Questions about Fertility and Acupuncture

Q: Can acupuncture help fertility?

A: Yes – Acupuncture has been shown to balance the body, improve blood flow to the uterus, support hormone balance, improve the regularity of the menstrual cycle, and promote a lower stress level!

Q: What are Chinese herbs for fertility

Chinese herbal formulas that have been traditionally used to support fertility in both men and women. Some of the most commonly used herbs for fertility include:

• Dong quai (Angelica sinensis): This herb is often referred to as “female ginseng” and is thought to regulate hormones and improve blood flow to the reproductive organs.
• Rehmannia (Rehmannia glutinosa): This herb is thought to nourish the kidneys and liver, which are important for reproductive health.
• Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus): This herb is thought to improve overall health and support the immune system.
• White peony (Paeonia lactiflora): This herb is thought to regulate menstrual cycles and improve ovulation.
• Ligustrum (Ligustrum lucidum): This herb is thought to nourish the ovaries and improve egg quality.

Q: How is it used? What is the treatment like? Can it only be done on the same day as IVF?

A: Acupuncture can be utilized as a 3-6 month preparation phase for ART (Assisted Reproductive Technologies) treatments, in combination with ART/IVF treatments to improve pregnancy and live birth rates, during or post-pregnancy for symptomatic relief and wellness, or as an alternative trial prior to considering ART methods.

The actual Acupuncture treatment is very relaxing! You’ll be in a calm, quiet suite for approximately 30 minutes / treatment. Needles may be placed on the abdomen, low back, ears, hands, or feet….. and no, they do not hurt!

Each treatment protocol and timing of appointments are completely unique to the person’s presentation. The timing may be specifically outlined to pre-and-post-IVF-treatment or it may be relative to your menstrual cycle.

Q: Is Acupuncture modern and well researched?

A: Absolutely! All needles are stainless steel and single-use. It is so well researched that the World Health Organization stated that Acupuncture “can be more effective than prescription medication” for 20 conditions including headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, insomnia, joint pain, and others. There are many studies that show an average success rate of pregnancy at 26% with ART alone, and 43% success rate when combined with Acupuncture!

Q: Are there any risks?

A: When Acupuncture is properly performed, there are little-to-no negative side effects! I am a natural physician with the highest level in Acupuncture (diplomat status and board certified). You may expect an occasional bruise and feelings of deep relaxation.

Q: Will it help my partner with his health?

A: Fertility is often seen by our culture as a “female’s problem.” In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we believe that 50% of your energy for the creation of a baby comes from mom, and 50% from dad. Therefore, you should make your 50% the best that it can be!

Acupuncture can also be effective for male reproductive health, sperm counts, and motility. And most importantly – In the absence of known abnormalities in a sperm analysis, underlying TCM imbalances should be treated utilizing acupuncture as well as lifestyle and nutrition changes. Doctors have seen the most successful outcomes are experienced when BOTH female and male assess their health and help the body work better naturally!

What scientists say about Fertility and Acupuncture

There is mixed scientific evidence on the effectiveness of acupuncture for fertility. Some studies have found that acupuncture may improve pregnancy rates for couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), while others have found no significant benefit. The mechanisms by which acupuncture may improve fertility are not well understood, but some theories suggest that it may improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, regulate hormones, and reduce stress.

However, more research is needed to confirm these effects and to determine the optimal acupuncture protocols for fertility. Acupuncture should not be considered a substitute for conventional medical treatment for infertility, and it should be used in conjunction with other treatments such as IVF, if necessary.