Fertility Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese Medicine is an eastern system of medicine which works to balance the energy flow, or Qi, in the body. This is achieved through acupuncture, acupressure, diet, massage, herbs and nutritional therapy. Acupuncture can also be applied locally for musculoskeletal concerns.
About Fertility Acupuncture
Starting acupuncture early on your path to conception is beneficial for gently balancing the body, calming the mind, and creating the optimal environment for conception. Acupuncture has been proven to increase fertility, aid conception, decrease rates of miscarriage, and enhance the effectiveness of other fertility treatments. Incorporating acupuncture, with dietary and lifestyle advice often garners better results by improving overall wellness for conception.
Acupuncture helps by improving blood flow to the reproductive organs, reducing inflammation, reducing stress, improving sleep, and calming the mind. Acupuncture can also address specific concerns related to fertility like PCOS, endometriosis, and anovulation, among others. In cases of high FSH due to ovarian insufficiency, acupuncture is often considered a good option as treatment.
Who Should Consider Acupuncture for Fertility?
In esence, fertility acupuncture can be an integrative part of most women’s preconcpetion plan and is best started 2 to 3 months prior to conception. When used as a treatment for infertility, proponents of acupuncture say it can help by boosting blood flow to reproductive organs, balancing hormones, and relieving stress. In a study of 160 women, published April 2002 in the reproductive journal Fertility and Sterility, a group of German researchers found that adding acupuncture to the traditional IVF treatment protocols substantially increased pregnancy success.
In this study one group of 80 patients received two, 25-minute acupuncture treatments — one prior to having fertilized embryos transferred into their uterus, and one directly afterwards. The second group of 80, who also underwent embryo transfer, received no acupuncture treatments.
The result: While women in both groups got pregnant, the rate was significantly higher in the acupuncture group — 34 pregnancies, compared with 21 in the women who received IVF alone.
What does Acupuncture do?
Acupuncture benefits your mind, body and soul. Influenced by ancient Chinese philosophy, culture, science and technology, Chinese medicine uses the concept of yin and yang, as well as the theory of Wu Xing, to explain exactly how the function of the body is balanced. From a neuro physical perspective, the stimulation of the meridians and acupuncture points increases blood flow and contributes to healthy nervous system functions. The needles stimulate the muscles, enabling them to both fire and relax. During the acupuncture session, your flow of qi becomes regulated, which restores health to the mind and body.
How Fertility Acupuncture Can Improve Outcomes
IUI and IVF Cycles
A report released in 2008 by a team of doctors from the University of Maryland and the University of Amsterdam reviewing seven different studies since 2002 (involving 1,366 women) concluded that women who had acupuncture while undergoing IVF were 65% more likely to have a successful embryo transfer, compared to those that had no treatment
Pre and Post Embryo Transfer
Research supports the use of acupuncture before and after embryo transfer. In a well known study, acupuncture done before and after embryo transfer resulted in higher rates of pregnancy (42.5% in the acupuncture group versus 26.3 in the control group).
Pre Birth
Pre-birth Acupuncture refers to weekly treatments beginning at 36 weeks’ gestation to prepare women for childbirth. Pre-birth Acupuncture has positive effects on a Woman’s preparation for the smoothest labour possible by preparing the woman’s body for birth with emphasis on the cervix and pelvis.
Breech Baby
Acording to research, the success of acupuncture and moxa to help turn a breech baby is about 75%. The best time to turn a breech baby is at 34 weeks however acupuncture can be used in late pregnancy as well.
Labour Induction
Acupuncture can be very effective option for women past their due dates or those with a planned medical induction. Acupuncture has been shown to be a safe, non-invasive and drug free method in preparing the body for labour as well as inducing labour. During the appointment you will be taught self-administered acupressure to continue to encourage the induction process.
1 https://holistic-health.org.uk/world-health-organisation-recommends-acupuncture-100-conditions/
2 Manyanga T, Froese M, Zarychanski R, Abou-Setta A, Friesen C, Tennenhouse M, Shay BL. Pain management with acupuncture in osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2014 Aug 23;14:312. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-14-312. PMID: 25151529; PMCID: PMC4158087.
3 Chen L, Michalsen A. Management of chronic pain using complementary and integrative medicine. BMJ. 2017 Apr 24;357:j1284. doi: 10.1136/bmj.j1284. PMID: 28438745.
4 Besson JM. Arthritis and headache. Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 1991 May;69(5):635-6. doi: 10.1139/y91-094. PMID: 1863914.
5 Li YX, Xiao XL, Zhong DL, Luo LJ, Yang H, Zhou J, He MX, Shi LH, Li J, Zheng H, Jin RJ. Effectiveness and Safety of Acupuncture for Migraine: An Overview of Systematic Reviews. Pain Res Manag. 2020 Mar 23;2020:3825617. doi: 10.1155/2020/3825617. PMID: 32269669; PMCID: PMC7125485.
