Can acupuncture help with IVF?

Unlocking Hope: Understanding In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) has transformed reproductive medicine, providing hope to couples struggling to conceive naturally. Since its late 20th-century inception, IVF has advanced significantly, becoming a widely accepted fertility treatment.

Understanding IVF:

IVF involves fertilizing an egg with sperm outside the body. The process starts with ovarian stimulation using fertility medications, followed by egg retrieval. Fertilized eggs develop into embryos, with the healthiest transferred to the uterus, hoping for successful implantation and pregnancy.

Success Rates:

IVF success rates have improved with technological advancements, though they vary based on factors like age and infertility cause. Younger women generally have higher success rates, but techniques like preimplantation genetic testing enhance outcomes for older couples.

Acupuncture and IVF:

Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese medicine practice, has gained popularity as a complementary treatment to IVF. Research suggests it may improve success rates by enhancing blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, regulating hormones, and reducing stress. Acupuncture can also help with ovarian function and menstrual cycle regulation, benefiting women with irregular cycles or diminished ovarian function.

Studies show acupuncture improves embryo quality, increases hormone levels, and enhances endometrial blood flow, contributing to successful embryo transfer. It also reduces anxiety and stress, improving IVF outcomes. A review found higher clinical pregnancy rates in IVF patients receiving acupuncture.

Starting acupuncture at least three months before IVF is recommended, but benefits are seen even when started during treatment.

Overall, acupuncture is a promising complementary therapy for IVF, enhancing pregnancy chances by improving physiological and psychological factors.

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