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Tamara Roe, L.Ac-Fertility, Pregnancy, IVF, Acupuncture, Integrative, Functional Medicine | San Diego
 

Protocols to Support Fertility

 
Flower image of uterus

Tips to Build Uterine Lining

If you’re looking to boost your uterine lining for fertility support, here are some integrative tips to enhance endometrial health. Acupuncture, Supplements, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Dietary Changes, and Lifestyle Tips can help improve blood flow, balance hormones, and create a warm, receptive environment for implantation.

Tips to Support an IUI Cycle

Here's a comprehensive guide combining dietary and lifestyle suggestions for supporting health around an IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) procedure, emphasizing Yin-nourishing foods, blood sugar stabilization, inflammation reduction, and overall health support.

Tips to Support an FET Cycle

During an embryo transfer cycle, nourishing the body, calming the mind, and maintaining warmth are key to supporting implantation and early pregnancy. Diet and lifestyle adjustments can enhance the body's receptivity and promote overall balance, creating an optimal environment for implantation.

©Bloom Acupuncture & Fertility 2025

Uterine Lining Support Protocol



Practical Tips:

  • Keep Feet Warm: The Kidney meridian starts at the feet, and cold feet may block reproductive Qi. Wearing warm socks or soaking the feet in warm water can increase warmth and blood flow to the pelvic region.

  • Protect the Abdomen and Lower Back from Cold: Cold can disrupt blood flow to the uterus. Use warm clothing, hot water bottles, or warm compresses to keep these areas warm. Do not use direct heat on the abdomen following ovulation if you are actively TTC.

  • Warm Foods and Drinks: Focus on warm foods like soups, stews, and teas to maintain internal warmth, promoting Blood circulation and Qi flow.

Foods to Focus On:

  • Increase Blood-Nourishing Foods: Beets, spinach, black beans, pumpkin seeds, and liver enhance blood flow and support the uterine lining.

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Include wild-caught salmon, sardines, flaxseed, and walnuts to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy uterine lining.

  • Protein Intake: Adequate protein from lean meats, legumes, nuts, and seeds aids cellular growth and repair.

  • Reduce Inflammatory Foods: Minimize processed foods, refined sugars, and trans fats to reduce inflammation and improve endometrial health.

Supplements to Build Lining:

(Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplements, especially when trying to conceive.)

  • Methylated B Vitamins: Include methylated B6, methylated B9 (Methylfolate), and methylated B12 (Methylcobalamin) to regulate hormones, improve blood flow, and enhance endometrial thickness.

  • Bovine Liver Pills: Rich in heme iron, vitamin A, and B vitamins, these improve blood flow and nourish Blood, supporting endometrial health.

  • L-Arginine: Enhances nitric oxide production to increase uterine blood flow. (Avoid if you have a herpes virus variation, as it can trigger outbreaks.)

  • Vitamin E & Vitamin C: Antioxidants that support blood flow and improve uterine lining quality.

  • CoQ10: Supports mitochondrial function, reduces oxidative stress, and enhances blood flow to reproductive organs.

  • Melatonin: Reduces oxidative stress, supports healthy hormone levels, enhances uterine blood flow, and improves endometrial growth.

If you are interested in your own personal uterine lining protocol, book a visit for a 1 hour- Initial Online Functional Fertility appointment .

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©Bloom Acupuncture & Fertility 2025

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) Preparation & Support

Consistent Acupuncture Treatments

  • Regular Acupuncture: Begin acupuncture 1-2 times per week, starting 2-3 months before IUI to regulate cycles, improve blood flow, and optimize uterine lining.

  • Timing Around IUI: Schedule acupuncture the day before or on the day of IUI to support relaxation, blood flow, and implantation.

  • Continue During Pregnancy: Weekly acupuncture is recommended throughout the first trimester to maintain balance, support early pregnancy, and reduce stress.

Eat Yin-Nourishing and Blood Sugar-Stabilizing Foods

  • Proteins & Healthy Fats

    Animal Proteins: Include eggs, salmon, tuna, crab, scallops, and sardines. These help regulate blood sugar, nourish Yin, and support hydration and cooling in the body.

    Healthy Fats: Ghee, olive oil, coconut oil, and nut butters slow glucose absorption, support adrenal health, and promote stable energy.

  • Mineral-Rich Foods

    Bone Broths: Rich in minerals and gelatin, they nourish Yin, enhance digestion, and boost immunity.

    Celtic Sea Salt or Real Salt: Maintain electrolyte balance, support adrenal function, and provide essential trace minerals.

  • Seeds, Nuts, and Grains

    Black Sesame Seeds, Chestnuts, Sunflower Seeds: Provide healthy fats, proteins, and fiber to stabilize blood sugar and nourish Yin.

    Whole Grains: Lentils, millet, oats, quinoa, and barley offer sustained energy and stabilize blood sugar.

  • Vegetables

    Yin-Nourishing Vegetables: Asparagus, cabbage, carrots, cucumber, kelp, and seaweed offer hydration, cooling properties, and are low-glycemic for balanced blood sugar and Yin replenishment.

