FERTILITY

 

Can acupuncture be used to treat infertility?

Acupuncture, frequently combined with herbal medicine, has been used for centuries to treat infertility and now is increasingly being recognized as a valid form of treatment by Western. Acupuncture and herbs can improve ovarian and follicular function, balance hormonal imbalances and additionally, it is shown that acupuncture can increase blood flow to the endometrium, helping to facilitate a thick, rich lining.  Acupuncture is great way to prepare for pregnancy even if you have not been diagnosed with any particular issue.  It can help balance the body and mind creating a perfect environment to cultivate life

 

When should acupuncture treatment begin?

Acupuncture is similar to physical therapy in that it is a process-oriented method of medical intervention. It is better to do more than less. Patients are commonly treated for three to four months before an insemination, in vitro fertilization (IVF), or donor-egg transfer.

In a study by Stener-Victorin et al from the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology Fertility Center, Scandinavia and University of Gothenburg, women are encouraged to receive acupuncture treatments pre and post embryo transfer. Clinical observations from the Berkley Center for Reproductive Wellness suggest that the most effective fertility treatments involve a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and traditional medical interventions. However, conception can occur when acupuncture and herbal medicines are used without traditional medical interventions.

 

Does acupuncture help during pregnancy?

Typically most miscarriages occur within the first three months of pregnancy. Therefore, treatment of patients may often last through out pregnancy depending on your particular situation and any issues you might have while pregnant, such as history of miscarriages, nausea, vaginal itching, depression, hypertension, and breeched baby to name a few.

Length of Treatment
Treatment usually lasts three to twelve months because strengthening and tonifying of the overall constitution is the objective.  In the case of in-vitro fertilization, two to three months are generally required prior to undergoing this procedure for optimal results.