Vicki Turner (BA;ND;MATMS:MNHAA):
Naturopath / Herbalist / Homoeopath
Director of Health and Fertility Matters
After more than 20 years of clinical practice, learning, researching and fine tuning skills I am pleased to have established an integrated wholistic clinic where Western Alternative Medicine truly meets Traditional Chinese Medicine to find the best pathway to health and wellbeing.
My journey into natural therapies began after an extended period of ill-health in my mid twenties following many years of Asian and European travel, university studies and 'good times'. Orthodox medical treatments were frustratingly not resolving my health issues, and then someone suggested I see a Naturopath. There was no turning back after that first appointment. Not only did my health improve dramatically but I was shown my true career pathway and a new meaning for life. Thus, the inspiration for the naming of the clinic and its slogan: "What matters most to you?" ... Health and Fertility Matters.
Initially, my naturopathic practice saw me treating a wide variety of health issues for all ages which laid an excellent foundation for my eventual specialty in reproductive health. From puberty to menopause, this includes the assessment and treatment of hormonal imbalances, infertility, pre-conception health care, miscarriage management, endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, PMT/PMS, thyroid and autoimmune disorders along with instruction and guidance for natural contraception. Also, let's not forget the role of the male in the conception process. Undeniably, it takes "two to tango" to achieve a healthy conception and over the years I have witnessed the decline in male fertility. Fortunately, there is much that can be done utilising herbal and nutritional medicines apart from specific diet and lifestyle modifications to improve sperm count, motility, morphology and DNA fragmentation.
For 15 years I worked as a senior associate at one of Australia's foremost Natural Fertility Management Clinics not only in clinical practice but also researching, teaching and contributing to the development of treatment protocols and product formulations. As a result of this experience it became increasingly clear that the proverbial and desired "healthy child" was not a given and that the attainment of this goal truly requires a conscious effort on the part of both prospective parents. Indeed, I witnessed this first hand with the birth of my first, healthy child at the age of 43 years. Again, what does truly matter to you? First should be your health and then the rest will follow, including your fertility.
An important aspect of my naturopathic assessment is the appropriate referral for medical testing to assist with diagnosis and subsequent treatment protocols. Responsible complementary medicine, working for the benefit of the patient, mutually respects the knowledge and expertise of many health disciplines. For those who require the technical expertise of assisted reproductive services then a Naturopathic IVF Support Program may help to optimise your chances of conception. With success, independent of how conception is conceived, pregnancy and later breast-feeding can be supported with appropriate diet and nutritional advice.
Finally, "The Prize", a healthy, beautiful baby, given the best start in life and support for its developing immune and digestive system. Weaning and dietary advice along with support for the often exhausted and depleted mum are all areas of concern that can be addressed naturopathically.
My work is continually enriched by the patients who give me the honour to be part of their ongoing journey in search for health, wellness, vitality and the sense of physical and emotional balance.
Australian Traditional Medicine Society Member No. 1355