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<h2>Assisted reproductive technoligies and c-sections are natural too...</h2><p>When people talk about "natural birth," they often mean a birth that happens without medical interventions. However, this term can be harmful. It suggests that other forms of birth are somehow unnatural or less valid.</p><p>Every birth is natural. Assisted reproductive technologies like intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in-vitro fertilization (IVF) are medical treatments that help people get pregnant. Some people may also need assistance in carrying a pregnancy through the use of a surrogate. There is nothing "unnatural" about these treatments. It's incredible how commonplace the term "natural" is when discussing both methods of conception and childbirth. This has to stop. It's incredibly stigmatizing.&nbsp;</p><p>The same applies for childbirth. Using the term "natural birth" can create unnecessary pressure and judgment for those who need medical interventions. I have seen so many birthing people harmed by the focus on what is percieved as "natural" compared to "unnatural". A c-section can be have the same magical, spiritual experience as a home birth. Having an epidural does not make someone weak. These ideas are rooted in misogyny.&nbsp;</p><p>There's this unspoken expectation (sometimes even spoken) that as women or birthing people we should be able to get pregnant on demand, carry a pregnancy without complaint, give birth with complete stoicism and then continue on to recover and take care of a newborn with a smile. These expectations are absurd.&nbsp;</p><h3>Using inclusive language</h3><p>We need to change how we talk about birth. Instead of using the term "natural birth," we can use terms like "unmedicated birth" or "birth without interventions." These terms are more specific and less judgmental.</p><p>By changing our language, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all birthing experiences. This helps to validate each person's experience, regardless of the methods used.</p><p>. Others may feel more comfortable with medical support. Both choices are valid and should be respected.</p><p>It is crucial to support people in their choices and provide them with accurate information. This helps them make informed decisions that are best for their unique situation.</p><h3>Supporting All Birth Experiences</h3><p>Here at Betula Mental Health we support all types of journies toward building a family. Rarely does the path to having a family look as straightforward as we might hope. We are here to support you whether it's through loss, a challenging fertility journey or a hard postpartum period. We offer services like an IVF and loss support group and medication management to support you in your journey. We can work with your existing team whether that's your fertility doctor or OB to provide collaborative care. Often people are under the false impression that you must stop mental health medications during pregnancy or IVF treatments. This is often not true and we are here to help you understand the risks and benefits associated with these decisions.&nbsp;</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>All births are natural, regardless of the methods used. By reframing our language and supporting personal choices, we can create a more inclusive and respectful conversation around conception and birth. This helps to ensure that every person feels validated and supported in their birthing experience.</p>

Inclusive Birth: Why "Natural Birth" is a Harmful Term

<h2>Understanding the Emotional Journey</h2><p>Undergoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF) can be an emotional rollercoaster. Many couples experience stress, anxiety, and even depression. It's important to acknowledge these feelings and seek support. Turns out starting a family is not at all "relaxing or fun." By the way, if you're reading this as a friend or family member of someone going through IVF please stop telling them to relax and have a good time. This is a myth. Studies have shown relaxation has nothing to do with fertility. This is just putting the blame on people for a medical problem that is not their fault.&nbsp;</p><p>Often you might hear phrases such as "just do IVF" implying it's an easy process. People often do not appreicate how much is involved. If someone has not been through it themselves they don't realize what it's like to undergo lab draws and ultrasounds multiples times per week.&nbsp;</p><h3>What does IVF involve?</h3><p>Everyone's fertility journey is unique. Fertility treatments do not always involved IVF and may start with other options such as a medication or another procedure called IUI (intrauterine insemination).&nbsp;</p><p>IVF itself is a very involved process. It includes 2-3 times per week lab draws, ultrasounds and often several injections. After an embryo transfer, the injections are daily and can be quite painful.&nbsp;</p><p>Fertility treatments can feel very invasive. It is extremely challenging to not blame yourself or beat yourself up in this process. It is also a lot to put your body and mind through.&nbsp;</p><p>IVF is hard enough if everything goes well but often there are a number of challenges along the way. You may not get as many embryos as you were hoping for (or any). You may have a failed embryo transfer (or many). The process can be incredibly disheartening and it's easily to feel like you're doing this all for nothing.&nbsp;</p><p>The medication are also hormonal in nature which can affect your mental health. The grief of infertility is enough to manage but this is often complicated by mood swings secondary to the large amounts of hormones you are putting in your body.&nbsp;</p><h3>Therapy, therapy, therapy...</h3><p>If you have the resources, please find a good therapist. Fertility treatments can bring up a lot of emotions and the medication can cause mood swings further straining your mental health. Individual therapy is really irreplaceable in this process. You can search for a therapist near you on psychologytoday.com. This is a great tool and you can also look up who takes your insurance. American Society for Reproductive Medicine also has a "find an expert" tool on their website.&nbsp;</p><p>We also offer group therapy here at Betula Mental Health. This is offered the first Wednesday of every month from 12-1. Sign up by clicking our book appointment link.&nbsp;</p><h3>Reddit</h3><p>Believe it or not, reddit can be an excellent source of information for those going through IVF. This is can be a valuable tool to feel connected to others going through similar situations. This is not a replacement for mental health treatment or medical advice but it can be helpful to realize you're not the only one going through this.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><h3>Integrative Therapies</h3><p>Integrative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and yoga can complement your IVF treatment. They may not necessarily change the outcome of your cycle, but they may help you keep your sanity. Be kind to yourself. Do what feels supportive to you. This doesn't have to be fancy and may be a pint of ice cream and binge watching netflix.&nbsp;</p><p>There are some supplements that can improved sperm quality when undergoing IVF such as l-carnitine, coQ10 and fish oil.&nbsp;</p><p>It is a good idea to take folic acid when you're trying to conceve to prevent neural tube defects. There is also some evidence this can help with mood. Methyl-folate is the most bioavailable form of folate. A dose of 1 gram up to twice per day should provide plenty of folate. Largely, there aren't any supplements that have been proven to improve the outcomes of IVF.&nbsp;</p>

