	Hormonal medication	Surgery
Timing	To counteract discomfort, some hormone medications can be administered via injection or orally to reduce symptom severity, such as oral contraceptives, progestin preparations, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, and general pain relievers.	If there is a negative reaction to medication, or obvious lesions found like endometrioma (chocolate cysts), surgery may be recommended

Criteria	Taoyuan	Hsinchu
Subsidy Services	AMH blood test, egg freezing treatment	AMH blood test	Egg freezing treatment
Age Range	Women aged 25 to 40	Women aged 25 to 40 (including new resident spouses)
Registration	Household registration of patient or spouse in Taoyuan	Household registration in Hsinchu	Household registration in Hsinchu for 1 year
Special conditions/ restrictions	Spouses who are registered residents of Taoyuan but have not yet obtained a Republic of China (Taiwan) identity card are also eligible to apply. Females under 25 years old who have cancer and are assessed by a doctor to be infertile due to the cancer or its treatment (eligible once in a lifetime). Those who have undergone an egg-freezing procedure and meet the subsidy criteria but are unable to obtain eggs due to physical reasons are still eligible for the subsidy (eligible once in a lifetime).	-	Doctors at artificial reproductive medical institutions contracted by Hsinchu will evaluate fertility, who will be able to undergo egg-freezing procedures.

	Taoyuan	Hsinchu
Subsidy Services	AMH blood tests done during egg freezing treatment will receive NT$1,000 per case. A subsidy of NT$10,000 is provided for the first year as an egg-freezing nutrition fund; in the subsequent two years, a subsidy of NT$6,000 is provided for storage-related expenses. Each case will receive a subsidy of up to NT$22,000.	AMH blood tests done during egg freezing treatment will receive NT$1,000 per case. (once per year/person) Egg-freezing treatment will receive NT$20,000 (once in a lifetime) Storage fee subsidy can receive up to NT$2,000 per year for 5 years
Start Date	January 1st, 2024 to December 31st, 2024, or until funds are exhausted	February 1st, 2024
Institution	Clinics in cooperation with ART institutions approved by Taoyuan’s Department of Public Health	Clinics in cooperation with Hsinchu

	AMH Blood Test Subsidy	Egg Freezing Subsidy
Required documents	Affidavit A copy of the applicant's ID front and back. If the applicant is not registered in the city, a copy of the spouse's ID front and back must also be provided.	Affidavit and consent form A copy of the applicant's ID front and back. If the applicant is not registered in the city, a copy of the spouse's ID front and back must also be provided. A front and back copy of the applicant’s bank account book Proof of statement (provided by clinic) Medical itemized receipt (provided by clinic)

Stages	Conditioning Focus
1. Remove blood stasis	Helps women expel lochia from the body
2. Drain excess water	Once lochia is gone, begin adequate supplementation
3. Nourish liver and kidney	Replenish liver and kidney

Syndromes	Backache	Abdominal pain	Bleeding/blood clots	Others	Treatment
Spleen & Kidney Deficiency	Backache, difficulty standing straight	Dull pain in lower abdomen	Light red and brown spotting	Frequent diarrhea	Shou Tai Pill
Qi & Blood Deficiency	Uncertain	Dull pain with falling sensation in lower abdomen	Light red bleeding, volume uncertain	History of amenia	Tai Yuan Drink
Blood Heat	Common	Dull or sharp pain in lower abdomen	Bright red bleeding	Dry mouth	Qing Re An Tai Drink
Blood Stasis	Uncommon	Sharp pain in specific region of lower abdomen	Dark red bleeding with clots	-	Gui Zhi Fu Ling Pill, Shou Tai Pill

Nutritional Value	Types of Food
Whole grains	Recommended to choose whole grain or brown rice over white rice to avoid refined starch
Quality protein	Beans, seafood, eggs, meat, and soymilk and tofu for vegetarian options
Iron	Consume more red meat and leafy greens like beef, spinach, red amaranth, etc. to replenish vitamin C
Vitamins & minerals	Consume more vitamin B, folic acid, DHA-rich food like dark leafy greens, nuts, tuna, salmon, mackerel
Calcium	Common foods high in calcium are: milk, cheese, sesame seeds, red amaranth, kale, fish

Common Causes	Explanation
Influence of external environment and living habits	Air pollution, plasticizers, smoking, prolonged stress, or irregular work schedule, etc.
Abnormalities in their chromosome or gene	A common chromosomal problem is Turner Syndrome; a common genetic problem is Fragile X Syndrome.
Ovarian inflammation	Functional disruption due to autoimmune or bacterial attack
Affected by treatment of other diseases	E.g. surgical effects, chemotherapy, and electrotherapy injuries

Value	Meaning
＞2	Normal follicular stock
1～2	Decreased follicle count
＜1	Follicle count almost depleted

	IUI	IVF
AKA	Also known as Intrauterine Insemination, or IUI	In Vitro Fertilization, or IVF
Procedure	With the laboratory's assistance, the husband's semen is washed to select sperm with good motility and normal morphology, which are then concentrated in 0.5 ml of culture medium. After washing, the selected sperm is directly injected into the uterine cavity during the wife's ovulation period through a catheter, allowing the sperm to naturally fertilize the egg, achieving the goal of conception.	Embryologists will guide the performance of in vitro fertilization and cultured embryos. The embryos are cultured in the lab for 3 to 5 days until they develop, after which they are transferred back into the mother's uterine cavity, preparing for implantation and pregnancy.
Pregnancy Success Rates	Percentage lower than that of IVF	Higher in percentage
Gov’t Subsidies	None	Yes

Resources

Home
Resources

NUWA Healthcare Education and Resources

All articles

Fertility Resources
Your Best Guide to Understanding Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a common gynecological problem in fertility centers, and among women who are diagnosed with infertility, endometriosis covers more than 50% of cases. But what is endometriosis exactly? What are the common signs and symptoms? How should it be treated and cared for? NUWA Fertility is here to answer all your questions!

What is Endometriosis?
When uterine endometrial tissue grows outside the uterine cavity, it is termed "endometriosis." This condition can spread throughout the pelvic area and may manifest differently depending on its location. When endometrial tissue grows on the ovaries, it forms chocolate cysts, also known as "endometriomas." If the endometrial tissue infiltrates the muscular layer of the uterus, it's referred to as "adenomyosis."

7 Common Symptoms

Why does endometriosis cause pain? In a normal position, the endometrial cells of the uterus grow, bleed, and shed every month, which is called menstruation. However, when endometrial cells migrate to other tissues or organs, they continue to grow and bleed monthly, but since they cannot shed, that leads to tissue swelling and pain. Additionally, women with endometriosis often experience the following symptoms:
Menstrual pain
Abdominal pain
Pelvic pain
Pain urinating or defecating
Pain during intercourse
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Infertility
4 Main Causes
Some of the most common causes of endometriosis are:

1. Reflux of menstrual blood
In a normal situation, during a menstrual cycle, the menstrual blood flows out of the physical body from the uterine cavity to the transvaginal canal. But if there’s a reflux of menstrual blood, the endometrial tissue flows backward and reaches the ovaries or abdominal cavity. Once these tissues stay and grow, they will form endometriosis.

2. Blood & lymphatic vessels transport endometrial tissue
Tissues that are supposed to be in the uterine cavity are carried to other parts of the body through blood and lymphatic fluid.

3. Genetic factors
In clinical research, if there are family members who are diagnosed with endometriosis, it is also possible for future generations to have endometriosis.

4. Abnormal immune response
Under normal functioning of the immune system, periodically shedding endometrial cells are cleared away. However, if there is an immune system dysfunction, abnormal endometrial cells may not be recognized or eliminated, leading to their survival in areas such as the pelvic cavity and ovaries.

Who’s at Risk for Endometriosis?
It’s highly recommended to pay extra attention if you belong to one of these high-risk groups!
🚨 20～40 years old women
🚨 Those whose mother or sister has endometriosis
🚨 Infertility

Checking for Endometriosis
It's usually recommended to take these 3 examinations to determine if you have endometriosis.

1. Internal examination
The doctor will place both hands on the uterus to observe symptoms of pain.

2. Imaging examination
Common methods include ultrasound examinations to observe for any structural abnormalities in the uterus and ovaries. Although endometriosis may not always involve structural issues, the presence of conditions like endometriosis or adenomyosis during examination may indicate possible endometriosis problems.

