Infertility, I.V.F support
Prevent Habitual MiscarriagePostpartum care, Advanced Maternal Age & Ovarian Reserve
Fertility and Acupuncture
One in six couples these days are experiencing difficulties in conceiving. The contributing causes include leaving parenthood to later in life, increased environmental toxins and stress levels, poor diet and nutrition combined with an increased sedentary life. Making some lifestyle changes including green leafy vegetables in your diet, reducing sweet foods and alcohol consumption and quitting smoking can improve chances of conception.
Acupuncture is an alternative therapy that was discovered over 3,000 years ago in Ancient China. It involves the gentle insertion of fine needles into specific acupuncture points. The points are manipulated to get a sensation that can be likened to a dull ache or an electrical sensation running through your body. It is not known exactly how acupuncture works but it is widely believed in the West that the needles stimulate the nervous system to promote healing. The production of endorphin’s is stimulated and the stress hormone cortisol reduces thus increase the circulation of blood in the body increasing the functions of the body. In terms of Women’s health, it can regulate the menstrual cycle, promote ovulation, regulate hormones and enhance uterine function.
What Makes Acupuncture so Effective for IVF?
Ultrasounds have shown that acupuncture can improve uterine blood flow, which may create a more hospitable environment for implantation.
One thing most doctors and scientists seem to agree on is that acupuncture at the very least can have a calming effect on patients. While embroiled in the stress of fertility treatments, that improved relaxation can be crucial to overall wellness – particularly when you understand how stress hormones can inhibit fertility. If for no other reason, acupuncture can be a great relaxation technique to rely on.
If you are hoping to receive the full benefits of treatments, however, you should consider utilizing acupuncture treatments on the same day as your embryo transfer. When looking for a practitioner, try to seek out someone who has experience working with fertility patients, as they will have a greater understanding of the points which should be manipulated.
Remember that acupuncture is not a guarantee that your IVF cycle will work, but it can be a natural way to improve your chances of success. Enjoy the relaxation benefits that acupuncture can provide, and sit back envisioning your healthy embryo accomplishing a smooth implantation into your uterus. The risks are limited when it comes to this alternative treatment, and the benefits can be well worth the few extra needle pricks required.
What does acupuncture do to enhance I.V.F success rates?
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Relaxes nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety levels.
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Promotes blood flow in the uterus and improves the quality of the uterine lining for implantation.
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Reduces uterine contractions which improve chances of implantation
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Increases motility, quality and quantity of sperm.
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Improves egg quality and regulates ovulation.
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Boosts the immune system
When to start?
Weekly Acupuncture treatments should ideally start about 12 weeks before the date of the embryo transfer. This provides time to promote a good quality endometrial lining, promote good blood flow in the uterus, balance hormones and manage the effects of stress on the body. Even having two acupuncture treatments on the day of egg transfer (one before and one after) can increase the chance of a successful pregnancy.
Should my partner receive treatment?
Ideally, both partners should be treated as male infertility is responsible for about 30-35% of fertility issues. Sperm replenishes every 90-100 days so starting acupuncture treatments 12 weeks before can improve sperm motility, quality and count.