The message I wish to get across when writing this article, is that when trying for a baby, until you have exhausted every possible avenue (that you can sensibly afford), do not give up hope!
My story
Eight years ago I went through 2 years of invasive fertility treatment. As I'm sure many of you readers are aware, this is not only physically painful and humiliating, but psychologically draining also.
With Polycistic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) I was politely taken outside the consulting room by my Gynaecologist and told “off the record” that the NHS 'money pot' had run out, and that I had little hope of getting pregnant.
At the age of 26 I was not going to let this deter me, in fact it made me even more determined , and I decided to prove the 'experts' wrong and ‘go it alone’ in the voyage to get pregnant.
Having had various hormones pumped into me I had gained nearly 2 stones in weight, so firstly I had to try and get fit and trim again. I embarked on a sensible 'low fat' healthy eating plan, and went to a legs, bums and tums exercise class weekly. After 9 weeks, I had shed the 2 stone and was in better shape than ever!
Disillusioned
Still not pregnant at this point, I decided to explore the 'alternative therapy' route. I sought the help of a recommended clinic and firstly embarked on reflexology. This was a hurdle in itself for me as I have a phobia about anything touching my feet!
After my initial treatment, I was stunned to have a period (I had not had a period in over 2 years because of the PCOS). This went on to create a regular cycle.
Having got my ovulation established, I also had a one off course of homeopathy. I was slightly sceptical about this because I was simply taking a white tablet each day, that could have been doing anything to me!
Success at last
Well treading the new territory certainly paid off. After 2 months I was amazed to find myself pregnant!
Seven years later, I gave birth to my second son (In May 2007). Once again I was referred for fertility treatment which filled me with dread. To get my body and fertility up to scratch, I had a dual treatment of acupuncture and reflexology, in less than 4 months I was pregnant yet again.
Considering 8 years ago I was told I would be unlikely to have children, I think it's fair to say I have well and truly proven the 'experts' wrong! And to think, the financial cost of both my children has been about £120 in alternative therapy treatments, worth every single penny!
My advice
Whatever you may have been through (down the medical route), I plea to all would be mums to give alternative therapies a try, it's got to be worth it.
Ask you G.P if you can access ‘alternative therapies’ via the surgery. In many Primary Care Trusts across the UK, GP’s themselves practice these additional skills. That way you may get that essential treatment for free!
Good luck.