3. Blood test
In blood tests, CA-125 (also known as the ovarian cancer index) is commonly used to screen for women's diseases, with a normal reference value falling below 35 U/ml.
If CA-125 levels exceed 35 U/ml in premenopausal women, it is often associated with benign gynecological conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, or uterine fibroids. Typically, further ultrasound examinations are arranged by physicians to confirm the cause. However, it is important to note that CA-125 levels may also exceed the normal range if blood is drawn during menstruation. Therefore, it is best to wait at least 2 days after menstruation has ended before undergoing blood tests for a more accurate assessment.

Will It Affect Your Fertility?
NUWA Fertility Center doctors want to remind us that different treatments and procedures are judged by the severity of symptoms of endometriosis. If it is severe, it is recommended to evaluate your fertility plans before going into treatment.

If single women are planning for their future fertility, it is recommended to consider egg freezing to preserve their fertility options. For married women, it is also recommended to consider IVF or IUI treatments. The doctor will determine whether or not surgery or medication treatments are needed depending on the patient.

Extended Reading:
Age Limit for Egg Freezing? Egg Freezing Conditions, Process, and Costs
IUI Process, Prices, and Success Rates Explained: Differences Between IUI and IVF
IVF Process Explained: How Much Does It Cost? What’s the Success Rate?

Treatment Options for Endometriosis
Generally speaking, endometriosis can be treated in 2 ways:

Hormonal medication Surgery

Timing To counteract discomfort, some hormone medications can be administered via injection or orally to reduce symptom severity, such as oral contraceptives, progestin preparations, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, and general pain relievers. If there is a negative reaction to medication, or obvious lesions found like endometrioma (chocolate cysts), surgery may be recommended

⚠️ NUWA Fertility reminder: please follow your doctor’s advice when taking medication.

5 Everyday Self-Care Tips
If there are signs that point to endometriosis, it is recommended to alter and change daily lifestyle habits that can improve and maintain the health of your body, so that any future opportunities for fertility can be preserved!

✅ Diet control
Reduce consumption of high-fat or raw foods, and consume more fish that contains omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, mackerel, saury), magnesium-rich foods (bananas, avocados, nuts), and natural fruits and vegetables (dark, leafy greens are recommended).

✅ Maintain exercise and good stress management habits
Develop and maintain good exercise, and get adequate rest. Adequate rest is also important to not overstress the body.

✅ Avoid environmental hormones
Common environmental hormones include plasticizers, preservatives, heavy metals, bisphenol A, etc. It is best to avoid using heavily scented cosmetics, skincare products, or household items, and to minimize the use of plastic products and consuming food with unclear labeling.

✅ Abstain from intercourse during the menstrual cycle
Engaging in sexual activity during menstruation may cause menstrual blood to flow backward into the pelvic cavity. Additionally, female orgasms can trigger uterine contractions, which may accelerate the movement of menstrual blood. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid sexual activity during menstruation.

✅ Routine checkups
It is recommended to do annual checkups for your uterus and ovaries, and track your CA-125 levels to seek professional help as soon as possible!

If women between 30 - 40 years old are diagnosed with endometriosis, the most common symptom is infertility. Compared to cases where there are no symptoms of endometriosis, those who are diagnosed with it take a lot longer on their fertility and pregnancy plans. Therefore, NUWA Fertility Center gently advises: that if you are preparing for pregnancy and also have endometriosis, it is recommended that you make an appointment for infertility and related tests, to help your journey to be as smooth as possible! 👉Make an appointment online

Author's Information
NUWA Fertility Center
With many infertility experts and more than 10,000 doctors with successful IVF experience, the company has 5 clinics, including 3 high-specification IVF reproduction centers, 2 TCM centers, and 3 international embryo laboratories, which are located in Taipei, Taoyuan, and Taichung.

Main Services: Infertility treatment, IVF, artificial insemination, egg freezing, egg borrowing, and pregnancy preparation. In 2021, NUWA Healthcare will formally cooperate with Dianthus Medical Group to provide one-stop integrated services from preparation, pregnancy, labor, and postpartum care, which will bring the greatest convenience to the patients.👉Learn more about NUWA Healthcare

2024.08.16
Fertility Resources
2024 Egg Freezing Subsidy Program
Are there government subsidies for egg freezing? The 2021 IVF Subsidy didn’t include egg-freezing options, but that doesn’t mean the costs have to be out-of-pocket. Some cities are planning egg freezing programs, including Taoyuan and Hsinchu with a head start in implementing the programs back in 2023. Let’s dive in and understand how this works!

Am I Eligible for This Subsidy?
Delaying marriage and childbirth is becoming more and more prominent in today’s society, and women have started taking action to preserve their fertility by freezing their eggs. The subsidy is to assist women in decreasing their financial burdens in terms of egg freezing and to assist those who are currently planning their future families. Who is eligible to apply though? The graph below shows Taoyuan and Hsinchu’s criteria for applying for the subsidy.

Criteria Taoyuan Hsinchu

Subsidy Services AMH blood test, egg freezing treatment AMH blood test Egg freezing treatment
Age Range Women aged 25 to 40 Women aged 25 to 40
(including new resident spouses)
Registration Household registration of patient or spouse in Taoyuan Household registration in Hsinchu Household registration in Hsinchu for 1 year
Special conditions/
restrictions Spouses who are registered residents of Taoyuan but have not yet obtained a Republic of China (Taiwan) identity card are also eligible to apply.
Females under 25 years old who have cancer and are assessed by a doctor to be infertile due to the cancer or its treatment (eligible once in a lifetime).
Those who have undergone an egg-freezing procedure and meet the subsidy criteria but are unable to obtain eggs due to physical reasons are still eligible for the subsidy (eligible once in a lifetime). -
Doctors at artificial reproductive medical institutions contracted by Hsinchu will evaluate fertility, who will be able to undergo egg-freezing procedures.

Subsidy Services & Quota
How much does the subsidy cover? What are the services covered? Taoyuan’s Department of Public Health has explained this here. Subsidy items can be categorized into 2:

1. Egg-freezing nutrition fund & storage fee
A subsidy of NT$10,000 is provided for the first year as an egg-freezing nutrition fund; in the subsequent two years (the second and third), a subsidy of NT$6,000 is provided for storage-related expenses. Each case will receive a subsidy of up to NT$22,000.

2. AMH blood test
Starting in 2024, AMH blood tests done during egg-freezing treatment will receive NT$1,000 per case.

Subsidy Comparison
As stated above, only Taoyuan and Hsinchu have implemented the subsidy program so far, Taipei, New Taipei, Taichung, and other cities are still currently planning for the program most suitable to each demographic. The graph below states the two city’s detailed programs:

Taoyuan Hsinchu

Subsidy Services AMH blood tests done during egg freezing treatment will receive NT$1,000 per case.
A subsidy of NT$10,000 is provided for the first year as an egg-freezing nutrition fund; in the subsequent two years, a subsidy of NT$6,000 is provided for storage-related expenses. Each case will receive a subsidy of up to NT$22,000. AMH blood tests done during egg freezing treatment will receive NT$1,000 per case. (once per year/person)
Egg-freezing treatment will receive NT$20,000 (once in a lifetime)
Storage fee subsidy can receive up to NT$2,000 per year for 5 years
Start Date January 1st, 2024 to December 31st, 2024, or until funds are exhausted February 1st, 2024
Institution Clinics in cooperation with ART institutions approved by Taoyuan’s Department of Public Health Clinics in cooperation with Hsinchu

Egg Freezing Application: 4 Steps
How to file for the application though? Different cities and clinics may have different procedures, so for reference, let’s take a look at how NUWA Taoyuan assisted in filing for the subsidy previously.

STEP 1. An appointed specialist from the institution will assist you in applying for the subsidy
To be eligible for the subsidy, the reproductive institution must be in cooperation with the county and municipal government. NUWA Taoyuan is one of those reproductive institutions.

STEP 2. Documents preparation
Those applying will need to provide the following documents:

AMH Blood Test Subsidy Egg Freezing Subsidy

Required documents Affidavit
A copy of the applicant's ID front and back. If the applicant is not registered in the city, a copy of the spouse's ID front and back must also be provided. Affidavit and consent form
A copy of the applicant's ID front and back. If the applicant is not registered in the city, a copy of the spouse's ID front and back must also be provided.
A front and back copy of the applicant’s bank account book
Proof of statement (provided by clinic)
Medical itemized receipt (provided by clinic)

STEP 3. Begin treatment
The AMH blood test and egg-freezing treatment will be carried out by the procedures of the artificial reproduction institution.

