How Can Acupuncture Help with IVF?
Acupuncture plays a supportive role in IVF by addressing factors like stress reduction, hormone regulation, and improved blood flow to reproductive organs. These mechanisms aim to optimize the body’s response to IVF treatment, potentially enhancing its effectiveness.
What Is the Recommended Timing for Acupuncture Sessions?
The timing of acupuncture sessions varies based on individual needs and the IVF cycle stage. Generally, it is recommended to begin acupuncture 2-3 months before starting IVF to address underlying imbalances. During the IVF cycle, sessions are timed to coincide with crucial stages like ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, and embryo transfer.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
The number of acupuncture sessions required depends on your specific needs, but most patients undergoing IVF benefit from weekly sessions. Typically, 9-12 treatments are recommended starting 2-3 months before IVF.
For clients starting acupuncture around the ovarian stimulation (stim) phase, 4-6 sessions during this phase are highly recommended to support ovarian function, improve blood flow, and help manage stress. Additional treatments around egg retrieval and embryo transfer further support the IVF process.
Why Do We Recommend Starting Acupuncture 3-4 Months in Advance?
The development of an egg takes about 90-120 days. Starting acupuncture, along with dietary and lifestyle changes, during this time allows us to make a meaningful impact on the egg’s quality by improving blood flow, balancing hormones, and reducing stress. Think of it as nourishing the seed and cultivating the soil for optimal growth. For men, this timeframe is also important to influence sperm health, as sperm regeneration takes about 72 days. Starting early helps ensure that both egg and sperm are in their healthiest state for conception.
Do You Accept Insurance for Fertility Treatments?
No, fertility treatments are cash-based. We do accept some insurance for our pain program, but not for fertility-related services.
Do You Offer Egg Freezing Support?
Yes, we offer acupuncture support for egg freezing. Acupuncture can help improve egg quality and balance hormones, creating a more favorable environment for successful egg retrieval.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
We use small, disposable needles to ensure maximum comfort during acupuncture treatments. Most patients feel little to no discomfort, and the process is generally very relaxing.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?
Acupuncture, when administered by a qualified practitioner, is generally safe. Minor side effects like bruising or temporary soreness at needle insertion sites may occur, but precautions are taken to ensure patient comfort and safety throughout the treatment.
What Can I Expect During an Acupuncture Session?
Acupuncture sessions typically induce relaxation and may involve sensations like warmth, tingling, or heaviness around the needle sites. Sessions last around 30 to 60 minutes, providing a serene environment for patients to unwind and experience the therapeutic benefits.
Can Acupuncture Improve IVF Success Rates?
Yes, several studies suggest that acupuncture can enhance IVF outcomes by improving implantation rates, reducing stress, and promoting ovarian function. Key research includes:
- Paulus et al. (2002): Found a 42.5% pregnancy rate with acupuncture compared to 26.3% without.
- Manheimer et al. (2008): Meta-analysis showed a significant increase in pregnancy rates.
- Dieterle et al. (2006): Acupuncture group had a 33.6% pregnancy rate versus 15.6% in the control group.
- Smith et al. (2019): Systematic review found positive trends for increased live birth rates, though more studies are needed.
- Qin et al. (2017): Acupuncture improved pregnancy rates but had no significant effect on live birth rates.
While results vary, many patients report positive experiences with acupuncture during IVF.
How Do We Treat Men and Why Is It Important?
Acupuncture is equally important for men in fertility treatments, as sperm quality and health are crucial to successful conception. We treat men by improving blood flow to the reproductive organs, regulating hormones, and reducing stress, all of which positively impact sperm count, motility, and morphology. Starting acupuncture along with lifestyle and dietary changes 3-4 months in advance gives enough time to influence sperm quality and contribute to a healthier, more fertile environment for conception.
Does Acupuncture Help with Sperm Health?
Yes, acupuncture has been shown to support sperm health by improving key parameters such as sperm count, motility, and morphology. It enhances blood flow to the reproductive organs, helps regulate hormones, and reduces stress, all of which are important factors in sperm production and quality. For men dealing with fertility issues, acupuncture can be a valuable tool to improve overall sperm health when combined with proper diet and lifestyle adjustments.
What Do We Recommend After Acupuncture Treatment?
After your acupuncture treatment, we recommend focusing on rest and relaxation for the rest of the day. Gentle movement, hydration, and staying warm are beneficial for allowing the body to fully integrate the treatment. We also advise avoiding stimulants like caffeine and alcohol, as well as heavy exercise, to maintain the relaxation effects of acupuncture. For best results, following any lifestyle or dietary recommendations provided by your practitioner will enhance the therapeutic benefits of the treatment.
Are There Any Lifestyle Recommendations?
In addition to acupuncture, lifestyle modifications like dietary changes, stress management techniques, and regular exercise can support fertility and overall well-being. We provide tailored recommendations to complement acupuncture treatment and optimize outcomes.