Navigating Mental Health During IVF

<h3>In Pregnancy</h3><p>People often have the wrong conversation when it comes to taking medications in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Often we are only discussing the risks associated with medication but forget to consider the risks associate with untreated mental illness in pregnancy.&nbsp;</p><p>Take depression for example. Untreated depression can absolutely affect the health of both the person carrying the pregnancy and the developing baby. Studies show an increased risk of both preterm delivery and preeclampsia with depression in pregnancy. Depression can also affect your appetite and ability to care for yourself fully. It can be hard to maintain a healthy pregnancy if you're already struggling to take care of yourself.&nbsp;</p><p>It is a very different conversation when we compare the risks of untreated depression in pregnancy compared to medications in pregnancy. Let's look at sertraline (Zoloft) which is a medication commonly prescribed for depression. People have been after antidepressants in pregnancy for years and have yet to really show any good evidence that it causes harm. 25,000 cases of people taking sertraline while pregnant have been examined with most studies showing no increased risk of birth defects. While this often gets interpreted as an unknown risk, we can see that if we compare it to a known risk of depression in pregnancy it becomes a different conversation.&nbsp;</p><p>There are some mental health medications that have been shown to have a known risk in pregnancy. For example, depakote (a mood stabilizer) can cause a birth defect known as neural tube defects. Lithium (a mood stabilizer) can carry some risks to the baby's heart. Due to these risks, people often abruptly stop mental health medication when they learn they are pregnant. It is always important to have a conversation with your doctor to understand the risks. Make sure you also ask your doctor about the risks associated with not taking any medication in pregnancy. There are often safe alternatives that can help you maintain stability and also maintain the health of yourself and the baby.&nbsp;</p><p>People often expect perfection from women in pregnancy. They expect women to not have any medical needs. This is absurd. You also regularly see defensive medicine practiced where people would rather not have the liability and so they don't give pregnant people the care they deserve. A healthy parent = a healthy baby. Please get the mental health care you deserve.&nbsp;</p><h3>In Breastfeeding</h3><p><span style="font-style: var(--head-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-style: var(--head-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Essentially all of the same priciples from above apply in the case of breastfeeding. The body is incredibly skilled at filtering out most medications for breastfeeding. Often, even when there is a medication detected in the breastmilk, it is in minute doses. Of course, this is not always the case so it's good to understand the risks and make an educated decision.&nbsp;</span></p><p><br></p><h2><span style="font-family: var(--head-fontFamily); font-size: calc(32px * var(--head-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--head-fontStyle, normal); font-weight: var(--head-fontWeight, 500); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: var(--head-fontFamily); font-size: calc(32px * var(--head-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--head-fontStyle, normal); font-weight: var(--head-fontWeight, 500); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Resources</span><br></h2><p>There are a few really helpful resources when it comes to navigating these decisions.&nbsp;</p><p>Mothertobaby.org is a great website that offers summaries of the risks associated with both pregnancy and breastfeeding for individual medications.&nbsp;</p><p>E-lactancia is a similarly great website for risks associated with breastfeeding. This one is available in both english and spanish and also lists a number of herbal medications and supplements.&nbsp;</p><p>Lactmed is a website affiliated with the national institute of health. It has great information and is great for providers who need a good reference.&nbsp;</p><figure id="figure-ut7ko9omllxkywcgv"><img id="ut7ko9omllxkywcgv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/25la9P2KIivwFRPUuowO6UYFg55SYaef1kxTmlA0mDYH4hmfvBJYWxjFt7vWkiP0.jpg" alt="pregnant woman checkup" title="pregnant woman checkup" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/25la9P2KIivwFRPUuowO6UYFg55SYaef1kxTmlA0mDYH4hmfvBJYWxjFt7vWkiP0.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p><br></p>