STEP 4. An appointed specialist from the institution will assist you in applying for the subsidy
The institution will apply for the subsidy at Taoyuan’s Department of Women and Children Development, and upon approval, the subsidy fee will automatically be dispersed to the applicant’s account.

Egg Freezing Subsidy Notice
Finally, even though the subsidy program can decrease many women's and couples’ financial burdens, it is still recommended to double-check the criteria and eligibility of the program!

Confirm whether you’re eligible according to the criteria
If you’ve applied for the IVF Subsidy at the same time, the fee for the AMH blood test and egg retrieval will not be duplicated in that year.

Extended Reading: 2024 IVF Subsidy for Infertility Treatment Qualifications, Prospects, and Procedure

It is more common for this generation to step into marriage later and later, and egg freezing has become one of the biggest concerns of modern-day women. It is best to understand all aspects of the treatment and the program, to better prepare for your fertility planning. If there are any questions or concerns regarding egg freezing, you are most welcome to register online for an appointment, NUWA is here to help you each step of the way!

(Article about Taoyuan’s Department of Public Health, and Hsinchu’s Egg Freezing Subsidy)

Author's Information
NUWA Fertility Center
With many infertility experts and more than 10,000 doctors with successful IVF experience, the company has 5 clinics, including 3 high-specification IVF reproduction centers, 2 TCM centers, and 3 international embryo laboratories, which are located in Taipei, Taoyuan, and Taichung.

Main Services: Infertility treatment, IVF, artificial insemination, egg freezing, egg borrowing, and pregnancy preparation. In 2021, NUWA Healthcare formally cooperated with Dianthus Medical Group to provide one-stop integrated services for preparation, pregnancy, labor, and postpartum care, which will bring the greatest convenience to the patients. 👉 Learn more about NUWA Healthcare

2024.08.16
TCM Resources
Self-Care Do’s and Don’ts After A Miscarriage
Having a child and getting pregnant is a dream for many, but at times, the journey to get there isn’t all butterflies. Miscarriages happen sometimes due to various reasons, and it’s imperative to get adequate care and rest. What defines “rest” and “care” though? We’re here to explain all the do’s and don’ts after a miscarriage so you’re strong enough to welcome the pregnancy journey back!

4 Diet Tips After A Miscarriage
What you consume after a miscarriage is crucial to your health and future fertility. Therefore, understanding the nutrients you need will pave the way for faster recovery and better health.

1. Balanced diet and nutrition
Women’s bodies naturally become weaker after a miscarriage, and if adequate care isn’t provided, it might leave further concerns and problems down the road. To avoid this, those who have miscarried need to replenish enough nutrients in their day-to-day life. Even if it’s hard to get food down at the moment, it’s important to still try to eat 3 meals a day on time. You would need proper nutrition, rest, and care.

2. High-quality protein is a must
According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, fish, meat, eggs, and nuts are all rich sources of high-quality protein. It’s recommended to consume them for the best replenishment.

3. More nourishing food
It’s important to supplement enough iron, folic acid, and vitamin B6 after a miscarriage. You can find those vitamins and nutrients in food as well like pork liver, spinach, black beans, red beans, and red dates.

4. Water, water, water!
Aside from minerals and nutrients, water is essential to nursing yourself back to health. After a miscarriage, it is easy for women to sweat and lose body water, so it’s important to drink fluids to avoid dehydration.

4 Major Taboos After A Miscarriage
Aside from your diet, what else should you look out for after a miscarriage? Miscarriages take a toll on your body, so we recommend following these recommendations to nurture yourself back to health!

❌ Avoid excessive supplementation
It’s a fine line between getting enough supplements, and over supplementation. There are stages in which you can take certain vitamins and minerals, and you must remember to consult your doctor before taking anything to avoid excessive supplementation.

❌ Less raw and cold food
Colder and raw foods are generally not advised after a miscarriage. It’s irritating for the uterus, especially while it’s still healing. Foods like cold drinks, raw foods, salads, and ice cream should be avoided.

❌ Avoid spicy, irritating food
Spicy foods containing alcohol should also be avoided as well. It’s irritating not only for the stomach but for your healing reproductive system. It’s best to keep your diet light at the moment.

❌ Avoid strenuous exercises
Everyone’s physical state reacts differently after a miscarriage, but it’s still recommended to avoid strenuous exercises or to lift heavy items. If you have a habit of exercising, you can replace it with walking at the moment, and get back into exercising slowly afterwards.

TCM Doctor Explains the 3 Stages of Conditioning
To put it simply, rest. After a miscarriage, the best way to condition your body back to health is to get adequate rest and nutrients. From the perspectives of TCM doctors, it comes in 3 stages:

Stages Conditioning Focus

1. Remove blood stasis Helps women expel lochia from the body
2. Drain excess water Once lochia is gone, begin adequate supplementation
3. Nourish liver and kidney Replenish liver and kidney

It’s also important to remember to give yourself time to heal, emotionally and mentally. Oftentimes it’s the emotional and mental aspect of your health that also affects your physical health. We recommend finding a healthy way to express your emotions, whether it’s with family, friends, or a professional. Finding your way back is also a priority.

How Long Does It Take To Recover?
We’re certain there’s a ton of questions you have. It’s completely normal and our TCM doctors at NUWA are here to answer all your concerns.

Q1: How long does the conditioning last after a miscarriage?
Since everyone’s body reacts differently after pregnancy and miscarriages, it varies by person. However, it generally takes about 7-30 days and would need a checkup by your doctor.

Q2: How long after a miscarriage can I get pregnant again?
As we mentioned above, it’s not just a priority to take care of your physical self, but also your mental health. It depends on each person, and we still recommend consulting a professional doctor.

Q3: When can I start exercising after miscarriage conditioning?
Generally speaking, once you’re almost back to health and not bleeding anymore, you can start doing easier exercises. You can start more intense exercises as you progress with your doctor’s suggestions.

TCM Conditioning Stories
Successful Birth After Recurrent Miscarriages
Ms. Y is easy to conceive, yet unfortunately does not result in a successful pregnancy. She’s had 3 miscarriages, once in the early stages, the second time at nine weeks, and the third at eleven weeks. After the third miscarriage resulted in continuous bleeding, she transferred to NUWA TCM. It has already been a hard journey for Ms. Y, but she doesn’t give up.

Dr. Yu Chuan Chen, our Medical Director, wanted to condition Ms. Y’s uterine contractility to start. She suffers from immense headaches and easily catches colds every time right before her period. On top of that, she’s been nursing a cold for the past 6 months.

Ms. Y desperately wanted to conceive and decided to undergo examinations with immunology and PGT-A, which both showed no problems. Dr. Chen advised Ms. Y to condition and care for her own body first and to create a welcoming environment for the most optimal outcome. After 6 months of conditioning, Ms. Y’s menstruation pain, colds, PMS, and quality of life greatly increased. Not long after, she successfully welcomed a baby boy into her arms.
Welcoming a Dragon Baby After TCM Treatments
27-year-old Ms. L has been married for 3 years and lives in the States for work. She has a medical history of endometriosis, and adenomyosis, and suffered 3 miscarriages in the past few years. She returned in 2023 and proceeded to NUWA Fertility Center and NUWA TCM Taichung for a checkup. After the examination at NUWA Fertility Center, Dr. Huai Ling Wang, the Medical Director, revealed that she has diminished ovarian function (AMH:1.82), and has a 2 cm chocolate cyst in her left ovary.

During her examination at NUWA TCM, Dr. Hsiang Ping Lee realized Ms. L suffers from immense menstrual pain to the point where she takes pain medication and uses a pants cotton pad when sleeping. Due to the high pressure of her work, Ms. L also experiences problems like insomnia, headaches, back pain, acne, constipation, and thirst. Dr. Lee diagnosed her with Yin deficiency with heat and qi stagnation and blood stasis that uses TCM medication and powders to treat.

Since her and her husband’s time in Taiwan is limited, they planned for egg retrieval a month later. They were very proactive in attending sessions and receiving treatment, and both of their symptoms improved a lot (her husband suffers from fatigue, lack of sleep, and acne.) Their IVF treatment was paired with acupuncture and navel treatment. After implantation, they unfortunately experienced gastroenteritis and hematomas, and quickly underwent tocolysis. Fortunately, Ms. L became pregnant just right around Christmas, a very memorable gift indeed.

NUWA TCM has welcomed a lot of couples trying to condition their bodies after miscarriages, abortions, or recurrent miscarriages. The doctors will always recommend caring for and nurturing their physical states before trying to get pregnant again. Without an ideal uterine and physical environment, prior problems and concerns might recur. It’s best to create a good foundation for a smooth journey afterward.

