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Improving Uterine Health for Fertility, Conception and Implantation



Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

One of the miracles of the human body is that every cell renews over time and is replaced by healthy new cells. This gives us the opportunity to work toward changing our fertility issues by nourishing and taking care of our bodies now, so that those new cells have the best chance possible to be vibrant and healthy!

In our Improve Egg Health Guide you have learned ways to nourish and support healthy eggs, but did you know it is also just as important to have a healthy uterus for a fertilized egg to implant? Many women say that they can get pregnant, “but the egg just won’t stick”. Or, “the doctor says that my uterus is not healthy enough for implantation.” Well, we have compiled a guide to improving your uterine health. Many of these natural remedies may be familiar to you, but after reading this guide you may look at them in a whole new way. This is what is so wonderful about natural remedies; many of them have the ability to cross over and heal various different parts of our bodies or have multiple healing actions.

The Purpose of the Uterus

The uterus is intended to be the home of a developing baby. It is one of the most amazing organs in the female body. It is about 7cm long and 5cm wide at the top and 2.5cm at the bottom. The uterus is made up of 3 layers. The perimetrium is the outermost layer of the uterus; in comparison to the other layers, it is relatively thin. The myometrium is the middle layer. Within this myometrium are three layers of smooth muscle arranged in spiral, circular and longitudinal muscle patterns. The endometrium is the inner mucosal lining. It has two layers. The stratum functionale contains the excretory glands and is shed as menses during menstruation. It is then built-up again by stimulation of the ovaries releasing hormones. The deeper layer that resides next to the myometrium is vascular (vessels that carry fluids) and serves to regenerate the stratum functionale after each menstruation ends.

Factors That May Cause the Uterus to Function Improperly

The uterus is constantly working to provide us with the best first home for our developing baby. Because the menstrual cycle is a complex symphony of communication and actions, anything that disrupts the function of the communication or physical make-up of our reproductive system may cause the uterus to not function properly.

Lifestyle factors are the modifiable habits and ways of life that can greatly influence overall health and well-being, including fertility. Many lifestyle factors such as the age at which to start a family, nutrition, weight, exercise, psychological stress, environmental and occupational exposures, and others can have substantial effects on fertility; lifestyle factors such as cigarette smoking, illicit drug use, and alcohol and caffeine consumption can negatively influence fertility while others such as preventative care may be beneficial. ~ Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic researchers

Sedentary Lifestyle
Leading an inactive lifestyle with little to no exercise creates a situation of stagnation of blood flow to our uterus and other reproductive organs. The main artery that supplies blood to our legs also supplies blood to our uterus, ovaries, and vagina. If we sit around a lot, especially if we have a desk job, the blood flow to our uterus may be compromised. This is also not a good situation if we have fertility issues pertaining to our uterus, especially if there is scar tissue or adhesions present. Not moving this area of our body enough can contribute to scar tissue and adhesions forming. Doctors going in for surgery in this area of the body have reported scar tissue and adhesions attaching the uterus or ovaries to other areas of the body such as the bladder or other organs. This can be very painful and dangerous.

Sedentary lifestyle also contributes directly to weak muscles of the uterus.

Uterine Fibroids
Uterine Fibroids often form in the layers of the uterus, causing painful periods or dysfunction of the menstrual cycle from slight to serious; causing heavy menstrual bleeding, long periods, pelvic pain or pressure, etc., according to the Mayo Clinic. Some women carry to term with uterine fibroids present, while others struggle with getting the embryo to implant.

Though 20% – 80% of women by age 50 will develop uterine fibroids, according to the Office on Women’s Health at the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, doctors are actually unsure of what causes them to occur. What they do know, however, is that estrogen and progesterone contribute to the growth of the fibroids. Estrogen and progesterone, in balance, is also necessary for the health of the uterine lining.

Scar Tissue
Scar tissue in the uterus can form for a variety of reasons that lead back to some kind of trauma to the uterus. Some of these reasons shared by University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, “USC Fertility”, include:

  • Abortion
  • D&C after miscarriage
  • Cesarean section
  • Intrauterine Device (IUD)
  • Abdominal Surgery in the uterus or nearby
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) caused by Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)
  • Endometriosis

Endometriosis
Endometriosis is when the tissues of the endometrium lining of the uterus grow outside of the uterus. In women with endometriosis the displaced tissues function and are influenced by hormones just as a normal endometrium would be. This means that these displaced tissues go through the same cycle that any endometrium would; the tissues build up as the body approaches ovulation and then begin to break down when ovulation does not occur. Then the displaced tissues bleed during menses. Endometriosis tissue attaches to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, bladder, ligaments or other areas in the abdominal cavity. Rarely the endometrial cells will attach to other areas in the body including the lungs and nasal cavity.

Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal imbalance contributes to or may play a key role in a variety of fertility issues that may affect the uterus. PCOS, Uterine Fibroids, and Endometriosis are just some of the more serious ways hormonal imbalance may contribute to uterine dysfunction. If our hormones are not balanced, we may have an irregular menstrual cycle or irregularities in the menstrual cycle such as Absent Period, short cycles, long heavy cycles, etc.

In the case of irregular menstruation, there is a chance that the uterus is not able to fully empty its contents each month. A uterus that is not stimulated to shed the endometrium, or sheds the endometrium inadequately each month, may become atrophied. This means the muscles lose their tone and strength. If the mucosal lining known as the stratum functionale is not stimulated to secrete mucus and build up the endometrium, then the uterus is not lubricated and may become “dry” and weak. You can see why this would not be the best environment to house an embryo. The endometrium needs proper hormonal balance to be signaled to grow to a proper size to house and nourish the embryo until the placenta is developed enough to take over.

As I said before, the menstrual cycle is a complex symphony of communication and actions; anything that disrupts the function of the communication or physical make-up of our reproductive system may cause the uterus to not function properly. This includes hormonal balance.

Tipped Uterus
The normal positioning of the uterus should be straight up and down (vertical). In some cases, a woman’s uterus may become tipped backward or forward.

This may be caused, according to the American Pregnancy Association, by stretching of the ligaments after childbirth, scarring and adhesions from endometriosis or uterine fibroids and improper development of the position of the uterus. A misplaced or tipped uterus may cause pain, irregular menstruation, urinary tract infections, and difficulties using tampons, as well as pain during intercourse.

How to Naturally Improve Uterine Health

Note: These ideas are for general overall uterine health. If you have a specific condition such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids please also see our pages for those specific conditions.

Exercise

This should be one of the first steps in improving any type of health issue, including improving uterine health. Walking and Fertility Yoga are two of the best ways to promote circulation and improve strength and flexibility of the muscles surrounding the uterus.

Two studies, one out of India and the other Chicago, USA, published in Fertility and Sterility, brought to light the promising anxiety and stress-reduction benefits of Yoga particularly for IVF patients. Yoga is also know to be restoring to fertility across the board. The gynecologist and fertility specialist recommended Restoring Fertility – Yoga For Optimal Fertility DVD is a series of menstrual cycle specific poses created by Licensed Acupuncturists and Drs. Brandon Horn, PhD and Wendy Yu PhD(c), that declared by Dr. Rudy Quintero, MD (FACOG), Medical Director of California’s Advanced Reproductive Endocrinology to be, “…a revolutionary approach in fertility support based on a thorough understanding of reproductive medicine … these sets should be considered as a part of any fertility treatment.”

Fertility Cleansing

The Fertility Cleanse may be a great way to create proper hormonal balance through cleansing and nourishing the liver. The liver helps to filter toxins from the body, including excess hormones, that may be contributing to hormonal imbalance. The liver plays a key role in hormonal balance. The liver cleanse phase gently works with your liver to remove excess hormones and environmental toxins, while nourishing and regenerating the liver cells.

Fertility Cleansing also has a uterine cleanse phase. In some instances, the uterus is not able to empty its entire contents every menstrual cycle. This phase of the cleanse uses specific herbs and nutrients that support the uterus to cleanse old contents and stagnant blood, while reducing inflammation, promoting circulation as well as having a tonic effect on the uterus.

Self Fertility Massage

Self Fertility Massage may be one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways you can improve your uterine health. It can be done from the comfort and privacy of your own home. Self Fertility Massage™ is a series of massage techniques that are used to help support reproductive health, the menstrual cycle, and your fertility.

Ways Self Fertility Massage Improves Uterine Health

  • Increases circulation to the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes.
  • Promotes hormonal balance by strengthening the hormonal feedback loop.
  • Helps the uterus to rid itself of old stagnant blood and tissues.
  • Helps to reposition a tilted uterus.
  • Increases endorphins which help reduce pain associated with uterine issues.
  • Brings fresh, oxygenated blood to the uterus.
  • Aids the uterus in getting rid of blood clots.
  • Helps to strengthen the uterine muscles.

Castor Oil Therapy

A Castor Oil Pack is a cloth soaked in castor oil which is placed on the skin to enhance circulation and promote healing of the tissues and organs underneath the skin. A castor oil pack applied over the uterus helps to promote cleansing and increase circulation to the uterine tissues, in order to improve function and health of the uterus. This therapy is complementary to Self Fertility Massage and Radiant Womb therapeutic massage oil. Castor oil packs are a great place to create a healthy foundation for uterine health.

Radiant Womb Herbal Fertility Massage Oil

Radiant Womb is a therapeutic massage oil designed to help support reproductive health. Infused with medicinal herbs and therapeutic essential oils, Radiant Womb can be used during Self Fertility Massage or applied directly to the lower abdomen, ankles, and feet to support the reproductive system. This massage oil softens the tissues, promotes circulation to the uterus, while aiding in tone of the uterine muscles.

