Acupuncture and Fertility
Acupuncture can be used for a variety of medical reasons, including improving fertility. While the practice of acupuncture has existed for centuries, much is still being learned about its impacts on the body and how it can improve its function.
For individuals who suffer from fertility issues, acupuncture could be a practical option. It is essential for patients to understand that fertility issues can often be complicated and require other medical treatment, including in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Often, acupuncture is used as a supplemental treatment to other medical assistance.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a method used commonly in traditional Chinese Medicine. The technique involves an acupuncturist stimulating various parts of the body with a small needle to improve circulation, blood flow, and in the case of fertility, hormone production.
While acupuncture may be used to treat a variety of ailments, one of the most common reasons is for pain relief. However, recent studies indicate that fertility assistance is becoming another common reason that people are relying on the benefits of acupuncture.
Can Acupuncture Help You Get Pregnant?
Several studies have indicated that there is a correlation between acupuncture and an increased rate of pregnancy in individuals who have previously struggled with conception.
Studies suggest that individuals who complete acupuncture therapy do so to treat a variety of medical conditions that may make it harder to become pregnant or to simply reduce stress so that the body is better prepared to become pregnant.
It’s important to understand that there are a variety of ways that a person may experience acupuncture. For example, individuals may feel:
- Tired
- Energized
- Calm
- Peaceful
- Curb pregnancy symptoms
The concept behind acupuncture is that it allows the body to better heal itself by increasing blood flow to specific areas of the body. While needles may be placed in various areas of the body, most of the treatment is used to stimulate the pelvic region of the body where the sex organs are located.
Research of Acupuncture and Fertility
While people may assume that acupuncture for fertility is a new trend, there is actually considerable research completed to understand this process better.
In a 2002 study of 160 women, a group of scientist discovered that utilizing acupuncture for fertility issues, greatly enhanced a woman’s ability to become pregnant. The group was split in half, and 80 women received two acupuncture treatments in conjunction with IVF treatment, and the other group received only regular IVF. The outcome was 34 pregnancies in the acupuncture group and 21 pregnancies in the IVF group.
While acupuncture is often used in conjunction with IVF, it is not used as a substitute for it. By general rule, acupuncture works to stimulate the release of a single egg while IVF works to produce several eggs.
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Questions to Ask Acupuncturist
Of course, it’s essential that individuals are thoroughly educated on the concept of acupuncture and how it impacts fertility. Here are some questions you should ask your acupuncturist prior to treatment:
- Do you think I am a good candidate for this treatment?
- How long does it take for acupuncture for fertility to work?
- What are your qualifications as an acupuncturist?
- What has your success rate been with your fertility patients?
- What concerns do you have about my treatment plan?
- What should I expect with each treatment?
It’s important to create a clear and honest communication with your acupuncturist so you can understand their qualifications and become comfortable with the entire process.
Cost of Acupuncture for Fertility
The overall cost of acupuncture for fertility can vary state-by-state. However, the average price of $100-$300 for the first visit and $75-$150 for each following stay.
Each patient will receive the number of sessions that coincide with their particular needs. Most people will have at least two sessions per week for several months.
Potential Side Effects
One of the most attractive features of acupuncture is that there are virtually no side effects. However, some people have indicated that they experienced slight bruising in the treatment area.
Overview
Acupuncture for fertility is a fantastic resource for individuals who are struggling to become pregnant. There are many factors that may influence fertility including age, health, and heredity.
While acupuncture may not work for some causes of fertility issues, it can certainly be a benefit for some patients.
To learn if you are a good candidate for acupuncture, you should discuss your options with your doctor. In most instances, a doctor referral is necessary to move forward with the acupuncture treatment plant.
