Having a child is one of the most rewarding, life-changing events people have the opportunity to experience. For some, this experience comes easily. For others, it is a challenge from the start. In situations such as these, a number of steps can be taken to aid in the fertility journey. With modern medicine presenting options that were unavailable until recently and proven natural methods at your disposal, the prospects are better than ever.
Among these fertility treatments, one is of particular curiosity. The benefits of acupuncture are wide-reaching and well-documented. This ancient medical treatment is used to address a variety of physical concerns, and fertility is no exception. Read on for more information about how acupuncture can help your fertility journey and the causes of infertility that it can be used to treat.
How Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture has a sterling reputation for treating pain, but its benefits extend far beyond this application. In its most basic form, acupuncture is the insertion of extremely slim needles into specific areas of the body. These strategic insertion points are said to be linked to specific nerves and muscles, which activate the central nervous system and brain. Thus, the needles stimulate these areas and create benefits such as natural pain relief, increased blood flow and healing. Because the needles are so thin, they seldom cause any discomfort—especially when placed by a licensed and board certified acupuncturist.
Is Acupuncture Dangerous?
As with anything in life, including medical procedures, there can be a risk to acupuncture. However, in the hands of licensed acupuncturists, the risk is minimal. Better still, the majority of states have a system for licensing and certifying acupuncturists, thereby maintaining a standard of professionalism. If you plan to receive acupuncture, it is recommended that you seek out a licensed acupuncturist.
The greatest risk associated with acupuncture in terms of fertility is if incorrect insertion points are used when you are already pregnant. Working with a qualified professional all but rules out the possibility of such a mistake occurring.
How Acupuncture Can Help Fertility
The short answer is “yes.” Acupuncture can be an effective treatment for certain causes of infertility. This is not to say that it always works or that it can be used to treat all causes of infertility, but it has been shown to benefit those trying to conceive. This is especially true of people utilizing donor egg transfer, insemination, or in vitro fertilization (IVF). Much of the research states acupuncture may improve the IVF outcome by decreasing blood flow impedance and increasing the uterine blood flow (16), inhibiting uterine motility (17), reducing depression, anxiety, and stress (18, 19), and modulating the immune factors, especially cytokines (20) (Pubmed doi: 10.18502/ijrm.v18i3.6719)
As with the majority of health issues, acupuncture is most effective when used in conjunction with other types of treatment, including herbal and traditional approaches. This trend continues after conception is achieved, with acupuncture being beneficial throughout the first three months of pregnancy. This has been shown to reduce the risk of miscarriage and contribute to a successful pregnancy.
At Geneva Acupuncture and Bodyworks we have 10 years of experience working with women during their fertility journey. From helping to regulate cycles to conception through postpartum.