L-Arginine

L-Arginine promotes synthesis of Nitric Oxide (NO). Nitric Oxide is naturally produced by the body and is important for blood vessel dilation as well as increasing blood flow to the uterus, ovaries, and genitals. L-Arginine promotes a healthy environment for implantation.

Herbs for Uterine Health

Dong Quai

Dong Quai tonifies and strengthens the uterus by regulating hormonal control, improving uterine tone, and improving the timing of the menstrual cycle. In traditional Chinese medicine Dong Quai is referred to as a blood tonic as it has a general effect on circulation. It has also been shown to improve red blood cell counts. It is traditionally used for situations of stagnation (PCOS, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and fibroids) as it increases the blood flow to the reproductive system, reducing congestion and pain. The increased circulation also helps to strengthen and balance the uterus. In rat studies, it has been shown to help build the uterine lining. Dong Quai also has a relaxing effect on the uterus.

*This herb is best used by women with pale to absent menstrual flow, as it has a slight blood thinning effect and may not be a good choice for women with heavy menstrual cycles.

Red Raspberry Leaf

Red raspberry leaf is a great nutritive herb, high in vitamins and minerals as well as an easily-absorbed form of calcium. It is also a wonderful uterine tonic. This is a great herb for women preparing for pregnancy and has been shown to be a great help in the efficiency of the uterus during labor. It also helps to reduce excessive bleeding during and after childbirth. This herb is considered to be one of the safest for pregnancy and pregnancy preparation. It should not be used in the 1st trimester if there is a history of uterine or implantation weakness that is contributing to recurrent miscarriage. In those cases, it may be best to use this herb in preparation for pregnancy, then begin again after the 1st trimester is over.

General suggested usage: 4-8 mL, liquid extract 3x a day, or 3 cups infusion a day.

FertiliCare Phase 1 & 2 Monthly Liquid Herbal Program

This liquid herbal blend contains a great combination of herbs for uterine health. It contains 4 important and key herbs for uterine health; Rehmannia, Dong Quai, Damiana, and Crampbark. FertiliCare works with the natural rhythm of the female menstrual cycle to improve uterine health and promote hormonal balance in preparation for pregnancy. Since we have already discussed Dong Quai, here is a little information on the other 3 herbs:

Rehmannia: Rehmannia has been used for hundreds of years to relax the smooth muscles of the uterus, reducing any sort of uterine pain or spasm. Rehmannia is also extremely nourishing to the blood for a healthy uterine lining.

Damiana: Damiana helps to encourage circulation and blood supply to the uterus.

Crampbark: This herb promotes a calm, relaxed, and healthy uterus. One of the best herbs to promote proper function and efficiency of the uterus.

FertiliCare Phase 1 & 2 also supports hormonal balance, regulation of the entire menstrual cycle and libido.

Three Month Uterine Health Plan

If you are wanting to improve your overall uterine health, below is a simple 3-month-long guide to increasing circulation to the uterus, toning the muscles of the uterus, toning and stretching tissues and muscles surrounding the reproductive organs as well as promoting hormonal balance. It may be best to work toward improving your uterine health at least 3-6 months prior to trying to conceive. If you are implementing any of these natural therapies while you are actively trying to conceive, only use them from the time after your period ends up to ovulation, in case you become pregnant. Walking and yoga are fine to continue all month long; stop doing yoga if you are on your period.

*Remember if you have specific fertility issues that require other natural therapies, please refer to those specific guides. For example, if you have scar tissue or adhesions in your uterus you may want to learn how Systemic Enzyme Therapy may help dissolve and break-down scar tissue. This guide is for general uterine health.

Month 1

1. Natural Fertility Diet- be sure to include your 8 glasses of water
2. Exercise: Walk at least 5 times a week for 30 minutes, do Fertility Yoga at least 2-3 times a week.
3. Fertility Cleanse
4. Self Fertility Massage, at least 4-5 times a week
5. Castor Oil Pack, before Self Fertility Massage

Month 2

1. Natural Fertility Diet- be sure to include your 8 glasses of water
2. Exercise/Walk/Fertility Yoga
3. FertiliCare Phase 1 & 2
4. Self Fertility Massage
5. Castor Oil Packs
6. L-Arginine

Month 3

1. Natural Fertility Diet- be sure to include your 8 glasses of water
2. Exercise/Walk/Fertility Yoga
3. FertiliCare Phase 1 & 2
4. Self Fertility Massage
5. Radiant Womb Massage Oil, daily
6. L-Arginine

Too learn more about related subjects covered in this article, please visit the following links:

The Best Natural Remedies for Uterine Fibroids…

Is Your Tilted Uterus Keeping you from Getting Pregnant?

Fertility Yoga

Why Liver Health is Important to Your Fertility

Red Raspberry Leaf Tea

FertiliCare Phase 1 & 2 Program

References

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