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Acupuncture is a form of complementary and alternative medicine. This healing technique is currently used all over the world to manage a variety of conditions. People who are experiencing infertility may benefit from acupuncture, especially when paired with traditional medicine.
An acupuncturist uses very small, thin needles to promote blood flow in specific areas of the body. Acupuncture, when used as a treatment for infertility, is said to help by:
- Increasing the blood flow to the reproductive organs
- Reducing anxiety and relieving stress
- Regulate hormonal imbalances
What are the Findings of the Research?
Researchers looked at data from a variety of randomized controlled trials in a systematic review. Acupuncture improves menstruation and ovulation in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome when treated alone, according to the researchers. When acupuncture was utilized in addition to medications, researchers also discovered that hormone levels improved slightly.
A modest research indicated that acupuncture helped women who were undergoing assisted reproductive technology treatments get pregnant.
The efficacy of acupuncture for the treatment of male infertility was investigated in a short study of two men with varicocele, a frequent kind of male factor infertility. When combined with herbal medication and other forms of traditional Korean medicine, the study found that acupuncture can help reduce scrotal temperature. However, this was a very small study to fully comprehend the association between acupuncture and male fertility, more research is needed.
How Acupuncture Works and Treat Infertility?
Acupuncture has been demonstrated to help in the reduction of depression, which can be an issue for infertile women. It can also help with stress and anxiety, which can cause fertility issues. Furthermore, high levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) have been linked to a higher chance of miscarriage in pregnant women.
Infertility and infertility treatment plans can be distressing. Chronic stress can have a negative impact on a pregnancy’s outcome. Acupuncture may aid in stress reduction, which may improve pregnancy outcomes.
When Should Acupuncture Treatment for Infertility Begin?
Acupuncture is a process-oriented approach of medical intervention, similar to physical therapy. It is preferable to do more rather than less. Before proceeding to insemination, in vitro fertilization (IVF), or donor-egg transfer, patients are usually treated for three to four months. This therapy pace appears to have a therapeutic impact.
The Berkley Center for Reproductive Wellness’ clinical observations reveal that the most effective reproductive therapies combine acupuncture, herbal therapy, and traditional medicine. When acupuncture and herbal remedies are utilized instead of traditional medical procedures, however, conception can occur.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Acupuncture is safe provided practitioners utilize hygienic, suitable equipment, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
Acupuncture needles are classified as medical devices by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The needles must be sterile, nontoxic, and labeled for single use, according to these requirements.
If you’re thinking about getting acupuncture, search for someone who has received adequate training and holds a license. State-by-state licensing regulations may differ.
What to Expect During First Acupuncture Treatment?
An in-depth consultation should be part of your initial visit. Although certain questions may not appear to be connected to infertility, they are necessary for the practitioner to decide the best treatment for you. Your acupuncturist will inquire about your lifestyle (food, stress levels, exercise, and sleep habits) as well as your fertility concern.
Following the consultation, the acupuncturist will use a number of points to improve fertility or blood flow to specific organs. Your acupuncturist may also do an examination, which may include touching your pulse and inspecting your tongue.
While you relax in a room, the acupuncture needles are left in for about 30 minutes to an hour. Follow-up appointments are usually shorter and do not include a consultation.
What is the Best Way to Find an Acupuncturist? What Should I Look for?
An acupuncturist should be certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) or the American Board of Medical Acupuncture in the United States (ABMA). Acupuncturists should also be licensed to practice in their state if it is required by the state.
If you are interested in acupuncture treatment for infertility and you are in the area of San Juan Capistrano or in the nearby cities such as Dana Point or San Clemente, you may visit the Acupuncture Halls clinic. We have a reliable licensed acupuncturist that can help you address your fertility issue. You may book an appointment here or call 949-510-6333.