6 Kelly RB, Willis J. Acupuncture for Pain. Am Fam Physician. 2019 Jul 15;100(2):89-96. PMID: 31305037.
7 Woo, H. L., Ji, H. R., Pak, Y. K., Lee, H., Heo, S. J., Lee, J. M., & Park, K. S. (2018). The efficacy and safety of acupuncture in women with primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine, 97(23), e11007. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000011007
8 Li, Fangyuan et al. “The efficacy of acupuncture for the treatment and the fertility improvement in child-bearing period female with Hashimoto Disease: A randomized controlled study.” Medicine vol. 99,27 (2020): e20909. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000020909
9 Pei, L. X., Geng, H., Chen, H., Wu, X. L., Chen, L., Zhou, J. L., Ju, L., Lu, G., Xu, W. L., Qin, S., Guo, J., Yang, E. M., & Sun, J. H. (2018). Acupuncture for irritable bowel syndrome: study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial. Trials, 19(1), 529. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-018-2922-y
10 Avis, N. E., Coeytaux, R. R., Isom, S., Prevette, K., & Morgan, T. (2016). Acupuncture in Menopause (AIM) study: a pragmatic, randomized controlled trial. Menopause (New York, N.Y.), 23(6), 626–637. https://doi.org/10.1097/GME.0000000000000597
11 Lu, Haizhen et al. “Effectiveness of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Hyperemesis Gravidarum: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM vol. 2021 2731446. 27 Jul. 2021, doi:10.1155/2021/2731446
12 Paulus WE, Zhang M, Strehler E, El-Danasouri I, Sterzik K. Influence of acupuncture on the pregnancy rate in patients who undergo assisted reproduction therapy. Fertil Steril. 2002 Apr;77(4):721-4. doi: 10.1016/s0015-0282(01)03273-3. PMID: 11937123.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is IV vitamin therapy?
IV vitamin therapy, also known as intravenous vitamin therapy or nutrient IV therapy, is a medical treatment that involves administering vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients directly into the bloodstream via an intravenous drip. This allows for rapid absorption and bypasses the digestive system, ensuring maximum nutrient delivery to the cells.
2. What vitamins and nutrients are typically included in IV therapy?
IV vitamin therapy formulations can vary depending on the specific needs and goals of the individual receiving treatment. Common vitamins and nutrients included in IV therapy formulations may include vitamin C, B vitamins (such as B12 and B complex), magnesium, calcium, zinc, amino acids, and antioxidants such as glutathione.
3. What are the benefits of IV vitamin therapy?
IV vitamin therapy is believed to offer several potential benefits, including improved hydration, enhanced energy levels, immune system support, detoxification, faster recovery from illness or exercise, relief from hangover symptoms, and enhanced skin health. Some people also report experiencing a sense of well-being and mental clarity after IV therapy sessions.
4. Who can benefit from IV vitamin therapy?
IV vitamin therapy may benefit individuals seeking to improve their overall health and well-being, boost their immune system, optimize athletic performance, support recovery from illness or surgery, alleviate symptoms of certain medical conditions, or address specific nutrient deficiencies. It may also be beneficial for individuals with busy lifestyles, high levels of stress, or compromised digestive function that may impair nutrient absorption.
5. Is IV vitamin therapy safe?
IV vitamin therapy is generally considered safe when administered by a qualified healthcare provider, such as a licensed medical doctor or registered nurse, in a clinical setting. However, as with any medical treatment, there are potential risks and side effects, including infection, bruising or discomfort at the injection site, allergic reactions, and electrolyte imbalances. It’s essential to undergo IV therapy under the supervision of a trained professional who can ensure proper administration and monitor for any adverse reactions.
6. How long does an IV vitamin therapy session take?
The duration of an IV vitamin therapy session can vary depending on the specific formulation being administered and the individual’s needs. In general, IV therapy sessions typically last between 30 minutes to an hour, although some formulations may require longer infusion times. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate duration of treatment based on your specific situation.
7. How often should I receive IV vitamin therapy?
The frequency of IV vitamin therapy sessions will depend on factors such as your overall health, specific health goals, and response to treatment. Some people may benefit from regular sessions, such as weekly or monthly, for ongoing support and maintenance, while others may only require occasional sessions for specific purposes, such as recovery from illness or athletic performance enhancement. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.
8. Can IV vitamin therapy help with specific medical conditions?
IV vitamin therapy may be used as a complementary treatment for certain medical conditions, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, migraine headaches, autoimmune disorders, and gastrointestinal disorders. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if IV therapy is appropriate for your specific condition and to ensure that it is used safely and effectively as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
9. Can anyone undergo IV vitamin therapy?
While IV vitamin therapy is generally safe for most individuals, it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, heart disease, or certain allergies, may need to avoid or modify IV therapy. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult with their healthcare provider before undergoing IV therapy. Additionally, it’s essential to disclose any medications, supplements, or medical conditions to your healthcare provider before starting IV therapy to ensure safety and efficacy.
10. How do I find a qualified provider for IV vitamin therapy?
When seeking IV vitamin therapy, it’s essential to choose a qualified healthcare provider who has experience and expertise in administering IV therapy in a clinical setting. This may include licensed medical doctors, registered nurses, or other healthcare professionals trained in IV therapy administration. You can inquire about IV therapy services at medical clinics, wellness centers, or integrative medicine practices in your area. Be sure to ask about the provider’s credentials, experience, and safety protocols before scheduling a session.