When to Visit a Fertility Acupuncturist

The Center for Disease Control estimates that around 10% of women in the U.S. who are of childbearing age (15 – 44 years old) have trouble getting pregnant or carrying a pregnancy to term.

Pregnancy-supportive acupuncture offers a ray of hope for those facing fertility challenges. Many women turn to Walnut Creek acupuncture for fertility acupuncture and other treatment modalities, such as IVF and/or IUI, to increase their chances of getting pregnant.

Benefits of Acupuncture for Fertility

Studies have shown that acupuncture can promote a healthy pregnancy. It improves blood flow to the uterine arteries, helping create the ideal environment for conception.

Acupuncture also improves hormonal balance, reduces stress, increases estrogen, and normalizes follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) amounts which regulate ovarian function.

When to Start Seeing an Acupuncturist?

If you are trying to conceive, consider seeing a certified acupuncturist three period cycles before planned conception to prepare the body for carrying new life.

Follicles need at least a year to fully develop. When blood vessels start growing in follicles, they need nutrient-rich blood, containing hormones for healthy development. Therefore, having treatment during this period is a wonderful way to ensure that the follicles and ovaries receive essential nutrients. During this period, acupuncture can also play a vital role in balancing hormones.

Women who have diminished ovarian reserve, and those with a health condition would typically need more treatments – usually between three and six period cycles.

Women who are planning to use IVF should begin seeing an acupuncturist 8 – 12 weeks before their first IVF cycle. Women who have experienced unsuccessful IVF cycles in the past would want to remain in treatment for a longer period – approximately 3 – 6 months.

How Does Acupuncture Prepare the Ovaries During IVF and IUI Cycles?

Acupuncture Treatments can improve IVF and IUI success rates by increasing blood flow to the ovaries and uterus. They reduce uterine spasms and help to relax the uterus so that it is more receptive to the treatment.

Acupuncture can help the body relax by stimulating the pituitary gland to secrete “feel good hormones” while lowering stress hormone levels in the body overall. It can also help relieve some common symptoms such as insomnia, hot flashes, and anxiety of medications.

How Often Should You See Your Acupuncturist During the Egg Stimulation Phase?

We recommend that you see your acupuncturist twice a week during the egg stimulation phase. The goal of acupuncture during this phase is to ensure that the patient is receptive to egg stimulation medication.

During the two-week waiting period – the period between ovulation and embryo implantation – see your acupuncturist between the 6th and 10th day.

Many women feel emotionally and mentally drained during the two-week wait period. The goal of acupuncture during this phase is to reduce stress and anxiety.

Monarch Acupuncture & Wellness is a leading acupuncture clinic in Walnut Creek. We use a range of acupuncture methods to care for the mother and baby during the different stages of pregnancy. To make an appointment, call (925) 268-8830.