Acupuncture has emerged as the leading integrative approach in the field of reproductive medicine, particularly for individuals experiencing infertility. This traditional Chinese medicine practice, which involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, is believed to promote balance and improve overall well-being. In the context of infertility, acupuncture is used to enhance fertility and support assisted reproductive technologies, such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). When you begin acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine in your fertility journey is very important. The earlier you start, the better results you can have.

Infertility can be a challenging and emotionally taxing experience for many people and acupuncture can be a way to reduce stress and anxiety and improve outcomes early in the process thus potentially decreasing the use of IVF and other invasive therapies. Acupuncture is thought to benefit fertility by improving blood flow to the reproductive organs, regulating menstrual cycles, and reducing stress, all of which can contribute to a more favorable environment for conception. Studies have suggested that acupuncture may help regulate the menstrual cycle, improve ovarian function, and increase the thickness of the endometrial lining,potentially enhancing fertility. So we recommend starting acupuncture if you have been trying for more than 3 months without success.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a common assisted reproductive technique that involves placing sperm directly into the uterus to increase the likelihood of fertilization. Some practitioners incorporate acupuncture into the IUI protocol to potentially improve outcomes. The rationale behind this integration is that acupuncture might enhance uterine blood flow, reduce stress and anxiety, and address hormonal imbalances, thereby creating a more conducive environment for the sperm to fertilize the egg. While research on the specific impact of acupuncture on IUI success rates is still ongoing, preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that acupuncture could provide supportive benefits during the IUI process. Generally,we recommend starting acupuncture as soon as you start with a reproductive medicine clinic. If you have already begun an IUI cycle you can start acupuncture at any phase during that process.

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a more advanced assisted reproductive technology that involves the fertilization of eggs outside the body and the transfer of embryos into the uterus. Given the complex nature of IVF, many patients turn to acupuncture to support their treatment and improve their chances of success. Acupuncture may be used in conjunction with IVF to potentially enhance ovarian response to stimulation, improve embryo implantation rates, and reduce side effects associated with fertility medications. Some studies have reported positive outcomes when acupuncture is used alongside IVF, such as improved pregnancy rates and reduced incidence of miscarriage. When utilizing acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine it is best to start months before an egg retrieval for optimal results.

At ilumina Healing Sanctuary, we treat infertility on a daily basis and attend IVF embryo transfers 2-5 times per week since 2001. Our acupuncture practitioners are reproductive medicine fellowship board certified by the ABORM. With our advanced training, experience, compassionate patient centered care, and frequency of working with infertility you can be assured you are receiving superior care.