fertility testimonials | pregnancy testimonials
FERTILITY
Worth the wait
David and I had been on the infertility rollercoaster for several years when I started seeing Lisa for acupuncture. We’d already had 3 IUIs and an IVF cycle that were all unsuccessful, and I was interested in trying acupuncture as a complementary medicine to the infertility treatments. A friend recommended Lisa, and said she was great, but to be honest what really got my attention was when my friend said Lisa ends all her treatments with a foot massage! I figured anything that ends with a foot massage is worth trying so I made an appointment.
What has grown out of that first appointment is one of the most amazing relationships I have had with a health practitioner. Lisa has not only provided incredible assistance through the use of her acupuncture and Chinese medicine skills, but her emotional support of me has been invaluable. Infertility means not only coping with physical challenges, but also dealing with the enormous emotional stress of not being able to conceive a child. In each session, Lisa listened to what was going on with me that week, and offered her wisdom and solace (and sometimes a kick up the bum when it was needed!). She has become a key part of my support system, and has helped me learn and grow in ways that I could not imagine when I started seeing her.
Amazingly, I am now 41 (and a half!) years old, and 38 weeks pregnant. With Lisa’s help, I have had a healthy pregnancy, and David and I are looking forward to finally meeting our baby that has been seven years in the making.
Jacinta – excited mum-to-be.
An encouraging tale
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’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 Practioners 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…..Donna
Trying to conceive for 9 months
Lisa is a godsend! Her gentle manner and cheerful disposition allowed me to feel comfortable in her presence from the very start. I sought out acupuncture treatments to aid my fertility and after just one cycle, I got pregnant! I truly believe that the Chinese herbs, acupuncture, and Lisa’s nutritional advice assisted with my pregnancy. Lisa’s skillful needling makes acupuncture treatments virtually pain-free and leaves me feeling relaxed and revitalized. I plan to continue my acupuncture treatments throughout my pregnancy.
M J Age 29
Polycystic ovarian syndrome, trying to conceive for 9 months
My husband and I had been to a fertility clinic and were told that I had Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and that we would need assistance to get pregnant. We decided to try what treatments the fertility clinic recommended; we were doing this for 9 months and still had a negative result. They then suggested IVF which was a rather expensive option.
A friend recommended Lisa for acupuncture that specialized in female fertility issues. I booked in to see Lisa she was great explained what doctors couldn’t and hadn’t been bothered to. I saw Lisa once a week for 6 weeks where she worked on trying to get my body working the way it should ready for conception.
I had Chinese medicine herbs as well as acupuncture for a further 6 weeks once a fortnight; during this time my periods had become regular, which they hadn’t been since I stopped taking the contraceptive pill. I was feeling great.
A couple of weeks later I started to feel nauseas, and tired and hadn’t had a period for that month – My husband then said to me maybe you could be pregnant you should take a test, I dismissed this as we hadn’t been working with Lisa all that long and I had started to give up hope. I waited another week, still feeling nauseas I thought ok I will take a home pregnancy test. To my surprise it came back positive, so I took another test just to make sure I wasn’t imagining things!!! It also came back positive. I booked into see the doctor who then did another pregnancy test that also came back positive we were finally pregnant.
We are expecting our baby to arrive any week now!!! We could not have done this with out Lisa and acupuncture. I would recommend Lisa to anyone that is trying to have a baby or just trying to get there bodies on track.
KD Age 31
Polycystic ovarian syndrome, trying to conceive for 18 months
”After having tried 3 unsuccessful rounds of fertility drugs over the course of 18 months, I decided that the medical route wasn’t the one for me and went to Lisa seeking a more holistic approach. Within 2 months of beginning treatment my period became regular, within 3 months my hormone levels corrected themselves and within 6 months I was pregnant.
Lisa and her treatments had a very calming effect on me, which I’m sure can be well appreciated by anyone dealing with the day-to-day frustration of sub fertility. To see such dramatic changes in my cycle and hormones which I could only put down to Lisa’s acupuncture and Chinese herbs was truly fascinating. There is not a doubt in my mind that Lisa helped me fall pregnant and for that I cannot thank her enough.”
KG Age 32
Trying to conceive for 8 months, second child
I have just had my 12 week scan and all is looking well with my new baby. After falling pregnant so quickly the first time I was upset it was taking me so long the second time, and this is why I went to see Lisa. I had not realised how important the ‘holistic’ approach to fertility is and thought that a few acupuncture needles might sort me out! However Lisa takes time to get to know you first and find out any factors in your life that might be relevant. It was a real eye opener to discuss my son’s birth experience with Lisa and come to the realisation that I might be affected by his traumatic birth to the point I was fearful about going through something like that again. Although very emotional for me, it was such a great experience to talk it through with someone so insightful, and shine the light on something I had swept under the mat. After this intense experience, I fell pregnant the following month. I continued to see Lisa through the first 12 weeks for treatment for nausea, and other unpleasant pregnancy symptoms, and also miscarriage prevention. As well as the acupuncture – which was relaxing and enjoyable – I feel I got lots of ‘extras’ such as the benefit of her extensive knowledge about pregnancy and her careful monitoring of my nutrition. I cannot recommend Lisa enough.
