Acupuncture as an Adjunct Therapy for Fertility Treatment

Can acupuncture help with fertility treatment?

According to a 2015 report, more than one million babies have been born through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproductive technologies since 1987. Still, the process of becoming pregnant and carrying a baby to term through fertility treatment can be extremely difficult.

WebMD reports that about half of IVF procedures resulted in a live birth in women under 35 years old. The emotional uncertainty associated with those odds alone can be highly stressful. Additionally, women can experience side effects from IVF related to a condition called ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, which can cause abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and nausea.

Women going through the IVF process are looking for relief from their stress and treatment side effects, as well as anything that will safely increase the likelihood of conception and a healthy birth. Many families are not aware that acupuncture has the potential to do all of this and more.

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine technique that has demonstrated efficacy in addressing various health conditions, including fertility issues.

Does acupuncture increase the success of IVF?

Acupuncture can be used as an adjunct therapy to IVF and has been shown to increase the likelihood of the treatment's success. One study found that on average, women who underwent acupuncture just before embryo transfer had better outcomes than women who underwent the same treatment but did not receive acupuncture.

Acupuncture stimulates blood flow to various areas of the body by inserting small needles at various points on the body corresponding to the condition being treated.

In treating fertility issues, acupuncture targets points that increase blood flow to the uterus. Impeded blood flow is characteristic of a number of fertility issues, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Acupuncture also strengthens immune function, which can support IVF outcomes.

How does acupuncture help with IVF side effects?

Women who experience abdominal issues as a side effect of IVF can find relief through acupuncture, which can regulate the digestive system. Separate from IVF side effects, acupuncture is routinely used to treat digestive issues.

It's also a highly-regarded treatment for mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Even if the IVF patient's emotional distress doesn't reach the level of a clinical diagnosis, acupuncture can improve mood, reduce stress, and generally improve feelings of well-being through the IVF and pregnancy process.

In addition to IVF side effects, women who become pregnant through fertility treatments experience the same issues any pregnant woman faces: morning sickness, headaches, insomnia, and cramping—just to name a few.

Acupuncture has a demonstrated track record for alleviating many common pregnancy symptoms. Minimizing pain and stress increases the likelihood of a healthy birth.

If you are trying to become pregnant or are currently undergoing IVF treatment, acupuncture is a painless and effective treatment that can support healthy fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

At Deanna Carell Acupuncture, we specialize in fertility-related acupuncture treatment and would love to be a part of your journey to motherhood. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a consultation.