A good foundation means solid rest, adequate nutrition, and a good mood. If you don’t know where to start, you’re welcome to book a consultation at NUWA Healthcare to understand more about what you need to welcome your baby home!

Author’s Information
NUWA TCM
NUWA’s TCM team boasts over 20 years of experience, with clinics in Taipei and Taichung. We offer an individual acupuncture room, prioritizing your privacy and comfort above all else. We hope we can provide even more comfort on this recuperating journey in our TCM clinic.

Main Services: Infertility treatment, pregnancy preparation, pregnancy, postpartum care, miscarriages, menstrual pain, allergies, weight loss, F.A.C.E., sleep disorders, child growth and development, etc. 👉 Learn more about NUWA Healthcare

2024.08.14
TCM Resources
6 Pregnancy Preparations for Your Everyday Care
Becoming a mother and deciding to become a mother is an exhilarating and inspiring act. But before becoming a mother, there are several physical and mental hurdles to jump over. Proper pregnancy preparation is imperative to a healthy pregnancy and term, whether it’s calculating your ovulation days, taking enough folic acid, or understanding how to alleviate stress, are all incredibly important. NUWA compiled a list for you below to take note of how to proceed in this extraordinary journey!

6 Key Points To Watch Out
Pregnancy preparation isn’t just for your baby, it focuses on the mental, emotional, and physical preparation for the mother as well. There are 6 key points that NUWA focuses on helping new mothers embrace the new chapter of their lives.

1. Pre-pregnancy checkup
An overall check-up is important for both men and women; understanding your physical condition can create a more well-rounded pregnancy preparation plan. For example, women’s checkups include a vaginal ultrasound, hysterosalpingogram, hysteroscopy, etc., and men’s checkups include a semen analysis. If a couple has routine sexual intercourse and still has not gotten pregnant in a certain timeframe, it’s crucial for further examination to find the root of the problem for the right treatment.

Extended Reading: Understanding Infertility: Taking Control

2. Calculate ovulation
The ovulatory phase, or to put it simply, ovulation, is the most important time in a woman’s cycle to get pregnant. If your menstrual cycle is regular and around 28 days, the day of ovulation will occur at around day 14. If your cycle lasts from 28 to 32 days, ovulation might occur from day 14 to 18.
Clinical findings also state that more often than not, couples do not know the correct timeframe in which the sperm and the egg should meet. NUWA TCM doctors can help regulate your cycle, and determine your ovulation days, greatly increasing the chances of getting pregnant.

3. Adjust living habits
A couple’s overall living habits and routine are often overlooked; aside from external factors like avoiding smoking, alcohol, pesticides, plastics, and chemicals that affect hormonal changes, internal factors like alleviating stress are also important. Routine light exercises won’t hurt either, as well as taking supplements like vitamin D.

4. Enough nutritional intake
Folic acid has a lot to do with the neural and nervous system development of the fetus, and according to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, it is recommended to supplement it as soon as possible. Aside from folic acid, other vitamins and supplements like iodine, protein, calcium, iron, and vitamin D are also helpful for a healthy pregnancy.

NUWA also wants to put out a gentle reminder that men can also take supplements like selenium, zinc, Q10, vitamin C, D, E, etc. It is also recommended to consult your doctor first to replenish nutrients that are most suited for you!

5. Adjust diet
Supplements are important, but eating the right food and getting adequate nutrients from them is probably even easier than buying supplements! For example, it’s best to maintain water intake from 1,500ml to 2,000ml and avoid drinking sugary drinks and alcohol. A Mediterranean diet is often recommended due to its high volume of vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and protein.

6. Pair TCM treatments
There are a lot of misconceptions surrounding ‘TCM,’ like having cold hands and feet doesn’t necessarily mean infertility. What other people supplement also doesn’t mean it’s the right supplement for you, everyone’s physical conditions differ drastically. TCM conditioning varies from person to person, and only a professional practitioner can assist you in pregnancy preparation.

TCM and Western Medicine: An Unstoppable Duo
After understanding what you need for pregnancy preparation, but don’t know where to start? We’re here to provide unparalleled service to you:

✅ Chinese and Western Medicine
✅ Comprehensive Medical Team
✅ Integrating FemTech
✅ Advanced Cell Storage Technology
✅ Priority for Women’s Care

NUWA Healthcare not only focuses on medical technology but also has an unbeatable service with an unstoppable team. We understand how a medical institution also plays a part in pregnancy preparation, and we aim to give all patients a personalized treatment plan as we work together. Book an appointment online to understand what you need to welcome the next chapter of your life!

2024.08.14
Fertility Resources
6 Game-Changing Factors for IVF Success!
Are IVF success rates high? Is it harder to succeed as you get older? IVF treatments require a certain amount of cost and are an exhausting journey for women. It is only natural to wonder about IVF’s success rate. Generally speaking, IVF preparation starts with egg quality, the uterine environment, and embryo quality. Many women undergo pregnancy preparation (or conditioning) before IVF treatments to increase success rates. Let’s dive in and see what else matters!

6 Key Factors Impacting IVF Success
Generally speaking, the success rates of IVF depend on the following factors:
Quality of sperm & eggs
Uterine environment
Embryo quality
Age
Medical teams’ skill sets
Medical facility equipment
The above criteria can be further classified into “personal physical state” and “clinic quality,” and among them, “age” can more easily affect other physical conditions.

Does It Have Anything To Do With Age?
Does age itself impact IVF success rates that much? According to the HPA’s Assisted Reproductive Technology Summary 2021 National Report of Taiwan, the success rates for ART treatments start to decrease with age for women over 34. However, everyone’s condition and physical state differ and vary, so the actual situation may be different for everyone.

Words of Wisdom From Our Doctors
What are the best ways to increase IVF success rates? The below recommendations for mothers-to-be are from doctors at NUWA, hoping you are fully prepared!

1. Get enough rest
Your physical and mental health is crucial to a healthy pregnancy, so it is often said to take care of yourself first and get enough rest. You can watch TV, lie down, take a nap, or simply do nothing. As long as you’re in a good mood, that’s more than enough!

2. Maintain a nutritious diet
Maintain a nutritious and balanced diet with suitable supplements like folic acid and vitamins for your body.

3. Remember your check-ups
Remember to go to your appointments regularly, and take your medications as recommended by your doctor. If any discomfort arises, please also let your doctor know as soon as possible, and refrain from stopping or changing your medication.

4. Avoid high-stress exercises and environments
It’s best to avoid going to saunas, hot yoga, or any exercises that are in high temperature. Rigorous exercises should also be avoided, and focus on low-impact exercises.

5. No plastics!
Plasticizers are a form of environmental hormones, and according to the Health Promotion Administration of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, they could have a huge negative impact on mothers and children and should be avoided at all costs.

6. Avoid sex temporarily
As embryos are still unstable at the beginning of the pregnancy, it might be a good idea to refrain from sexual intercourse in the meantime. Once the embryo has stabled enough, go wild!

NUWA’s Your #1 Choice for IVF
Aside from taking care of yourself, the medical team and its equipment are also imperative to IVF success. NUWA Fertility Center is a top choice among many for IVF treatment due to our incredible reproductive experts and technology.

🌟 International-grade Lab
The embryo laboratory at NUWA not only uses higher-specification equipment compared to most fertility centers but also maintains an international standard environment. Factors such as gas levels, temperature, humidity, and conditions inside the incubators are monitored 24 hours a day. If any values indicate an issue, the embryologists are immediately notified to address it, ensuring the careful protection of each embryo.

🌟 Personal Embryologist
Every embryo is paired with its own embryologist, and under their rich experiences and constant care, they’re able to focus on every detail that goes on in the laboratory.

🌟 Timelapse Incubator System
All embryos utilize the Timelapse Incubator System, the system takes a record every 10 minutes to allow embryologists to accurately grasp their stage in development. Additionally, there’s also an "AI Intelligent Embryo Selection System'' alongside manual embryo screening. This dual selection process ensures optimal embryo development, allowing seamless collaboration between technology and physicians for precise embryo selection.

🌟 Precise PGS Biopsies
After selecting high-quality embryos, the embryologists perform PGS biopsies for testing. Although PGS is quite common nowadays, achieving precise biopsies without harming the embryos heavily relies on the embryologists' experience. At NUWA, all embryologists have over 15 years of experience and utilize advanced laser systems. This allows them to accurately perform biopsies without damaging the embryos. The combined expertise of professional fertility doctors and experienced embryologists, along with advanced equipment, helps increase your chances of a successful pregnancy.

