Acupuncture For Infertility
Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that has been practiced for centuries. It involves the insertion of extremely thin needles into very specific points in the body. Acupuncture is a commonly used modality to help treat infertility.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ACUPUNCTURE FOR INFERTILITY
DOES ACUPUNCTURE HELP WITH INFERTILITY?
Yes. Medical literature, evidence based research and best practice protocols encourage the use of acupuncture for the treatment of infertility that is non-structural in nature. A study of 160 women, published in the April 2002 issue of reproductive journal Fertility and Sterility, concluded that adding acupuncture to the traditional IVF treatment protocols substantially increased pregnancy outcomes.
A separate meta-analysis of 1,366 women undergoing IVF published in the British Medical Journal in 2008 also concluded that acupuncture given with embryo transfer improved rates of pregnancy and live birth among women undergoing IVF.
These and other studies have prompted increased interest and research in the field of acupuncture that is still ongoing. Due to the tremendous success rates with combining acupuncture with IVF it is not uncommon now for fertility centers to routinely refer patients for acupuncture treatments.
HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE FOR INFERTILITY WORK?
According to traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture promotes fertility by increasing the flow of qi, or energy, throughout very specific fertility points and meridians in the body.
According to more Western and evidence based school of thought, acupuncture may promote a neuroendocrine effect that impacts a three-way axis existing between the hypothalamus, pituitary glands, and ovaries. Stimulation of this axis leads to hormone stimulation involved with inducing ovulation and fertility.
A second theory suggests that acupuncture enhances fertility by increasing blood flow to ovaries and the uterine lining thereby increasing the chances of successful attachment of the egg to the uterine lining.
A third theory speculates that acupuncture promotes production of endorphins that stimulates the rest and relaxation part of the nervous system, also known as the parasympathetic nervous system, which is the system in your body that also promotes reproduction.
Although we don’t fully understand the exact mechanism by which acupuncture works, strong scientific research illustrates that it does, in fact, work. Studies show that acupuncture is effective in increasing positive outcomes when used in conjunction with other fertility treatments as well as when it is used on its own.
ARE THERE ANY RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH ACUPUNCTURE FOR INFERTILITY?
The risks associated with acupuncture are minimal. The majority of people find it to be completely painless. Bruising or soreness may occur to areas where needles are inserted. By using strict sanitary protocols and sterile, disposable needles that are only used once, the risk of infection from needles is minimized here at GCSP.
WHAT DOES EACH TREATMENT VISIT ENTAIL?
The first visit entails an evaluation that will include collecting information to learn more about you. This includes gathering information about the cause of your infertility, your diet and your lifestyle. Based on that information, it will be determined if you are a candidate for acupuncture.
If you are a candidate for treatment, an acupuncture protocol will be developed uniquely geared towards your individual needs. Acupuncture treatment is initiated during the first visit.
Each acupuncture treatment entails insertion of needles along specific points on your body. The points vary depending on where you are in your treatment plan. Needle insertion takes about 10 minutes. The needles stay in place for approximately 30 minutes. As part of the treatment, you will be educated about fertility diet, breathing, yoga asanas/exercises and self-massage techniques that can promote fertility as an adjunct to the acupuncture treatments.
WHEN SHOULD ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT FOR INFERTILITY BE INITIATED?
If you are trying to become pregnant, it is never too soon to get started with acupuncture. Some people choose to try acupuncture on its own prior to trying more invasive forms of fertility treatments. Others choose to have acupuncture in conjunction with in-vitro fertilization (IVF) or other fertility treatments. Either way, it can increase positive outcomes.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL IT TAKE?
Treatment frequency varies depending on the patient and whether the patient is trying acupuncture on its own or in conjunction with other fertility treatments, such as IUI or IVF. You will be informed how many treatments are recommended and at what frequency following your initial consultation.
It is important to be aware that some acupuncture points are contra-indicated for fertility and conception. Therefore, it is extremely important that if you chose to have acupuncture performed for fertility, you should go to a doctor who specializes in the treatment of infertility using acupuncture. At GCSP we have a certified acupuncturist who specializes in the treatment of infertility. Please see below for more information.
DOES HEALTH INSURANCE COVER ACUPUNCTURE FOR INFERTILITY?
Most major health insurance companies will not cover acupuncture for the treatment of infertility. Although the patient is ultimately responsible for knowing his/her health benefits and coverage, as a courtesy, GCSP will verify the patient’s health insurance benefits to determine if acupuncture is covered. Please be aware, GCSP is not responsible for incorrect information provided by health insurance companies.
If you don’t have coverage, GCSP offers affordable rates so that acupuncture can be more accessible for everyone.
HOW MUCH DOES ACUPUNCTURE COST?
GCSP believes that stress management, including financial stress management, is an important component of fertility treatment. For this reason, we offer low and affordable rates to minimize any stress that may arise due to the cost of care. Please call to learn more about our competitively priced rates and affordable packages.