FERTILITY ACUPUNCTURE | Healify Wellness

Everything You Need to Know About Fertility Acupuncture

A 2023 World Health Organization report (World Health Organization, 2023) indicates that infertility rate is rising and that 1 in 6 people experience infertility. Many couples are surprised to learn that, in order to become pregnant, they may need to pay up to $20,000 for fertility treatments. Fortunately, fertility acupuncture, a natural and affordable treatment modality based on tradition Chinese medicine theories is gaining modern popularity and scientific evidence. It shows potential in addressing the root causes of infertility. But what exactly is fertility acupuncture, and how can it improve your chances of conception?

The Art of Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years, used to address a wide range of health conditions, including fertility issues. The process involves inserting hair-thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body, known as acupuncture points, to promote energy flow and healing. These points are interconnected by energy pathways, or channels. The needles help activate and balance the body's vital substances: Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang. A smooth and balanced flow of these vital substances within the channels is essential for good health. However, blockages, deficiencies, or excesses can result in health problems, such as infertility.

Modern Research of Acupuncture

Modern research offers fascinating insights into how acupuncture works. It turns out that stimulating specific points on the body may trigger a cascade of biochemical and neurological responses. The mast cells release histamine and other substances that modulate inflammation. The stimulation of nerve fibers sends signals to the central nervous system, prompting the release of neuropeptides like β-endorphin, which regulate hormone release and autonomic functions (Stener-Victorin & Wu, 2010), and may help to improve conditions such as menstrual irregularities, infertility, and menopause symptoms. Additionally, the increased blood flow to the area aids in tissue repair and overall wellness. This multidimensional approach helps explain the therapeutic effects observed in acupuncture treatments.

How Acupuncture Can Improve Fertility

Studies have shown that acupuncture may enhance fertility by increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs, balancing hormones, reducing stress, and boosting sperm quality.

Enhancing Blood Flow to the Reproductive Organs

Acupuncture may enhance fertility by increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs. Improved circulation generally brings essential nutrients and oxygen, potentially creating a healthier environment for conception. Studies have shown that acupuncture may improve endometrial artery blood flow (Xu et al., 2022). Other studies suggest that acupuncture may increase endometrial thickness (Zhong et al., 2019), helping to prepare the endometrium for embryo implantation and thus possibly increasing the chances of conception. Acupuncture points on the lower abdomen and lower back, which have the same somatic innervation as the ovaries and uterus, are often targeted to boost circulation to the reproductive organs.

Balancing Hormones and Regulating Menstrual Cycles

Acupuncture has been found to balance key hormones and regulate menstrual cycles, making it a valuable therapy for women's reproductive health. Essential hormones such as luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) play crucial roles in menstrual function. LH initiates ovulation and helps with the hormone production needed to support pregnancy, while FSH stimulates egg growth in the ovaries. Imbalances or elevated levels of these hormones can disrupt menstrual cycles and affect fertility. Research shows that acupuncture may help regulate LH, FSH, and testosterone levels, potentially normalizing menstrual cycles and improving ovulation. For example, acupuncture can reduce elevated LH and testosterone levels (Zheng et al., 2013), which are often seen in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thereby improving ovulation rates and menstrual frequency. Some lower abdomen and extremity acupuncture points may help restoring hormonal balance and regular menstrual cycles.

Reducing Stress and Its Impact on Fertility

For many women, fertility issue is often accompanied by significant emotional and psychological impacts, making it a particularly distressing experience. Stress is a major factor that can adversely affect fertility, leading to a cycle where the uncertainties further increase stress levels. This stress response involves hormones like cortisol and norepinephrine, which, when elevated, disrupt normal bodily functions and potentially affect fertility rates. Acupuncture has been shown to regulate the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, helping to balance these hormones and reduce stress, in turn, helps to reduce stress and anxiety, which may improve fertility outcomes (An et al., 2011). Some scalp and auricular acupuncture points could be effective in reducing stress and anxiety.

Boosting Sperm Quality

Studies have shown that male factors contribute to about 50% of all cases of infertility. As male and female causes often co-exist, it is essential that both partners are managed together for infertility. Acupuncture may improve sperm quality by enhancing sperm concentration and motility, which are key factors in successful fertilization. This improvement may be linked to the acupuncture’s ability to increase blood flow to the testicles, creating a more conducive environment for sperm production. Additionally, acupuncture's ability to reduce genital inflammatory reactions could further promote a healthier reproductive condition (Jerng et al., 2014). Together, these effects of acupuncture may help enhance overall fertility potential.

