Discover the Healing Power of Acupuncture

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Acupuncture has been widely used as a supportive treatment for fertility issues, including both female and male infertility. Its role in fertility support has gained attention due to the increasing number of studies suggesting potential benefits, both as a standalone therapy and in conjunction with conventional fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI). 

 Clinical Recommendations 

• Timing of Acupuncture: Evidence suggests that acupuncture is most beneficial when tailored to the patient’s IVF schedule, particularly during ovarian stimulation, before and after embryo transfer.
• Treatment Frequency: Studies recommend starting acupuncture treatments 6-8 weeks before IVF to maximize benefits on the body’s hormonal and circulatory systems.
• Personalized Protocols: Integrating traditional Chinese medical diagnosis (e.g., balancing yin and yang, resolving blood stasis) with modern reproductive medicine enhances the success of fertility treatment.

• Regulating Hormonal Balance: Acupuncture helps to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, which regulates reproductive hormones. This balance is essential for regular ovulation and menstrual cycles. In cases like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or luteal phase defects, acupuncture can assist in improving ovulation frequency and quality.
• Improving Blood Flow: Acupuncture is thought to increase blood flow to the ovaries and uterus, improving the uterine lining and enhancing the chances of embryo implantation. Improved blood circulation can also support ovarian function, leading to better-quality eggs.
• Reducing Stress and Anxiety: High levels of stress and anxiety can negatively impact fertility by disrupting hormonal balance and menstrual regularity. Acupuncture promotes relaxation and reduces the body's stress response, which may help improve fertility outcomes. Studies suggest that reducing stress may play a key role, especially for patients undergoing IVF.
• Improving Ovarian Function: For women with diminished ovarian reserve or who are older, acupuncture may help stimulate ovarian function, improving egg quality and increasing the chances of conception.
• Supporting Menstrual Cycle Regularity: For women with irregular menstrual cycles or amenorrhea (lack of menstruation), acupuncture can help restore regularity. Regular menstrual cycles are essential for timed conception or assisted reproductive technology (ART).
• Supporting Sperm Quality in Male Fertility: Acupuncture has been used to improve male fertility by increasing sperm count, motility, and morphology. Improved circulation and hormone regulation can positively affect sperm production and quality.

• Points for Hormonal Balance: LI4, LV3, SP6, ST36, and CV4 are commonly used to regulate the menstrual cycle, balance hormones, and support overall reproductive health.
• Points for Blood Flow to Uterus: ST29, SP10, CV6, and Zigong Xue (extra point) are used to promote blood circulation in the uterus and support implantation.
• Points for Stress Reduction: DU20, YinTang, HT7, and PC6 are commonly used to calm the mind and reduce stress.