton gestation: a systematic review and indirect comparison meta analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2013 Jan; 208(1): 42.e1–42.e18. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3529767/
  • What’s LEEP? (2018). Retrieved from: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/cancer/cervical-cancer/whats-leep
  • Shur, M. (2018, March). Overview of Cervical Ectropion. Retrieved from: https://www.verywell.com/what-is-the-treatment-for-cervical-erosion-3522327

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About the Author

Sarah Abernathy - Certified Herbalist

Sarah has worked in the field of natural foods and herbalism for over 20 years. She's the Co-Author of "Healthy Healing" with over 1 million copies sold, a Certified Herbalist, and a health and wellness consultant. Sarah Graduated from the Professional Herbal Studies program at East West School of Herbology, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English from St. Mary's College. Working with women on their journey to wellness is her passion and she loves to share what she has been blessed to learn from naturopaths and other herbalists over the years.

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

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☕Reproductive Support Tea contains herbs that support, tone, and nourish the female reproductive system while supporting hormone balance.

It’s a soothing and effective fertility tea that provides just the right mixture of beneficial fertility herbs designed to help:

1️⃣ Nourish the uterus*

2️⃣ Support fallopian tube health.*

3️⃣ Help maintain normal ovarian function.*

4️⃣ Encourage normal uterine health.*

5️⃣ Support hormonal balance.

Type ‘TEA’ in the comments below if you would like 10% off your first order or Reproductive Support Tea and I will DM you a discount link. 👇👇

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👇3 Ways To Naturally Support Ovulation 👇

Lack of ovulation is one of the most common causes of infertility.

BUT you can help support your body to regularly ovulate again when hormonal health is found.

Here are some steps you can take to support yourself….

1️⃣ Eat healthy fats like avocado, chia, flax, nuts & seeds

2️⃣ Eat an abundance of whole foods 🥦🍉🥗🍇

3️⃣ Increase circulation to the reproductive system through exercise, Self Fertility Massage and castor oil packs.

👇 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the steps you can take to support your fertility cycle. 👇

#ovulation #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

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Jan 30

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🌱 Ashwagandha is one of my favorite herbs for stress support while trying to conceive. 

It is easy to use and the calming effects can be felt pretty quickly after starting the herb. 

➡️ The hormonal support results take a bit longer, as with any hormone supportive herb, but is wonderful for both women and men who are experiencing high stress and hormone imbalances. 

Type ASH in the comments below and I will share which Ashwagandha I recommend and how to use it for fertility support. 👇👇

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Jan 30

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Q: I have a 24 day cycle. What is this saying about my fertility?

A: Swipe left for our answer...

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Jan 30

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⭐ 3 Benefits of Vitex for Fertility…

1️⃣ Regulates hormones: Vitex, also known as chasteberry, is known to regulate the production of hormones such as luteinizing hormone and prolactin, which can help to balance out estrogen and progesterone levels, promoting fertility.

2️⃣ Improves ovulation: Vitex can help to regulate the menstrual cycle and improve ovulation in women with irregular cycles or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

3️⃣ Decreases symptoms of PMS: Vitex can also help to reduce the severity of symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as cramps, breast tenderness, and mood swings, which can improve overall health and well-being.

Want to know which Vitex I recommend and how to use it? Type VITEX in the comments below 👇

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Jan 29

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🌱 Red raspberry leaf has been used by midwives for fertility for generations. Some of the most well known benefits of raspberry leaf for reproductive support include… 

1️⃣ Regulating menstrual cycles: Red raspberry leaf is believed to help balance hormones and regulate menstrual cycles, making it easier for women to conceive.

2️⃣ Strengthening the uterus: Red raspberry leaf is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin C, which are believed to help strengthen the uterus and prepare it for pregnancy.

3️⃣ Improving egg quality: Some studies suggest that red raspberry leaf may improve egg quality and increase the chances of conception.

4️⃣ Reducing morning sickness: Red raspberry leaf is also believed to help reduce the symptoms of morning sickness, which can be especially beneficial for women who are trying to conceive.

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Jan 29

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🧪 Xenohormones are chemicals that mimic the effects of hormones in the body. 

They can disrupt the endocrine system, which controls the production, transport, and function of hormones. 🚫

This can lead to a variety of health problems, including fertility issues. 

Examples of xenohormones include certain pesticides, plastics, and phthalates. 🕯️

Exposure to these chemicals can affect the production of hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, which play key roles in fertility. 

Xenohormones can also affect ovulation and implantation of a fertilized egg, leading to infertility. 

It would be best to avoid these chemicals as much as possible. 

👇👇To  learn more about which chemicals to avoid and which products are most important to replace type in ‘TOXIC’ in the comments below to get my guide to Creating a Healthy Home for Fertility Pregnancy & Family 👇👇

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Jan 28

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5 Steps you can take to help support your fertility naturally…. 👇

1️⃣ Cleanse and prepare the body for conception

2️⃣ Nourish the body with fertility supportive foods

3️⃣ Protect and remove any substances that are causing harm

4️⃣ Learn how to fertility chart and read your monthly cycle

5️⃣ Add lifestyle habits that help to support fertility health

🌼 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the 5 steps. 👇

#naturalfertility #fertilitytips #gettingpregnant #hormonehealth #hormonalhealth

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Jan 28

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The body is always giving us feedback to what is happening inside. How regularly you go to the bathroom shares a lot about your digestive health.... as does a bloated belly or gas. Your period or monthly cycle can share a lot about your hormonal state. Your skin can share how your liver is doing. And so on. What have you learned from listening to your body?

