While acupuncture, a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TMC) , has been regarded as an “older medicament” reserved for muscular, digestive, and circulatory issues, many don’t realize that it’s also capable of increasing fertility. IVF is a highly successful, standalone medical procedure, but emerging reports have also shown that acupuncture may just be a solid complement to assisted reproductive technology (ART) methods.

The Science Behind Acupuncture for Fertility

Latest findings suggest that having an acupuncture session before an IVF or ART procedure led to increased blood flow in the uterine region and other parts of the body. Better circulation reduced instances of post-transfer uterine contractions, preserving the implanted embryo. Lower stress levels were also noted in the mothers, further facilitating a successful transfer.

In addition to that, many believe that acupuncture can :

•       Enhance egg quality through better blood circulation in the ovarian region
•       Boost male fertility by improving sperm count, viability, motility, and morphology
•       Increased circulation better disperses and balanced reproductive hormones needed for ovulation and implantation

A supporting 2018 meta-analysis in the Reproductive Biomedicine Online journal identified links between fertility acupuncture and improved IVF success rates when acupuncture was administered during the active round of IVF.

How Acupuncture Can Support Each IVF Stage

Prior to Egg Retrieval

Before the eggs are retrieved, getting an acupuncture can help :

•       Stimulate the ovarian response to your medication/hormone therapy plans
•       Naturally increase follicle count and quality

 

Pre-Sperm Retrieval

•       Significantly improves sperm concentration and motility for better chances of fertilization
•       Enhances circulation in the testes to reduce oxidative stress and promote secretion of testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH).

Before An Embryo Transfer

Preceding an embryo transfer, here’s what a fertility acupuncture can do for you :

•       Increases uterine blood flow and triggers cytokine production to better prepare for implantation
•       Reduces the risk of uterine contractions post-transfer that can lead to detachment and miscarriage

During Your Two-Week Wait

Here’s how an acupuncture session can support you during the 14-day wait after an implantation :

•       Supports crucial, early pregnancy progesterone levels by promoting better blood flow
•       Alleviates anxiety and stress by targeting specific calming points to enhance your overall mental and physical health

Should you be considering acupuncture as a supplement to your IVF efforts, I would suggest seeking out a licensed acupuncturist with a proven track record of working with IVF patients. These days, many fertility experts are also recommending acupuncture for the benefits that it can bring to both mom and dad, as well as the growing baby, during active IVF treatment periods. 

This article is intended for educational purposes only. All contents here are general in nature and do not take into account your personal circumstances. Please consult with your health care professional to ensure you get the right diagnosis and treatment.