Physical Therapy for Infertility

Did you know that 1 in 10 of all couples struggle with infertility? This number increases to 1 in 7 over age 30 and 1 in 5 over age 35. The World Health Organization defines infertility as the “failure to achieve clinical pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse”. Physical therapy can help with infertility through various manual therapy techniques.

Causes of Infertility 

There are multiple causes of infertility, considering both partners. In order for pregnancy to occur, sperm must be able to travel up through the vagina and uterus, and then through to the fallopian tubes. Then, in order for that fertilized egg, or ovum, to implant in the uterus, it must first travel through the fallopian tubes and into the uterus.

Although the reproductive system is not made of skeletal muscle, like the muscles in our arms and legs, it requires the ability to MOVE and PROPEL important cells and tissues. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist trained in visceral mobilization can help to optimize chances of successful conception, particularly with blocked fallopian tubes. This pelvic alignment and fertility treatment is most effective when infertility causes are linked to history of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), abdominopelvic surgeries or ovulatory problems.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is often linked to histories of infections; diagnosed by a tender abdomen, sensitization to pain and significant resistance to antibiotics. Ovulatory problems can include:

• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

• Thyroid Dysfunction

• Hypothalamic Amenorrhea

These conditions may contribute to hormonal imbalances, impaired follicle maturation, and implantation of embryo and sperm motility. 

What do these conditions—PID, post-surgical incisions and ovulatory challenges—have in common? They are all linked to abdominopelvic inflammation. When infection, foreign materials, and incision or tissue dysfunction are present, there will be an inflammatory immune response. We need these responses because they show that our body is working to protect us. If the above conditions mount a long term immune response, this will result in increased scar tissue and restriction over time, therefore decreasing fertility. 

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Infertility

The goal of Pelvic Health PT is to get the client out of inflammation by treating tissue restrictions. If you are struggling with infertility, please reach out to a physical therapist and ask questions. 

If you are planning to undergo Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), physical therapy may be a great way to help optimize your chances for success. Please let your therapist know if you have already completed ART or if there is a chance you may already be pregnant, as your therapist will not use any techniques that could disrupt the process. 

Looking for ways to maximize your recovery? Contact us today to get started. Our Las Vegas Physical Therapy clinic can help create a personalized plan to address infertility.