Going through IVF can be both physically and emotionally demanding. While IVF relies on advanced reproductive technology, many patients choose to incorporate Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a complementary approach to support their overall fertility journey.

At Longevity Fertility Centre, every treatment plan is personalized based on your medical history, fertility diagnosis, laboratory results, and IVF timeline.

Traditional Chinese Medicine may help support IVF by:

• Promoting healthy blood circulation to the reproductive organs
• Supporting hormonal balance and menstrual cycle regulation
• Helping reduce stress and promote relaxation during treatment
• Supporting overall reproductive health before, during, and after IVF
• Providing individualized herbal medicine tailored to each patient’s unique needs

Many patients begin TCM several months before IVF to optimize their health, while others seek support during ovarian stimulation, embryo transfer preparation, or the post-transfer period.

Our comprehensive fertility assessments include a detailed review of your fertility history, bloodwork, ultrasound reports, and previous IVF treatment to develop an individualized, evidence-informed care plan.

If you’re preparing for IVF or have experienced unsuccessful cycles, we’re here to help you explore a personalized, integrative approach to fertility care.

What Are FSH, LH, Estrogen, and Progesterone?

FSH, LH, estrogen (estradiol, E2), and progesterone are the four key hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and fertility.

FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) is released by the pituitary gland and stimulates ovarian follicles to grow. Each follicle contains an egg, and FSH helps the dominant follicle mature.

Estrogen (Estradiol, E2) is produced by the developing follicle. It thickens the uterine lining and signals that the egg is approaching maturity.

A high estrogen level triggers the LH (Luteinizing Hormone) surge, which causes ovulation, usually within 24–36 hours, releasing the mature egg.

After ovulation, the empty follicle becomes the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. Progesterone prepares and maintains the uterine lining for implantation. If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels fall, and menstruation begins.

Hormone testing helps evaluate ovulation, ovarian reserve, irregular cycles, PCOS, and fertility. FSH, LH, and estradiol are typically measured on days 2–4 of the menstrual cycle, while progesterone is best measured about 7 days after ovulation.

Understanding these hormones is an important step in assessing reproductive health and identifying potential fertility concerns.

The endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus where an embryo implants. Its thickness changes throughout the menstrual cycle in response to estrogen and progesterone.

A thinner uterine lining may sometimes be associated with lower implantation potential, particularly during IVF or frozen embryo transfer. However, thickness is only one part of the fertility picture. Blood flow, hormone levels, uterine health, embryo quality, age, cycle timing, and medical history may also affect the chance of pregnancy.

Possible factors linked with a persistently thin lining include hormonal concerns, reduced uterine blood flow, previous uterine procedures, inflammation, or scar tissue.

If an ultrasound shows a thin lining, the result should be reviewed together with the timing of the scan and your overall fertility history. One measurement alone does not provide the full picture.

When it comes to fertility, there’s no shortage of advice—but not all of it is accurate. Here are a few common myths we often hear:

Myth #1: If you have regular periods, you’re definitely ovulating.
Not always. While regular cycles often suggest ovulation, they don’t guarantee that an egg is being released every month.

Myth #2: Fertility is only a woman’s concern.
Male factors contribute to nearly half of all infertility cases. Evaluating both partners is an important part of a fertility assessment.

Myth #3: Low AMH means you can’t get pregnant.
AMH measures ovarian reserve, not egg quality. Many women with low AMH have gone on to achieve successful pregnancies.

Myth #4: Age only affects female fertility.
Male fertility also changes with age. Sperm quality and DNA integrity can gradually decline over time.

Myth #5: If pregnancy hasn’t happened after a few months, something must be wrong.
For healthy couples under 35, it can take up to a year to conceive naturally. If you’re over 35, or have known reproductive concerns, it’s a good idea to seek an earlier evaluation.

Understanding the facts can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary stress. Every fertility journey is unique, and a personalized assessment is often the best place to start.

Many women worry after hearing they have a low AMH or low ovarian reserve, but it’s important to understand that egg quantity and egg quality are not the same thing. Egg quantity refers to how many eggs remain in your ovaries. Tests such as AMH and antral follicle count (AFC) estimate your ovarian reserve. A lower egg count doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t get pregnant—it simply means there are fewer eggs available. Egg quality refers to how healthy those eggs are. Healthy eggs are more likely to fertilize, develop into healthy embryos, implant successfully, and lead to a healthy pregnancy. While egg quality naturally declines with age—especially after 35—it isn’t measured by AMH alone. One of the most common misconceptions is that low AMH equals poor egg quality. Fortunately, that’s not always true. Many women with low AMH still conceive naturally or have successful IVF outcomes. Supporting your fertility involves more than looking at one lab result. A healthy lifestyle, good nutrition, quality sleep, stress management, and appropriate medical care all play important roles. Traditional Chinese Medicine may also help support reproductive health by promoting healthy menstrual cycles and improving overall wellness. Every fertility journey is unique. Rather than focusing on a single number, it’s important to evaluate the whole picture—including your age, hormone levels, menstrual history, and overall health.

