Navigating Fertility Struggles: An Interview with Mary, Acupuncturist and Author
Guest blog by A.L.I.V.E Holistic Health Clinic
In the latest episode of the PCOS Diva podcast, host Amy Medling sits down with our very own, Mary Wong, acupuncturist at ALIVE and author of “Pathways to Pregnancy.” Mary opens up about her own journey with fertility struggles and how she overcame them through her work as an acupuncturist.
As someone who also struggles with PCOS, Amy was particularly interested in hearing about the ways in which acupuncture can help those with fertility issues. Mary explains that acupuncture works by promoting balance within the body and addressing any imbalances that may be preventing pregnancy. Whether a woman is trying to conceive naturally or going to the fertility clinic doing vitro fertilization (IVF), acupuncture can be used in conjunction to increase the chances of success.
One of the things that impressed Amy most about Mary was her dedication and passion to helping others through her work at ALIVE Holistic Health in downtown Toronto and through her book “Pathways to Pregnancy” to empower others and provide them with the information and resources they need to navigate their fertility struggles.
Mary talks about the negative impacts or nocebo effect when a patient is haunted by a diagnosis which may seem impossible to overcome. Instead of labeling oneself as infertile, she prefers to reframe it as a fertility challenge in the moment. Having a PCOS diagnosis does not mean that you are going to live a “less than life” because every day we see women thrive with PCOS and overcome fertility challenged.
The focus is really about taking care of yourself. Having a baby requires you to prepare the soil before you plant the seed. You till it, weed it, water it, feed it. And you have to continue doing so after the seed is planted. Not only that, you need to pay attention not only to what you eat, how you sleep and exercise but also how you deal with your emotions. There is so much juiciness. This episode cannot be missed.
Overall, the interview was a powerful reminder of the importance of holistic approaches to health and the ways in which the art and science of acupuncture can play a role in addressing fertility issues. If you or someone you know is struggling with infertility, be sure to check out Mary’s book “Pathways to Pregnancy” and consider a virtual consultation or if you’re in Toronto, visit her and her team of experts at ALIVE Holistic Health.
Mary Wong has been in practice for over 27 years. She is the founder and director of ALIVE Holistic Health Clinic. Located in downtown Toronto, Ontario, ALIVE Holistic Health Clinic uses natural approaches to improve your physical, spiritual and emotional health. From fertility issues to pain management, stress relief and women’s/men’s health, they offer treatments and services tailored to your individual concerns. Their services include Acupuncture, massage therapy, Chinese herbal medicine, naturopathic medicine, and hypnosis.
