Infertility & IVF
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Infertility

Acupuncture has become widely recognized as an effective treatment for infertility, on its own or in conjunction with orthodox reproductive medicine (assisted reproduction). In one study acupuncture was shown to be as effective as fertility drugs (Fertility and Sterility 2002;78:1149-1153; see also Acupuncture Today) at assisting pregancy induction. Acupuncture has been shown to increase uterine and ovarian blood flow and to positively affect hormonal disturbances such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and anovulation (see Acupuncture in Medicine 2006:24(4):157-163).

Acupuncture theory is based on the idea that our bodies can become imbalanced as a result of our physiology, environment, or emotions. These imbalances eventually lead to diseases such as infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis or other anovulatory conditions, not to mention conditions such as premenstrual syndrome and painful periods. By arriving at a diagnosis the acupuncturist can set about repairing the underlying imbalances that are causing the problem and therefore restore the individual back to health and fertility.

Treatment:
I usually recommend an initial series of between 4 and 6 weekly treatments in order to begin the process of rebalancing the body. After this it would be typical to have two treatments per monthly cycle, one at approximately 10 days and one at 21 days until preganancy is achieved.

Assisted IVF

Recent studies have shown that using acupuncture in conjunction with IVF increases pregnancy rates by up to 43% compared to the more typical 26% (Fertility & Sterility2002:  vol 77(4), 721-4) . Acupuncture has been shown to increase blood flow to the womb, relax the muscles of the womb to prevent cramping and consequent expulsion of the embryo, and also to reduce the general anxiety associated with the IVF procedure.

Treatment:
Acupuncture treatment involves insertion of a number of needles in the body and ears before and after embryo transfer.

And After you become pregant!

Acupuncture is a safe, effective and drug free way of treating illness during pregancy. For example it can help with preganancy induced morning sickness and back pain. Acupuncture can also turn breech babies with an 80% success rate.
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Copyright M.J.Ackland