
Infertility and Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the oldest modern medical methods. Still preferred as a primary treatment method in the Far East, acupuncture is nowadays also chosen as a supportive foundation that increases the chances of success in infertility issues.
In acupuncture treatment, the body's balance is restored to heal functional disorders or diseases. For this purpose, needles are inserted into special acupuncture points to regulate blood circulation. It is a treatment method accepted by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Acupuncture in Infertility Treatment
Infertility treatment especially causes stress for the prospective mother. Stress acts as a blocking factor. Additionally, stress hormones are located very close to the area where reproductive hormones are secreted. Controlling stress is one of the most important factors in infertility.
Acupuncture applied during this process helps reduce the mother-to-be's anxieties and fears, thereby supporting an increase in the chances of treatment success.
Acupuncture has a regulatory effect on the limbic system. This helps the mother-to-be cope with stress and maintain her mental and physical balance. At the same time, acupuncture increases blood flow to the uterus, which reduces uterine contractions and increases the success rate of embryo implantation.
Moreover, acupuncture balances not only the anxieties and fears of the mother-to-be but also hormonal imbalances (such as cystic developments, infections, etc.). Beyond all its benefits, acupuncture helps eliminate menstrual irregularities and menopausal complaints, supporting the uterus to enter a more efficient healing process.
When Should Acupuncture Be Applied for Infertility?
Acupuncture treatment can be applied to couples undergoing infertility treatment, especially those undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). It is a procedure started at the most critical stage of IVF treatment, which is the embryo transfer phase that directly affects treatment success rates.
It is applied for a total of 50 minutes: 25 minutes before embryo transfer and 25 minutes after the transfer. The biggest advantage of this procedure is that it is a painless treatment. It also helps the patient to relax before the procedure. Patients who wish may receive acupuncture throughout the entire treatment period.
What Are the Effects of Acupuncture in Infertility Treatment?
- Increases blood circulation within the uterus, thereby improving the endometrium (the uterine lining).
- Regulates reproductive hormones such as GnRH, FSH, and LH. Also supports natural egg development.
- Enhances the quality of egg cells through balanced stimulation of the ovaries.
- Supports treatment by reducing stress, anxiety, and worry during the process.
- Reduces uterine contractions and increases the chance of embryo implantation.
- Balances the immune system.
- Reduces the side effects of hormonal treatment.