When you are going through IVF it is not only an emotional roller coaster ride but also can be financially draining. You are looking for everything to help boost your chances of getting pregnant.
Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to treat infertility and now it is used as an integrative approach for women undergoing assisted fertility treatments such as IUI and IVF. For the bigger picture, see our guide to acupuncture and fertility, and if you are still deciding, read what to consider before starting IVF.
One study showed that 42.5% of women who were undergoing acupuncture and IVF got pregnant, compared to a 21.3% pregnancy rate in the control group who did not receive acupuncture before and after transfer.
How Does Acupuncture for IVF Work?
Acupuncture helps to correct imbalances in the reproductive system that may be impeding a woman’s chances of getting pregnant. The same approach also supports women going through acupuncture for IUI.
Once a woman is undergoing IVF, acupuncture helps to:
- Increase blood flow to the uterus, which is important for implantation
- Stimulate follicle growth
- Reduce stress
- Build a healthy uterine lining
When to Start Acupuncture Before IVF
The most optimal time to start acupuncture is 2-3 months before undergoing IVF, to help correct those imbalances and support the reproductive system, enabling a healthier uterine environment for IVF. If you are wondering how often to come in, this guide on how many acupuncture sessions for fertility explains a typical plan.
Acupuncture During an IVF Cycle: Each Stage
Acupuncture During the Follicular Stimulation Stage
Ideally, I see patients twice during their stimulation phase. This is when follicle stimulating drugs are administered to enhance follicle growth. The main goal is to produce a good amount of eggs and good quality eggs. Acupuncture during this time helps to support the reproductive system and stimulates follicular growth. You can also read about natural ways to improve egg quality after 35.
Acupuncture During the Egg Retrieval Stage
During the retrieval, when the eggs are retrieved from the ovaries to be fertilized, I like to see patients before their retrieval for acupuncture. This helps to bring blood flow to the ovaries and remove any obstructions such as dampness or blood stasis to help fertilization take place.
Acupuncture Before and After Embryo Transfer
This is normally the time of anxiety. It is finally here to transfer the fertilized eggs. I see patients before their transfer and then 24 to 48 hours after their transfer. Acupuncture given before transfer enables blood flow to the uterus and helps to relax the patient, thus relaxing muscles and priming the uterine environment for implantation.
A post transfer treatment helps to reduce uterine spasms, thus supporting implantation.
What Does Research Say About Acupuncture and IVF?
The study mentioned above (Paulus et al., 2002) found a higher pregnancy rate in women who received acupuncture before and after embryo transfer. Studies published since then have shown mixed results, so acupuncture is best seen as a supportive part of your IVF plan alongside the care of your fertility specialist, especially for stress, circulation and overall well-being.
Reference: Paulus WE, Zhang M, Strehler E, El-Danasouri I, Sterzik K. Influence of acupuncture on the pregnancy rate in patients who undergo assisted reproduction therapy. Fertil Steril 2002; 77: 721-4.
IVF Acupuncture in NYC at Sage Wellness
At Sage Wellness in downtown Manhattan, we offer fertility acupuncture in NYC for women preparing for and going through IVF. If you want more information or have specific questions, please call our office at 917.763.8560 to schedule a complimentary 20 minute phone consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture and IVF
When should I start acupuncture before IVF?
The most optimal time is 2-3 months before your IVF cycle, so acupuncture has time to support the reproductive system and help create a healthier uterine environment. For how this fits into fertility care overall, see acupuncture and fertility.
Should I get acupuncture before and after embryo transfer?
Yes. At Sage Wellness, patients are usually seen before their transfer and again 24 to 48 hours after, to support blood flow to the uterus, relaxation and implantation.
How many acupuncture sessions do I need during IVF?
Patients are ideally seen twice during the stimulation phase, before egg retrieval, and before and after embryo transfer, on top of the 2-3 months of preparation before IVF begins.
Can acupuncture be used with IUI as well?
Yes. Acupuncture is used as an integrative approach for both IUI and IVF, and the goal is the same: supporting the reproductive system, blood flow and stress levels during treatment. Read more in our guide to acupuncture for IUI.
SAGE WELLNESS · FINANCIAL DISTRICT, NYC
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