When do you use acupuncture in an In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment?
For best results, Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and both dietary and lifestyle therapy, should be used before, during, and after IVF.
Before IVF treatment, Chinese medicine can help both parties to improve ovarian function, strengthen the immune system, reduce stress and improve the quantity and quality of sperm and seminal fluid.
In women, any menstrual irregularity can be treated, such as amenorrhea, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, uterine fibroids or fibroids, and heavy bleeding due to lack of ovulation.
After successful implantation of the embryo, Chinese medicine can be used to prevent miscarriage.
Chinese medicine is extremely effective in preventing miscarriage when the threat is due to hormonal imbalances, such as low progesterone.
Acupuncture helps alleviate circulation problems, inflammation and other blockages (such as elevated stress hormones) that may be preventing you from conceiving and carrying to term. It is also a very safe, effective and supportive treatment for women undergoing assisted reproduction techniques, which makes the whole process more comfortable, less stressful and increases the chances of success.
Benefits also include improved response to stimulation medications, improved fertilisation rates, higher pregnancy rates and lower miscarriage rates in patients who receive regular acupuncture before, during and after a cycle. Some studies show more than double the chances of conception for couples who use acupuncture along with IVF.
Acupuncture preparation should be carefully timed for best results.
Each patient is diagnosed and treated individually. Recommendations may vary depending on your health and medical history. It is advisable to start acupuncture treatments 3-6 months before the planned IUI/IVF cycle. However, if this is not possible, there will be good results with treatment while in the cycle, and for this, it is desirable to increase the frequency of visits.