Extended reading: What is PGS (PGT-A)? A Complete Breakdown

FAQs
Q1: What has a higher percentage of success? IVF or IUI?
In IUI, the lab processes the semen to retain only the motile sperm, which is then injected into the uterine cavity to fertilize the egg and implant in the uterus. The success rate for this procedure is typically around 10% to 15%. On the contrary, IVF involves embryologists creating embryos in the lab and then transferring the best-quality embryos into the uterus. This method generally has a higher success rate compared to IUI, as the embryos are already developed before implantation.

However, the actual situation depends on each patient’s physical state and condition, you should always consult your doctor before starting any treatment!

Q2: Is it true that the more embryos implanted the higher the success rate?
According to a guideline published by the Taiwanese Society for Reproductive Medicine, it is recommended to insert a different number of embryos for women at different ages. The number of embryos implanted and the age of the woman is directly correlated, and the success rate will depend on each person’s condition. It is best to consult your doctor first.

If you’re interested in understanding more about IVF and the treatment’s success rate, you are welcome to book a consultation with our doctors at NUWA Fertility Center! 👉 Register online

2024.08.14
TCM Resources
Understanding Tocolysis: A Safer Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a beautiful thing. After the congratulatory “woo’s” and “wow’s,” it is still important to prioritize the health of the mom and fetus. Tocolysis is the procedure in which medications are used to delay the delivery of the fetus in women presenting preterm contractions. Therefore, understanding the diet, lifestyle, and precautions will allow each mother-to-be to enjoy a smooth-sailing pregnancy.

What Is It For?
It is the biggest blessing for a baby to be in the protection of the womb for 10 full months. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case all the time, miscarriages happen, as well as preterm birth (categorized as giving birth before week 37).

Therefore, the procedure of tocolysis is to prevent preterm birth or miscarriages and to protect the fetus inside the womb so that all organs and functions will be fully matured at the time of birth.

What Situations Require Tocolysis?
The Ministry of Health and Welfare states that one should rest as soon as possible if there are warning signs of frequent uterine contractions, amniotic fluid rupture, vaginal bleeding, fetal drop, and strong abdominal pain or tightness. If these symptoms keep occurring, however, it is required to seek medical attention immediately, and highly recommended to consider tocolysis procedures.

1. Preeclampsia
Sometimes known as “pregnancy toxemia” or “fatty liver syndrome,” preeclampsia is a condition that will only happen during pregnancy to those who don’t have a history of high blood pressure. Symptoms like high blood pressure, protein in urine, or whole-body edema may potentially lead to a life-threatening condition called eclampsia, which causes spasms, seizures, etc, affecting the mother and the baby’s overall health.

2. Placenta previa
Under normal circumstances, the placenta should be attached to the upper segment or on the side of the uterus so it doesn’t block the fetal passage. If the placenta is placed “lower,” like covering or near the cervix, it is considered placenta previa. Clinically, placenta previa is categorized into 4 scenarios:
Total placenta previa
Partial placenta previa
Marginal placenta previa
Low lying placenta
It is extremely dangerous for women with total placenta previa and partial placenta previa to give birth naturally.

3. Short cervix length and cervical atresia
The length of the cervix is also a cause of miscarriage, often accompanied by fatigue and a feeling of falling. Pregnant women should avoid standing or lifting heavy things for too long. If more prominent symptoms arise, TCM doctors can also perform acupuncture procedures. (⚠️Must be performed by a licensed TCM doctor.)

Normally, the cervix is completely closed before and during pregnancy, and will only change (thinner, shorter) towards the end of the pregnancy to allow for the fetus to pass through. But if the cervix doesn’t close or open beforehand, called “cervical incompetence,” it could lead to preterm birth. The actual cause of cervical incompetence is still unknown.

4. Recurrent miscarriages
Recurrent miscarriages refer to those who have miscarried up to 3 or more times and are often directed to TCM for conditioning and further care. The majority of recurrent miscarriages could be caused and affected by immune problems. Too much oral medication isn’t recommended, and can sometimes be paired with acupuncture for a more well-rounded treatment.

5. Insufficient amniotic fluid
Insufficient amniotic fluid is also often paired with TCM for treatment. Once water ruptures and the fetal urinary tract system is ruled out, TCM doctors theorize it might be an energy deficiency that affects the production of amniotic fluid.

3 Warning Signs of Preterm Birth
Symptoms of abdominal pain, cramps, frequent uterine contractions, and abnormal bleeding and discharge might be warning signs of preterm birth.

⚠️ Frequent uterine contractions
It is normal to experience short and irregular contractions during labor. However, if uterine contractions happen between weeks 20 to 37, and contractions are long, frequent, and regular, it is highly recommended to seek immediate medical attention.

⚠️ Abnormal bleeding or discharge
A small number of women may see vaginal bleeding in their early terms of pregnancy. However, vaginal bleeding in mid to late pregnancy may be a sign of preterm birth. If mucus and blood are found in discharge and secretions before week 35, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention
.
⚠️ Continuous abdominal pain or cramping
Pain and cramping is normal during pregnancy, but the focal point of the discomfort must be identified first. For example, if diarrhea and vomiting occur, it might be gastrointestinal problems; if premature placental separation happens, any sensation of touch to the stomach will hurt. Any form of discomfort and pain must be taken seriously and to seek medical attention.

3 Common Methods That Help
When situations arise that may require tocolysis, it is recommended to start alleviating pressure by these three methods.

Balanced diet
Women in pregnancy should consume frequent meals that are less in quantity, and focus on a light, nutritious diet. It is also normal to experience water retention, bloating, or edema while pregnant, so a diet with less sodium is strongly recommended.

Avoid stress
Getting adequate sleep and rest is also equally as important; without enough rest, it’s easy to experience negative mood changes, and with hormonal changes during pregnancy, prenatal depression could be a risk. To be able to properly release stress and pressure is an important part. Dr. Yu Chuan Chen states that it’s important to “be happy and try not to get angry since it’s unhealthy for the fetus.”

Traditional Chinese medicine conditioning
Early pregnancy calls for sufficient rest, and alongside Western medicine, it’s also common to condition and care for one’s health with traditional Chinese medicine. The medication, herbal soups, and acupuncture procedures are all harmless to fetal development, and can even assist in alleviating the discomfort that comes with pregnancy.

NUWA TCM’s Detailed Treatment Plan
As stated above, adequate rest, sleep, and diet all contribute to overall health during pregnancy. If tocolysis is required during the first few months of pregnancy, it is also recommended to implement both Western and Chinese medicine treatments. Dr. Li Ling Shen from NUWA TCM states that the overall health of a pregnant woman could be impacted by stress or previous unhealed wounds. The graph below shows us some of the most common situations.

Syndromes Backache Abdominal pain Bleeding/blood clots Others Treatment

Spleen & Kidney Deficiency Backache, difficulty standing straight Dull pain in lower abdomen Light red and brown spotting Frequent diarrhea Shou Tai Pill
Qi & Blood Deficiency Uncertain Dull pain with falling sensation in lower abdomen Light red bleeding, volume uncertain History of amenia Tai Yuan Drink
Blood Heat Common Dull or sharp pain in lower abdomen Bright red bleeding Dry mouth Qing Re An Tai Drink
Blood Stasis Uncommon Sharp pain in specific region of lower abdomen Dark red bleeding with clots - Gui Zhi Fu Ling Pill, Shou Tai Pill

NUWA TCM’s Medical Director, Dr. Yu Chuan Chen points out that in TCM theory, it is best to undergo tocolysis in early pregnancy, in case situations like a decreased immune system, blood deficiency, or a cold uterus arise.

Better Diet, Better Health
Nutritional Value Types of Food

Whole grains Recommended to choose whole grain or brown rice over white rice to avoid refined starch
Quality protein Beans, seafood, eggs, meat, and soymilk and tofu for vegetarian options
Iron Consume more red meat and leafy greens like beef, spinach, red amaranth, etc. to replenish vitamin C
Vitamins & minerals Consume more vitamin B, folic acid, DHA-rich food like dark leafy greens, nuts, tuna, salmon, mackerel
Calcium Common foods high in calcium are: milk, cheese, sesame seeds, red amaranth, kale, fish
What should we eat to better nourish ourselves? It’s best to consume nutrient-rich food and to avoid raw, oily, fermented, or high-sodium food. The graph below states the recommended nutritional value:

Everyone’s physical condition is different, so please consult with your doctor if there are any questions!

