Acupuncture has long been used for relieving pain, discomfort and improve many medical conditions. It uses the technique of inserting fine needles into specific points on your body to balance your flow of energy and improve blood circulation. Studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can be used to improve fertility by stimulating the body’s hormonal system to produce the right hormones required for ovulation. More people are now using acupuncture for fertility treatment.
Acupuncture releases endorphins which inhibits pain and produce a feeling of relaxation. It also releases neurotransmitters and neurohormones which help the body’s healing process. It triggers the release of prostaglandins, which stimulates the production of a substance in the nerve endings. This substance transmits messages to the hypothalamus, which controls all hormonal functions which affect ovulation, menstruation and pregnancy.
Studies have proven that acupuncture can be used to regulate menstrual cycles and treat hormonal imbalances when used in conjunction with infertility treatments. It stimulates blood flow to the uterus to regulate the production of hormones. It also helps to thickens the uterine lining making it more receptive to embryo implantation. Acupuncture is often used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF) before and after the transfer of embryos to improve the rate of pregnancy. Some women go for acupuncture three or four months before the insemination for IVF.
Acupuncture can also be used to treat spasmed tubes which prevent pregnancy. Blocked tubes do not respond to acupuncture but spasm tubes can often be de-spasmed. In combination with herbs, it is also used treat increased level of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), recurrent miscarriage, unexplained infertility, luteal phase effect, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and endometrosis.
Studies have shown that acupuncture can improve the quality of sperm in men. Acupuncture treatment can improve the concentration, volume and motility of sperm. Acupuncture together with herbs can treat men infected with sperm-DNA-fragmentation.
Infertility treatment can be very stressful for couples, especially women. Acupuncture decreases the sympathetic nervous system response and helps the women to reduce stress, anxiety and depression.
There are no known side effect for acupuncture. However, if incorrect acupuncture points are used on pregnant woman, a miscarriage can occur. If you plan to use acupuncture in your treatment regimen, make sure you select a certified and well-trained acupuncturist who specializes in infertility treatment. Many fertility clinics work with acupuncturist and they may be able to recommend a good one to you.
It has become increasingly popular to use acupuncture for fertility treatment since it is known to have a positive effect on infertility. However, it is unknown whether acupuncture and herbal medicine on its own without traditional medical interventions can help with conception. However, acupuncture offer another alternative options for fertility treatment.