Acupuncture And IVF

In Chinese Medicine, it is understood that when one shifts a woman’s body back to balance and optimal health, fertility will be a natural side effect. One way to bring about this shift is through acupuncture, diet, and simple lifestyle changes. In recent years, Western Medicine has also come to find value in acupuncture as a complimentary technique to fertility treatment and IVF. The purpose of this post is to outline the specific positive effects that acupuncture has on fertility, that have been proven in scientific research.

The list of the positive effects that acupuncture has on body systems relating to fertility is extensive.   Acupuncture has been proven to increase blood flow to the ovaries and uterus, which in turn increases uterine lining thickness and improves implantation. This increase in blood flow also prevents uterus contractions after embryo transfer, and decreases the chances of miscarriage. Acupuncture has also been shown to increase the quantity and quality of follicles during maturation. On the male side, it improves low sperm count, as well as poor motility and morphology. Acupuncture also diminishes or eliminates the side-effects of pharmaceuticals associated with fertility, including helping to prevent OHS (Ovarian Hyper-stimulation Syndrome). As an added bonus, acupuncture strengthens the immune system, eases emotional fluctuations, and reduce stress associated with infertility.

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Learn more

For more information on specific research, please refer to the bibliography below. For questions regarding acupuncture for fertility in Essex Junction, VT and the greater Burlington area, Contact Us. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.
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Resources 

• Manheimer, E. et al, BMJ. 2008 Mar 8; 336(7643): 545–549
• Youran, D. et al, Fertility and Sterility. 2008; 90(1):S24
• Teshima, D. et al, Fertility and Sterility 2007; 88(1):S330
• Udoff, L. et al, Fertility and Sterility 2007; 86 (1):S145
• Benson, M. et al, Fertility and Sterility 2006; 86(1):S135
• Dietrle, S. et al, Fertility and Sterility 2006; 85:1347-51
• Westergaard, L. et al, Fertility and Sterility 2006; 85:1341-46
• Smith, C. et al, Fertility and Sterility 2006; 85:1352-58
• Quintero, R. et al, Fertility and Sterility 2004; 81(3):S11-12
• Magarelli, P. et al, Fertility and Sterility 2004; 81(3):S20
• Paulus, W. et al, Fertility and Sterility 2002; 77:721-24
• Stener-Victorin E, et al Human Reproduction 1996; 11:1314-1317