How can acupuncture support the IVF process and fertility?
- Relaxation and improved sleep can improve fertility
- Maximising egg quality and improving blood flow to the uterus also aids fertility
- Improving overall health and aiding the digestive system to utilise nutrients can help with fertility issues
- Alleviating side effects of the IVF drugs, for example headaches, bloating, emotional disturbances
There is some good research available on having acupuncture during IVF treatment to help improve fertility. This research suggests that the success rate of IVF treatment can be increased from 30% up to 50-60%. Research article: Acupuncture and IVF by using acupuncture treatments to support IVF and boost fertility.
Read what the Harley street fertility clinic has to say about using acupuncture treatment alongside IVF
When to have acupuncture fertility treatment during IVF
The preparation phase
Egg and sperm quality are determined 90 days prior to ‘ovulation’/ejaculation. It is my recommendation therefore to embark on a 3-4 month preparatory phase prior to embarking on IVF. This includes:
- Diet and lifestyle adjustments
- Supplementation
- Acupuncture (every 1-2 weeks)
Acupuncture during the IVF stimulation phase
Acupuncture and moxa encourage good blood flow to encourage egg development
Once you start stimulation, acupuncture can encourage good blood flow to the ovaries and uterus. It can improve the lining and follicular development. Sometimes points are added that help relieve the fluid build up that often occurs with IVF. If patients are particularly nervous about egg collection, we can schedule an appointment the evening before. Otherwise, it’s worth having a session after egg collection to reduce any inflammation and fluid retention. Pre and post embryo transfer acupuncture sessions have been shown to improve implantation and ultimately live birth rates.
From experience, I would add something here. There’s an element of having to ‘go with the flow’ when it comes to IVF. schedules don’t always run to plan so be prepared to takes things as they come.