For many couples or individuals who are trying to conceive, the process can bring about many physical and emotional challenges. Acupuncture for fertility is becoming more popular as a natural and complementary therapy that may support fertility.
Whether you are just starting your journey of trying to conceive or have been trying to conceive for a longer period of time, acupuncture may enable you to maximise the possibility of becoming pregnant.
Acupuncture is a key pillar of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which is a health system that dates back thousands of years. Acupuncture therapy is based on the philosophy that the human body must remain in balance to be at optimum health.
According to Chinese medicine philosophy, energy channels (referred to as meridians) run throughout the human body and any obstructions can cause pain, low energy and icreate imbalance.
Research from 2022 suggests that there may be ‘a benefit of acupuncture for outcomes in women with infertility, and the number of acupuncture treatments is a potential influential factor.’ Although further research is required, acupuncture may help to boost the chances of conceiving as a complementary component of your overall health plan.
Some of the potential benefits that fertility acupuncture may provide are:
Keeping hormones in balance – fertility acupuncture may stimulate the endocrine system which regulates hormones that have an effect on ovulation, menstruation and pregnancy.
Increasing blood flow – acupuncture can help to maximise blood flow which may have a positive impact on egg quality and quantity.
Reducing stress – by focusing on overall health and addressing any underlying issues that may affect fertility, acupuncture can improve well-being and reduce stress.
Increasing overall wellness – when trying to conceive it’s important to focus on your overall health including mental and emotional health. Acupuncture can help to activate the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, which can encourage the body to be in a state of rest.
Can complement assisted treatments such as IVF – if you are undergoing IVF fertility acupuncture may be beneficial to:
Yes, acupuncture is considered safe if performed by a licensed and experienced acupuncture practitioner. In Australia, Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine practitioners are regulated by AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency).
Timing and regularity of fertility acupuncture are important factors to maximise your chances of becoming pregnant. It is recommended to start acupuncture sessions about 3-4 months prior to trying to conceive naturally.
For acupuncture therapy to support IVF it is recommended to start 6-8 weeks before your cycle begins to prepare the body for the IVF process.
In both cases consistency is a key factor and weekly sessions are recommended initially with the frequency adjusted based on the response to treatment.
At an initial consultation your acupuncturist will take time to understand your health history and any individual circumstances related to your overall health and fertility conditions.
A therapy plan will then be tailored to best suit your needs. Acupuncture sessions are gentle and patients generally experience a feeling of relaxation. Sessions usually go for 45-60 minutes.
Acupuncture is a natural, gentle and holistic therapy that can form a complementary component of your overall fertility plan. It is a supportive therapy that may improve your chances of conception whether you’re looking to conceive naturally or via IVF.
If you are looking to support your fertility and overall health, acupuncture is a therapy to consider.
Dr Sharlane has over 15 years experience in fertility acupuncture.
