Enhancing IVF Success: Acupuncture during IVF
In this post, we'll explore how acupuncture can be strategically arranged throughout the IVF cycle, including before starting fertility drugs, around egg collection, on the day of embryo transfer, and during the waiting period for the pregnancy blood test, supported by scientific evidence and expert insights.
Before Starting Fertility Drugs:
Prior to injecting fertility drugs, acupuncture can help prepare the body for the IVF process. Most of what I call the groundwork leading into an INF cycle focuses on the following:
- Building up the body's resources. Regulating Hormones; Acupuncture treatments aim to regulate hormone levels, particularly follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which play crucial roles in ovarian function and follicle development.
- Nourishment. Enhancing Blood Flow to the Uterus and Ovaries. Acupuncture promotes blood circulation to the uterus and ovaries, facilitating the delivery of oxygen and nutrients essential for follicle growth and maturation.
- Calming the Brain and Nervous system. In TCM we call this calm the Shen (Spirit) but its more than just a feeling. Its about Relaxation for the Nervous system - the more clam your system is the more receptive to conception.
Around Egg Collection:
During the egg retrieval phase of the IVF cycle, acupuncture can help reduce stress and discomfort associated with the procedure while optimising follicle quality and egg retrieval outcomes.
- Reducing Anxiety and Discomfort: Acupuncture sessions after egg collection can help alleviate anxiety, promote relaxation, ease pain and discomfort experienced during the procedure.
- Supporting Follicle Maturation: Acupuncture may enhance follicle maturation and improve the quality of eggs retrieved by way of blood flow to the ovaries.
On the Day of Embryo Transfer:
Acupuncture on the day of embryo transfer is believed to create an optimal uterine environment conducive to implantation and support the early stages of embryonic development.
- Leading up to Transfer: Acupuncture helps promote blood flow and circulation.
- Facilitating Uterine Relaxation: Acupuncture treatments before and after embryo transfer can promote uterine relaxation, reducing uterine contractions and promoting a favourable environment for embryo implantation.
While Waiting for the Pregnancy Blood Test:
The "Watchful waiting" period between embryo transfer and the pregnancy blood test can be emotionally difficult for patients with a whole range of emotions from nerves and anxiety to stress and low mood. Acupuncture during this time can help ease the tension and rumination of thoughts and feelings, helping you feel productive during these 10 days.
- Managing Stress and Anxiety: Acupuncture promotes emotional balance and resilience during this critical time.
- Promoting Gentle Balance: By supporting the early stages of pregnancy, caution and gentle techniques by a qualified and professional acupuncturist may help you feel you've done as much as possible in your power, to support yourself.
Scientific Evidence:
- A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the journal Acupuncture in Medicine concluded that acupuncture administered around the time of embryo transfer significantly increased the clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate in women undergoing IVF.
- Another study published in 'Fertility and Sterility' found that acupuncture performed before and after embryo transfer improved pregnancy rates compared to acupuncture administered at other times during the IVF cycle.
Acupuncture offers a gentle and supportive adjunct therapy throughout the IVF cycle, from preparation to embryo transfer and beyond. By strategically arranging acupuncture sessions at key points in the IVF process, patients can help themselves feel more at ease and relaxed during the process. Supported by scientific research and clinical evidence, acupuncture continues to play a valuable role in supporting IVF outcomes and guiding couples on their journey to parenthood.
Team work, that makes the dream work.
Collaborative care and personalised treatment plans are essential for optimising outcomes and supporting the IVF journey for both medical and Acupuncture treatments. There is no one size fits all in TCM and Acupuncture.
Further reading on Acupuncture during IVF:
