Using Acupuncture for fertility treatment has been practiced since ancient times. Acupuncture originated in China and has been practiced by the Chinese for over 3000 years. The technique involves inserting and manipulating very fine needles into specific points on the body with the objective to relieve pain and manipulate energy flow in the body. There are 12 main Meridian energy channels in the body with 365 acupuncture points along the meridians. The Chinese believe that mind and body are working as a unified whole, and energy called “chi” flows along the meridians in a harmonious, balanced way in a healthy person. Any imbalance, for example caused by stress or worry, can disrupt the natural energy flow around the body. Acupuncture treats the whole person and the focus is in increasing overall health and well-being. The insertion of the fine needles at specific points along the body can increase or decrease the flow of energy to organs in the body. As regards to fertility problems, acupuncture has a very good record according to many clinical trials. It is important to understand that on its own, it will not cure certain types of infertility problems for example adhesions within the fallopian tubes. However, it has been shown that acupuncture’s ability for increasing blood flow can be very helpful as a combined treatment with orthodox methods.
Using Acupuncture for Fertility
Using Acupuncture for fertility treatment can be used alone or in combination with orthodox infertility treatments in the treatment of issues like hormonal imbalances. By regulating the body’s systems, and increasing blood flow to vital organs, hormones levels are regulated more effectively. The increased blood flow and improved health of the organs can also improve ovarian and follicular functions. Additionally, increased blood flow to the endometrium facilitates a thick, rich lining, increasing the chances of successful implantation. Acupuncture used alongside in vitro fertilization (IVF) has been shown to improve the success rate. Many fertility and centers and specialists offer acupuncture as a part of their IVF treatments. It has been shown that acupuncture can improve the chance of successful pregnancy following IVF.
Acupuncture has shown good results in treating spasmed fallopian tubes, although blocked tubes will not respond to acupuncture on its own. Herbal treatments are often combined with acupuncture where follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is below normal. Although acupuncture has its limitations when used on its own, it has been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of: polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) with irregular cycles, hyperprolactinemia (not originating from a prolactinoma), luteal phase defect, repeated pregnancy loss, idiopathic (unexplained) infertility and male problems including sperm motility and DNA-fragmentation issues.
Acupuncture for Fertility and IVF
Acupuncture helps healing over time with successive treatments. Beginning treatment three or four months before in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a good strategy. Continuing acupuncture treatments after the embryo transfer is normal therapeutic advice. It can be extremely stressful for the couple undergoing fertility treatments and acupuncture is a good way to reduce stress and anxiety.
Provided you use an acupuncturist experienced in infertility treatment is used there are very few risks with the treatments. But you are advised to do your homework on the selection of your acupuncturist as some acupuncture treatments should not be performed during pregnancy. Miscarriage is possible if incorrect acupuncture points stimulated. Seeking the help of an acupuncturist who specializes in infertility is extremely important and this point cannot be over-emphasized. Electro-acupuncture is a useful alternative to conventional medical painkillers during labor.
Studies suggests the most effective fertility treatments to be a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and traditional medicine. Acupuncture and herbal medicines when combined with traditional medical interventions can be very good strategy in the successful treatment for fertility.
