In a study published in the journal of Fertility and Sterility in 2002, it was discovered that acupuncture, when performed before and after an IVF transfer, increased the rates of conception. Since that time, more and more studies have been done on the subject with encouraging results. Although the initial results in this 2002 study have been over-exaggerated by the media, subsequent studies have still maintained that acupuncture is indeed helpful.
Acupuncture and IVF
The theory is that acupuncture not only relaxes the individual receiving the IVF transfer, a beneficial side effect, but it is hypothesized that the act of acupuncture increases circulation to reproductive organs and regulates the pituitary-hypothalamus-ovarian axis. Combine all of these events and you have a better chance at conception.
A more recent meta-analysis (a review of many studies on acupuncture and IVF) published in the British Medical Journal concluded “current preliminary evidence suggests that acupuncture given with embryo transfer improves rates of pregnancy and live birth among women undergoing in vitro fertilisation.”
Preparing Before Your IVF
However, the very best results for those hoping to improve their chances of getting pregnant are when both the female and the male receive acupuncture in combination with Chinese herbal medicine for at least 3 months prior to starting the IVF. The time frame of three months is indicated as this is the amount of time it takes for a female egg and a male sperm cell to mature. The only way to influence the quality of the egg and the sperm is to start treatment at least three months ahead of planned conception. The result? Better egg quality and improved sperm.
Drew Nesbitt, BA, TCMP, Ac. RHN has an honours degree in Health Studies, a Doctoral Diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture and is a Nutritional Consultant with over 10 years experience specializing in natural fertility enhancement in Toronto, Ontario. Visit www.drewnesbitt.ca for more articles on natural fertility options for both men and women.