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Trying To Get Pregnant? Harness The Power Of Acupuncture Needles

Updated: Jun 21


Nowadays, more and more couples who are trying to conceive are exploring alternative medicine to increase their chances of success quickly. Acupuncture needles have emerged as a sought-after tool in the realm of fertility enhancement, offering a holistic approach to improving reproductive health and increasing the likelihood of getting pregnant.


In this article, we will talk about fertility acupuncture. We will explain why it is regarded as one of the most effective natural medicines to promote fertility for both women and men. It can be used as a standalone treatment or alongside IVF cycles.


Woman inserting acupuncture needles on the back for fertility treatment

Modern healthcare has vastly expanded the array of options available for couples struggling to conceive, but not all can afford it.


The cost for assisted conception, such as IUI and IVF, can arrive up to tens of thousands of pounds. These advanced procedures also don’t guarantee a result. So many couples need to go through a few IVF cycles before being successful. The fertility drugs that are commonly prescribed to women who are trying to conceive often have lots of side effects. You may get abdominal tenderness, fluid retention, bloating, weight gain, and nausea.


It may be stressful for some couples to decide to follow this path. So, more and more people choose to try alternative therapies. Some of the most regarded natural fertility therapies include acupuncture, cupping and reflexology.



Does Acupuncture Help Fertility?


Others decide to receive acupuncture for fertility while they undergo IVF. Some recent studies suggest that it would double your chances of getting pregnant. Acupuncture for fertility may boost by 65 % the chances of becoming pregnant. The study suggested:


  • 87 % increase in continuing pregnancy

  • 91 % increase in the number of live births



How can Fertility Acupuncture help you to Get Pregnant?


Acupuncture for fertility takes a holistic approach, addressing factors that may impact your ability to conceive. It can help by:


  • Boosting blood flow to the reproductive organs

  • Balancing reproductive hormones and the endocrine system

  • Relieving stress

  • Boost Male Fertility


These are among the main causes of infertility, and Acupuncture for fertility can address them all together.


Acupuncture for fertility has ancient roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine, which believes that by stimulating the nerves of certain points in the body, we can affect the organs to which they are related.


We insert thin acupuncture needles at specific points on the body. We aim to improve uterine blood flow and regulate hormones, potentially enhancing fertility.


For example, an acupuncturist would needle the points connected to the ovaries to increase the blood flowing to them. As a result, we aim to help you develop healthy and strong follicles ready to mature.


traditional-chinese-medicine-book-on-acupuncture-points

How Acupuncture Needles Can Help You Manage Stress


Stress is another main factor in infertility. High cortisol levels (the hormone released in the brain when people are under stress) disrupt the ovulation cycle. This prevents a woman from getting pregnant. It also increases a lot the risk of miscarriage in women once they become pregnant. In men, stress can alter sperm counts and motility and cause impotence.


The release of cortisol affects the brain’s neurochemical balance. Consequently, it disrupts the pituitary balance key to the reproductive cycle. Stress can greatly affect the delicate balance between the hypothalamus, pituitary, and reproductive glands.


As a result, it may prevent a woman from ovulating entirely. If a woman does not ovulate, she does not have a chance to conceive during that menstrual cycle. Besides, stress can create spasms in both the fallopian tubes and the uterus. Thus, it interferes with the movement and implantation of a potential fertilized egg.


Acupuncture for fertility may reduce stress quickly. We specifically needle acupuncture points to promote the parasympathetic nervous system, which is the part of the brain that is in “resting and healing” mode.


Acupuncture counters the effects of stress and cortisol by releasing endorphins in the brain. As a result, it stimulates the production of endogenous opioids, affecting the autonomic nervous system. Thanks to that, it can initiate the relaxation response, putting your body in healing mode and reducing stress and anxiety.


People often start to breathe slower and deeper immediately, relaxing muscles, promoting digestion, and slowing the heart rate. Because of this, Acupuncture is often regarded as a natural rescue remedy for anxiety.



How Acupuncture Needles Can Enhance Ovulation


Another main cause of infertility is an ovulation disorder. Some of the most common ovulatory conditions are:


  • Anovulation (which is the absence of ovulation)

  • Disrupted menstrual cycle (as it happens in women suffering from PCOS). In this case, the release of a mature egg from the ovary is prevented, so the chances of becoming pregnant are low. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is one of the most common causes of infertility as this condition affects the ovulation cycle, preventing the follicle from becoming mature enough to release the egg.


Research has shown how acupuncture for fertility is one of the best natural treatments to help women resume ovulation, especially those suffering from PCOS, and so their chances of conceiving.


