Acupuncture, frequently combined with herbal and traditional medicine, has been used for centuries to treat some of the most common causes of infertility. Acupuncture can increase blood flow to the ovaries and uterus and endometrium, to help facilitate a thick, rich lining, which in turn makes it more receptive the conception process.
Acupuncture is similar to physical therapy because the level of success is directly related to the amount of effort the patient puts forth. This means that the patient should commit to the full course of treatment (over 3 or 4 months) before trying to become pregnant.
In a study by Stener-Victorin et al from the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology Fertility Centre, Scandinavia and University of Gothenburg, women are encouraged to receive acupuncture treatments pre and post embryo transfer.
Clinical observations from the Berkley Center for Reproductive Wellness suggest that the most effective fertility treatments involve a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and traditional medicine. However, conception occasionally occurs when acupuncture and herbal medicines are used without traditional medical interventions.
Also, in a study of 160 women, published April 2002 in the reproductive journal Fertility and Sterility, a group of German researchers found that adding acupuncture to the traditional IVF treatment protocols substantially increased pregnancy success.
Acupuncture may also help correct problems with the body’s neuroendocrine system. Acupuncture can help activate the brain to release hormones that will stimulate the ovaries, adrenal glands and other organs that are involved in reproduction. Acupuncture’s effect on the neuroendocrine system may also help infertile men by stimulating sperm production.
At Active Health, we can structure a plan of action to get you and your partner in top condition to conceive. We provide nutritional plans for diet and supplements in addition to acupuncture and chiropractic therapy to enhance your efforts with your traditional medical practitioner.
http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/womens-health/articles/2012/01/27/acupuncture-may-boost-pregnancy-success-rates
http://americanpregnancy.org/infertility/acupuncture.htm
http://www.webmd.com/infertility-and-reproduction/features/ancient-art-of-infertility-treatment