For some couples, after trying to conceive naturally for some time, they embark on IVF treatment. Research suggests that acupuncture treatment alongside IVF can decrease miscarriage rates by 50%. Additionally, fertility acupuncture can also be beneficial in cases of threatened miscarriage due to its positive effects on serum cortisol and prolactin levels. In this blog post, we take a look at how fertility acupuncture can optimise your chances of a successful IVF cycle.
The immune system plays a very important role when it comes to fertility. An overactive immune system can lead to pregnancy loss when antibodies in a woman’s system can fail to recognise a pregnancy, or there may be an abnormal immune response to the pregnancy. An overactive immune system can also prevent an embryo implanting. Fertility acupuncture can help regulate the immune system, increasing the chances of conception.
Infertility can put a huge strain on couples. Acupuncture can ease the tension carried in the body when it’s under emotional stress. By inserting fine needles into specific acupuncture points our bodies feel good chemicals such as endorphins are released, these chemicals relax the body and mind and can aid a successful pregnancy. Additionally, fertility acupuncture can help support women during the roller coaster of emotions that are often experienced during an IVF cycle.
It’s recommended to undergo fertility acupuncture at least three months before you begin IVF treatment, as this is the cycle of egg development. Moreover, research shows that additional acupuncture performed before and after the embryo transfer can increase chances of pregnancy, as this is when your body will benefit most from the effects of acupuncture.
Anna has over 12 years of experience working in Women’s health and has helped many couples on their IVF journey. If you’re interested in fertility acupuncture and want to find out more information about how it can benefit your IVF treatment, just give Anna a call on 07540 353137 where you can arrange a free 15 minute consultation. Additionally, you can fill out an online enquiry form where Anna will be in touch shortly.
During an acupuncture session fine needles are inserted into specific areas of the body which have been shown to stimulate the nervous system which in turn sends chemical messengers to our immune system, hormonal system and cardiovascular system to promote health. There are numerous benefits to fertility acupuncture, and here is just a few:
Helps Reduce Stress levels
Fertility acupuncture has been shown to help reduce stress, which plays a huge role in the conception process. Stress can be capable of interfering with a woman’s menstrual cycle, which can result in no ovulation, irregular periods, and sometimes no periods at all, resulting in fertility issues.
Acupuncture helps to reduce stress levels by inserting needles into specific pressure points, which then releases endorphins to the brain. The whole process of acupuncture is also very relaxing, once the needles are placed you are able to lie quietly on a comfortable table, usually with calming music and lighting. By reducing your stress levels, you can optimise your endocrine system and help balance hormones, giving you the best chance of conceiving.
Increases Blood Flow
Fertility acupuncture has been known to improve blood flow and egg quality. Ovarian follicles and their eggs grow from the ovarian blood supply, which carries relevant hormones and nutrients. If blood flow is compromised in any way, this could result in fewer good quality eggs. Fertility acupuncture can increase blood flow to the uterus and ovaries by relaxing the walls of blood vessels.
Improves Male Factor
In couples that are struggling to conceive, it’s been researched that over 40% of fertility issues are male factors. This is mainly due to external factors such as excessive drinking and smoking, poor diet, long working hours, and exposure to electromagnetic devices. In the same way as the female, fertility acupuncture can have a positive effect on the male uro-genital tract. Acupuncture can help improve sperm parameters, as well as sperm motility.
If you’re wanting to learn even more about fertility acupuncture and the other health conditions it can aid, take a look at our female infertility page.
Anna has over 12 years of experience in Women’s health and has worked with many couples on their fertility journey. If you’re interested in fertility acupuncture or have general questions about acupuncture and whether it’s right for you, get in contact with Anna today on 07540 353137. Additionally, you can fill out our online enquiry form where we will be in touch shortly.
