Acupuncture for Fertility and Pregnancy
Acupuncture is an ancient healing technique that has been around for almost 3000 years. It is the insertion of tiny needles into meridian points located superficially just below the surface of the skin. The needles create a micro-trauma, which then signals mechanoreceptors in the brain to release endorphins and other neurohormones to help the body heal and promote physical and emotional well-being.
The delicate complexity of a woman's body responds to acupuncture, which does not try to force conception and implantation but rather restores the energy, balance and blood flow that are essential for optimal reproductive function. Although the technology exists to allow conception to take place outside of the body, each woman must be capable of receiving, holding and nourishing an embryo through development. It’s not possible to force pregnancy or healthy delivery when the body does not have the internal resources necessary. A regular fertility acupuncture routine is recommended a few months prior to conceiving to allow the time necessary to restore fertility and balance in the body.
Using fertility acupuncture along with IUI (intrauterine insemination) and IVF (in vitro fertilization) technology optimizes the opportunity for a successful healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Patients are often seen throughout their pregnancies and it’s a pleasure when treatments change from being infertility focused to providing relief from the very welcomed morning sickness!
What acupuncture points are used?
Depending on the patient's condition, a selection of acupuncture points will be utilized. In most fertility treatments, approximately 10-30 needles will be inserted and retained for 20-30 minutes. The majority of the acupuncture points used for fertility are in the lower abdomen and lower back. These will be combined with a few other points on the body, including the hands, legs and feet. Most patients feel a sense of relaxation and other positive symptoms during and after treatment, such as being energized or relieved of aches and pains.
What Causes of Infertility Does Acupuncture Treat?
Acupuncture is used to address the root causes of infertility such as but not limited to, ovulatory disorders, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, PCOS, repeated pregnancy losses, thyroid problems, low sperm count and mobility as well as un-diagnosed infertility. Acupuncture can also increase the success rate of IVF by 40-65%. For more information on IUI and IVF or for more information on a fertility clinic near you, please click here to be directed to Gago Center For Fertility in Lansing, Brighton and Ann Arbor, or The Fertility Center in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Mason and Traverse City.