Acupuncture for fertility aims to naturally regulate ovulation and menstruation by stimulating the organs, improving blood flow, normalising hormone levels and promoting the proper functioning of the reproductive system.



What are the Best Acupuncture Points for Needles for Fertility?


Depending on the client and her current situation, acupuncturists will use a set of many different points around the body. When treating infertility, we tend to use points on the head to promote relaxation. We also needle acupuncture points around the stomach to boost fresh blood supply to the ovaries.


There are also some important points around the lower legs and the ankles. These promote blood flow to the reproductive organs, enhancing a correct hormonal balance.


acupuncture-needles-around-knee

The Acupuncture Roadmap to Pregnancy: Sessions, Timing, and Aftercare


A successful acupuncture treatment plan is a personalised journey and has to be guided by a licensed acupuncturist. Let's explore in more detail Frequency, Timing and Aftercare to help you understand how acupuncture can create a supportive environment for your fertility journey.



How many Acupuncture Sessions will I need to get Pregnant?


Acupuncture for fertility usually treats most menstrual problems within three to six months. However, the number of treatments usually depends on how long-standing and severe the issue may be. Acupuncture for fertility works on a cumulative level, so it often requires repetition to make a sustained change, and healthy lifestyle changes can boost its efficacy.


At A to Zen therapies, we are keen on supporting women experiencing menstrual disorders and those who are trying to conceive. We offer online coaching sessions to learn all about your cycle and natural ways to improve and regulate it.


We help you to develop a fertility care plan tailored to your unique needs and are always here to advise and guide you in this journey. It is an honour for us to be next to you in this.



How often should you do acupuncture for fertility?


The ideal frequency of acupuncture sessions for fertility can vary depending on several factors, but here's a general breakdown:


  • Initially: Most practitioners recommend starting with weekly sessions. This allows for consistent stimulation and a chance to assess your response to the treatment.


  • Duration: Depending on your individual situation and goals, a typical course of treatment might involve 6-10 sessions.


  • IVF cycles: If you're undergoing IVF, acupuncture is often recommended in the weeks leading up to embryo transfer. Some suggest twice-weekly sessions during this period.


  • Long-term: Some women continue monthly or bi-monthly sessions for continued support and regulation.



When Should I Start Acupuncture for Trying to conceive?


Most preconception programs start at least 3 months before trying to conceive, either naturally or by assisted conception, for maximum results. However, any moment is good to try this therapy. Because it doesn't have side effects and can truly support your body and mind wherever you are in your fertility journey.



Optimizing Your Fertility Acupuncture Session: Activities to Avoid


It is best to avoid having a big meal before the session. Because you will have to lie down for a while. Also, since we needle specific Acupuncture points for fertility that aim to promote relaxation, it would be ideal to avoid strenuous physical activities such as running or gym classes after your session. These little precautions will help to avoid contra actions and get the best out of your treatment. 



Will Insurance cover Acupuncture?


Most insurance in London covers Acupuncture as it is one of Western medicine's most recognised and researched alternative therapies. Because plans vary in coverage, you should check with your provider. If you are in doubt, please contact us and we will look at the associations recognised from your insurance together.


We're proud that our acupuncturists are members of leading acupuncture associations in the UK. For a complete list of their affiliations, please visit our therapists page.




Why Choose Us


You are unique & your treatment should be too.


At A to Zen therapies, we know very well that trying something new can sometimes feel daunting, so rest assured that we take that to heart.


During your first appointment, we will make sure we do an in-depth consultation where you can share a detailed history of your symptoms and lifestyle so we can tailor the treatment to you based on your precise needs and concerns.


We’ll also recommend follow-up care based on your best interests, budget, and whole-person wellness.


If you are thinking of trying acupuncture for fertility, speak to your gynaecologist so she can help you weigh your options and establish a timeline that you can follow to feel more in control.


Before receiving acupuncture for fertility treatment, it is sometimes useful to have blood work done so that you can identify any possible underlying problems, and we can be even more specific when treating you.


What Our Clients Say


"Acupuncture needles played a crucial role in helping me conceive. After struggling for months, I decided to try acupuncture, and within a few months of treatment, I got pregnant. It was truly a life-changing experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone struggling with fertility issues." - Carrie


"Fertility Acupuncture was a game-changer for us. My husband's fertility was a concern, so we decided to try acupuncture. Not only did it boost his fertility, but we also got pregnant shortly after starting treatment. We couldn't be happier with the results!" - Felicity




 

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We look forward to hearing your thoughts about this article! Please share your experience or any questions you may have about the efficacy of Acupuncture for fertility and its power to help you get pregnant!



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