Female Fertility and Acupuncture

With so many couples undergoing fertility treatments in the United States, one alternative that may help to increase the odds of success is acupuncture. An ancient Chinese method of preventing disease, many women, as well as men, are looking to acupuncture as a treatment of fertility. It can be used to treat some causes of infertility, helping with functional issues by increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs, helping the endometrium and producing a more rich, supportive lining for an embryo. It  can improve follicular and ovarian function; and, acupuncture also helps to stabilize hormone levels in the body, which may be an underlying cause of infertility. Structural causes of infertility are generally not changed by acupuncture treatments. These issues include conditions of blocked fallopian tubes, tubal adhesions and endometriosis.

When to Start

Normally, it is recommended that a patient begin acupuncture treatments three to four months prior to IVF, insemination or a scheduled egg donation. This maximizes the effectiveness of those fertility procedures. Acupuncture has also been known to minimize the potential side effects of these medical fertility options.

Minimanl Risks

The risks accompanying acupuncture are very minimal and treatments are generally received very well by both men and women. If a fertility trial is successful, there is a risk of miscarriage if incorrect points are used during that pregnancy. Female fertility and acupuncture will continue to be studied and should always be implemented correctly. It is always suggested to seek out a health care professional that is licensed as an acupuncturist and specifically trained in the practice of treating those with fertility disorders.

References Cited in this Article

www.fertilityfactor.com

www.americanpregnancy.org

www.acupuncture.com