Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Infertility and IVF Support

Many couples see me with recognised conditions that can cause infertility, for example:

• Endometriosis
• Blocked Fallopian tubes
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
• Fibroids
• Allergic reaction to sperm
• Premature ovarian failure, or
• Unknown causes

Whether you want to conceive naturally or use IVF then acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can significantly increase your fertility and chances of success.

3-4 Month Preconception Care
 
Preparation for pregnancy can begin months prior to conception. If both partners adopt a preconception healthcare programme including fertility acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for at least 3-4 months prior to conception, it is possible to have an impact on the health of both the egg and sperm and reproductive outcomes.

A six week fertility acupuncture programme prior to commencing IVF is beneficial. During this period I may prescribe Chinese herbal remedies, which are approved by the UK Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine.
 
During IVF or Fertility Treatment
 
I recommend weekly acupuncture treatments for the woman from the first day of medication through to embryo transfer. If natural conception is the target then acupuncture is given weekly along with Chinese herbal medicine where appropriate.

Where there is also male factor infertility, a fertility acupuncture programme including Chinese herbal medicine is recommended for the male to optimise sperm quality, motility and count.
 
Embryo Transfer

I give acupuncture treatments before and after embryo transfer to improve pregnancy rates. Ideally, this is performed on the same day as close to your embryo transfer appointment as possible. Research has shown that these 2 treatments alone can significantly increase your chances of IVF success.

After Embryo Transfer

I give another acupuncture treatment 3-4 days after embryo transfer and another a week later before the pregnancy test. These treatments aim to encourage implantation of the embryo within the uterus.

Once you are pregnant

I usually recommend weekly acupuncture treatments during the first trimester, up to week 12/13. These treatments are gentle and supportive and help promote a healthy pregnancy as well as counter any nausea and fatigue.

I also offer acupuncture during pregnancy to treat any pregnancy related problems such as morning sickness, carpal tunnel, varicose veins, and breech presentation. All pregnant women are encouraged to have routine acupuncture treatments from week 36 onwards to prepare for labour. Please contact me to learn more.