Biofeedback Testing

What is Biofeedback?
Biofeedback is a treatment technique in which people are trained to improve their health by using signals from their own bodies. It is a therapeutic tool that may help people to change the way their bodies respond to a variety of conditions, including stress and anxiety.
The National Institute of Health has approved biofeedback for the management of pain and insomnia. Biofeedback has applications for the use of many health concerns including anxiety disorders, constipation, fibromyalgia, ADHD, headaches, mild depression, stress, PMS and other conditions.

Role in Fertility Management?
Research indicates that women who are trying to conceive often experience elevated levels of stress. One study revealed that women who had higher levels of alpha-amylase (a biomarker for stress) showed a 29% decrease in the ability to conceive. Another study suggested that reducing levels of cortisol (another biomarker for stress) prior to IVF could improve the chances for conception.

At Aspire Health, our goal is to support fertility and to promote a healthy pregnancy naturally. One of the ways that we seek to achieve this is by reducing stress levels. Biofeedback is a recognized therapy for addressing stress and anxiety. Biofeedback may be beneficial for fertility support, particularly when there is a diagnosis of unexplained infertility.

How long is a session?
An initial visit for Biofeedback testing lasts one hour. Follow-up visits may be 30 or 60 minutes in length. Your Naturopathic Doctor will discuss what length of time would be best suited for your treatment needs.

What does Biofeedback feel like?
Most individuals feel very little during the actual session. After the session, patients report feelings of deep relaxation and often revitalization. It is recommended that patients refrain from doing any vigorous forms of exercise after a session.