It is admitted that being a new parent is full of happiness for most people. However, the journey to parenthood is a difficult time, just as if an uphill battle, specifically for couples trying to conceive but facing with fertility challenges.
Acupuncture, a fundamental therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has become one of the most popular alternative treatments. By inserting fine needles into specific pressure points, acupuncture aims to support the body’s natural balance. But how exactly does it enhance the chances of conception? Let’s explore how this centuries-old practice works to boost fertility and whether it might bring unexpected benefits for you and your family.
Acupuncture for fertility treatment
Acupuncture has long been used in TCM to promote overall health, and its role in fertility is particularly remarkable. The concept of using acupuncture for fertility involves regulating menstrual cycles and addressing underlying conditions that may affect reproductive health. By balancing the flow of energy, or “Qi,” in the body, acupuncture can improve overall bodily function, enhance reproductive health, and increase the likelihood of conception.
Benefits of acupuncture for female fertility
For Women:
Pre-Conception Care
Acupuncture for fertility is often recommended at least three months before trying to conceive to prepare the body. For women, this includes addressing hormonal imbalances that may cause painful periods, irregular cycles, or conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The treatment aims to create a more favorable environment for conception by promoting better hormonal balance.
Supporting IVF Treatment
Many couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) turn to acupuncture to increase their chances of success. Acupuncture may improve egg quality, optimize the uterine lining, enhance the receptiveness of the uterus to implantation, and reduce the risk of miscarriage. Additionally, it can help minimize the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a potential side effect of fertility medications.
For Men:
On the other than, it’s important to recognize the benefits of acupuncture for men even if most attention is on female fertility. Treatments for male fertility focus on addressing issues like erectile dysfunction and improving sperm quality and quantity. Targeting specific acupuncture points can enhance energy levels, reduce stress, and improve overall health—critical factors for reproductive health. These treatments not only improve sexual function but also support better reproductive outcomes, making acupuncture a valuable option for couples on their journey to parenthood.
When should you see a TCM practitioner if you’re trying to conceive?
If you want to try Chinese medicine treatment for fertility, it’s recommended to start at least three months before trying to conceive. This allows your body enough time to respond to the treatments and address any underlying issues. Acupuncture can be beneficial at any stage—before, during, and after assisted reproductive technologies like IUI or IVF. It may improve IVF success rates and support overall fertility health.
How often should you have acupuncture treatments?
- Before IVF/IUI
To maximize the benefits, it’s best to start acupuncture three months before beginning IVF or IUI. Weekly treatments are generally recommended to prepare the body.
- Within IVF/IUI
During ovarian stimulation for IVF or IUI, acupuncture can help manage stress and improve follicular response. It’s usually recommended to have two sessions per week during this period, continuing through the 10–12 days following the IUI procedure or embryo transfer.
- After IVF/IUI
When pregnancy is confirmed, it is suggested to continue the acupuncture, which can help support a stable and healthy pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Weekly treatments are typically suggested until the end of the first trimester to promote a calm and balanced state, which is crucial for a healthy pregnancy.
What to expect during your first acupuncture consultation
During your first TCM fertility appointment, the acupuncturist will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including your medical history, symptoms, and fertility journey. Using TCM diagnostic techniques such as tongue and pulse diagnosis, they will examine your internal state.
Based on this initial evaluation, the acupuncturist will select specific points for needle insertion. These points are located along the body’s energy pathways, or meridians, which play a vital role in regulating bodily functions and promoting overall health in TCM. Each session typically lasts 20–30 minutes, during which you may feel a slight tingling or warmth at the insertion points.
Acupuncture, as one of the effective methods in TCM, offers a holistic approach to fertility. For those looking to conceive, it’s a promising option. It is important to find a trusted Chinese medicine clinic near you. If you’re interested in exploring the benefits of acupuncture for fertility, along with herbal remedies, consider visiting the Dubai Shanghai Medical Center. Their experienced practitioners provide personalized treatment plans designed to support your journey to parenthood in a gentle and natural way.
