More and more people are turning to alternative and complementary therapies like acupuncture to help them get pregnant. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves penetrating the skin with thin needles to stimulate specific points on the body. This is said to help rebalance energy and improve overall health and wellbeing. But can getting acupuncture really help boost your fertility?
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture is based on the theory that energy flows through meridians or pathways in the body. Along these meridians are acupoints that can be stimulated with needles to relieve blockages and encourage the flow of qi (vital energy).
Practitioners insert very fine needles into strategic points on the body to stimulate muscles, nerves, and connective tissue. This is thought to boost blood flow, reduce inflammation, and encourage the body’s natural healing response.
During an acupuncture treatment, patients lie comfortably while the acupuncturist inserts disposable stainless steel needles into various points on the body. The needles are very thin so there is little discomfort. In fact, most people report feeling relaxed after an acupuncture session.
Acupuncture for Fertility
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to treat gynaecological problems including menstrual disorders and infertility. Today, many couples are trying acupuncture as a natural way to increase their chances of conception.
Some of the proposed ways acupuncture may improve fertility include:
- Increasing blood flow to the uterus and ovaries to improve the chances of an egg being nourished and carried to term.
- Regulating hormones and correcting imbalances that may be hindering ovulation, fertilisation or implantation.
- Reducing stress, which is known to interfere with conception and pregnancy.
- Minimising uterine contractions that could potentially interfere with implantation.
Acupuncturists tailor fertility treatments to each individual using a holistic approach. Points will be selected based on the person’s unique symptoms and reproductive health issues.
Does Acupuncture for Fertility Work?
A number of studies have looked at using acupuncture alongside fertility treatments like IVF to see if it improves outcomes. Many have had promising results.
While more research is still needed, the results suggest that acupuncture may be a beneficial complement to fertility treatments like IVF. However, there’s limited evidence that acupuncture alone increases fertility in couples with unexplained infertility.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Acupuncture is considered very low risk when performed by a licensed, qualified acupuncturist using sterile disposable needles. Serious side effects are extremely rare. Minor side effects like bruising or soreness at the needle sites can sometimes occur.
Always confirm that your acupuncturist is properly trained and licensed. This ensures they have undergone extensive schooling and certification. It’s also important that they use sterile, single-use needles to prevent infections.
Finding an Acupuncturist
If you’re considering acupuncture to enhance your fertility, look for a licensed acupuncturist with specific training in fertility and women’s health. Ask about their background, training, and experience treating fertility issues.
You can find properly qualified acupuncturists through the British Acupuncture Council. These Bristol acupuncture services have acupuncturists specialising in fertility support and women’s health. They can design customised treatments to help support your reproductive goals.
Give It a Try
While more research is still needed, many couples have found that incorporating acupuncture into their fertility plan improved their chances of conceiving. It’s a drug-free, non-invasive option that may support your body, reduce stress, and enhance the effectiveness of medical fertility treatments. Talk to your doctor and consider consulting a specialist in fertility acupuncture if you’re looking to increase your chances of getting pregnant.
