Acupuncture and Fertility
Acupuncture is often recommended by gynecologists as a supporting treatment in infertility patients and especially in those whom has difficulty conceiving. Many studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that acupuncture may improve fertility by:
1. Regulating Hormones: Acupuncture can influence the release of certain hormones involved in the menstrual cycle and reproductive processes, potentially enhancing ovulation and implantation.
2. Increasing Blood Flow: Acupuncture can improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, which may create a more favorable environment for conception.
3. Reducing Stress: Stress can impact fertility, and acupuncture is known for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels, which may indirectly improve fertility outcomes.
4. Supporting Overall Health: Acupuncture takes a holistic approach to health, aiming to balance the body's systems. This can address underlying health issues that may affect fertility.
5. Supporting Assisted Reproductive Techniques: Acupuncture is often used in conjunction with assisted reproductive techniques like IVF to enhance their effectiveness and reduce side effects.
6. Improve Sperm Quality: For male patients, acupuncture is able to assist in improving the sperm count and motility.
Who can acupuncture help?
Acupuncture is effective in relaxing spasmed tubes, but it cannot clear blocked tubes. It is commonly used alongside herbal treatments for conditions like high FSH levels, recurrent pregnancy loss, unexplained infertility, luteal phase defects, non-tumor-related hyperprolactinemia, PCOS with anovulation, and male fertility issues, including sperm DNA fragmentation.
When to start treatments?
While fertility specialists advise seeking their expertise after six months to a year of unsuccessful attempts to conceive, it's beneficial to consult with an acupuncturist well in advance. Many acupuncturists recommend starting treatment several months before attempting conception, whether naturally or through assisted reproductive technologies like IVF or IUI. This allows them to evaluate your body's response over multiple menstrual cycles.
What is the treatment plan?
The ideal treatment regimen for achieving optimal results involves bi-weekly acupuncture sessions over a minimum duration of 3 months. This duration allows the body sufficient time to regulate hormones, restore equilibrium, reduce stress to provide optimal conditions for conception.
While individual results may vary, many people find acupuncture to be a beneficial adjunct therapy when trying to conceive. It's essential to consult with a qualified acupuncturist who specializes in fertility to discuss your specific situation and treatment plan.