A thick healthy endometrial lining (uterus lining) is important in pregnancy increase the chance of the embryo to implant successfully and receive enough nutritions it needs, as well as a healthy, full-term pregnancy.
Studies suggest that a uterine lining thickness of 7 mm or less results in fewer pregnancies. A triple line pattern on ultrasound indicates that a uterine lining has developed appropriately during the menstrual cycle. Unfortunately, not all patients achieve an adequate uterine lining thickness or triple pattern. This has lead many health providers to look for ways to improve the appearance of the uterine lining with adjuvant therapies.
SIGNS YOUR ENDOMETRIAL LINING IS THIN:
- Light, scanty menstrual bleeds
- Ultrasound measurement is less than 8mm
WHAT CAUSES A THIN ENDOMETRIUM:
- Low oestrogen
- Poor blood flow to the uterus
- Endometriosis
- Uterine fibroids
- Scar tissue in the uterus, caused by trauma or infection
- Chronic endometritis (infection of the endometrial cells)
HOW TO ACHIEVE A THICK HEALTHY UTERUS LINING:
1) Avoid Smoking, Limit Caffeine and Alcohol
Smoking—Smoking damages the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive and reducing the chances that an embryo will implant itself in the wall of the womb.
Caffeine—Over consumption of caffeine disturbs the uterine lining preventing the implantation of a fertilized egg, leading to early miscarriage.
Alcohol—While it is not known exactly how alcohol affects fertility in women, research shows that even drinking lightly can increase the time it takes to get pregnant, and reduce the chances of having a healthy baby. Binge drinking (more than six standard drinks on one occasion) can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, small birth weight, and Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
2) Investigate Blood Building Foods and Supplements
In Chinese Medicine, too thin of a uterus lining can mean that yin and/or blood are compromised. Eating blood building foods means foods are high in iron, B12, folic acid, vitamin C, and protein. Animal meat is a good way to build your blood. For example, having chicken soup or beef bone broth after a period can quickly build up Qi and blood for the new cycle. Besides, foods like vegetables, legumes, grains, nuts, and seeds are also very beneficial for building up blood. In particular, add in dark green leafy vegetables like chard and spinach, dried fruit like prunes and raisins, blackstrap molasses, lentils, kidney beans, and pumpkin seeds.
There are some studies show vitamin E and L-arginine may be associated with improvements in the endometrium, while vitamin D deficiency may play a role in implantation success. It is recommended to check with your fertility doctor before starting any new supplement.
3) Obtain A Normal BMI (Body Mass Index)
A normal BMI ranges from 18.5 to 24.9. For women with low BMI, extra weight can promote pelvic blood flow, and fat cells produce additional estrogen.
4) Have Moderate Regular Exercise
Moderate regular exercise can improve fertility and the chance of having a baby with ART. Studies of the effects of exercise on fertility have found that moderate exercise reduces the risk of miscarriage and increases the chance of having a baby among women who undergo ART.
It is important to note that a large amount of very high intensity exercise may actually reduce fertility and the chance of having a baby with IVF. So, it’s a good idea to have moderate exercise such as yoga, walking and while trying for a baby.
5) Introduce Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture and herbal treatments increase the levels of estrogen, increase blood flow, and strengthen the uterus. All of these can aid in thickening the endometrium. Herbal remedies such as nettles leaf, dong quai root, raspberry leaf increase blood flow to uterus; red clover, shatavari, maca root, and royal jelly increase estrogen levels; primrose and motherwart strengthen the uterus. It is the best to consult a experienced Chinese medicine practitioner before you start the herbal medicine.
If you want to effectively thicken the uterine lining to aid in fertility, these five ways are very popular options. Many women combine all five to raise their success rate. If you have a thin endometrium, it is definitely worth giving these natural remedies a try! Good luck!