The Vagus Nerve and Fertility
The vagus nerve, often called the “Wandering” nerve, is essential in hormonal balance and fertility in all genders or non-genders. Trying to conceive creates stress and worry, affecting the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems. When the vagus nerve is over or under-stimulated, it can wreak havoc on emotions and fertility.
The vagus nerve runs from the brainstem, through the neck, into the chest, abdomen, and female and male reproductive organs. Due to its pathway in the body, the vagus nerve directly influences the parasympathetic nervous system. It affects the brain, ears, mouth, tongue, throat, heart, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, hormonal and sugar levels, kidney, bladder, spleen, gastrointestinal function, and reproductive and sexual function.
The vagus nerve also passes directly through the ovaries, affecting egg quality, production, PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome), endometriosis, and fertility. Research has shown that patients with these disorders have a low-functioning vagus nerve. Chinese medicine, especially acupuncture, stimulates the vagus nerve to help affect the signs and symptoms of endometriosis, PCOS, and fertility, as well as balancing estrogen and progesterone. Our Water Element supplement supports the ovarian follicle's growth and pain relief during PMS and menopause, helping to support the function of the vagus nerve.
Food also affects our vagus nerve production regarding fertility. The gut, all major digestive tract organs, including the stomach and intestines, act as our second brain, producing ninety percent of the serotonin in our body. Serotonin affects our emotions and fertility. The gut and intestines' connection to the vagus nerve directly affects the brain and hormones of the body. Microbiome balance is vital in fertility patients to help stimulate the positive function of the vagus nerve. Recommended foods include:
Organic fruits and vegetables warmed or cooked, including berries, pears, apples, mushrooms, green leafy vegetables, and sweet potatoes
Fish, including salmon, seabass, and anchovies
Nuts/Seeds, including black sesame seeds, walnuts, and pine nuts
Herbs/ Spices, including rosemary, royal jelly, ginger, and garlic
The Tao of Wellness recommends the book Tao of Fertility, which has recipes utilizing many ingredients. We recommend not skipping meals and avoiding icy cold drinks, alcohol, and caffeine, as all these will negatively impact vagus nerve function.
Lastly, meditation is compelling at stimulating the vagus nerve and finding grounding and calmness. The vagus nerve must relax, allowing our emotions to rest and relax when working on fertility. Dr. Mao’s Meditation for Stress Release is an excellent resource for those new to meditation and those with a current meditation practice. If you're struggling with fertility, please book an appointment with us. We will happily see you and get your vagus nerve back on track.