Acupuncture is an ancient Eastern practice which involves rebalancing the energy (or chi) in the body to promote health or to correct malfunction or blockage.
Acupuncture has been practiced in Asia for over 3,000 years and in Europe since it was introduced there in the 1600’s, but has only gained medical acceptance in the U.S. over the last two decades. Evidence of its efficacy in treating infertility now exists.
Studies have shown that it increases the success rate of conceiving especially when used in conjunction with IVF.
The best and safest option is for you to find a board-certified acupuncturist who has experience in treating infertility and pregnant patients. www.aborm.org is a good site to start for licensed practitioners.
Acupuncture and Infertility:
Acupuncture is often used in conjunction with Chinese herbs and this has been found to be effective in the treatment of irregular ovulation, an imbalance of hormones, low sperm production, and other functional infertility problems.
Acupuncture balances and benefits the functioning of the whole body, improves physical and emotional health and even reduces the negative effects of an unhealthy lifestyle – all this contributes to increased fertility.
Your course of treatment will probably take several months, both prior to conceiving and past the first trimester for best results. As far as acupuncture is concerned, more is better than less as the effects are cumulative.
Acupuncture and IVF:
This combination of East and West has been shown to be very beneficial in improving the chances of conception and reducing the number of miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies, hence a renewed interest in the relationship between acupuncture and infertility. Typically acupuncture (As well as traditional Chinese herbs if indicated) will start several months before IVF, donor egg implantation, or artificial insemination.
Acupuncture has been shown to improve the lining of the endometrium (uterine lining) by improving blood supply and thus improving the odds for conception. Throughout the often rigorous procedure of IVF treatment, it is also a welcome aid in stress relief for both partners.
Other things on your to do list should be: to improve your diet, start a program of gentle exercise, look at vitamins and supplements and find a method of relaxation that works for you.
For more information on how acupuncture and herbal medicine can help you on your journey to family, please visit www.berkleycenter.com or, call 212-685-0985.