1 in 8 couples in the United States experience fertility struggles. With several factors contributing to this, I sat down with Dr. Danielle Vogler-Bos to discuss how she approaches fertility from a naturopathic perspective.
As a Naturopathic Doctor, she specializes in hormone optimization, which means she takes a deeper look at the full picture of hormones and how they’re functioning in the body.
This helps to paint a full picture of what’s going on to uncover the true root cause of any fertility struggles. But, she reminds us, it’s not just about the woman.
Men’s fertility is a growing concern, and a 2017 study showed that sperm counts had been halved in the last 40 years and were decreasing at about 1.5% per year.
So, what’s causing all of this?
One issue is the amount of hormone-disrupting chemicals many of us are exposed to unknowingly. From pesticides to plastics, over 60,000 chemicals have been introduced into our lives since 1960, many of which we’re now learning have harmful effects on human health.
Another issue (for the men) is our electronics. Dr. Vogler-Bos warns that cell phones and laptops placed in a pocket or on a lap can increase the temperature enough to have an effect on sperm.
How can we be empowered with a natural approach to fertility?
- Reduce your exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals (these can sneak into food, personal care products, and cleaning products). The Environmental Working group has some great tools, including the Dirty Dozen/Clean 15, Healthy Living App, and Tap Water Database
- Lay a foundation for your health before becoming pregnant. Check your nutrient levels, and take a medical grade prenatal. Ensure you have a solid foundation for your wellbeing before becoming a parent.
- Men can also avoid heat sources near their laps if they’re actively trying to conceive.
Listen to the full podcast recording for more, and get to know Dr. Danielle Vogler-Bos, who practices out of Minneapolis Integrative Medicine Center.