Conventional medical approaches focus on artificial implantation technology and the advances in such technology. The other aspect of conventional treatment focuses on hormonal treatment, often with detrimental side-effects to the mother and sometimes to the new-born as well.

Conventional treatment often utilises drugs to stimulate ovulation, often using Clomiphene citrate (e.g. Clomid^TM). Such medicines are only indicated if infertility is as a result of anovulation (women who do not ovulate).

Clomiphene has a structure similar to oestrogen. When it reaches the brain it attaches itself to the oestrogen receptor sites there and saturates (fills) them. When these receptor sites are occupied, the brain concludes that there is too little oestrogen in the blood and as a consequence initiates a series of hormonal changes that result in an increased production of FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone), which causes the ovarian follicle to mature its eggs.

The vast majority of patients that are going to respond to this treatment will respond with the first course of treatment, seldom in the second and even less so with a third course. More than three courses of the drug is not supported by the manufacturers. It is ineffective in patients with primary pituitary or ovarian failure.

According to the manufacturers it should not be given in the presence of ovarian cysts (other than polycystic ovary syndrome) as it may cause further enlargement of the cyst. There have been cases of massive enlargement of the ovaries and rupture of cysts following this treatment.

Visual disturbances may be so severe as to render activities such as driving hazardous and cases of cataract formation have been reported following treatment. Retinal cell function changes have been reported. If any visual disturbances occur treatment should be stopped immediately and the patient must be referred for a complete ophthalmological evaluation. No further courses of the drug may be administered.

Hydatidiform mole formation is associated with its administration. (A particular form of multiple cysts, which leads to rapid growth of the uterus with haemorrhage.)

Among the birth anomalies reported, the proportion of neural tube defects has been high among pregnancies associated with ovulation induced with this treatment. (Neural tube defects include spina bifida, fetal anencephaly, lumbar meningomyocele and meningocele).

Other reported conditions that may result include; abnormalities in liver function, syncope / fainting, cerebrovascular accident (stroke), cerebral thrombosis, psychotic reactions including paranoid psychosis, neurological impairment, disorientation and speech disturbances. It is contra-indicated (not to be prescribed) in Pregnancy, Liver disease or history of liver dysfunction, pituitary failure, endometrial carcinoma or ovarian cysts (other than polycystic ovary syndrome) and abnormal uterine bleeding.

In some cases men with low sperm count are also treated with Clomiphene citrate, but it does not work and never has.

Following fertilisation of the ovum, the endometrium serves as a nesting place and implantation occurs.

While the technology has advanced in bounds and leaps over the past few decades, neither it, nor the hormonal treatment that goes with it, can address the environment where fertilisation or implantation needs to take place.

This means that notwithstanding the massive advances in this technology and attempts to implant the best, healthiest cells, if the environment is not healthy enough and not conducive to healthy development of the embryo, the implantation and development of the embryo will not be successful.

(read a most interesting article relating to sperm banks by clicking here)

The focus of Homeopathic treatment is upon the environment, the health state of the uterus, endometrium, healthy natural ovulation and production of a healthy ovum.

Focussing upon endometritis, direct, peritoneal, metastatic and transplant Endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and everything that is required for successful fertilisation, implantation and eventually a healthy pregnancy.

It is also important to maintain normal hormonal balance. This is attempted with low potency and tincture preparations, hoped to both supplement and restore balance, without massive increases in certain hormones that tip the balance unfavourably.

Infertility has become a massive industry and many practitioners have entered into it as a money-making-venture for self-enrichment rather than the good of the patient. Any practitioner marketing or advertising products for the treatment of infertility and who makes the medicine available without having to see the patient is running a money-making scam. It is also illegal and unethical for any practitioner to treat or to provide treatment or medicine to a patient he/she has not consulted face-to-face.

World renowned Dr. Isadore Rosenfeld MD says, "There is no single treatment for infertility that works for everyone, because the problem has so many different causes." Similarly there is no Homoeopathic or Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) available on the open market today that is effective in the treatment of infertility from whatever cause. No standard Homoeopathic formula or Homoeopathic medicine available in a pharmacy, health shop, upon request via postal or internet order is effective in any way whatsoever for the treatment of infertility.

Homoeopathy relies strongly upon the individualisation of the treatment. This is particularly the case in infertility as no two cases are the same and treatment has to be tailored to meet the specific requirements of the particular patient.

YOU Women Magazine
Health Care and Women : Homeopathy
Interview with Dr Shahida Riaz
Shedding light on the innumerable uses of homeopathy treatment, Dr. Shahida says, "Homeopathy can also be used to treat infertility conditions. Homeopathy can also help couples conceive even when there is no known medical reason for the infertility. In addition, homeopathic treatment is safe and effective during pregnancy. It can help with symptoms of morning sickness, heartburn, constipation, and hemorrhoids. Increasing numbers of women are making use of homeopathy during labour and childbirth, and homeopathic treatment can be very helpful after delivery, or during breast-feeding."