Acupuncture IVF
One in six couples experience infertility, and over the last 25 years, assisted reproductive technology (ART) services have been more commonly used. One of the most common ART’s is in vitro fertilization (IVF). This consists of harvesting the woman’s eggs and fertilizing them outside of the body. The embryo that results from the fertilisation is introduced into the mother’s uterus to develop as a normal pregnancy. IVF may be advised in cases of fallopian tube blockages, low male sperm count, cervical mucous problems, immunological factors, infertility after tubal surgery, endometriosis, and unexplained infertility. A study published in the British Medical Journal in February 2008 revealed that when combined with IVF, 'acupuncture increased the odds of clinical pregnancy by 65%".
Acupuncture can help prepare both partners before IVF in order to improve the function of the ovaries, strengthen and regulate the immune system, reduce stress, and improve the quality of the seminal fluid. This is accomplished in the female partner by treating any menstrual irregularities, such as amenorrhea, PMS, endometriosis, dysmenorrhoea usually 3-4 months before IVF treatment commences.
Once the woman's menstrual cycle and period are normal according to the guidelines of acupuncture theory, acupuncture can then be used during the IVF procedure itself. This typically begins during the month prior to IVF, when the woman has been prescribed oral contraceptives in order to give the ovaries a rest. Step by step acupuncture protocols are then used at every phase of the IVF procedure.
From the acupuncturist’s perspective, the main meridians involved in maintaining healthy female reproductive organs include the Kidney, Spleen, Liver and Heart. The Kidney provides life essence and therefore controls the functioning of the ovaries, the Spleen meridian provides rich blood and nourishment to the reproductive organs, liver provides a harmonious free flow of blood to the organs especially the fallopian tubes and the heart meridian provides nourishment and calmness within the uterus.The acupuncturists objective is therefore to ensure that these main meridians (and any others) are adequately nourished and functioning correctly through appropriate acupuncture, diet and lifestyle advice.