Fertility Acupuncture
Acupuncture for fertility
Acupuncture helps fertility by treating problems such as underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
Acupuncture is the insertion of extremely fine, sterile needles into specific acupuncture points on the body that are located on channels or meridians. These are pathways both on the outside and inside of the body. These points, when needled, can regulate the way the body functions.
Does acupuncture work for fertility treatment?
Acupuncture, often in combination with herbal medicine, has been used for centuries to treat some but not all causes of infertility. For example, acupuncture and herbs will not work to treat tubal adhesions that may occur as a result of pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis.
However, in this situation, a person could benefit from acupuncture and herbs due to the potential effect of improved ovarian and follicular function. Additionally, acupuncture may increase blood flow to the endometrium, helping to facilitate a thick, rich lining.
Fertility acupuncture treats the human body as a whole that includes many "functioning systems" that in many cases are related to physical organs.
When should fertility treatment with acupuncture begin?
Acupuncture is similar to physical therapy in that it is a process-oriented method of medical intervention. It is better to do more than less. Patients are usually treated for three to four months before proceeding with insemination, in vitro fertilization (IVF), or donor egg transfer. This pacing of treatment appears to have a therapeutic effect.
In a study by Stener-Victorin et al from the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center, Scandinavia and the University of Gothenburg, women are encouraged to receive acupuncture treatments before and after embryo transfer.
Clinical observations from the Berkley Center for Reproductive Wellness show that the most effective fertility treatments involve a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and traditional medicine. However, conception occasionally occurs when acupuncture and herbal medicine are used without traditional medical interventions.
How acupuncture works for fertility
Acupuncture can potentially improve your fertility in several ways:
Balances hormones: Acupuncture stimulates the endocrine system, which is responsible for the production and release of hormones that affect ovulation, menstruation, and pregnancy. By balancing hormone levels such as estrogen, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH), acupuncture can help better prepare your body for fertility treatment.
Increases blood flow: Acupuncture helps increase blood flow to the reproductive organs, especially the uterus and ovaries. This can improve the quality and quantity of eggs and the thickness and receptivity of the uterine lining. A well-nourished uterus and ovaries can increase your chances of conceiving and carrying a healthy baby.
Reduces stress: Stress can have a negative impact on your fertility by disrupting your hormonal balance, affecting your ovulation, and reducing your libido. Acupuncture is known to reduce stress by stimulating the release of endorphins. It can also calm your nervous system and lower your blood pressure, improving your overall health and well-being.
How acupuncture complements fertility treatments
Acupuncture can be a valuable addition to your fertility treatment program, whether you are trying to conceive naturally or with assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization. Here are some of the ways acupuncture can complement fertility treatments:
Enhances the results of in vitro fertilization: Some studies have suggested that acupuncture performed before and after embryo transfer can increase pregnancy rates in IVF patients. This may be due to acupuncture’s ability to improve blood flow to the uterus, relax uterine muscles, and reduce stress and anxiety.3 Acupuncture may also help reduce some of the side effects of IVF medications, such as bloating, nausea, headaches, and mood swings.
Supports overall well-being: Acupuncture can help you address other health issues that may indirectly affect your fertility, such as insomnia, digestive problems, allergies, or chronic pain. By improving sleep quality, digestion, immunity, and pain relief, acupuncture can help you feel more comfortable and energetic throughout your fertility journey.
Promotes emotional well-being: Trying to conceive can be emotionally challenging and can cause feelings of frustration, sadness, anger, or guilt. Acupuncture can help you cope with these feelings by providing a safe and supportive space to express yourself and receive compassionate care. Acupuncture can also help you cultivate a positive and hopeful mindset to boost your confidence and resilience.
ARTICLES
Below are some informative articles about acupuncture and the conditions it treats. We encourage you to check back often as this page will be updated frequently.
Acupuncture for IVF
WebMD article by Amanda Hitti
Acupuncture: A Treatment for Infertility?
FoxNews article by Catherine Donalson-Evans
The ancient art of treating infertility
WebMD article by Collette Bouchez
Can Acupuncture Help You Conceive?
CBX News article by Raksha Shetty