Acupuncture and IVF: A Powerful Partnership

Acupuncture is increasingly recognized as a valuable complement to conventional fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF). Research has shown that acupuncture, particularly during key stages like oocyte retrieval and embryo transfer, may improve implantation rates, pregnancy outcomes, and successful deliveries when complemented with standard methods (Dehghani et al., 2020). One of the key advantages of acupuncture is that it is a natural therapy with minimal side effects, and it can be safely combined with other treatments. Additionally, acupuncture supports overall well-being, which is essential for fertility. It can help manage issues like insomnia, digestive problems, allergies, and chronic pain, which may indirectly impact fertility. Acupuncturists focus on enhancing overall wellness as a healthy, well-nourished body is more likely to achieve a successful pregnancy and sustain a healthy pregnancy outcome.

Tailored Treatments and Comprehensive Care

Acupuncture is a holistic treatment approach that addresses the root cause of a condition. A licensed acupuncturist specializes in analyzing your symptoms to identify the underlying issue. During your initial consultation, the acupuncturist will evaluate your medical history, menstrual cycle, lifestyle factors, and any prior fertility treatments. Using this information, they will create a personalized treatment plan that may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary advice, and lifestyle adjustments. Acupuncturists also stay informed about the latest scientific research, integrating these insights into the treatment plan. Through careful assessment and customized care, acupuncture provides a gentle yet effective pathway to support fertility and improve pregnancy rate.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the world of fertility treatments can be overwhelming, but incorporating acupuncture into your journey may provide the support and balance you need. This gentle, natural therapy offers an integrative approach that works well with other fertility treatments, enhancing your chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy.

References

An, Y., Wang, Z., Ji, H., Zhang, Y., & Wu, K. (2011). Pituitary-adrenal and sympathetic nervous system responses to psychiatric disorders in women undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment. Fertility and Sterility, 96(2), 404–408. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.05.092

Dehghani, A. S., Homayouni, K., Kanannejad, Z., & Kanannejad, Z. (2020). The effect of acupuncture on the day of embryo transfer on the in vitro fertilization outcomes: An RCT. International Journal of Reproductive BioMedicine (IJRM). https://doi.org/10.18502/ijrm.v18i3.6719

Inoue, M., Kitakoji, H., Yano, T., Ishizaki, N., Itoi, M., & Katsumi, Y. (2000). Acupuncture Treatment for Low Back Pain and Lower Limb Symptoms—The Relation between Acupuncture or Electroacupuncture Stimulation and Sciatic Nerve Blood Flow. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 5(2), 133–143. https://doi.org/10.1093/ecam/nem050

Jerng, U. M., Jo, J., Lee, S., Lee, J., & Kwon, O. (2014). The effectiveness and safety of acupuncture for poor semen quality in infertile males: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Asian Journal of Andrology, 16(6), 884. https://doi.org/10.4103/1008-682x.129130

Stener-Victorin, E., & Wu, X. (2010). Effects and mechanisms of acupuncture in the reproductive system. Autonomic Neuroscience, 157(1–2), 46–51. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autneu.2010.03.006

World Health Organization. (2023). Infertility prevalence Estimates, 1990–2021.

Xu, J., Zhao, A., Xin, P., Geng, J., Wang, B., & Xia, T. (2022). Acupuncture for Female infertility: Discussion on action mechanism and application. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2022, 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/3854117

Zheng, Y., Wang, X., Lai, M., Yao, H., Liu, H., & Ma, H. (2013). Effectiveness of Abdominal Acupuncture for Patients with Obesity-Type Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 19(9), 740–745. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2012.0429

Zhong, Y., Zeng, F., Liu, W., Ma, J., Guan, Y., & Song, Y. (2019). Acupuncture in improving endometrial receptivity: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 19(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-019-2472-1

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How does acupuncture work?

Modern scientific understanding suggests that acupuncture may work by sending electrical signals through our nerves to the brain to release neurotransmitters, hormones, and endorphins. Additionally, acupuncture has been shown to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation. Acupuncture's effectiveness is further enhanced by its inherent relaxation-inducing properties. The insertion triggers our parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a sense of relaxation in both body and mind. As a result, acupuncture is effective in treating a wide range of conditions, from chronic pain and migraines to anxiety and fertility issues.
Is acupuncture safe?

Yes, adverse effects of acupuncture have been widely studied and it is considered safe when performed by trained and licensed acupuncturists. Healify Wellness has 15 years of professional experience and follows highest standards of safety, including the use of sterile disposable needles.
Does acupuncture hurt?

People experience acupuncture treatments differently, but most feel little or no pain as the needles are inserted. Healify Wellness uses high qualify, ultra thin needles to prevent any discomfort.
Do you have direct billing?

Yes, we currently provide direct billing for Alberta Blue Cross, and through Telus Health eClaims, which includes insurers such as Canada Life, Manulife, and others. We would recommend that you check your coverage with your insurance provider before your appointment.
How many treatments do I need?

Though it varies depending on the individual, but you should see positive changes within the first 3 sessions, and more lasting changes in 6-10 sessions. Acupuncture is most effective as a cumulative therapy, so regular treatments can provide long-term benefits for your overall health and wellness.