What Does Physical Therapy for Fertility Do?
Have you heard of all different types of treatment for infertility, but not sure what physical therapy for fertility does? This is a newer type of treatment, but early research shows promising results for this conservative way to help patients improve their fertility! If you’re wondering if getting physical therapy for fertility could be right for you, keep reading to learn more about how it helps!
How it Works
Physical therapy for fertility consists of mostly manual techniques with the goal of improving blood flow to the pelvic reproductive organs, as well as improving the mobility of the surrounding connective tissue. By releasing the muscles and fascia of the abdomen and pelvis, more blood flow can travel in AND out of the area, which promotes the best possible function for the reproductive organs.
The techniques used to promote better fertility are a mixture of visceral techniques, which target the tissues that surround organs, and myofascial releases, which target muscle and fascia. Both of these techniques require specialized training to perform them! Beyond the hands on manual treatment, physical therapy for fertility also incorporates a deeper look at nutritional habits, stress management, and exercise habits. These all play a role in your fertility, so it is important to address them alongside the manual treatment!
Who Would Benefit?
The patients that stand to benefit the most from these treatments are patients who fit any of the following groups:
Endometriosis
PCOS
History of a C-section
Pelvic Congestion
Narrowed or “Twisted” Uterine Tubes
These are all patients that are more likely to be experiencing a form of mechanical infertility. By improving blood flow, tissue mobility, and reducing any scar tissue in the area, the function of the reproductive organs increases and so does the likelihood of conceiving naturally!
Another important group to mention is those currently undergoing any IUI or IVF procedures to achieve pregnancy! Physical therapy can help support you and your body during that journey by optimizing the health of the uterus that the embryo will be implanted into.
Unfortunately, not everyone can expect positive results through physical therapy alone. Patients with a history of multiple abdominal/pelvic surgeries, having blocked uterine tubes, or ovarian insufficiency have less chance of finding success with physical therapy treatment alone.
Want to Learn More?
Whether you’re wanting to feel prepared for when you TTC or you’re currently experiencing infertility, physical therapy can be a conservative approach to improve your fertility! Wondering if you’d be a good fit for our Fertility Program? Call us at 414-331-2323 to speak with a specialist and find out!
Click Here to Schedule a Consultation!
References:
Kramp, M.E. (2012) Combined manual therapy techniques for the treatment of women with infertility: A case series, De Gruyter. De Gruyter. Available at: https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.7556/jaoa.2012.112.10.680/html?lang=en (Accessed: February 13, 2023).
