How Acupuncture Supports IVF and Fertility

Over the past 15 years a large number of clinical trials have indicated the benefits of acupuncture for IVF, showing improved pregnancy and live birth rates (1,2). Acupuncture is thought to

• modulate the level of hormones such as FSH, LH and oestrogen

• improve ovulation and endometrial thickness

• support emotional well-being by reducing stress and anxiety

For more information, blogs and research visit our sister clinic webpage – The Acupuncture Pregnancy Clinic

Acupuncture During Pregnancy

While pregnancy is one of the most joyous and exciting times in life, it isn’t necessarily without its difficulties. Acupuncture may be a useful adjunct therapy to assist with some of the physical and emotional challenges many pregnant people encounter.

Morning sickness and indigestion

Nausea and vomiting can be experienced at any time of day, making daily life difficult. Research has shown that acupuncture may settle the stomach and reduce the severity of these symptoms (3,4)

Pain and Discomfort

With a growing baby and hormonal changes like relaxin expression, the body is put under increased physical pressure. This can result in muscle and joint pain, commonly including lower back pain, sciatica, muscle cramps and pelvic pain. Acupuncture may help ease this pain by improving circulation, relaxing muscles and promoting the expression of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relieving chemicals (5,6)

Stress and anxiety

Pregnancy is a time of excitement, but it can also bring extra stress and anxiety. Acupuncture stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system – the body’s relaxation response – helping to manage stress and promote emotional balance (7)

Insomnia

Sleep disturbances, including insomnia and restless sleep, are common during pregnancy due to hormonal fluctuations and physical discomfort. Acupuncture may help improve sleep by calming the nervous system and relieving physical discomfort. (6,8)

Birth Preparation and Acupuncture

From around 36 weeks of pregnancy, acupuncture and moxibustion may help prepare your body for labour by

• encouraging correct positioning

• aiding cervical ripening,

• increasing natural oxytocin release

• alleviating pain

Studies suggest that people who receive birth preparation acupuncture may have fewer surgical births, require less pain relief, experience less components of labour induction and have a reduced length of hospital stay (9)