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Jan 28

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🕯️Chemicals in candles, such as paraffin and phthalates, can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned. 

Some research suggests that certain VOCs, such as phthalates, may disrupt hormone balance by mimicking estrogen and other hormones in the body. 🚫

It’s always a good idea to choose candles made from natural materials, such as beeswax or soy wax, which produce fewer VOCs. 🐝

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Jan 27

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5 Steps you can take to help support your fertility naturally…. 👇

1️⃣ Cleanse and prepare the body for conception

2️⃣ Nourish the body with fertility supportive foods

3️⃣ Protect and remove any substances that are causing harm

4️⃣ Learn how to fertility chart and read your monthly cycle

5️⃣ Add lifestyle habits that help to support fertility health

🌼 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the 5 steps. 👇

#naturalfertility #fertilitytips #gettingpregnant #hormonehealth #hormonalhealth

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Jan 27

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Preparing for pregnancy is one of the best steps you can take for a healthy pregnancy and child. Here are some steps to help you get started…. 👇

1️⃣ Eat a diet high in fiber. More fruits and veggies

Fiber helps the body to get rid of excess hormones and fruits and veggies are packed with fiber. They also are very hydrating and have lots of nutrients. All are useful for someone with heavy cycles. 

2️⃣ Learn about your fertility cycle through tracking and charting

Fertility charting will help you to understand your current hormonal state, when or if you are ovulating and other information about your cycle that will help to bring clarity to your fertility path. 

3️⃣ Fertility Cleanse 1-2x per year

The first phase of the Fertility Cleanse is a great way to help support the liver in it’s natural ability to get rid of excess hormones. The second phase focuses on the uterus and helping the uterus to cleanse and increase circulation.

👇 To learn more about the Fertility Cleansing type CLEANSE in the comments below and I will send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 👇 

#hormonehealth #hormonalhealth #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

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Jan 26

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💡It can be completely normal for your menstrual cycle to vary in length slightly from month to month! 

Ovulation may come a day before or a day later even in normal some cycles. 

We actually expect to see natural variations between menstrual cycles. 

Early ovulation can be concerning, however, when/if it consistently happens. 

➡️ If you would like to learn what you can do to help balance a short follicular phase type EARLY in the comments below and I will send you a link to my guide….👇👇

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Are you experiencing fibroids? 👇 Type FIBROID in the comments below and I will send you a link to my natural guide. 🌱

#fibroid #fibroids #naturalfertility #fibroidfertility #fibroiddiet

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Jan 26

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Intimacy may not be something at the top of your mind with everything else you are doing to TTC. But connection with your partner and you feeling.... good is important. Here are some natural ways to support libido if the stress of baby making has made things tense in the bedroom.

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Jan 25

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When in doubt get it checked out. 

One of the most common reasons I suggest women to see their doctors is when they are experiencing  a heavy period that doesn’t stop after 5-7 days and has heavy flow. 

There are many different reasons this could be happening, but we first want to make sure it isn’t something that requires medical assistance before going on to healthy lifestyle support.

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Jan 25

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Ovarian cysts are more common than you think, and there are ways you can support your body naturally. Type CYSTS in the comments below and I will send you the natural steps you can take to support your self.

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Jan 24

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🌱 One of my favorite ways to support fertility and hormone health is through herbs. 

Over the past 20+ years that I have been an herbalist I have seen what herbs can do to help turn someone’s health around. 

When it comes to fertility there are a lot of different herbs that you can use. But they all have different actions. There is no one herb that fits all for fertility. 

That is one of the reasons I make herbal blends & formulas. 

Three of my favorite herbs are vitex, maca and shatavari, but they each have different effects on the body. 

So the key to success with fertility herbs is to first figure out what is going on in your body and then you can pick the right herbal formula for you. 

You can do this by charting your fertility (I have a lot of posts about fertility charting on my feed as well as my website) and also paying attention to your period. 🩸

To learn more about my herbal formulas for fertility support type HERBS in the comments below and I’ll share a link to my formulas 👇👇

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Jan 24

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👇READ THIS if you have a regular period but still haven’t gotten pregnant…. 

The answer is YES. The menstruation phase of a monthly fertility cycle is only one stage of the cycle. 

There are many other times of the month that are even more important like: 

🌸 Follicular phase: When the lining is growing and follicles are maturing

🌸 Ovulation: When the egg is released

🌸 Implantation: When the fertilized egg implants

🌸 Luteal phase: The time period between ovulation and the next cycle needs to be long enough for implantation to occur. 

Wondering how to start supporting your fertility naturally? 

👇 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the steps you can take to support your fertility cycle. 👇

#periods #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

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Jan 23

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Endometriosis can impact fertility and having a healthy pregnancy. 

Preparing ahead of time and taking the steps can make a big difference. 

Type ENDO in the comments below if you would like my natural guide to supporting your fertility regardless of having endometriosis....💛👇
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