Assisted conception
Making the decision to start In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) or other Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) such as IUI or natural/modified IVF, can be daunting. Acupuncture treatments and advise on optimal nutrition are designed to support you both emotionally and physically during this process. My treatments are tailored to respond to each stage of your IVF cycle.
Research has shown that acupuncture can increase your chances of success, click on the links below:
Acupuncture given with Embryo Transfer improves pregnancy and live birth rates
Acupuncture improves pregnancy rate after ART
Starting acupuncture treatment for one to three months prior to beginning IVF allows optimal preparation time for the body and mind. It also gives an opportunity to adjust diet and lifestyle to support optimal egg or sperm quality. However the most important thing is to stay relaxed, so if you haven’t got this amount of time then that is also fine- we work with what is available.
How does it work?
Acupuncture is increasingly requested as an adjunct to IVF. Research (click on link )has demonstrated improved pregnancy and live birth rates. However there is more to it than that.
My experience has demonstrated time and again, how valuable it is to have continuity of care throughout a process which can be stressful and isolating. It is common to see a different consultant/ nurse at each visit to the fertility centre, and with little time to discuss concerns. My clinic room is an impartial holding space for these residual questions and concerns and my patients often express how good it is to come for treatments and see a familiar caring face!
Mechanisms by which acupuncture can help during IVF:
Minimise the side effects of the drugs
Increase the pelvic blood flow
Balance the immune and nervous system
Calm the mind
If you are considering IVF, consider acupuncture alongside. It really is a brilliant support to the process and I’ve been witness to a lot of babies coming into the world this way. My patients always thanks me for helping them to conceive, and while I really can’t take the credit, I do find it deeply rewarding to be able to help women and couples going through IVF.