Fertility Support: Looking After Yourself on the Journey

How we think about fertility support

We want to be honest at the top of this page. The Advertising Standards Authority has been strict about what complementary clinics can claim about fertility, and for good reason. The evidence base for complementary therapies improving conception rates is mixed and contested. We make no claim on this page that any of our therapies increase your likelihood of conceiving.

What we do offer is something different. Looking after your physical and emotional wellbeing during this time is worthwhile in its own right. Regular gentle treatments, a rhythm of self care, and a place to be listened to can make a difficult period feel more manageable. That is the frame we work in.

Who comes to us

A proportion of our fertility related clients are at the beginning of their trying to conceive journey, and are thinking about preconception wellbeing in a broad way. Some are preparing for or going through IVF cycles, and want support alongside their clinic's protocol. Some are recovering from a pregnancy loss and looking for gentle care during a hard stretch. And some are supporting a partner. Our practitioners have experience across all of these situations.

Therapies clients explore

Acupuncture. Our BAcC registered acupuncturists work with clients through the trying to conceive journey and alongside IVF cycles. We want to be careful about what we say here. Acupuncture around fertility is popular and it is researched, but the evidence about outcomes is contested. Our acupuncturists will have an honest conversation with you about what acupuncture can and cannot offer, and about what feels appropriate for your particular situation. A London ACT (London Acupuncture Childbirth Team) trained practitioner is available for fertility and pregnancy related care specifically.

Massage therapy. Regular therapeutic massage is one of the most popular forms of self care on a long fertility journey. Our practitioners adapt treatments to where you are in your cycle and, if relevant, to any medications you're taking.

Counselling and psychotherapy. The emotional load of fertility treatment is significant. Speaking with a UKCP accredited counsellor, individually or as a couple, is something a proportion of our fertility clients find valuable. We have counsellors experienced with pregnancy loss, IVF, and the relational strain that can come with them.

Mindfulness and meditation. A regular mindfulness practice can help with the waiting, which is often the hardest part. Our weekly meditation classes are open to drop ins.

Nutritional medicine and ayurvedic support. Some clients explore dietary and lifestyle approaches as part of broader preconception wellbeing.

What to expect at your first visit

Your practitioner will ask where you are on your journey, what medical care you are under, and what you're hoping complementary care will help you with. A thoughtful practitioner will decline to overpromise, and will work with you on what is realistic.