Navigating Mental Health Medications During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Girl walking alone on the pathway under beautiful huge  oak trees on summer morning.. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, South Carolina, USA

<p>The supplement industry is vast and growing. Consumers seek products that promise better health and well-being. However, understanding the risks and regulations involved is crucial. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plays a key role in this landscape.</p><h2>What is the FDA's Role?</h2><p>The FDA oversees the safety and labeling of dietary supplements. They ensure products do not contain harmful substances. However, they do not approve supplements before they reach the market. This means manufacturers are responsible for the safety of their products.</p><p>Manufacturers must follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). GMP ensures products are consistently produced and controlled. This reduces the risks of contamination and incorrect labeling.</p><p>The FDA faces several challenges in regulating supplements. One major issue is the sheer number of products. With thousands of supplements available, monitoring each one is difficult. This can lead to some unsafe products slipping through the cracks.</p><p>Another challenge is the lack of pre-market approval. Unlike prescription drugs, supplements do not require FDA approval before sale. This puts the onus on manufacturers to ensure safety and efficacy.</p><h3>Ensuring Compliance</h3><p>Manufacturers must register their facilities with the FDA. They must also report any serious adverse effects from their products. This helps the FDA track and respond to potential risks; however, it's on the company to take on this responsibility.&nbsp;</p><h2>Common Risks in the Supplement Industry</h2><p>One common risk is contamination. Supplements can be contaminated with harmful substances during production. This can include heavy metals like arsenic, bacteria, and other toxins.</p><p>Another risk is mislabeling. Some products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label. This can lead to ineffective or harmful results.</p><h2>How do I do my own research?</h2><p>There are a few independent labs who publish findings of supplements online. My favorites are labdoor.com which is free and consumerlab.com which requires a subscription. Consumer lab puts out a great newsletter detailing the most recent findings and concerns on the market lately. It is worth checking the supplement you hope to take on one of these websites to find a safe brand. Even in prenatal vitamins they have found contaminants like arsenic. Even the "most pure" prenatal vitamin is only 85% of what it says it is.&nbsp;</p>

Navigating the Risks: Understanding FDA Regulation in the Supplement Industry

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<p>N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is gaining recognition as a promising supplement for managing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). This amino acid derivative has shown potential in alleviating symptoms associated with OCD, offering new hope for individuals struggling with this challenging condition.</p><p><strong>Understanding OCD</strong></p><p>OCD is a mental health disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). These symptoms can significantly impact a person's daily life, causing distress and impairing their ability to function normally.</p><p><strong>How NAC Works</strong></p><p>NAC is believed to work by modulating levels of glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in the brain's reward system. By regulating glutamate levels, NAC may help reduce compulsive behaviors and improve mood in individuals with OCD.</p><p><strong>Evidence-Based Benefits</strong></p><p>Research studies have shown promising results regarding the benefits of NAC for OCD management. Some key findings include:</p><ul><li>Reduction in obsessive thoughts</li><li>Decrease in compulsive behaviors</li><li>Improved mood and overall well-being</li></ul><p><strong>Supplementing with NAC</strong></p><p>When considering NAC as a supplement for OCD management, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage and ensure it does not interact with any existing medications.</p><p><strong>Combining Therapies</strong></p><p>While NAC shows promise in managing OCD symptoms, it is often most effective when used in conjunction with other therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or a serotonin reuptake inhibitor. A comprehensive treatment approach can provide the best outcomes for individuals with OCD.</p><p><strong>Potential Side Effects</strong></p><p>Like any supplement, NAC may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues, nausea, and headaches. It is important to monitor for any adverse reactions and discontinue use if necessary.</p><p><strong>Future Research and Hope</strong></p><p>As research on NAC and its benefits for OCD continues to evolve, there is hope for improved treatment options for individuals living with this disorder. By exploring the potential of NAC and other innovative approaches, we can enhance the quality of life for those affected by OCD.</p><p>In conclusion, N-Acetylcysteine presents a promising avenue for managing OCD symptoms and improving overall well-being. While further research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms and efficacy, the current evidence suggests that NAC could be a valuable addition to the treatment arsenal for OCD. Consult with a healthcare provider to explore whether NAC may be a suitable option for your OCD management plan.</p>