  • Fruits

    Berries and Melons: Blackberry, blueberry, cantaloupe, grapes, pear, strawberry, and watermelon hydrate, are antioxidant-rich, and have a low to moderate glycemic index, supporting Yin and reducing oxidative stress.

  • Legumes

    Beans: Kidney beans, mung beans, and string beans provide plant-based protein, fiber, and Yin nourishment, supporting stable blood sugar and energy.

Guidelines for Balanced Meals and Snacks

  • Combine Protein, Healthy Fats, and Fiber: Ensure each meal includes a balance of these components to maintain stable blood sugar and consistent energy. For example, a leafy green salad with avocado, lean protein, and olive oil dressing, paired with quinoa or barley.

  • Focus on Whole Foods: Minimize processed foods and refined carbs, opting for whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to maintain blood sugar balance and provide nutrient-dense nourishment.

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink water, herbal teas, and bone broths throughout the day to support fluid balance, Yin nourishment, and hydration, especially during fertility treatments.

  • Regular Meal Timing: Eat at consistent intervals to avoid long gaps, which can destabilize blood sugar and drain energy. Regular timing also supports adrenal and hormone balance.

  • Monitor Portion Sizes & Snack Wisely: Choose snacks that combine protein, healthy fats, and fiber, such as nuts with berries or hummus with vegetables, to maintain steady blood sugar levels between meals.

Lifestyle Recommendations Around IUI

  • Gentle Exercise: Engage in low-impact activities like walking, yoga, or tai chi to promote circulation without strain. Avoid high-intensity workouts that may deplete Yin or increase stress.

  • Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or acupuncture to support emotional well-being and reduce stress, which affects hormone regulation and fertility.

  • Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to promote hormonal balance, stress reduction, and Yin replenishment. Maintain a calming bedtime routine and consistent sleep schedule.

  • Warmth and Comfort: Keep feet and the lower abdomen warm (but not hot) to support reproductive health. Wear socks or slippers, avoid walking barefoot, and skip heating pads or hot water bottles on the lower abdomen.

  • Avoid Cold and Raw Foods: Minimize these around IUI, as they can be taxing on digestion. Opt for lightly cooked, warm meals that are easier to digest and help nourish Yin.

©Bloom Acupuncture & Fertility 2025

Tips to Support an FET Cycle

Diet Recommendations

  1. Warm and Nourishing Foods

    • Soups and Broths: Chicken soup, bone broth, and congee (rice porridge) with ginger and vegetables are ideal for warming the body and supporting digestion.

    • Cooked Vegetables: Focus on warm, cooked root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash, along with leafy greens like spinach and kale.

    • Grains: Opt for warm, easy-to-digest grains like rice, millet, and quinoa to nourish Spleen Qi and provide steady energy.

  2. Avoid Cold and Raw Foods

    • Cold Foods: Avoid salads, cold drinks, and raw fruits and vegetables, as these can weaken the Spleen and create internal cold, hindering implantation.

    • Ice-Cream and Cold Desserts: Steer clear to prevent internal dampness and cold that might disrupt balance.

  3. Blood and Qi Nourishing Foods

    • Red Meat: Moderate amounts of lean cuts of beef or lamb help build blood and Qi.

    • Eggs: Support Yin energy and overall nourishment.

    • Beans and Legumes: Lentils, black beans, and adzuki beans provide plant-based protein and nourish blood.

  4. Hydration

    • Warm Teas: Ginger tea, red date tea (jujube), or goji berry tea support warmth and blood nourishment.

    • Warm Water: Drink warm or room-temperature water throughout the day for digestion and hydration.

Lifestyle Recommendations

  1. Rest and Relaxation

    • Gentle Rest: Encourage plenty of rest, especially during the first few days. Gentle activities like short walks are fine, but avoid strenuous exercise.

    • Stress Reduction: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or light yoga (avoid twisting/inversions) to lower stress.

  2. Keep Warm

    • Dress Warmly: Ensure warmth, especially around the abdomen and lower back.

    • Warm Foot Soak: Opt for a warm foot soak with a few drops of essential oils like lavender or ginger for relaxation without overheating.

  3. Avoid Excessive Activity

    • No Heavy Lifting: Avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise, or anything that could strain the body.

    • Moderate Exercise: Light stretching, gentle yoga (no twisting/inversions), or walking is acceptable but should remain low-impact.

  4. Emotional Support

    • Positive Environment: Surround yourself with positivity and avoid stressful situations.

    • Mindful Practices: Engage in calming activities like reading, listening to soothing music, or spending time in nature.

Acupuncture Recommendations

  1. Acupuncture Timing

    • Pre and Post-Transfer: Acupuncture can be helpful before and after transfer. Pre-transfer sessions calm the mind and body, while post-transfer sessions support implantation by improving blood flow to the uterus.

  2. Acupuncture Points

    • Post-Transfer Points: Common points include ST36 (Zusanli) and DU20 (Baihui) to nourish blood, support Qi, and calm the mind, aiding implantation.

    • Frequency: Depending on individual needs, acupuncture may be recommended once or twice a week during the early stages after transfer.

  3. Focus on Relaxation

    • Stress Reduction: Acupuncture effectively manages stress and anxiety during this sensitive period, using techniques that balance emotions and calm the mind.

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