FERTILITY
Statistics show that fertility struggles can affect 17.5% of the reproductive-age population (World Health Organization). This affects about 1 out of 6 people. Infertility is a dysfunction of the male or female reproductive system, defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or longer of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Due to the high rate of infertility, women and men are realizing there are more options out there besides IVF. You have probably heard of many alternative and complementary approaches to treat infertility. Some of these alternative approaches may include acupuncture, yoga, and dietary changes. In our practice, we see many women experiencing fertility challenges who have increased stress and anxiety. Calming the nervous system plays an important role in healing and hormone balance, which is essential for healthy conception.
WHAT IS MERCIER THERAPY
Mercier Therapy is an alternative fertility treatment that can be utilized on it’s own or as a complement to any assisted reproductive technology (ART) such as IVF or IUI. Combining Mercier therapy with Pelvic Floor Therapy, acupuncture, and/or other bodywork can be emotionally AND physically healing that we often recommend combining treatments. Mercier Therapy is performed externally; it is deep pelvic organ visceral manipulation techniques that address scar tissue, adhesions, and decreased mobility of the pelvic and reproductive organs. Mobility of the organs plays an integral role in proper blood flow and optimal organ function. By improving the mobility of any structure in the body, whether it’s a musculoskeletal structure or a uterus, you optimize and enhance the function of that structure. Many of the women who seek our services have a history of pelvic or abdominal surgery, endometriosis or PCOS, all of which increase the likelihood of pelvic organ adhesions. Restrictions can affect the function of these organs and can cause pain, lack of blood and lymphatic flow, hormone imbalance, and decreased risk of fertility.
THE PROTOCOL
The Mercier Therapy protocol consists of 6 hours of therapy that is typically broken up into one-hour weekly sessions. We do offer treatment intensives for women who are traveling to see us from out of town or for those wanting to have the therapy work done prior to a scheduled ART procedure. This protocol can be used as a stand alone treatment or can be used to prepare for an ART procedure. Optimizing your body and mind improves your chance at a successful first cycle. The moment the word ‘infertility’ or ‘fertility’ is mentioned, couples usually both experience increased stress. We would love to walk through the entire process with you, not only improving mobility and function of the reproductive organs, but answering questions about diet, lab results, among others.
IS MERCIER RIGHT FOR ME?
- Mercier Therapy has an 83% stand-alone success rate supporting female conception and can complement other fertility treatments.
- Mercier Therapy is restorative, therapeutic, and allows for healing. It aims to treat the root cause of fertility struggles.
- Mercier Therapy is tailored to each individual, depending on her specific medical history, symptoms, and goals.
Mercier Therapy is beneficial for the following:
- Amenorrhea (lack of period)
- Anovulation
- Blocked fallopian tubes
- Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)
- Endometriosis
- INFERTILITY
- Ovarian function
- Painful intercourse
- Pelvic scarring from previous trauma or surgery ( laparoscopy, laparotomy, D&C, LEEP, abortion, cystocele or rectocele repair, cesarean section, or hysterectomy)
- PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)
- Uterine Fibroids
- Follicle quality
Mercier Therapy is beneficial for those who:
- Have had difficulty conceiving naturally and desire guidance and support
- Have had repeated unsuccessful IVF or IUI attempts
- Want to prepare the body prior to going through ART
Mercier Therapy completed a four year medical study to show an 83% pregnancy success rate within one year of finishing their Shared Journey Fertility Program. The study concluded in September 2012 and was published in Midwifery Today, Spring 2013.
Dr. Jennifer Spencer, PT, DPT, CLT, OCS is a certified Mercier Therapy Practitioner and is thrilled to be supporting women who desire conception. She is the only Pelvic Floor Therapist and Certified Lymphedema Therapist in the state of Alabama who is also a certified Mercier Therapy provider.
