At 40 I had been trying to conceive for two years and although I was successful once, I sadly miscarried and began trying again immediately. Another year had passed without another pregnancy so I began to search for answers. I had become very frustrated and disheartened by the current public system of health care. It was obvious that no one was going to take any time to investigate my fertility challenges or pregnancy loss at my age. I was advised to pursue ART. Intuitively, I was confident that my body could conceive and carry a baby to full term so I chose to look for alternative therapies.
I was extremely blessed to come across Lisa Houghton’s web-site after manically looking through the infinite resources on the internet to optimise fertility outcomes. I instantly felt that I had come to the right place. I was impressed by her vast knowledge of the human body, its energetic pathways and the science of Chinese medicine and acupuncture. She explained the detail of each needle placement and described: sensations, anatomy and the cause and effect of every treatment session. She explained that she would “carefully and methodically look under every rock.” My scientific ‘geeky’ mind trusted her implicitly. What I didn’t expect but came to value above all else was her nurturing, supportive, caring and counselling gifts. What was meant as an information gathering/ update chat at the beginning of each session was actually a counselling session; a place for me to describe where I was at emotionally, physically and mentally. She really saw it all here, my tears of despair, my hopeful enthusiasm and everything else in-between.
I had found a truly whole-istic approach! Lisa was not afraid to make referrals and connections to colleagues and her mentors when and where she believed another approach or modality would benefit my process. I have seen other Chinese Medicine Practitioners in the city and engaged their help with my fertility through acupuncture. I was amazed at how vastly different Lisa’s practice was. I wish that every woman who needs support in fertility challenges finds her! I believe she is truly a gifted healer. As I write, I am 42 years old and 20 weeks pregnant.