N-Acetylcysteine: A Promising Supplement for OCD Management

<p>Depression is a complex and challenging mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While traditional treatments such as therapy and medication can be effective for many individuals, some may not experience the full benefits. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the use of L-Methylfolate as an augmentation therapy for depression.</p><p>L-Methylfolate, also known as Levomefolic acid, is the active form of folate that plays a crucial role in neurotransmitter synthesis. Research suggests that individuals with depression may have reduced levels of folate in their bodies, which can impact mood regulation and overall mental well-being.</p><figure id="figure-2z4lrv1wwplw5r35ja"><img id="2z4lrv1wwplw5r35ja" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/11kIGSRFbFFij9Zgp5jYIrzUcjsRavZotdaVf2SPCjHB0w0p52RQtgfldRoMR5mm.jpeg" alt="background of birch forest trees green spring" title="background of birch forest trees green spring" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/11kIGSRFbFFij9Zgp5jYIrzUcjsRavZotdaVf2SPCjHB0w0p52RQtgfldRoMR5mm.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>The Benefits of L-Methylfolate Augmentation</h3><p>One of the key benefits of L-Methylfolate augmentation in depression treatment is its ability to enhance the effectiveness of traditional antidepressant medications. Studies have shown that adding L-Methylfolate to existing treatment regimens can lead to improved outcomes for individuals who have not responded well to standard therapies alone.</p><p>Additionally, L-Methylfolate has been found to help reduce symptoms of depression such as low energy, poor concentration, and feelings of hopelessness. By addressing underlying nutritional deficiencies and supporting neurotransmitter function, L-Methylfolate can provide a more comprehensive approach to managing depression.</p><figure id="figure-50tksq2tlllw5r36s9"><img id="50tksq2tlllw5r36s9" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/34NX7MJKK81A5tOARJd2IG1Rr4662XdIGuWK6vDKb0lt7rq9Bvr4hzbDLdhoY2Bb.jpeg" alt="Natural herbal capsules from medicinal plants. Studio Photo
" title="Natural herbal capsules from medicinal plants. Studio Photo
" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/34NX7MJKK81A5tOARJd2IG1Rr4662XdIGuWK6vDKb0lt7rq9Bvr4hzbDLdhoY2Bb.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>How L-Methylfolate Works</h3><p>L-Methylfolate works by crossing the blood-brain barrier more efficiently than folic acid, the synthetic form of folate commonly found in supplements. This allows L-Methylfolate to directly impact neurotransmitter synthesis in the brain, particularly the production of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are essential for mood regulation.</p><p>Furthermore, L-Methylfolate has been shown to improve the efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a class of antidepressant medications commonly prescribed for depression. By enhancing the availability of folate in the brain, L-Methylfolate can optimize the response to SSRIs and other antidepressants.</p><h3>Considerations for L-Methylfolate Augmentation</h3><p>Before incorporating L-Methylfolate into a depression treatment plan, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider or mental health professional. They can assess individual needs, potential interactions with existing medications, and determine the appropriate dosage for optimal results.</p><p>It is also essential to recognize that while L-Methylfolate augmentation can be beneficial for many individuals with depression, it may not be suitable for everyone. Factors such as underlying health conditions, genetic variations, and overall treatment goals should be taken into account when considering this approach.</p><p>In conclusion, L-Methylfolate augmentation offers a promising avenue for enhancing the treatment of depression by addressing nutritional deficiencies and supporting neurotransmitter function. By working in conjunction with traditional therapies, L-Methylfolate can provide a more comprehensive and personalized approach to managing depression symptoms and improving overall mental well-being.</p><h2>What brand do you recommend?</h2><p>It is worth doing your own research on consumerlab.com or labdoor.com to ensure you find the best and safest brand of supplement. I also have a list of supplements I recommend after doing research on what is cost-effective and safe. You can access that list here...</p><p>https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/lcraig1715280092</p>

Blog

Inclusive Birth: Why "Natural Birth" is a Harmful Term

Navigating Mental Health During IVF

Navigating Mental Health Medications During Pregnancy and...

Navigating the Risks: Understanding FDA Regulation in the...

N-Acetylcysteine: A Promising Supplement for OCD Management

Exploring the Benefits of L-Methylfolate Augmentation in ...