Fertility

Acupuncture and fertility

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine have been used for thousands of years to enhance both male and female fertility. In recent years, western science has added scientific documentation to what the Chinese have known for years: Chinese medicine increases fertility rates and makes healthier babies.

Our approach to treatment

In our clinic, Chinese medicine is used in a variety of different ways to assist in pregnancy achievement. Acupuncture can be used as a stand-alone treatment to enhance fertility in preparation for pregnancy, or it can be used in conjunction with assisted reproductive technology to increase successful outcomes. Though many women seek acupuncture treatment exclusively during an in-vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle, you will benefit more fully from acupuncture if you give your body three menstrual cycles of treatment prior to attempting conception or to an IVF cycle. Though it is acupuncture that is best known for its role in fertility, it is part of a holistic system of traditional Chinese medicine that includes dietary and nutritional recommendations, Chinese herbal medicine, exercise and lifestyle recommendations.

Acupuncture has been found to be particularly beneficial in the following situations

• Infertility in women over age 35
• Mild to moderately high FSH levels
• Diminished ovarian reserve
• Endometriosis
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome
• Thin uterine lining
• Anovulation and irregular cycles
• Low sperm counts
• Luteal phase defect (low progesterone levels)
• Recurrent miscarriages
• Poor egg quality
• Autoimmune factors affecting fertilization or implantation
• Unexplained infertility
• Ovarian cyst formation secondary to stimulation medications

How acupuncture affects fertility

• Increases blood flow to the uterus and ovaries
• Relaxes the uterus
• Relaxes the nervous system, helping counteract hormonal disruption affecting fertility
• Reduces emotional stress
• Regulates hormones and the entire endocrine system
• Promotes regular ovulation
• Supports the mother's health, making her more likely to carry a healthy baby to term without complications
• Counteracts the negative side affects of fertility medications
• Treats the whole person, thus addressing the emotional as well as physical ramifications of infertility