Enhancing Your IVF Journey with Medical Acupuncture

ART (artificial reproductive technique) and acupuncture treatment are often used in tandem for the patients to successfully conceive.

While IUI, IVF fresh or frozen, ICSI is a medical procedure involving the fertilization of an egg outside the body, acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) technique that involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance.

Acupuncture treatment alongside Ear Acupuncture (Auriculotherapy) should start at least one to two months before ART treatment to get prepared mentally and physically.

The acupuncture treatment is helping to improve the reproductive health of the patient for example to regulate menstrual cycle, mid cycle pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, fatigue or reduce side effect of medication using during IVF treatment (bloating, nausea etc.).

According to TCM, future mothers need good blood, strong kidneys and liver, and healthy Ren and Chong Meridians.  On the other hand, a healthy father must have a good essence which means sperm quality for the best outcome.

IVF or IUI treatment combined with weekly acupuncture enhances clinical outcomes during the pre- and post-IVF phases.

How Acupuncture Supports ART:

1. Improved Blood Flow to the Uterus and Ovaries

• Acupuncture may increase blood flow to the reproductive organs, potentially improving ovarian function and the endometrial lining's receptivity for embryo implantation.

2. Stress Reduction

• Undergoing IVF can be emotionally and physically stressful. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce stress by promoting the release of endorphins and regulating the nervous system, which could be beneficial during fertility treatment.

3. Hormonal Balance

• Some studies suggest acupuncture may help regulate hormones involved in ovulation and fertility, such as FSH, LH, estrogen, and progesterone.

4. Enhanced IVF Outcomes (with caveats)

• Some clinical trials have shown a modest improvement in IVF success rates when acupuncture is performed at key times (e.g., just before and after embryo transfer), though findings are mixed. A 2018 meta-analysis in the journal Fertility and Sterility indicated slight improvements, but the benefits may be influenced by factors such as practitioner skill and patient characteristics.

Timing of Acupuncture During IVF:

• Before IVF: Prepares the body by enhancing reproductive health.
• During Ovarian Stimulation: May support follicle development.
• Before and After Embryo Transfer: Common time for treatment; aims to relax the uterus and increase blood flow.
• Post-Transfer: Some continue acupuncture to support implantation and early pregnancy.

Considerations:

• Safety: Acupuncture is generally safe when performed by a qualified practitioner. Choose someone experienced in fertility care.
• Cost and Access: Acupuncture is not always covered by insurance and may require regular sessions.
• Evidence Base: Research is ongoing; it’s not a guaranteed enhancer of IVF success, but many people report subjective benefits (stress reduction, emotional support, etc.).

Authored by Dr. Bibiana Singh, Consultant OBSGYN