Acupuncture has been shown in numerous clinical studies to increase the rates of pregnancy and live birth rates when performed alongside assisted reproductive therapies (ART) like in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and intra-uterine insemination (IUI). Acupuncture can also be of great benefit in increasing the rates of natural pregnancy, unassisted by ARTs. Acupuncture is individualized to suit each person’s specific needs and addresses any contributing imbalances in the body.
Read on for more information on:
The Benefits of Fertility Acupuncture
Acupuncture Schedule for ART (IVF & IUI)
Conveniently Located Near Markham Fertility Centre
Complimenting Acupuncture with Other Naturopathic Therapies
Benefits of Fertility Acupuncture
- Regulate the menstrual cycle
- Balance hormones
- Enhance quality and quantity of eggs/follicles
- Improve quality of the endometrium (lining of the uterus)
- Increase blood flow to the ovaries and uterus
- Clear blockages/spasms in fallopian tubes
- Relieve side effects of fertility medications
- Reduce risk of miscarriage/ maintain healthy pregnancy
As acupuncture is a whole-body treatment, you may also experience the following:
- Reduce stress
- Improve sleep quality
- Better digestion
- Relieve muscular tension and joint pain
- Decrease inflammation
- Strengthen the immune system
- Relieve headaches
- And additional points may be added to address any additional health concerns
Acupuncture Schedule For ART (IVF & IUI)
| Before IVF/IUI cycle | 1-2 treatments per week, for 1-3 months |
| Day of Egg Retrieval (IVF) | 1 treatment, within 24 hours before procedure |
| Day of Embryo Transfer (IVF) or Insemination (IUI) |
1 treatment directly before procedure (same day) AND 1 treatment directly after procedure (same day) |
| After IVF/IUI | 1 treatment per week, until 12-16 weeks of pregnancy |
Acupuncture During Pregnancy
| During the 1st Trimester | To prevent miscarriage and ensure healthy development of the fetus. Also to relieve symptoms of pregnancy including: nausea, fatigue, heartburn, insomnia, stress, and low energy.
Frequency: every 1-2 weeks until week 12-16 |
| Towards End of 3rd Trimester | To prepare uterus and baby for a smooth delivery.
Frequency: once per week, starting at week 36 or 37 |
| For Turning a Breech Baby | Acupuncture with a combination of external herbal treatments called moxibustion can be effective at turning a breech baby.
Frequency: daily or every other day until baby turns |
| For Inducing Labour | The acupuncture protocol to induce labour is highly safe and effective, by encouraging your body to naturally start the labour process.
Frequency: daily until labour starts |
Conveniently Located Near Markham Fertility Centre
Acupuncture for ART has been shown to be most effective when performed as close as possible to the IVF/IUI procedure. Markham Village Naturopathic Clinic is conveniently located a short 5-min drive from the Markham Fertility Centre. We are able to accommodate any appointments required outside of regular business hours, including weekend and early morning procedures.
Complimenting Acupuncture with Other Naturopathic Therapies
Patients can choose to combine acupuncture with other Naturopathic therapies which can further increase the success rates of ART and natural pregnancy, as well as treat secondary causes of infertility such as thyroid dysfunction, PCOS, and nutritional deficiencies. The recommended therapies are determined based on your individual case and may include: herbal medicines, nutritional supplements, dietary recommendations, stress management, etc.
Acupuncture For Men
Acupuncture can improve sperm quality and quantity. Additional naturopathic treatments can enhance all sperm factors including count, motility, morphology and DNA fragmentation.
Recommended frequency is 1-2 treatments per week, for at least 3 months.