TG Age 34
History of 2 miscarriages
Acupuncture was not an option I had initially considered to assist with pre conception health and to strengthen my ability to carry a baby full term. But after two miscarriages and speaking with others who had similar experiences I decided to give it a go. To be honest, I wish I had done it sooner, but realise I needed to come around to doing this in my own time. That being said I wouldn’t change a thing as I now have the most adorable baby boy, born February 2008 and love being a mum. I would not hesitate to have Acupuncture with subsequent pregnancies.
C P Age 32
Unexplained Secondary Sub fertility, history of 2 miscarriages trying to conceive for 1 1/2 years
I initially got in touch with Lisa after frustration with not getting pregnant. After anguish and sadness from a miscarriage, I really needed extra support. After the first consultation with Lisa, my confidence changed dramatically, and the acupuncture immediately gave me a feeling of calm. Together with Lisa’s words and coaching, natural philosophy, herbs and regular acupuncture sessions, my husband and I successfully became pregnant after only a few months. Lisa was truly a game-breakerfor us! We are so thankful to her for everything, and our baby daughter is evidence of how happy we are.
Without doubt or hesitation, my husband and I definitely recommend Lisa to any couple who is having difficulty growing a family.
AS Age 34
18 Months unexplained Sub fertility
I have benefited greatly from my acupuncture treatments from Lisa. I went to Lisa after failing to conceive naturally for almost 2 years. After several months of acupuncture treatment I became pregnant. I really enjoyed the holistic approach that Lisa provided with my care. I have continued acupuncture with Lisa over this period of the pregnancy to help me with back pain. Lisa is a very caring and professional acupuncture practitioner, who has a very broad knowledge base to draw on.
H R Age 35
Unexplained Sub fertility
I started seeing Lisa in August 2008 just before I was about to embark on my second IVF cycle which unfortunately was not successful. Being an older patient I had given up hope of ever getting pregnant. Lisa encouraged me to take a more holistic approach to my infertility she gave me the confidence that going down this path would eventually be successful. She was correct and almost a year later I am now 36 weeks pregnant though a natural conception.
Lisa’s compassion and sensitivity during this difficult time has been treasured and without her I wouldn’t have achieved a healthy pregnancy. Thank you Lisa for all your encouragement and support.
MK Age 44
IVF Preparation after 3 unsuccessful IVF cycles, 1 of these with me
I started seeing Lisa after my second IVF cycle failed and just a few months before I was due to start my third cycle. I was really hesitant to have acupuncture due to my fear of needles, you’d think I’d be over that phobia after having been through 2 IVF cycles and getting ready for a third!!! Lisa was so calming and reassuring that my first session was just wonderful and pain free. We also spent at least an hour and half just talking. I was amazed at how much I had to say about what I had been through and how my emotions were just coming out. Lisa also was so informative and for the first time I felt as though someone actually cared and also had some answers as to why things might be going wrong. The part that I enjoy the most about the treatment is the talk, I find it very therapeutic and energizing. Lisa seems to have a wonderful gift in making you recognize your emotions and helping you deal with it.
My third IVF cycle wasn’t successful and needless to say I was absolutely devastated. I stopped all treatment and completely closed up, for me there was no longer a light at the end of the tunnel. A few months later when I resurfaced the first person I called was Lisa. I have started my treatment with her again even though I’m not doing IVF till next year. What she has done for me and my relationship with my husband is wonderful. She helped me prepare questions for my reviews with the Fertility Clinics to help me make the best decisions regarding another IVF cycle. I am now enjoying life and no longer feel empty. For me now there is once again a BRIGHT light at the end of my tunnel and I owe it all to Lisa. Without her counseling and advice I wouldn’t be feeling on top of the world as I am today.
RA Age 30
IVF- Diagnosed with Sub fertility due to Endometriosis
Most importantly though I wanted to thank you for your role in my babies lives. From prep for IVF – to relief from dead kidneys, you have been brilliant and I have so enjoyed the therapy. It has been critical in my well-being and an essential complement to the medical treatment. If my pockets were deep it would be a weekly ritual with made up symptoms just to get regular needle therapy.
S V Age 35
IVF- Anti Cardiolipin Antibodies , 1 unsuccessful IVF and a history of miscarriage
After many disappointments in natural pregnancies and one failed IVF cycle we were about to undergo our second cycle when my husband read that acupuncture had been found to assist success rates. From my first phone call with Lisa she was positive and helpful and we set up a plan going forward for treatment prior to and all the way through my pregnancy. My treatments with Lisa became very important for me, giving me time to relax and unwind and Lisa was always there with an open ear and assisted in dealing with the physical changes in my body and also I mentally as well. Lisa is an extremely talented gentle, beautiful person who I cannot recommend strongly enough to anyone considering acupuncture. I strongly believe that without her I would not have my beautiful son Robert.
