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What is Fertility Acupuncture?

Karyn Maier
Karyn Maier
Karyn Maier
Karyn Maier

Acupuncture is an ancient form of healing that subscribes to a holistic approach to wellness. Its application is focused on improving or restoring the life force energy that governs the body and mind, also known as Qi (“chi”). By targeting and manipulating meridian points in the body that channel this force, the practitioner can influence the performance and functioning of various organs or body systems. Fertility acupuncture targets those points that are in sync with areas that may inhibit fertility, such as the thyroid. In fact, in many cases, the primary objective of fertility acupuncture is to correct any imbalances that may promote hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, either of which can affect fertility.

Fertility acupuncture is not a cure-all for every infertility problem, though, and its success can’t be guaranteed. For instance, fertility acupuncture can do little about certain issues related to endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease, such as scarring and adhesions of the fallopian tubes or the ovaries. However, is there is sufficient evidence to indicate that fertility acupuncture can help to improve blood flow to the uterine lining, as well as enhance functioning of the fallopian tubes and the ovaries.

A diagram of the female reproductive system.
A diagram of the female reproductive system.

Since acupuncture in general is considered to be a complementary therapy, fertility acupuncture is most often used in combination with conventional infertility treatments, in addition to botanical and nutritional therapy. The most successful candidates for this therapy include women with thyroid disorders, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), luteal phase defect (LPD), and those who have experienced unexplained miscarriage. However, treatment with fertility acupuncture is not limited to women. In fact, men with erectile dysfunction or who exhibit a low sperm count also appear to benefit from this therapy.

Some women seek out fertility acupuncture.
Some women seek out fertility acupuncture.

Treatment typically begins three to four months prior to attempting conception, whether naturally or via artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization. However, treatments may continue even after pregnancy has been achieved. In fact, this is often the case for women who have experienced one or more miscarriages during the first trimester. So, in order to help prevent the possibility of miscarrying again, the acupuncturist may recommend continuing treatments up to 12 weeks after conception.

Women who have difficulty getting pregnant might consider acupuncture.
Women who have difficulty getting pregnant might consider acupuncture.

It is highly recommended that couples or individuals interested in exploring fertility acupuncture do so by consulting an acupuncturist that is specifically trained and experienced in fertility disorders. In addition, the practitioner should be licensed and board certified. It is also a good idea to get a general clearance from one’s regular health care practitioner before undergoing any fertility treatment.

Karyn Maier
Karyn Maier

Contributing articles to WiseGEEK is just one of Karyn’s many professional endeavors. She is also a magazine writer and columnist, mainly for health-related publications, as well as the author of four books. Karyn lives in New York’s Catskill Mountain region and specializes in topics about green living and botanical medicine.

Learn more...
Karyn Maier
Karyn Maier

Contributing articles to WiseGEEK is just one of Karyn’s many professional endeavors. She is also a magazine writer and columnist, mainly for health-related publications, as well as the author of four books. Karyn lives in New York’s Catskill Mountain region and specializes in topics about green living and botanical medicine.

Learn more...

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    • A diagram of the female reproductive system.
      By: chart
      A diagram of the female reproductive system.
    • Some women seek out fertility acupuncture.
      By: Cora Reed
      Some women seek out fertility acupuncture.
    • Women who have difficulty getting pregnant might consider acupuncture.
      By: JadePhotography
      Women who have difficulty getting pregnant might consider acupuncture.
    • Gender-based acupuncture services can help men and women who are having trouble with conceiving a baby.
      By: Alfred Wekelo
      Gender-based acupuncture services can help men and women who are having trouble with conceiving a baby.