Could Acupuncture Boost Fertility?
Acupuncture is an essential part of traditional Chinese medicine, a system of healthcare with a clinical history of over 2,500 years. The World Health Organization, National Institutes of Health, and a growing body of clinical studies show that acupuncture can be effective in treating a variety of fertility concerns, including:
Gynecological and fertility disorders
Anxiety and stress during treatment for fertility issues
Discomfort during ART (assisted reproductive technology) procedures
Side effects of fertility drugs
Morning sickness
Acupuncture can increase fertility by reducing stress, increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs and balancing the endocrine system. Studies suggest that acupuncture improves ovulation rates, increases blood flow to the uterus (which improves chances of implantation) and results in overall better pregnancy outcomes.
You may choose to include acupuncture in your treatment program for a number of reasons, and may begin at any time during your treatment. Many of my patients report that acupuncture helps ease stress and anxiety, and promotes a sense of well-being and balance. Some patients opt to begin before retrieval, IVF, and IUI to prepare for pregnancy; help with side effects; and to reduce discomfort from procedures. During pregnancy many of my patients use acupuncture for help with morning sickness. After childbirth, acupuncture and herbs are helpful in promoting lactation and restoring maternal energy and health.
If you have any questions how Acupuncture can support your fertility and pregnancy concerns, please contact my office.
In Health,
Maria Mitchell L.Ac