Fertility Acupuncture and IVF
Around 17% of couples encounter difficulties with conception, and acupuncture is frequently chosen to aid either naturally or as a complement to IVF or other Assisted Reproduction Therapies (ART).
Fertility: Empowering the Journey to Motherhood
Acupuncture offers a range of benefits, including regulating menstrual cycles, enhancing blood flow to reproductive organs, balancing hormones, and addressing conditions like PCOS. Even in its simplest form, acupuncture can promote relaxation of both body and mind.
Various trials have demonstrated the potential of acupuncture to support IVF procedures and increase pregnancy rates. Here's why:
1. Regulation of Female Reproductive Hormones
Maintaining a delicate balance of female reproductive hormones is crucial for optimal fertility. For instance, Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) plays a vital role in the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles.
Elevated FSH levels can strain the brain's efforts to support follicle growth, potentially impacting ovarian response to stimulation medications. Research indicates that acupuncture positively influences the secretion of reproductive hormones, enhancing responsiveness to ovarian stimulation medication or natural stimulation.
2. Improvement of Blood Flow and Egg Quality
Effective growth of ovarian follicles and eggs relies on adequate delivery of hormones and nutrients through the ovarian blood supply. Optimal blood flow is associated with higher egg quality.
Acupuncture has been shown to enhance blood flow to the uterus and ovaries by relaxing blood vessel walls, ensuring better nutrient and oxygen supply to developing follicles and eggs.
3. Enhancement of Implantation Rates
Acupuncture may boost implantation rates through various mechanisms, including the regulation of stress hormones affecting implantation, modulation of hormone levels, increased blood flow to the uterine lining, and modulation of immune response. (Source: Anderson BJ, Haimovici F, Ginsburg ES, Schust DJ, Wayne PM, In vitro fertilization and acupuncture: clinical efficacy and mechanistic basis. Altern Ther Health Med. 2007 May-Jun;13(3):38-48)