Fertility/Preconception Care
I have completed post-graduate training with Zita West, specialist in reproductive health.
Acupuncture has been known to have a positive effect on improving the chances of conception. It can be used to enhance the function of the whole body and improve overall health in order to affect reproductive health. It can be used to prepare patients for their assisted fertility treatment (IUI or IVF) or to enhance their natural fertility. Blood tests and further investigations are necessary in some cases. A healthy pregnancy and giving birth is the goal not just the conception.
Adjustments to diet and lifestyle may be advised to promote overall wellbeing. This will also include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, reducing stress and avoiding exposure to various toxins such as alcohol, caffeine and heavy metals. Referral to a qualified nutritionist/herbalist practitioner is recommended where appropriate.
Acupuncture can help with the following:
- Increase blood flow to the reproductive organs
- Reduces stress
- Balance hormone levels
- Reduce the chance of miscarriage
- Help improve the lining of the uterus and quality of eggs released
- Improve conditions like polycystic ovaries and endometriosis
- Increases chances of successful IVF
How Long Does It Take?
There is no ‘quick fix’. All patients are unique and realistic timeframes are discussed with each individual. I usually recommend an initial period of at least 3-4 months for those having difficulties. Treatment is on a regular basis initially and spaced out thereafter. This enables me to observe the menstrual cycle and treat accordingly. It can often take between 6 and 9 months.
Benefits to male fertility have been helped by acupuncture with positive effects on
- Sperm count
- Morphology
- Motility
What patients say
I had acupuncture alongside assisted conception treatment. It really helped me relax through this stressful process and reduce the side effects of the medication involved. I now have a beautiful baby boy.
Jodie P.
I had been diagnosed with pcos and had an irregular menstrual cycle. After I had been trying to conceive for one and a half years without success I decided to try acupuncture. After a couple of treatments I felt more relaxed and my cycle regulated after a course of treatment. I managed to fall pregnant soon after.Emma L.
For more advice and support, please visit the Infertility Network UK website.
