The Rise of Infertility Acupuncture in the United States

Now gaining popularity in the West, acupuncture in general, and infertility acupuncture in particular is a procedure with roots in the East.

Infertility acupuncture specialists are sprouting up across the United States - and contrary to popular belief - are not necessarily of an Asian ethnicity. Infertility acupuncture practitioners use this ancient Chinese medicine treatment that involves inserting fine metallic needles into specific pressure points in the body. These needles are regulated by the FDA and are used to stimulate the body to achieve mental and physical balance.

Infertility acupuncture usually does not hurt. Patients often just feel a slight twinge. The benefits reported have been tremendous – some of which are helping to regulate ovulation or menstrual cycles and improve sperm mobility and motility.

Who Uses It?

Infertility acupuncture is also recommended for couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) because it has proven to get better quantity and quality of eggs in women struggling with infertility. Performing the acupuncture immediately before and after the egg transfer has resulted in higher pregnancy rates primarily because infertility acupuncture causes the uterus to relax. Otherwise, contractions in the uterus could expel the egg.

Western researchers used to be wary of this traditional practice but now even the National Institutes of Health have found some evidence of the benefits of infertility acupuncture.

Disadvantages

As with anything there are disadvantages. Infertility acupuncture is usually recommended for functional problems such as irregular ovulation as compared to tube blockage which is more of a structural problem.

Infertility acupuncture is not a one time procedure and usually takes several sessions with a specialist over a period of several weeks. Many infertility acupuncture practitioners also recommend Chinese herbs and supplements to be taken while undergoing this treatment.

Several research studies have shown that infertility acupuncture works best when used in conjunction with Western medicine. It need not be a stand-alone treatment. However, patients need to facilitate good communication between both doctors to see if there could be a possible reaction between medications. Always make sure that the acupuncturist is licensed to practice in your state.

Although the exact reasons why fine needles poked in your body can help you conceive is not known, infertility acupuncture has gained popularity because it has shown results. One of the main reasons is that it regulates blood flow in the body and relaxes a person, both ideal conditions for conception.

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