Daily Care For the Long Run
It is so critical to take care of yourself in all aspects during your journey, and keeping these things in mind will have benefits in the long run.

1. Avoid smoking and alcohol
Avoid smoking and alcohol at all costs, for it could greatly affect fetal development.

2. Avoid lifting heavy items
During pregnancy, the uterus presses on the pelvic cavity, forcing pressure onto it. So it is best to avoid lifting heavy items and doing excessive physical labor.

3. Routine prenatal checkups
Pregnant women should have regular prenatal checkups to ensure the good physical health of the fetus and mom. If there are any discomforts and concerns, you should also reach out to your doctor.

Pregnancy is a rewarding and heartwarming journey, and it is best to follow doctor’s orders and recommendations to be in top-notch health. If there are any concerns or questions, you are more than welcome to consult NUWA TCM for a safe and healthy pregnancy. 👉Register for an appointment online

Author’s Information
NUWA TCM
NUWA’s TCM team boasts over 20 years of experience, with clinics in Taipei and Taichung. We offer an individual acupuncture room, prioritizing your privacy and comfort above all else. We hope we can provide even more comfort on this recuperating journey in our TCM clinic.

Main Services: Infertility treatment, pregnancy preparation, pregnancy, postpartum care, miscarriages, menstrual pain, allergies, weight loss, F.A.C.E., sleep disorders, child growth and development, etc. 👉 Learn more about NUWA Healthcare

2024.08.14
TCM Resources
The “Facial Acupuncture for Charm and Elegance (F.A.C.E.)” Effect
What are the results for F.A.C.E.? Will the treatment hurt? Who’s suitable for it? Societal beauty standards have been changing, whether through skincare or aesthetic medicine. Aside from them, do you know what F.A.C.E. is? Let’s dive in and read through what its principle is, its precautions, and everything in between!

What is F.A.C.E.?
Facial Acupuncture for Charm and Elegance, or F.A.C.E. in short, originated in Korea, one of the most popular places for aesthetic medicine. The founder of F.A.C.E. is the Korean professor Dr. Song Jhen Han, who used TCM to provide a non-invasive way to remodel facial features and shape without using injections or medications. The technique is deeply rooted in using hair-like needles to target fascia, muscles, and ligaments to improve circulation and lift facial lines through acupuncture. Aside from aesthetic purposes, F.A.C.E. is also used to alleviate pain and improve insomnia. It is an elegant and special technology that is loved by Japanese celebrities and Youtubers!

Principles & Result Analysis
TCM acupuncture’s main principle is to use acupuncture needles to improve and circulate the blood and qi within the body. It can be used to cure diseases or alleviate symptoms. F.A.C.E. integrates both Chinese medicine and Western technology to create a treatment that focuses on the head and face. Through F.A.C.E., these can be achieved:
Muscle relaxation
Restore muscle elasticity
Lift facial lines
Reduce fine lines
Lift facial shape
It is recommended to those, especially with uncoordinated facial expressions; that F.A.C.E. will be able to balance the tension of the right and left facial muscles.

Who is Suitable for F.A.C.E.?
F.A.C.E. is suitable for all skin types, whether it’s oily, dry, or combination skin. It is also suitable for men and women of all ages, but those with skin lesions or conditions must inform their doctor first to avoid any complications. Let’s talk about who is and isn’t suitable for F.A.C.E. in detail below:

TCM F.A.C.E. is suitable for those who have:
✅ Sagging jowls
✅ Asymmetrical face
✅ Overactive masseter muscles
✅ Tight scalp
✅ Stress and migraines
✅ Poor sleep quality
✅ Reduce fine lines: nasolabial folds, crow’s feet, etc.

Not Suitable For 4 Groups:
⚠️ Women whose menstrual cycle starts 1-3 days before
Women's qi and circulation are usually weaker right before menstruation. Since everyone is different, it is still recommended to consult your physician before treatment.

⚠️ Those who’ve done facial threading, laser treatments, etc.
It is best to avoid F.A.C.E. treatments for those who’ve done aesthetic medical treatments recently, especially fillers or invasive facial treatments. On the other hand, F.A.C.E. is fine after treatments like Pico laser or spot removals, but it is still recommended that any treatments are disclosed to the doctor before getting the desired result. On top of that, some people would go above and beyond, and get Thermage FLX once a year and F.A.C.E. every month as maintenance and self-care.

⚠️ Those with recent public appearances
F.A.C.E. can very rarely cause bruising sometimes. Those who need to show their face in public appearances, or have any important plans in 2 weeks, are recommended to avoid F.A.C.E. treatments to prevent swelling during public appearances.

⚠️ Those with an open wound, inflammation, or swelling
Aside from having an open wound, inflammation, or swelling, those with conditions such as lymphedema, poor blood clotting, (ex: hemophilia, taking anticoagulant medications), serious illnesses, chronic diseases (ex: diabetes), and those who are faint around needles are not recommended for F.A.C.E.!

Are There Side Effects?

F.A.C.E. is a noninvasive procedure, and it uses extremely fine microneedles that latch onto the scalp and face. Every needle’s direction, depth, and angle is different for everyone, and it stimulates the deeper muscles and fascia of superficial skin and meridians. Even though the microneedles are tiny and the probability of bleeding and scarring is low, there are sometimes cases of bruising or swelling, so it is best to avoid rubbing or kneading the skin for 2 days.

Need-To-Know for the Best Result!

After the F.A.C.E. procedure, it is normal to experience a slight hot and heated sensation for a couple of hours. After that, it is also normal to experience facial tightness and soreness while making expressions for a few days. Below are 3 stages of the treatment, and let’s dive into the do’s and don’ts of each step.

Before:
Test well and get a good night's sleep the night before
Please avoid makeup or put on light makeup the day of treatment, sunscreen or toner would suffice. You would need to thoroughly wash your face before treatment to prevent infection.
Please inform your doctor if you have bloodborne infectious diseases (ex: Hepatitis B, C)

During:
Avoid making big facial expressions
Please inform the doctor if you experience any dizziness, chest tightness, sweating, difficulty breathing, continuous pain, or any discomfort during the treatment

After:
Skin will appear radiant after treatment, but to prevent overexposure or sunburn, please apply moderate amounts of skincare and facemasks accordingly
If there is bruising or swelling, please avoid rubbing for 2 days. You can use a hot compression 3 days after treatment and will disappear around 1-2 weeks
If there’s slight bleeding after the treatment, please avoid contact with water for 2 hours
If you experience swelling, pain, or discomfort, it is recommended to consult your physician
Extended Reading: TCM F.A.C.E. Procedure Explained

FAQs
Q1: I’m scared of needles, does the treatment hurt?
F.A.C.E. needles are slightly thinner than acupuncture needles, and even thinner than hair sometimes. It is best described as a mosquito bite most of the time, and most can barely feel the needles; it is usually widely accepted by everyone. There might be soreness and tightness if it is done on deeper fine lines on the face, but because it relaxes the head and scalp, a lot of patients will even fall asleep during treatment!

Q2: Can I return to work right after the F.A.C.E. treatment?
Of course! There is no recovery period for F.A.C.E., and you can put on makeup right after the treatment. It’s super convenient for office workers or new moms, providing a small window of relaxation for them!

Q3: What’s the difference between F.A.C.E. and a regular aesthetic clinic? Which one yields a better result?
Usually, aesthetic medicine treatments include: botox, facelifts, threading, fillers, etc., and are invasive most of the time. They all have higher levels of pain and costs despite seeing results immediately after. On the other hand, TCM F.A.C.E. uses a softer and more comfortable approach compared to that of aesthetic medicine. This is usually done routinely as maintenance and for longer-lasting results, and will be adjusted accordingly to your physical state by the doctor. It’s highly suitable for those who are scared of pain and desire natural beauty treatments that are lower in cost.

TCM F.A.C.E. is a combination of aesthetic medicine technology and traditional Chinese medicine, a feature that is not seen in aesthetic medicine. Sometimes people use both kinds of treatments interchangeably to get their desired results!

✨ To make an appointment for F.A.C.E.:
Official LINE - NUWA Taipei
Official LINE - NUWA Taichung

If you want to know more about our clinics, please proceed to NUWA Healthcare’s website, where there is a detailed description of our clinics and services!

Author’s Information
NUWA TCM
NUWA’s TCM team boasts over 20 years of experience, with clinics in Taipei and Taichung. We offer an individual acupuncture room, prioritizing your privacy and comfort above all else. We hope we can provide even more comfort on this recuperating journey in our TCM clinic.

