• IVF & Assisted Conception

Acupuncture for IVF Assisted Conception

Acupuncture have been shown to improve the success rate of pregnancy in infertile and sub-fertile couples by offering improvements in ovarian function, an increase in the number of eggs, and by increasing the thickness of the uterine wall. Acupuncture is used alone as a fertility treatment or in combination with IVF assisted conception or other forms of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

In vitro fertilization is used in cases of fallopian tube blockage, low sperm count, abnormal cervical factors, immunologic factors affecting either partner, infertility after tubal surgery, infertility after treatment for endometriosis, and for unexplained infertility. This procedure was first successfully used in the United States in 1981.

Newer studies and trials in 2008 found that Acupuncture can increase the chances of getting pregnant for women undergoing IVF treatment by 65%, a review of the evidence concluded in the British Medical Journal.

Acupuncture can help with a Natural Pregnancy or an IVF assisted conception by:

Increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs, improving uterine lining and egg quality

Regulating menstruation and ovulation

Helping with implantation by reducing uterine spasms

Relieving stress and decreasing the body’s stress response

Reducing inflammation that may impede fertility

Regulating the immune system that can influence fertility

Improving male factor infertility such as sperm count, motility and quality

Preconception Preparation

In order to obtain the greatest benefit from acupuncture during assisted fertility treatment we recommend starting acupuncture up to three to six months before your IVF cycle.  Clinical trials have shown that acupuncture performed in preparation for your IVF cycle increases blood flow to the uterus and ovaries and regulates the fertility hormones, which studies have shown to increase the quality of follicular development and increased implantation. Acupuncture over this period of time therefore improves the environment in which the egg matures by balancing your body’s natural hormones, regulating the menstrual cycle and reducing stress levels.  If you have been diagnosed with any issues such as thin endometrial lining, high FSH levels or poor response in a previous cycle, this allows time to address these issues.

Supporting Assisted Fertility Treatment

Our support also helps to smooth out some of the bumps in the road such as easing the symptoms associated with IVF assisted conception medication and alleviating stress. Acupuncture during the “down-regulation phase” reduces adverse medication effects such as hot flushes, headaches and mood swings, aids thinning of the uterine lining, and helps you to stay relaxed.

Ovarian stimulation : During this phase the treatment focuses on stimulating follicle growth and blood supply to the uterus to aid thickening of the endometrial lining and promoting emotional and physical wellbeing.
Treatment frequency depends on your individual condition, symptoms and your response to acupuncture.

Acupuncture at Embryo Transfer

Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture at the time of transfer can significantly increase the chance of implantation and full-term pregnancy. It can relax the uterus and increase blood flow to the area and has a calming effect on all the body thereby easing any stress and anxiety you may feel at this time.

Post Transfer

As a result of the calming effect on all the body acupuncture is recommended in the week after IVF assisted conception to relieve the stress of waiting and maintain healthy blood flow to pelvic area. Following a positive pregnancy test it is recommended to continue acupuncture for the first few weeks of pregnancy.

How many treatments will I need? Explained  here>>