Proudly part of the City Fertility Network
Proudly part of the City Fertility Network
Acupuncture is a practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine that has grown in popularity for fertility patients in recent years.
Considered a holistic wellness treatment, acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles through the skin at specific points on the body to stimulate Chi (Qi), the energy of life force that flows along meridians. According to Chinese medicine, a smooth and balanced flow of Qi is essential for overall health and well-being, promoting natural healing and restoring harmony in the body.
Acupuncture for fertility is often integrated with IVF treatment. Aside from reducing stress and anxiety, many people turn to acupuncture treatment in the hope that it will improve blood flow to the ovaries and endometrium and regulate hormones.
While research into the benefits of acupuncture is ongoing, it remains a valued complementary therapy for many people undergoing fertility treatment.
Many couples incorporate complementary therapies like acupuncture into their IVF journey, often reporting increased calmness, emotional resilience and better coping with the demands of treatment. Acupuncture is commonly used at various stages of fertility treatment including during ovarian stimulation to support blood flow to the ovaries and at embryo transfer to enhance implantation and uterine blood flow. While some studies suggest potential benefits, research remains limited, and its effectiveness is not yet fully established.
Acupuncture may offer the following benefits:
If you’re undergoing acupuncture during IVF treatment, we encourage you to discuss it, along with any other complementary therapies, with your fertility specialist. A collaborative approach ensures you receive the best possible support.
For more information about holistic approaches to fertility care visit our Complementary Therapies for IVF page.
Stress is well known to negatively impact fertility causing havoc with hormone balance, potentially leading to irregular ovulation, decreased egg quality and affected sperm production.
Acupuncture for anxiety can assist in reducing stress by helping to balance hormones involved in the menstrual cycle and ovulation, which can be crucial for the success of IVF. Most importantly, acupuncture can promote relaxation, mental and physical wellbeing to reduce stress which may have a positive impact on fertility and IVF outcomes.
For more information, visit our Complementary Therapies for IVF page.
Studies into traditional Chinese medicine suggest that acupuncture may improve semen quality. With male infertility contributing to around 50% of conception challenges, some men are turning to acupuncture as a potential support. While it may be beneficial, we recommend also making lifestyle changes such as limiting alcohol and caffeine, quitting smoking, reducing toxin exposure, and prioritising overall health. For more tips, visit our blog on enhancing sperm quality.
As with any alternative treatment, it’s important you choose a qualified acupuncturist. When performed correctly, acupuncture carries minimal risk and can have a positive influence on the nervous system.
If you’re considering acupuncture as part of your preconception care or fertility treatment, we encourage you to discuss this with your GP or a City Fertility specialist. They can help ensure it complements your overall fertility plan.
Acupuncture is based on the theory that pain, illness, and health issues arise from disruptions in the body’s natural energy flow, known as Qi (Chi). By stimulating the central nervous system, acupuncture aims to restore balance and support overall well-being.
Acupuncture isn’t painful, especially if you choose an experienced qualified practitioner. Even those with a fear of needles often find the procedure comfortable, as any sensation is minimal.
Depending on the complexity of your fertility challenges, acupuncture may need to be started at least two to three months before your IVF medical journey begins.
Some studies say, that in addition to acupuncture before and after your embryo transfer, as few as two additional treatments may enhance pregnancy rates.
Pregnant women are not advised to avoid acupuncture, but it is always best to discuss this with your specialist or GP beforehand. Acupuncture may help relieve symptoms such as morning sickness, insomnia, fatigue, and anxiety.
