COVID has, understandably, dominated the headlines in 2020. But outside the hand washing, distancing and mask wearing, people still have plans. And, for some, this may include having a baby.
Sadly, around 1 in 7 couples may have difficulty conceiving. And with NHS fertility services having been suspended for a period earlier this year, some of those plans may have been derailed.
I know that I’m blessed, having given birth to two beautiful daughters (now grown up) and I sympathize deeply with couples who find it difficult to conceive. The stress and anxiety can be upsetting to witness.
In my clinic, I routinely use the ancient Chinese practice of acupuncture which can help to restore the free flow of energy (Chi) throughout the body and unlock better mental and physical wellness. This whole-body centered and holistic approach can be used throughout the pregnancy journey:
- Regulating the menstrual cycle
- Improving blood circulation to the ovaries and uterus
- Helping to manage stress
- Giving a boost to natural fertility
- Supporting fertility/IVF treatment
- Helping with pregnancy symptoms
Not just a female problem
It’s important to remember that infertility affects both sexes. Sperm counts among western men have halved since the 1980s and are falling by around 1.4% a year with no definite cause. Even the World Health Organization is baffled, describing current knowledge of male infertility as ‘very low’. But some studies have shown that acupuncture brings about important changes in the quality and motility (movement) of sperm.
What to expect with Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles through your skin at strategic points on the body. Obviously, the experience can be different for everyone, but the good news is that it’s not generally painful.