
Acupuncture and I.V.F
We share the common goal to have you conceive naturally, if possible, without the use of IVF, ICSI, IUI, superovulation and other assisted reproductive techniques (A.R.T). If you need the assistance to conceive with the use of A.R.T, we can help you prepare your body so your chance of successful pregnancy is significantly increased.
Undergoing A.R.T without balancing your body and your hormones is like planting a seed without cultivating the soil. Consequently, we focus on improving blood flow to the ovaries and balancing hormones during the recruitment process in order to enhance your chances of success when you go through IVF, IUI and other assisted reproductive techniques.
One of the major risks for IVF failure is poor endometrial receptivity at the time of implantation. We use a protocol that consists acupuncture treatments beginning at least six weeks before anticipated retrieval (egg harvesting). These treatments aim to increase the blood flow to your ovaries (more blood flow then more hormones and nutrients to your follicles) and reduce the effects of stress. They also increase blood flow to your uterus lining with the hopes of increasing thickness of the endometrial (uterine) lining and improving its receptivity for embryo implantation.
In the months before I.V.F treatment we work with you to improve and regulate your menstrual cycle, nourish the uterus and endometrium and attempt to increase the quality of the eggs. When acupuncture is given before the embryo is transferred, it enhances the chances of conception. This protocol, given just before and after transfer of the embryo, has been clinically demonstrated to increase the rate of implantation and births in patients receiving IVF.
Research shows that the chances of pregnancy were increased if acupuncture treatment was given just before and then after the IVF treatment itself. The treatment just before helps to invigorate the blood flow to the uterus to increase blood flow and receptivity of the embryo. Acupuncture also helps to calm and relax the uterus so that there is less chance of the egg being rejected.
When should acupuncture treatment begin?
Our advice to patients is that they are treated for three to four months before an insemination, IVF or donor-egg transfer or as preparation for conceiving naturally.
Clinical observations suggest that the most effective fertility treatments involve a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and Western medical interventions. However, conception does occur when acupuncture and herbal medicines are used without Western medical interventions.