The short answer is yes.

Before Pregnancy
Ideally, prenatal vitamins should be started 1–3 months before conception. Nutrients such as folic acid help support early fetal development and may reduce the risk of certain birth defects that occur in the first few weeks of pregnancy.

During Pregnancy
As your baby grows, your nutritional needs increase. Prenatal vitamins help provide important nutrients such as folate, iron, iodine, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 to support both maternal health and fetal development.

After Pregnancy
Many healthcare providers recommend continuing prenatal vitamins while breastfeeding. Pregnancy and childbirth can deplete nutrient stores, and breastfeeding increases the demand for several vitamins and minerals. Continuing a prenatal vitamin may help support both maternal recovery and your baby’s nutritional needs.

While prenatal vitamins are an important supplement, they work best when combined with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

If you are planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or postpartum, speak with your healthcare provider about which prenatal supplement is right for you.

Fibroids (uterine fibroids) are common non-cancerous growths that can occur during a woman’s reproductive years. Some women may have no symptoms, while others may experience heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, bloating, frequent urination, painful periods, or fertility concerns.

Fibroids vary in size, number, and location. Their effect on fertility may depend on where they develop. Fibroids that distort the uterine cavity or larger fibroids within the uterine muscle may sometimes affect implantation, uterine blood flow, embryo development, or increase miscarriage risk in some individuals. However, not all fibroids cause infertility.

Treatment depends on individual circumstances. Surgical consultation may sometimes be considered for larger fibroids (often around 5–10 cm), rapidly growing fibroids, fibroids affecting the uterine cavity, or cases involving severe bleeding, pain, anemia, recurrent pregnancy loss, or fertility concerns.

Women with fibroids often seek support for menstrual symptoms, pelvic discomfort, fertility planning, or IVF preparation. Management should be individualized based on symptoms, imaging findings, reproductive goals, and overall health.

If fibroids are affecting your quality of life or reproductive health, discussing your options with a qualified healthcare professional may be helpful.

Many people focus on major treatments, but small daily habits can quietly affect fertility over time. Here are a few factors to be mindful of: • Irregular sleep patterns Sleep plays an important role in hormonal balance. Chronic sleep disruption may affect ovulation and overall reproductive health. • High stress levels Ongoing stress can influence the body’s natural rhythms and may impact fertility indirectly. • Unbalanced diet Frequent intake of highly processed foods, excess sugar, or irregular eating patterns may affect metabolic and hormonal stability. • Lack of physical activity Too little movement can affect circulation, while excessive intense exercise may also disrupt hormonal balance. • Excess caffeine or alcohol Moderation is key. High intake may influence reproductive function in some individuals. • Ignoring menstrual changes Irregular cycles, unusual symptoms, or discomfort are signals from the body that shouldn’t be overlooked. Fertility is not only about one factor — it reflects the overall balance of the body over time. Paying attention to daily habits can be a meaningful first step in supporting your reproductive health.

In recent years, scientists have been studying how certain chemicals found in plastics may affect reproductive health. Some plastic products contain substances such as **BPA (bisphenol A)** and **phthalates**, which are known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals. These compounds may interfere with the body’s natural hormone signaling. Hormones play an important role in reproduction. In women, hormonal balance influences ovulation, egg development, and the menstrual cycle. In men, hormones regulate sperm production and reproductive function. Some studies suggest that long-term exposure to certain plastic-related chemicals may be associated with changes in hormone levels and reproductive health. These chemicals can sometimes be found in plastic food containers, water bottles, food packaging, cosmetics, and household products. Heating food in plastic containers may increase the release of certain compounds into food and beverages. While research is still ongoing, many health professionals recommend reducing unnecessary exposure to plastics when possible. Using **glass or stainless steel containers**, avoiding heating food in plastic, and limiting single-use plastics may help reduce exposure. Fertility is influenced by many factors, including age, lifestyle, environmental exposures, and overall health. Being aware of potential environmental influences can help individuals make informed choices to support long-term reproductive health.