L H Age 40
PREGNANCY
Breech at 36 weeks, labour preparation and pain relief
At 36 weeks pregnant, my midwife recommended acupuncture as my baby was in the breech position. I was a bit hesitant as I had only had acupucture once 15 years previously for persistant headaches and found it to be scary and unpleasant. Lisa took my history, put me totally at ease, and performed the acupunture treatment. I was totally comfortable throughout. Lisa also prescribed moxibustion to be done at home over the following 5 days. Not only did I have the most amazing night sleep that night, the scan 5 days later showed the baby had turned the right way after that one treatment and I did not require the rather horrible sounding ECV procedure or if that was unsuccessful, a caesarian section. Thank you Lisa!
I also wanted to let you know that after the second treatment you performed at 39 weeks for labour preparation, your prediction of a week to 10 days as to when the baby would be born was spot on. He arrived only two days late, within the time frame you guessed, and I’m sure the acupucture helped me not be too late. The other thing I was thrilled about was the acupressure points you taught me – I kept reapplying the vivid marks over the following week or so and when I did go into labour, my husband used the points and I got amazing natural pain relief. So much so, I managed to hang on at home through transition and our second child was born with no drugs just over an hour after we got to hospital!
JH
Preparation for labour – Babies position and Pelvic alignment
My midwife is 99% sure that Baby is no longer in breech. That is awesome news, although I was quite looking forward to hen pecking with the moxa stick.
And the pain in my lower pelvis is such a thing of the past, I have no niggles or twinges and can hardly even remember the discomfort. Thank you so much for that session, it obviously worked wonders. I am now 34 weeks pregnant.
Thank you again, we are so happy Baby has turned.
NW 36
Preparation for Birth {C-section first birth} and pain relief during labour
I began seeing acupuncturist Lisa Houghton six weeks before the due date of my second pregnancy. My first pregnancy had resulted in an emergency caesarian, something I was anxious to avoid if possible.
Lisa is a careful and sensitive acupuncturist, with a considered and thorough approach. I enjoyed each session with her immensely. I am indebted to her for introducing me to the work of Debra Betts, www.acupuncture.rhizome.net.nz, whose acupressure techniques can provide pain relief during labour. Lisa took the time to show my husband the correct points and technique, with excellent results.
Due in no small part to Lisa, I was able to avoid an elective caesarian and give birth naturally, without pain relief. I strenuously recommend her.
NC
Preparation for labour in response to Post Natal Depression after the first birth
I saw Lisa for acupuncture from about 32 weeks in my second pregnancy. After a difficult birth experience and post-natal period with my first child I was full of anxiety and highly dedicated to work towards a better experience this time. I found having the acupuncture truly wonderful and I believe it helped in many ways. Firstly, the appointments were very therapeutic. The environment was calm and wonderful and it was always great to talk with Lisa about how things were going, how I was feeling physically and emotionally and where I was at. So it was a lovely interlude in my week! I found the acupuncture to be really helpful in my last weeks of pregnancy, in addition to easing physical discomforts, it most importantly contributed to my remaining calm, handling the anxiety and coming to a very beautiful place before my childbirth journey. Even as I approached two weeks overdue I felt quite at peace with what I was doing and that was no mean feat!
As my labour progressed the preparation became apparent – I felt very much on top of what was happening most of the time. I never felt anxious. The labour, although it stopped and started a little, was ultimately pretty efficient and I had my lovely boy without reaching overload or exhaustion. During the labour the acupressure points I had practiced with Lisa, and the pressure pins in my ears were fabulous. During the first night of contractions, which was around 12 hours of contractions a bit less than a minute long but only a minute apart my husband put pressure on the points around my sacrum. This worked well to help me through the night. When my labour picked up again with more intensity, although less frequent contractions, I started to use the point on my hand in between my thumb and first finger. Especially on my left hand but I used both as the night wore on. This point was a crucial part of my coping strategy. With each contraction building I would put pressure on the point, rock or sway, hum (okay, moan and groan!) and, as things became more intense, use visualisation. Before long my hands were humming, the points were sore! And they remained tender for a couple of days. But I could put so much pressure on them and they gave such good intense response – it was great. Along with a birth pool, my husband pouring water over my back, a fabulous midwife and a couple of great support people, this was all that I needed to help me through the labour and birth my little (well actually, 9lb 14 oz) boy.
One of the most lovely things about using acupuncture was that I felt so well resourced to tackle each coming hurdle. I felt that I had some tricks in the bag to employ as I came overdue, when the labour stopped and started etc. so that I had options I could take before having to go down the road of more intrusive interventions. Because of my previous experience I was really keen to avoid medical interventions and hospital altogether so it meant a lot to me. I think more than anything it meant a lot to know that I had the support of a wonderful group of people and professionals, who were all committed to helping me do this well – Lisa was a great part of my team!
JS Age 34