• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Fertility Topics
  • Fertility Therapies
  • Hormone Health
  • Nutrition
  • Success Stories
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com
  • Shop Products
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility tips, information, herbs, supplements and more

  • Shop Products

Fertility Nutrition

The Best Herbs to Help You Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula
July 19, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

Many women with whom we have helped to achieve pregnancy contact us later (especially those over 35). They are often still breastfeeding and would like more information on how to get pregnant again, while continuing to breastfeed. Many questions center on what herbs they could use while breastfeeding to help them achieve another healthy pregnancy. Unfortunately, many herbs we use for fertility are not recommended for use during lactation.

I will let you in on my favorite herbs for breastfeeding mamas that are safe for use and may help to prepare them for pregnancy, while also continuing to support a healthy milk supply.

Herbs to Help Breastfeeding Moms Prepare for Another Pregnancy

Important Note: We completely support breastfeeding and feel it is best for your body and mind to focus on breastfeeding and recovery from the postpartum period for the first 6-12 months of your baby’s life. Trying to get pregnant should come second, even if you feel time is not on your side due to age or reproductive health issues. Giving yourself plenty of time to recover physically, emotionally, and mentally from your first pregnancy, labor, and birth is going to give your subsequent pregnancies a better chance at being the healthiest they can be! Breastfeeding is the most nourishing and bonding experience for your baby – something that gives them the best start at life!

Trying to Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding? 7 Herbs to Help You Achieve Your Goal

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha root is classified as an adaptogen herb because it has been shown to improve the body’s response to stress of all kinds; it provides endocrine system support (hormonal system), specifically to the thyroid and adrenal glands and it helps to normalize the immune system. Ashwagandha is also used to help prevent anemia (iron deficiency), to improve libido, for uterine tone, and for the quality of breast milk in lactating mothers. These are all important factors when trying to get pregnant, especially while breastfeeding. Discontinue use at first determination of pregnancy.

Click here to learn more detailed benefits and dosing of Ashwagandha…

Chaste tree berry also known as Vitex (Vitex agnus-castus)
The berry of the Vitex bush is one of the best herbs for female fertility by helping to regulate hormonal health through pituitary gland support. It has been used for hundreds of years to regulate the menstrual cycle, bring on absent periods, and indirectly increase progesterone production during the luteal phase. Current information shows that Vitex is safe for use while breastfeeding. Some research shows that, in higher doses, Vitex inhibits prolactin production, which may decrease breast milk supply in some women. When given at a lower dose, it appears to increase milk supply. It has also been shown as safe to take as a homeopathic remedy during lactation.

Discontinue use of Vitex in early pregnancy by weaning off over a one-week period. You would first contact your doctor/midwife/naturopathic physician and request to get your hormone levels tested. In the case of low progesterone due to insufficient corpus luteal function, Vitex has been shown to be safe to continue through the first trimester of pregnancy. That being said, it would be best to only do so under the supervised guidance of a skilled herbalist or midwife trained in herbal medicine.

Click here to learn more about Vitex…

Dandelion leaf (Taraxacum officinale)
Dandelion leaves are deeply nourishing to the body, as they are high in vitamins and minerals. The leaves can be used to increase nutritional intake; they are supportive of liver health, which plays a key role in hormonal balance. This wild food/herb is safe for breastfeeding when taken as an infusion or eaten as a food. Dandelion leaf is safe for use in pregnancy.

Slight caution: Dandelion leaf can be diuretic, do not exceed safe dosage, as this may cause diarrhea and dehydration.

Click here (scroll down the article a bit) to learn more about the benefits of Dandelion leaf…
Click here to access my tea recipes that are safe for pregnancy and lactation…

Evening Primrose Oil (Oenothera biennis)
Evening primrose oil (EPO) is one of the easiest herbs to take, as it comes in capsule form. EPO aids in hormonal balance and uterine tone, both of which are important aspects to achieving pregnancy. It is a rich source of the omega 6 fatty acids, linoleic acid (LA) and gamma linolenic acid (GLA). LA is needed for prostaglandin E and GLA is needed for the synthesis of prostaglandin E. One of the many functions of Prostaglandins is to help control the regulation of hormones as well as control proper cell growth. Supplementation with EPO by breastfeeding mothers has been shown to increase the quality of breast milk by raising the essential fatty acid and total fat content of breast milk.

Click here to learn proper dosing and more fertility benefits of EPO…

Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Nettle leaf is one of the most nutrient-dense plants around. It is high in a variety of vitamins and minerals, specifically those that are necessary for thyroid health. It is very high in vitamin C, which is essential for proper iron utilization and tissue formation. It is also astringent, which can be helpful for those women with heavy menstrual bleeding. Nettle is supportive of liver function, aiding in hormonal balance. It has been used for hundreds of years to help keep up a mother’s milk supply, aiding healthy breast milk production. I find that Nettle is best consumed as an infusion and is safe to continue, as an infusion, throughout pregnancy.

Click here to learn more about the use and benefits of Nettle…

Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus)
If you aren’t already consuming this herb regularly, you should be! Raspberry leaf is an excellent way to get your uterus back in shape for pregnancy. It is one of the best uterine tonic herbs around! It is also very high in vitamins and minerals, which will help boost your nutrition prior to your next pregnancy, and it makes for rich breast milk.

Click here to learn more about Raspberry Leaf and to get my infusion recipes…

Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)
Shatavari is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy for menstrual cycle regulation. It is a gentle adaptogen herb that encourages proper stress response, and aids in hormonal balance and immune system function. It is an estrogen regulator and galactagogue. Galactagogues help increase and support breast milk production. Shatavari is also a great way to support cervical mucus production, aiding in vaginal dryness. Discontinue use in pregnancy.
Click here to learn about dosing and detailed benefits of Shatavari…

References

  • Winston, David. Maimes, Steven. (2007). Adaptogens Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief. Rochester, Vermont: Healing Arts Press.
  • Romm, Aviva. (2010). Botanical Medicine for Women’s Health. St. Louis, Missouri: Churchill Livingstone Press.
  • Mills, Simon; Bone, Kerry. (2005). The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety. St. Louis, Missouri: Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier.

« Previous Post
Success Story: How Samantha Overcame Irregular Cycles to Get Pregnant
Next Post »
Menstrual Health Resources

About the Author

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula

Practicing natural health and herbalism for over 18 years, Dalene received her training and herbal certification under the guidance of Lynn Albers at Yarmony Mt. Herbal College in Colorado in 2000. She went on to become a Certified Birth Doula at Birthingway College of Midwifery in Portland, Oregon in 2007. As a Birth Doula, Dalene has helped to bring many new lives in to this world. Dalene has written 280+ fertility articles and with her vast array of herbal and holistic healing knowledge has helped 1000's of women on their journey to Motherhood.

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

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 31

Open
👇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

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 30

Open
🌱 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. 👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 30

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

A: Swipe left for our answer...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 30

Open
⭐ 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 👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 29

Open
🌱 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.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 29

Open
🧪 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 👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 28

Open
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

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 28

Open
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?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 28

Open
🕯️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. 🐝

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 27

Open
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

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 27

Open
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

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 26

Open
💡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….👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 26

Open
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

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 26

Open
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.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 25

Open
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.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 25

Open
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.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 24

Open
🌱 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 👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 24

Open
👇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

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 23

Open
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....💛👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 23

Open
🌱 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 👇👇
Load More...

Footer

  • Programs
  • Upcoming Classes

  • Consultations
  • Contact Us