Is Acupuncture for Infertility Effective?

Practiced in China for more than a thousand years, acupuncture is a method that makes use of thin needles that are inserted at specific energy points in the body in order to realign the flow of energy, bring harmony to the body and ultimately dispel a variety of ailments from migraines to nicotine addiction or skin problems.

Acupuncture has also been traditionally used by the Chinese to treat some fertility problems. While there’s not much scientific proof that can back up the effectiveness of acupuncture as an infertility treatment, it is undoubtedly growing in popularity as more and more people in the West discover by themselves the benefits of this centuries-old treatment.

Supporters of acupuncture explain that there are several ways that this treatment works to increase the chances of a woman to get pregnant, one of which is by reducing stress levels. Stress is one of the most common reasons why a woman may have trouble conceiving. According to studies, acupuncture triggers the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormone, making a person much more relaxed.

Acupuncture is said to help improve blood flow and normalize hormone levels. As a result, women experience improved reproductive functions such as ovulation. In men, acupuncture may help increase sperm count or treat erectile dysfunction. It should be noted, however, that acupuncture is usually recommended when the cause of infertility has something to do with poor reproductive function as in the cases above. It will not treat physical problems like fallopian tube obstruction.

Many women who were having difficulty getting pregnant reported success after trying acupuncture in combination with conventional treatments such as IVF (in vitro fertilization) and other methods of assisted reproductive technology . Studies in Germany, Australia and Colorado, as recent as 2006, showed that women who combined IVF with acupuncture had a higher chance of conceiving with success rates of up to 51 percent.

Being a natural method, there is certainly no harm in trying acupuncture. Still, you want to make sure you look for a qualified or certified acupuncturist who meets the requirements of your state for this profession. Aside from being qualified, it is also ideal to look for an acupuncturist who specializes in reproductive disorders. Don’t forget to speak with your doctor before starting any acupuncture treatments for infertility.

With your doctor’s clearance, you will most likely undergo 1-2 weekly sessions for 2 to 3 months. Also, although not so common, you may want to check your health insurance plan if acupuncture is covered. If it’s not, you don’t have to worry about the cost because acupuncture is relatively more affordable than other infertility treatments.

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