When it comes to starting a family, many couples discover it isn't always as easy as they might have imagined. A poor diet, health issues, and even stress can greatly decrease a couple's ability to conceive. In response, a growing trend in spa programs is beginning to include treatments and diet regimes designed to increase fertility and provide couples with a romantic and relaxing environment to get away from it all.



For instance, The Raj Ayurvedic Spa in Iowa draws on knowledge from Maharishi Ayurveda, the world's oldest and most complete system of natural health care which has been used for prevention and healing for more than 5,000 years. Root causes for infertility may include an accumulation of toxins, poor nutrition, stress, or a disruption of natural biological rhythms. Within the tranquil environment of one of America's top health spas, couples receive guidance and are provided one-on-one consultation. By determining the casual imbalances at the basis of disorder in the patients, an Ayurveda Health Consultant can address the fundamental source of ill health in each individual. The goal of the Ayurveda method is to give a boost to the body's natural healing abilities and help restore fertility. Patients also receive the benefit of prevention and well being.

According to Travel + Leisure, the Tides Riviera Maya is "a sexy, eco-conscious hideaway in the jungle," which makes it an ideal destination for couples seeking to boost their fertility. Located on the white sands of the Rivera Maya in Playa del Carmen, the Tides features its Ritual de Fertilidad treatment where an ancient fertility ritual stimulates the senses through a full-body massage performed with seeds, which are meant to symbolize fertility in the Mayan culture. Performed in The Tides Maya House of Fertility treatment room, the treatment is accompanied by the sounds of drums and Mayan music, a ritual verse reading, and a special ritual Maya beverage. Couples may also indulge in the Asparalove, a special massage for couples. The integral relaxation treatment is administered to the face and body using aromatic marine plant extracts bursting with mineral essentials, which enhance mood and the senses.

A luxurious retreat that taps into the natural, healing powers of water, Caesars Palace's new Qua Baths and Spa is accentuated by the Signature Roman Ritulas. The Roman Baths consist of three distinct pools where guests to mingle as they unwind and relax. In addition, the Roman Rituals include a Laconium Room (ultra-heated room) and an Arctic Ice Room with snow falling from above. Here, couples may also indulge in the spa's Luncaception treatment which is a special fertility-heightening experience. Relaxing side by side in a private spa suite, couples are treated to freshly prepared teas and carefully selected essential oils during their massage which melt away everyday stress and unlock nature's reproductive potential. This particular treatment is available only during specific lunar phases. The spa also offers additional romantic massage treatments for couples that melt away stress and provide time to re-focus.

The Caribbean hideaway of Rosewood Little Dix Bay is nestled on the untamed island of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands. It is an island of rolling hills, beautiful isolated beaches and spectacular geological formations surrounded by astonishing clear waters of the historic Sir Francis Drake Channel.

This spa hideaway features luxurious private facilities with spectacular views of shimmering waters. Guest rooms are decorated with a warm, personal mood and a stylish blend of island charm. Here, couples indulge in Fertility Reflexology and Fertility Yoga at the Spa at Little Dix Bay. Both treatments can aide couples who may be experiencing anxiety or stress in their ability to conceive. Fertility yoga teaches couples poses designed for relaxation, peace of mind, and a healthy reconnection with their bodies.

Couples are also beginning to seek out fertility-oriented acupuncture treatments as a natural alternative to the health effects of taking fertility hormones. Individualized treatment plans may use both herbal medicine and acupuncture in the treatment of infertility. Acupuncture has shown to be a proven method in enhancing circulation, while herbs are natural energetic substances that can gently correct deficiencies and clear obstructions.

As couples explore the benefits of spa treatments in their quest to start a family, the spa/baby connection is also growing as more couples embark on spa vacations as a way to recharge and self-indulge prior to the birth of a child. This new trend has also inspired the new buzzword, "babymoon." According to Frommer's, the babymoon gives expectant parents the opportunity to celebrate the impending big day, while giving the chance to enjoy some quiet solitude before life changes forever. Getaways most often include a prenatal massage and other spa services to pamper the expectant couple.