Acupuncture's Role in IVF Success
Research supports the idea that acupuncture can be beneficial when used alongside IVF treatments. Below are some of the key ways acupuncture is believed to help:
- Improved Blood Flow to the Reproductive Organs
One of the primary benefits of acupuncture is its ability to improve blood circulation. In the context of fertility, increased blood flow to the ovaries and uterus can help improve the quality of eggs and the receptivity of the uterine lining. A healthy, well-nourished uterine lining is crucial for embryo implantation, which is often a challenge for those undergoing IVF.
- Regulation of Hormones
Acupuncture helps regulate the body's hormonal systems by balancing the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis. This regulation can help with ovulation, making it more likely that eggs will be released in a timely manner and ready for fertilisation. By balancing hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, acupuncture may also help support a healthy luteal phase after embryo transfer, which is essential for implantation.
- Reduction of Stress and Anxiety
Undergoing fertility treatments like IVF can be an emotionally taxing process. Chronic stress can negatively impact reproductive health, as it can interfere with the body’s hormonal balance and reduce the chances of success. Acupuncture has long been used to reduce stress and promote relaxation by stimulating the production of endorphins and other feel-good hormones. By reducing stress levels, acupuncture may create a more supportive environment for conception.
- Improved Ovarian Reserve and Egg Quality
For women who have diminished ovarian reserve (low egg count or poor egg quality), acupuncture may help improve egg quality by stimulating the ovaries. Some studies suggest that acupuncture may improve both the quantity and quality of eggs, which is crucial for successful IVF cycles. By enhancing ovarian function, acupuncture could potentially increase the likelihood of retrieving healthy eggs for fertilisation.
- Enhanced Sperm Quality in Men
Acupuncture can also benefit men struggling with fertility issues. Research has shown that acupuncture can improve sperm count, motility, and morphology. This is especially important for male infertility, which can be a contributing factor to IVF failure. By improving sperm quality, acupuncture can help increase the chances of successful fertilisation during IVF.
Studies Supporting Acupuncture and IVF Success
Numerous studies have investigated the role of acupuncture in IVF and fertility treatments, and while results vary, many suggest that acupuncture may improve the chances of success. For example, a 2002 study published in the British Medical Journal found that women who received acupuncture during IVF treatments had a significantly higher rate of pregnancy and live births compared to those who did not undergo acupuncture.
Another study published in Fertility and Sterility in 2013 reviewed multiple trials and concluded that acupuncture could improve IVF outcomes by improving ovarian function, increasing blood flow to the uterus, and reducing stress.
While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms at play, the growing body of evidence suggests that acupuncture can be a helpful complementary treatment for improving IVF success rates.
How Acupuncture Fits into the IVF Process
Acupuncture treatment for fertility is typically administered before and after IVF cycles. Many practitioners recommend starting acupuncture sessions several months before IVF to optimise the body’s overall health and fertility. The timing and frequency of acupuncture treatments may vary depending on the individual’s health and fertility needs, but the general approach involves weekly sessions for at least 8-12 weeks before the IVF procedure.
In the week leading up to the IVF procedure, acupuncture may be used to prepare the body for egg retrieval and embryo transfer. Studies have shown that acupuncture performed both before and after embryo transfer may improve implantation rates, possibly due to its ability to promote relaxation, enhance blood flow, and balance hormones.
After IVF treatment, acupuncture can be continued to help reduce stress, improve circulation, and support overall recovery.
Choosing the Right Practitioner
If you're considering acupuncture as a complementary treatment for IVF, it’s important to work with a qualified acupuncturist who has experience in fertility and IVF. A skilled practitioner will work in collaboration with your IVF clinic to ensure that the acupuncture treatments are tailored to your unique needs and fertility goals. They may also provide advice on lifestyle and dietary changes to further optimise your fertility.
The Bottom Line: Is Acupuncture Right for You?
Acupuncture may not be a magic solution, but it could certainly help improve the chances of success for IVF patients. As a non-invasive and natural treatment, acupuncture offers many benefits, from reducing stress to improving blood flow to the reproductive organs and enhancing egg and sperm quality.
If you’re undergoing IVF or other fertility treatments and are looking for ways to enhance your chances of success, acupuncture could be a valuable tool to consider. Always consult with your fertility specialist before beginning any complementary treatments to ensure that they align with your treatment plan.
At Neurohealth Wellness, our experienced acupuncturist, Lucia, is skilled in fertility acupuncture and can work with you to support your IVF journey. To learn more about how acupuncture may assist with fertility and IVF success, contact us today at (02) 9905 9099 or visit our website here.
References:
- Paulus, W. E., et al. (2002). "Acupuncture and in vitro fertilization." British Medical Journal, 325(7363), 1371-1373.
- Vliet, A., et al. (2013). "Acupuncture and assisted reproductive technology: A systematic review." Fertility and Sterility, 99(3), 704-708.
- Manheimer, E., et al. (2013). "Acupuncture for female infertility." Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (7), CD006920.
- Lee, J. H., et al. (2013). "Acupuncture for the treatment of female infertility: A systematic review." Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 19(7), 609-616.
