A number of new research studies conclude that acupuncture improves IVF success (in vitro fertilization).
In one study, a randomized-controlled study of 43 women undergoing IVF measured changes in anxiety levels. A total of four acupuncture treatments over a period of four weeks at a rate of once per week were administered.
The acupuncture group received acupuncture at acupuncture points Yintang, HT7 (Shenmen), PC6 (Neiguan), CV17 (Shanzhong) and DU20 (Baihui). The control group received needle stimulation at non-acupuncture points near the areas of the true acupuncture points (sham acupuncture). The true acupuncture group showed a significant reduction in anxiety while the sham acupuncture group did not. The researchers concluded that acupuncture reduces anxiety and psychological strain for women undergoing IVF.
Acupuncture for IVF
This research focuses on the integration of acupuncture with modern medical practices and represents a trend in modern investigations. In another related recent study, research demonstrates higher ovulation and pregnancy rates for women receiving acupuncture combined with clomiphene (Clomid) compared with women receiving only clomiphene. An additional four recent studies focused on the ability of acupuncture to improve fertility treatment outcomes.
An investigation of 5,807 women concludes that acupuncture improves clinical pregnancy rates and live birth rates for women receiving IVF. A study published in the American Journal of Reproductive Immunology shows that use of acupoints ST36 and SP6 prevents egg implantation failure. In a study of 309 women, electroacupuncture “significantly improved the clinical outcome of ET (embryo transfer).” Looking at basic science, researchers concluded that, “Acupuncture could improve the poor receptive state of (the) endometrium due to mifepristone by promoting Th2 cytokines secretion and inhibiting Th1 cytokines to improve blastocyst implantation.”
Acupuncture Points To Reduce Anxiety With IVF
The acupuncture points chosen for the IVF Anxiety study have been used for anxiety reduction for thousands of years. Yintang is renown for its stress relieving effects. HT7 (Spirit Gate) is a Shu-Stream, Yuan-Source and Earth point of the Heart channel. It is classically indicated for calming the spirit and regulating the Heart. PC6 regulates the Heart, calms the spirit, reduces anxiety, harmonizes the Stomach and regulates the chest Qi. It also regulates the Stomach Qi and is often used to relieve nausea and vomiting.
CV17 is the Front-Mu point of the Pericardium. It regulates the Qi, opens and benefits the chest, promotes lactation and is used to benefit both breathing and relaxation. DU20 is a Sea of Marrow point. It calms the spirit, benefits the head and brain, and subdues wind disorders such as headaches, dizziness and hypertension.
Standards For Acupuncture Treatment
Together, these points have a synergistic ability to induce relaxation with effects that are often immediate and lasting. Variations of this point combination are common for the treatment of hypertension, insomnia, panic attacks, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) and depression. As a result, use of this point selection in this study represents a common standard for the treatment of anxiety as recommended by many Chinese medicine textbooks and classical literature.
Acupuncture Improves IVF Success
If you are undergoing IVF, come in for acupuncture to increase your success rate. Treatments are safe, relaxing and effective for fertility.
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To learn about all the women’s health issues we treat with acupuncture click WOMEN’S HEALTH ISSUES WE TREAT.
For a list of all the conditions we treat click ALL CONDITIONS WE TREAT WITH ACUPUNCTURE.
Acupuncture improves IVF success. You can also read about our fertility program.
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What our Clients are Saying
I was scheduled for IVF and they suggested I get acupuncture beforehand to increase my chances of success. I went to Raleigh Acupuncture for a month before the procedure. It was very relaxing and definitely reduced my stress levels. My uterine lining also increased more than ever before. The IVF was a success and I’m now pregnant. It was definitely worth doing the acupuncture. I did not want to have to repeat IVF for $25K a pop. And when I got morning sickness, they cured that too!
I sought Raleigh Acupuncture’s help in 2010 following a miscarriage. Happily, in 2011, I had a very healthy little boy. My son is 11 months old. I tell everyone how much you got me back on track after my miscarriage – it was truly amazing. I had a great pregnancy too.
My husband and I had been trying to get pregnant for the past two years. I had undergone three rounds of Clomid with no success and the doctor was talking about IVF. We didn’t have the money for that, so we tried acupuncture. They took a lot of time to explain what they were doing with the acupuncture and Chinese herbs. I learned so much about my cycle and the reasons I was having trouble getting pregnant. They said it would take 3 to 6 months to get pregnant, and sure enough, after 3 months I was pregnant! It seems like a miracle to me. I’m so grateful to Raleigh Acupuncture. Thank you!!!
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