Does Acupuncture work? Research says yes. In this post we look at the aspects of Acupuncture that clinical trials and reviews have said does work for, especially with a Fertility focus.
The World Health Organisiation does recognise Acupuncture as effective in treating many conditions, but rather than take a wide scope, we'll specifically take a look through a focused lens of Fertility Acupuncture. Probably the most asked question I get is Does Acupuncture work? I am a Registered Acupuncturist and have been since 2003, so I have my bias and say yes. BUT the 13 years of experience I've had in putting into practice these theories allows me to see for myself. So lets take a look at the scientific trials conducted on Acupuncture to find out of it works.
Does Acupuncture work? Yes. Here's How:
To begin, without this being a one-sided conversation and only focusing on the Female side, Fertility Health is a 50/50 partnership. There is always something that can be done to enhance and improve your fertility situation for men and women.
Until you have a clear diagnosis of what EXACTLY the problem is, you should both be aiming to improve your lifestyles and overall wellbeing.
1. Improves Male Infertility. YES - research shows that sperm count is improved when using Acupuncture AND Chinese Herbal Medicine. This includes Sperm motility and morphology. Just as we can work to improve egg quality, we can work to improve sperm quality.
Various studies report that courses of Acupuncture helped improve blood flow to the testes which helps with spermatogenesis (sperm production) and reduces arterial blockages and varicoceles in the testes. Improved Motility and structural integrity of sperm, Increases sperm enzymes that enhance quality.
2. Promotes ovulation - Research studies have been conducted on women with PCOS and have shown statistically sigificant improvements in ovulation. They have identified the mechanisms of acupuncture to help these women ovulate effectively after little or no ovulation, and in a regular manner, after there being irregularity previously.
Acupuncture optimises hormones and regulates the cycle
Promotes good blood flow to the ovaries, nourishment to the follicles and oocytes (egg cells) which are essential to effective ovulation. Interestingly, your ovulation for the coming month is determined in the first few days of your current period. Days 1-3 to be exact.
3. Directing blood flow to the uterus for good implantation or thin endometrium lining or light periods.
4. Directing blood flow to the ovaries, increasing ovarian function. We touched on this in point 1. Evidence shows increased blood flow after acupuncture is applied.
5. Promotes effective implantation, increases ongoing pregnancy rates, number of live births.
6. Manages endometriosis. For women experiencing endometriosis as a block to their fertility, Acupuncture has been effective in managing pain and regulating the cycle again and enhancing the endometrium to be more receptive for implantation.
7. Assists IVF. I have separate blog posts on Acupuncture and IVF here:
But the research says a resounding yes. Some IVF clinics have started employing Acupuncturists to administer Acupuncture before and after Embryo Transfer and maximise a successful outcome, in recognition of this evidence. Most Registered Acupuncturists are trained to perform Embryo Transfer Acupuncture, regardless of where they practice. Timing is everything, so speak to your local Registered Acupuncturist for more information or email me here at info@springfertility.com.au
Starting a course of Acupuncture as a couple is really smart on any fertility journey, as your reuslt can happen a lot sooner than you expect. If there is a diagnosis from your doctor about any blocks to your fertility, the scientific evidence suggests Acupuncture is a good prepatory support. Whether you're using IVF or not, consider Acupuncture as part of your Fertility Plan, as the research says YES, it works!
