Acupuncture for female infertility
Infertility is defined as the inability to get pregnant after 1 year of trying if you’re under 35, and 6 months without success if you’re over 35. However, the general term “infertility” doesn’t address the cause of the problem, which could be different for each individual
Some causes of female infertility:
- Ovulation disorders (PCOS for example)
- Uterine or cervical abnormalities
- Fallopian tube damage or blockage
- Endometriosis
- Primary ovarian insufficiency
- Thyroid issues
- Cancer and cancer treatment
- Other medical conditions or genetic abnormalities
Ancient Chinese medical records indicate that treatment of infertility and miscarriage dates back to 200 A.D.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (acupuncture and herbs) treats the underlying imbalance that is the cause of infertility.
How does acupuncture affect a woman’s fertility?
- Works on the central nervous system by calming down the sympathetic system (stress response) to reduce stress and anxiety and the release of cortisol
- Activates the parasympathetic system (rest and digest) to increase hormone balance and blood circulation to individual organs
- Normalizes the endocrine system to regulate ovulation (especially for PCOS) and other phases of the menstrual cycle to enhance fertility
- Increases blood flow to the uterus to thicken the uterine lining, which improves the chances of implantation on the uterine wall
- Gets your body in a healthier and more balanced state to increase your chances of conception
Acupuncture for male infertility
It is now recognized that infertility is just as likely to stem from an issue with a male partner, (40%) which is why it is essential to address both partners when having difficulty trying to conceive. No matter what the cause, it is important to have active participation of both partners.
How does acupuncture affect a man’s fertility?
- Decreases stress and anxiety
- Increases sperm count
- Enhances motility and morphology
- Assists in any erectile dysfunction
- Gets your body in a healthier and more balanced state to increase your chances of conception
Modern Research
Fertility
“When a couple is trying to have a baby and can’t, it can be emotionally and financially draining. But help may be available in an unexpected form: acupuncture. Medical experts believe that this ancient therapy from China, which involves placing numerous thin needles at certain points in the body, can help improve fertility in both men and women.” Read More…
IVF
“The British Medical Journal in 2008 reported that acupuncture can increase the success rate of in-vitro fertilization and increase the number of viable pregnancies. The additional benefits were listed as reduction in nausea and muscle pain associated with both IVF and pregnancy in general without the use of drugs that might harm the growing fetus.5 A study was set up to determine the efficacy of acupressure in the treatment of pregnant women suffering from nausea, with or without vomiting. The study concluded that acupressure was extremely effective in controlling symptoms of nausea and vomiting, without adverse side effects, when compared to the placebo group.” Comp. Therapy Clin. Practice, 2008 Feb;14(1):46-52.