Main Services: Infertility treatment, pregnancy preparation, pregnancy, postpartum care, miscarriages, menstrual pain, allergies, weight loss, F.A.C.E., sleep disorders, child growth and development, etc. 👉 Learn more about NUWA Healthcare

2024.08.14
Fertility Resources
Understanding Premature Ovarian Failure
Does premature ovarian failure affect pregnancy? How should I take care of myself? There are two cases of premature ovarian failure at NUWA that we would like to share with you: one patient had regular menstruation and normal menstrual flow, but she was found to have premature ovarian failure when she was trying to get pregnant. The other patient was under 30 years old, but her menstrual flow was irregular, and she was found to have entered menopause at an early age. What caused both patients to have premature ovarian failure? Today, let's talk about the causes of premature ovarian failure and the various common problems.

What is Premature Ovarian Failure? 4 Common Causes
Generally speaking, the average time for a woman to stop menstruating is around 50 years old. If a woman enters menopause before the age of 40, the phenomenon of recession is Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI). There are many possible causes of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), including the following:

Common Causes Explanation

Influence of external environment and living habits Air pollution, plasticizers, smoking, prolonged stress, or irregular work schedule, etc.
Abnormalities in their chromosome or gene A common chromosomal problem is Turner Syndrome; a common genetic problem is Fragile X Syndrome.
Ovarian inflammation Functional disruption due to autoimmune or bacterial attack
Affected by treatment of other diseases E.g. surgical effects, chemotherapy, and electrotherapy injuries

High-Risk Groups of Premature Ovarian Failure
Some people may ask, "What are the symptoms of poor ovarian function or premature ovarian failure? " But unfortunately, premature ovarian failure does not show any symptoms in the early stages and most people do not find out until they go in for a checkup for irregular menstruation. Usually, by this time, there is little ovarian function left. However, it is worth noting that it usually takes about 5 years for ovarian function to "begin" to decline until it "really" fails, so if you belong to the following groups, you should pay more attention to your condition in advance.

➜ Family history (mom and sister stopped menstruating early)
➜ Tumor in the ovary that requires surgery
➜ Expected to receive chemotherapy or pelvic radiation therapy
➜ Prolonged exposure to high-pressure environments or an irregular lifestyle

2 Major Premature Ovarian Function Tests
From the above explanation, it can be seen that premature ovarian failure does not have obvious precursors or symptoms. Apart from paying attention to one's condition, one can also consider undergoing an ovarian function test if there is a need to prepare for pregnancy. At present, there are two main types of assessment programs:

1. Blood Tests: Anti-Mullerian Tube Hormones（AMH）
It is a self-funded test that can be performed regardless of the time of the menstrual cycle, and numerically quantifies the stock of eggs; in short, the more follicles there are, the higher the AMH value will be.

Value Meaning

＞2 Normal follicular stock
1～2 Decreased follicle count
＜1 Follicle count almost depleted

2. Ultrasonic Evaluation - Number of ovarian basal follicles (AFC)
The number of small follicles >2mm in the ovaries can be checked during an ultrasound to estimate the number of eggs in the ovarian reservoir, and about 7-8 eggs in one ovary are considered normal. However, it should be noted that transvaginal ultrasound is usually more accurate, and the experience of the doctor or technician may affect the number of eggs.

Your #1 Priority: Your Health If Diagnosed With Premature Ovarian Failure
What should we do if we find that we have premature ovarian failure? You should start by changing your lifestyle habits.
Adjusting your daily routine
Adjusting your daily routine, regular exercise, and balanced diet will lay the foundation for your body to take care of itself from the "inside."
Early planning and egg-freezing
If you have not yet given birth, you are advised to advance your fertility planning or even freeze your eggs in advance to avoid having no eggs available in the future.

Extended reading: Is there an age limit for egg freezing? Detailed information on the conditions, process, cost, and FAQs of egg freezing.

Premature Ovarian Failure FAQs
Q1: Can premature ovarian failure be cured?
Premature ovarian failure can only be "slowed down" and there is no way to recover from it. However, the use of Chinese and Western medicine and lifestyle modifications, such as adequate sleep, regular exercise, a normal work schedule, reducing the consumption of processed foods, and staying away from air pollution and chemical toxins, can help minimize the rapid decline of ovarian function.

Women who have been found to have premature ovarian failure are advised to have children earlier; however, if they have other plans or have not yet met a partner, it is recommended that they plan to freeze their eggs to provide them with options for future fertility.

Q2: Is there a chance of conceiving naturally with premature ovarian failure?
As long as ovulation is confirmed, there is still a chance that pregnancy can occur naturally with premature ovarian failure. At NUWA TCM Center, there are many success stories of pregnancy through Chinese medicine, as well as cases of successful pregnancies through a combination of Chinese and Western medicine in IVF.

Q3: Can premature ovarian failure lead to early menopause?
Premature ovarian failure also means a decline in fertility, and because of hormonal changes in women, various menopausal symptoms begin to appear, such as hot flashes and night sweats, anxiety, dry skin, loss of elasticity, sagging and looseness of the breasts, and hips, and can also be accompanied by severe dryness of the vagina and other problems.

Premature Ovarian Failure Story

Ms. H, who is over 35 years old and has premature ovarian failure with an AMH of 0.5, came to NUWA Fertility Center. Since her first egg retrieval was not very good, Dr. Chi Chun Liao asked Ms. H to go to the NUWA TCM Center for physical conditioning, and Dr. Li Ling Shen helped Ms. H with her physical conditioning for 3 months.

After physical conditioning, a good-grade BB blastocyst was successfully cultured. Even though it was a low-grade inlay, the embryo was completely unrecognizable passed the genetic test, and turned out to be twins! In the end, the twins were born safe and sound! It has inspired many future moms who want to give birth to children with premature ovarian failure💕.

Although it is still difficult to fully recover from premature ovarian failure, through proper management and the doctor's planning, there is still a chance for you to conceive! Therefore, if you are worried about your condition, you can visit NUWA Fertility Center for a detailed examination, so that we can assist you in adjusting your health and provide you with a suitable fertility plan.

Author's Information
NUWA Fertility Center, Dr. Chi Chun Liao, Medical Director of Reproductive Medicine

ADMINISTRATIVE APPOINTMENTS:
Director of Reproductive Medicine Center, Taipei Medical University-Shuang Ho Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare
Physician of Reproductive Medicine, MacKay Memorial Hospital
EDUCATION:
School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center
SPECIALTY:
Infertility / Frozen Embryos, Frozen Eggs, Frozen Sperm / In Vitro Fertilization / Artificial Insemination / Follicle Monitoring / Reproductive Endocrinology / Endoscopy / Laparoscopy / Polycystic Ovaries / Endometriosis / Uterine Fibroids

👉 Find out more about NUWA Healthcare

2024.08.14
Fertility Resources
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) 101
More and more couples are realizing it’s not as easy to get pregnant as they’ve thought, and have long considered seeking professional help from fertility doctors. However, there’s a lot to digest and terms are hard to understand. What exactly are Intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF)? Let's find out the treatment best suited for you with NUWA, and allow us to explain the differences between IUI and IVF!

IUI v.s IVF
What’s the difference between IUI and IVF? Treatments in artificial reproduction vary from person to person, and will also influence pregnancy success rates. To clear things up a bit, let’s dive into the more prominent differences between the two.

IUI IVF

AKA Also known as Intrauterine Insemination, or IUI In Vitro Fertilization, or IVF
Procedure With the laboratory's assistance, the husband's semen is washed to select sperm with good motility and normal morphology, which are then concentrated in 0.5 ml of culture medium. After washing, the selected sperm is directly injected into the uterine cavity during the wife's ovulation period through a catheter, allowing the sperm to naturally fertilize the egg, achieving the goal of conception. Embryologists will guide the performance of in vitro fertilization and cultured embryos. The embryos are cultured in the lab for 3 to 5 days until they develop, after which they are transferred back into the mother's uterine cavity, preparing for implantation and pregnancy.
Pregnancy Success Rates Percentage lower than that of IVF Higher in percentage
Gov’t Subsidies None Yes


Who’s Suitable for IUI?
Generally speaking, if you meet the following criteria, it is recommended that you seek professional advice.

✅ Infertility
✅ Sexual dysfunction
✅ Autoimmune diseases
✅ Low sperm count or motility
✅ Abnormal cervical mucus
✅ Mild ovulatory dysfunction, or endometriosis

Extended Reading: How do you define “infertility?” What are some basic tests for it?

