Is Acupuncture For Fertility Available?

Yes! Acupuncture is available for fertility patients at Melbourne Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture Clinic. We have now been helping fertility patients for close to 20 years.

Fertility challenges affect many individuals and couples worldwide, leading them to explore various treatments to improve their chances of conception. While conventional medical approaches such as hormone therapy, in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), and lifestyle changes are commonly used, acupuncture has gained popularity as a natural and complementary therapy to enhance fertility. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture aims to restore balance in the body, regulate reproductive hormones, and improve overall reproductive health.

How Acupuncture Supports Fertility

Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote energy flow, known as qi (chi), through meridians (energy pathways). According to TCM, fertility issues often stem from blockages or imbalances in qi and blood circulation, which can affect the reproductive organs. By stimulating acupuncture points, practitioners aim to improve overall reproductive function and increase the likelihood of conception.

From a scientific perspective, acupuncture helps fertility in several key ways:

1. Regulating Hormones – Acupuncture influences the endocrine system, helping balance hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are essential for ovulation and implantation.

2. Improving Blood Flow to the Uterus – Acupuncture enhances circulation to the uterus and ovaries, thickening the uterine lining and improving its receptivity for embryo implantation.

3. Reducing Stress and Anxiety – High levels of stress can disrupt fertility hormones and ovulation. Acupuncture promotes relaxation by stimulating the release of endorphins and reducing cortisol levels.

4. Supporting Ovarian Function – Acupuncture may help improve egg quality and ovarian response, particularly in women undergoing assisted reproductive treatments like IVF.

5. Enhancing Sperm Quality in Men – Acupuncture is not just for female fertility. Studies suggest that acupuncture may improve sperm count, motility, and morphology, increasing the chances of successful fertilisation.

   
   

Acupuncture Points for Fertility

Acupuncturists select points based on the individual’s specific fertility challenges. Some commonly used acupuncture points for fertility include:

• SP6 (Sanyinjiao): Located above the inner ankle, this point is known for balancing the reproductive system and improving menstrual health.

• CV4 (Guanyuan): Found below the navel, this point strengthens the uterus and improves fertility in both men and women.

• ST36 (Zusanli): Located on the lower leg, it enhances overall energy, digestion, and circulation.

• KD3 (Taixi): A kidney meridian point that supports hormone regulation and reproductive health.

• LI4 (Hegu): Found on the hand, this point is used to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce stress.

  
  

Acupuncture and Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

Many individuals undergoing IVF or intrauterine insemination (IUI) turn to acupuncture as a complementary treatment. Research suggests that acupuncture before and after embryo transfer may increase the chances of successful implantation. Acupuncture is also used to reduce medication side effects and optimize egg retrieval outcomes in IVF patients.

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Fertility acupuncture is not an instant solution but works best over time. Most practitioners recommend weekly sessions for 3-6 months before conception attempts, as it takes time to regulate hormones and improve reproductive function.

Acupuncture offers a natural, low-risk, and holistic approach to improving fertility by balancing hormones, reducing stress, and enhancing reproductive health. Whether used alone or alongside medical treatments like IVF, acupuncture can be a valuable tool in supporting conception and achieving a healthy pregnancy. Always consult with a registered acupuncturist to create a personalised treatment plan.