Posted by Larry Grunfeld, MD on May 17, 19100 at 17:07:04:
In Reply to: DR: Question about acupuncture/herbs and ART posted by Deedee on May 17, 19100 at 11:54:19:
Remember that herbs are very strong medications that have not received any oversight by the FDA. Therfore, we do not know exactly what is the concentration of active component in the dosage you are receiving. They also don't get the FDA monitoring for safety, efficacy, and adverse reactions.
Never mix herbal and traditional medication without your doctor's knowledge. There could be drug interactions. Don't confuse homeopathic and herbal therapies. Homeopathic medines are spirtual medications and have no active components.
Some herbs have been shown to cause problems with sperm penetration. Specfically, St Johns Wart, echinacea, gingko (Fertility & Sterility March, 1999) were shown to cause problems with fertilization.
Larry Grunfeld, MD
: I have heard conflicting information about taking herbs and then doing ART (IVF).
: I have just started seeing an Acupuncturist who believes in doing herbs. Although I have not started the herbs yet he feels that 2-3 mo. would be required.
: At this time I have started seeing an RE and am wondering if it is contraindicated to even start taking any herbs as they seem to impact hormones. Would taking herbs PRIOR to doing an IVF or just doing all the blood tests (Day3FSH) be negatively impacted?
: I would be interested in continuing the acupuncture without the herbs but would love hearing your opinions.
: Thanks so much