Fertility & Pregnancy

Becoming pregnant and deciding to start a family can be a very exciting time, but it can also be difficult and overwhelming. Working with a Naturopathic Doctor can help you feel supported and educated through the preconception period, throughout pregnancy, during labour and postpartum. Naturopathic Medicine can also support individuals who are undergoing Reproductive Assistance, including IVF. Couples looking for conception support are encouraged to attend visits together at one of Dr. Samantha Zahavi’s Toronto-based locations for mutual assessment.

“A women’s fertility and pregnancy journey takes a women’s deepest fears about herself and shows her that she is stronger than them. Don’t expect everyone to understand your journey, especially if they’ve never had to walk your path.”

— Anonymous

Naturopathic Medicine Can Help with:

Preconception

The preconception period involves the months leading up to conception. The health of the ova and sperm present at the time of conception are the result of your pre-existing health. Naturopathic Doctors may help with:

Egg & Sperm Health Optimization (should be started ~3 months prior to conception)
Overcoming obstacles to pregnancy (irregular periods, PCOS, hormonal imbalances, thyroid conditions, etc.)
Nutrition & proper supplementation is essential for a healthy pregnancy and fetal development
Naturopathic doctors can help educate you about your health and body to increase the chances of natural conception
Acupuncture has been proven to increase the effectiveness of IVF by reducing stress, increasing blood flow to the pelvic region and improving rates of implantation and pregnancy maintenance.

Pregnancy

Naturopathic Medicine can help manage pre-existing or chronic conditions throughout your pregnancy. Naturopathic Doctors can also support you through common complaints associated with each trimester which include, but are not limited to:

First Trimester: nausea & vomiting, fatigue, nutrient deficiencies, fetal brain development, exercise guidelines, stress management
Second Trimester: headaches, muscle cramping, restless leg syndrome, insomnia, blood sugar regulation
Third Trimester: management of more serious complications such as pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes and education around labour & delivery
Inducing Labour: Naturopathic modalities may be used to assist in ripening of the cervix and inducing labour more naturally once your pass your due date.
Acupuncture is effective in alleviating common complaints and improving pregnancy outcomes

For more information on support during labour & delivery, please visit my Doula page.

Post-partum & Newborn care

Post-partum care is essential for new parents and babies. Naturopathic Medicine can help in many ways, including but not limited to:

Preventing post partum blues, anxiety or depression
Providing healing support for the perineum and/or c-section recovery
Providing breastfeeding support (latch techniques, clogged ducts, mastitis, supply issues)
Supporting healthy stress management for parents undergoing lack of sleep and new changes
Providing supplementation and support for baby’s developing brain and immune system (important for preventing future illness, autoimmune disease, allergies and asthma)
Ongoing support for underlying and pre-existing medical conditions
Optimizing nutrition for new Mothers who have little time for themselves

Dr. Samantha Zahavi, ND is available for both virtual appointments and in-person visits at her Midtown Toronto clinic.

book a free 10 minute consult