Weekly acupuncture treatment is recommended leading up to, along with one timed specifically within a day or two of the insemination. Depending on your protocol and whether medication is a component, we may discuss whether Chinese herbs are right for you during the process.

A more frequent regiment of acupuncture is encouraged in order to facilitate the stimulation of the ovaries and support follicle growth. Sessions are scheduled twice weekly during the injections phase, with one timed for the day before egg retrieval. After retrieval, many women opt to continue care to help with recovering and reseting from the impacts of the cycle, and preparing for any next steps.

For embryo transfer, pre and post transfer treatments are then timed within 24 hours on either side of the transfer itself. For those doing a frozen embryo transfer on different month from retrieval, or using donor eggs, weekly acupuncture is also encouraged leading up to transfer day to prepare the uterine lining for implantation.

By customizing treatments to your specific needs, acupuncture can balance hormones, enhance blood flow to reproductive organs, and alleviate stress, ultimately improving the success rates of fertility procedures. Research and clinical experience consistently demonstrate enhanced outcomes in egg retrieval, fertilization, and healthy pregnancies with acupuncture. Collaborative efforts between acupuncture and Western fertility specialists create a holistic approach that maximizes success while prioritizing overall wellness throughout the fertility journey.

When incorporated as part of a comprehensive approach to fertility care, acupuncture can be a safe and effective complement to conventional treatments. Numerous studies have shown that acupuncture is well-tolerated and does not pose significant risks when performed by qualified and experienced practitioners, so it's essential to ensure that your acupuncturist has specific expertise in fertility support and understands the unique needs of individuals undergoing reproductive treatments.

The ideal timing for acupuncture sessions in preparation for assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles is to begin weekly treatment in the 2-3 months before the planned cycle, and continued through the process. Starting early allows for addressing hormonal imbalances, improving response to medication, and enhancing overall well-being, which can significantly impact treatment outcomes. However, beginning acupuncture support at any time is very beneficial, and individualized plans can be tailored to suit specific needs and circumstances.

My protocol for acupuncture sessions leading up to embryo transfer or egg retrieval typically involves scheduling specific intervals before and after these procedures to optimize outcomes. Beginning several weeks before ovarian stimulation, acupuncture works to prepare the body by addressing underlying imbalances, optimizing hormonal balance, and enhancing egg quality. Sessions continue throughout the stimulation phase to support follicle development and reduce stress. Prior to embryo transfer, acupuncture aids in relaxing the uterus and improving uterine receptivity, while post-transfer sessions support implantation and early pregnancy. Additional follow-up sessions offer ongoing support during the early stages of pregnancy. This comprehensive approach addresses both physical and emotional aspects of the fertility journey, ultimately maximizing the chances of success. 

Scientific evidence increasingly supports the effectiveness of acupuncture for improving fertility outcomes, particularly for individuals undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like IVF and IUI. Research indicates that acupuncture may enhance fertility by improving blood flow to reproductive organs, regulating hormone levels, reducing stress, and optimizing the quality of eggs and sperm. Numerous studies, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, have demonstrated that acupuncture may increase pregnancy rates and live birth rates for couples undergoing fertility treatments. This growing body of evidence underscores acupuncture’s potential as a valuable adjunct therapy for individuals seeking to enhance their fertility and improve their chances of conception.

Dietary and lifestyle  recommendations aim to create a supportive strategy in conjunction with acupuncture and fertility treatments, optimizing the body's natural ability to conceive and sustain a healthy pregnancy, addressing underlying imbalances, and promoting overall well-being during the fertility journey.  With Eastern nutrition principles, my focus lies on nourishment through food rather than just restriction. This personalized approach not only enhances the effectiveness of acupuncture but also empowers individuals to cultivate a positive relationship with food and their bodies, fostering optimal reproductive health and well-being.