Acupuncture for IVF Support

Acupuncture is increasingly used as a complementary therapy for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), helping to enhance fertility, reduce stress, and improve overall reproductive health. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to regulate hormones, improve blood flow, and support the body's natural functions—factors that can play a crucial role in the success of IVF treatments.

How Acupuncture Supports IVF

1. Improves Blood Flow to the Uterus and Ovaries Acupuncture helps increase circulation to the reproductive organs, creating an optimal environment for implantation by enhancing uterine lining thickness and improving ovarian function.

2. Regulates Hormonal Balance By influencing the endocrine system, acupuncture supports hormone regulation, which can help improve egg quality, enhance ovulation, and increase the body's receptivity to IVF treatments.

3. Reduces Stress and Anxiety The IVF process can be physically and emotionally taxing. Acupuncture promotes relaxation, reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), and enhances overall well-being, which may contribute to better IVF outcomes.

4. Supports Embryo Implantation Acupuncture can help prepare the body for embryo transfer by reducing uterine contractions, improving endometrial receptivity, and supporting a healthy pregnancy.

5. Enhances Egg and Sperm Quality For both women and men, acupuncture benefits in improving reproductive health by enhancing egg development and increasing sperm motility and morphology, which are important factors for successful fertilization.

When to Start Acupuncture for IVF

Acupuncture can be beneficial before, during, and after IVF to maximize its effects. Many fertility specialists recommend starting acupuncture three to six months before IVF to prepare the body. Treatments can also be scheduled around specific IVF milestones, such as ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, and embryo transfer.

Can Acupuncture Increase IVF Success Rates?

Research suggests that acupuncture, when used in conjunction with IVF, may improve pregnancy rates by reducing stress, increasing blood flow to the uterus, and supporting overall reproductive health.