That's a Wrap! Abdominal Wrapping to Enhance Fertility

People ask us all the time what things they can do at home to support their fertility.  In response, we’ve put together a collection of essential fertility tools that can help you obtain some of the benefits of holistic fertility treatments like massage and acupuncture in your own home.  Today we're going to talk about abdominal wrapping. 

What is it?  Our Abdominal Wrap includes a flannel cloth, organic castor oil and a proprietary blend of herbs traditionally used to support female fertility. 

How do you use it?  Simply saturate the flannel with castor oil and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of herbs and place on your lower abdomen oil side down.  Place a hot water bottle over top, cover with a towel and rest with your feet elevated for up to 30 minutes. 

Who should use it?  Good for everyone on the TTC path, especially recommended for thin lining issues and/or cycles with a short luteal phase. 

When should I use it?  We recommend wrapping from the first day of your menstrual cycle until ovulation. 

So why abdominal wrapping?  Here are four key reasons why this traditional technique supports fertility:

1. Blood Flow - When we apply heat to a body part (think sprained ankle) we promote blood flow to the region.  Blood is our body’s healing agent and helps to build a rich uterine lining and nourish developing egg follicles.  Our special herbal blend provides gentle added support and nourishment.
2. Reduce Inflammation - Castor oil has a unique chemical makeup that allows it to be absorbed through the skin and function as an antioxidant helping to improve the uterine environment. 
3. Warm the Belly - In Traditional Chinese Medicine there is a condition referred to as ‘cold uterus’, an imbalance of the yin and yang in the body leading to a colder core temperature. Without enough warmth (yang energy) in the uterus, the follicles may not fully ripen and body temperature won’t rise sufficiently after ovulation to support and nurture a growing embryo, if ovulation is able to occur at all. In this view,  if the uterus is cold due to lack of blood flow, old dead cells can accumulate, further blocking healthy blood flow, and a vicious cycle is born.
4. Promote Relaxation - Taking 20-30 minutes a day to relax is a key part of supporting your fertility.  Use your wrapping time to practice breathing, or enjoy a guided meditation. 

Ready to give it a try?  The Abdominal Wrap for Fertility can be purchased for $34 or as part of Pulling Down the Moon’s comprehensive DIY Essential Fertility Kit.