8-Step Process
There are 8 steps for IUI treatment at NUWA Fertility:

Step 1: Before IUI treatment
Make an appointment with NUWA Fertility Center for a consultation with the doctor about the best treatment plan for you.

Step 2: Day 2 - 4 of menstrual cycle
Begin treatment with a blood test and an ultrasound check, with the doctor’s instructions on taking medications and injections.

Step 3: Day 5 - 7 of the menstrual cycle
Start inducing ovulation, must continue to follow the doctor’s instructions on taking medications and injections.

Step 4: Day 8 - 11 of the menstrual cycle
Return to NUWA for an ultrasound, and observe the maturity of the follicles.

Step 5: Day 11 - 12 of menstrual cycle
Inject ovulation trigger shot 34-36 hours before insemination.

Step 6: Day 11 - 14 of the menstrual cycle
Retrieve sperm the day of, and implant the washed sperm into the uterus cavity.

Step 7: Day 14 - 28 of the menstrual cycle
Take progesterone as recommended by the doctor.

Step 8: Day 28 - 30 of the menstrual cycle
Return to the clinic for a pregnancy test after a regular 28-30 day cycle!

Pregnancy Success Rate of IUI
The pregnancy success rate of IUI is about 15-20%, and factors affecting the success rate can also be due to the sperm’s motility, quantity, and morphology, as well as the egg’s quantity, quality, and implantation environment. The likelihood of success decreases with fewer eggs or reduced sperm motility. In comparison, the success rate of IVF is significantly higher, due to manual insemination, and the careful observation of the embryo’s growth in a controlled lab environment.

Most importantly, whether or not you decide on IUI or IVF, it is best to discuss the best options with your doctor before proceeding with the treatment, to reduce the disparity in understanding between the spouses regarding the treatment.

IUI Procedures Requirements:
Before making a decision, are there restrictions for IUI? What are some things to be paid attention to? Before undergoing treatment for IUI, please go through the below criteria:

Meeting these criteria
To undergo IUI, patients need to be a heterosexual couple, and must meet the below criteria:
Legally married couples
Viable uterus to successfully give birth
At least one spouse has healthy and normal sperm and eggs
Either spouse is diagnosed with infertility or has a hereditary disease
Deemed suitable for IUI by a medical institution
Choose a government-accredited organization
Since the source of gametes for artificial insemination and the method of pregnancy and childbirth are no different from natural reproduction, they are not regulated by the Artificial Reproduction Act. However, it should be noted that there are still penalties for those who violate regulations regarding the selection of embryo gender. Therefore, please be sure to choose obstetrics and gynecology clinics licensed by the competent government authority.

👉 National Health Department Artificial Reproduction Institution Licensed List

Getting Help: Costs & Subsidies
The cost of intrauterine insemination (IUI) starts from NT$15,000, but the actual cost of it varies from each person’s medication and physical condition without government subsidy. On the other hand, the cost of IVF treatments is roughly between NT$150,000 to NT$180,000, not including medication.

The majority of couples undergoing IUI or IVF have endured a challenging journey of trying to conceive naturally without success before seeking professional help. As a result, their expectations for a successful pregnancy are quite high. It is recommended that they thoroughly consult with their doctor regarding timing and costs, to choose the best treatment suitable for them.

Extended Reading: 2024 Infertility IVF Subsidy Program Qualifications, Requirements, and Process All-In-One!

Q＆A
Q1: Do I need to lie down after IUI treatment? For how long?
As described in the process, semen retrieval will be scheduled on the day of the procedure. After the lab washes the semen to select sperm with good motility and normal morphology, the selected sperm will be implanted into the wife's uterus. Following implantation, there is no need for prolonged rest; after resting for 5 to 10 minutes, you can return home. Once home, maintain a normal lifestyle with a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and a positive mindset, and follow the doctor's instructions for medication.

Q2: After IUI, is it normal to have discharge?
After undergoing IUI, it is normal to experience a normal amount of discharge! Discharge is usually odorless and colorless, but you can consult your doctor if you have any questions.

Q3: When should I take a pregnancy test after IUI?
After a regular cycle of 28-30 days, you will be asked to return to the clinic for a pregnancy test. A more accurate time and date will be adjusted according to everyone’s physical state and it is recommended to follow your doctor’s instructions and recommendations.

Choose NUWA for your Fertility Plan!
Are you unsure of choosing the right medical institution for infertility treatments? We invite you to choose NUWA Fertility Center! Below are five things we do to help prospective parents leave this important task to us!

Chain of Reproductive Organizations
NUWA Healthcare has 3 high-quality IVF centers and 2 TCM centers in Taipei, Taoyuan, and Taichung, with a total of one hundred healthcare professionals providing comprehensive fertility treatments.

Expert Infertility Team
A crew of doctors with more than 10,000 successful in vitro fertilization procedures, including 15 reproductive medicine physicians, 5 Chinese medicine physicians, and 21 embryologists, stands as invaluable teammates for a successful pregnancy.

International-Grade Embryology Laboratory
We boast an international embryology lab, with an expert team of embryologists. Our well-rounded technology, team, and dedication are dedicated to enhancing pregnancy success rates!

Professional and Heartfelt Service
We prioritize each person's experience in the clinic and provide expecting parents with a sincere and trusting consultation, as well as a comfortable and private clinic environment.

Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine
NUWA Healthcare includes the NUWA Fertility Center and the NUWA TCM Center, where traditional Chinese and Western physicians work together to help you achieve your fertility goals.

For more information on IUI, please make an appointment online and consult with our doctors!

Author's Information
NUWA Fertility Center
With many infertility experts and more than 10,000 doctors with successful IVF experience, the company has 5 clinics, including 3 high-specification IVF reproduction centers, 3 international embryo laboratories, and 2 TCM centers, which are located in Taipei, Taoyuan, and Taichung.

Main Services: Infertility treatment, IVF, artificial insemination, egg freezing, egg borrowing, and pregnancy preparation. In 2021, NUWA Healthcare will formally cooperate with Dianthus Medical Group to provide one-stop integrated services for preparation, pregnancy, labor, and postpartum care, which will bring the greatest convenience for our patients. 👉Learn more about NUWA Healthcare

2024.08.12

Request an Appointment

Consultation

NUWA Healthcare Education and Resources

All articles

TCM Resources

Fertility Resources

Immunology Resources

NUWA Healthcare Education and Resources

Your Best Guide to Understanding Endometriosis

What is Endometriosis?

7 Common Symptoms

4 Main Causes

Who’s at Risk for Endometriosis?

Checking for Endometriosis

Will It Affect Your Fertility?

Treatment Options for Endometriosis

5 Everyday Self-Care Tips

2024 Egg Freezing Subsidy Program

Subsidy Services & Quota

Subsidy Comparison

Egg Freezing Application: 4 Steps

Egg Freezing Subsidy Notice

Self-Care Do’s and Don’ts After A Miscarriage

4 Diet Tips After A Miscarriage

4 Major Taboos After A Miscarriage

TCM Doctor Explains the 3 Stages of Conditioning

How Long Does It Take To Recover?

TCM Conditioning Stories

Successful Birth After Recurrent Miscarriages

Welcoming a Dragon Baby After TCM Treatments

6 Pregnancy Preparations for Your Everyday Care

6 Key Points To Watch Out

TCM and Western Medicine: An Unstoppable Duo

6 Game-Changing Factors for IVF Success!

6 Key Factors Impacting IVF Success

Does It Have Anything To Do With Age?

Words of Wisdom From Our Doctors

NUWA’s Your #1 Choice for IVF

FAQs

Understanding Tocolysis: A Safer Pregnancy

What Is It For?

What Situations Require Tocolysis?

3 Warning Signs of Preterm Birth

3 Common Methods That Help

Daily Care For the Long Run

The “Facial Acupuncture for Charm and Elegance (F.A.C.E.)” Effect

What is F.A.C.E.?

Principles & Result Analysis

Who is Suitable for F.A.C.E.?

Not Suitable For 4 Groups:

Are There Side Effects?

Need-To-Know for the Best Result!

FAQs

Understanding Premature Ovarian Failure

What is Premature Ovarian Failure? 4 Common Causes

High-Risk Groups of Premature Ovarian Failure

2 Major Premature Ovarian Function Tests

Your #1 Priority: Your Health If Diagnosed With Premature Ovarian Failure

Premature Ovarian Failure FAQs

Premature Ovarian Failure Story

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) 101

IUI v.s IVF

Who’s Suitable for IUI?

8-Step Process

Pregnancy Success Rate of IUI

IUI Procedures Requirements:

Getting Help: Costs & Subsidies

Q＆A