Discover the link between acupuncture and fertility

At our Los Angeles fertility center, we’ve seen more hopeful parents exploring the connection between acupuncture and fertility. Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been practiced for more than 3,500 years. It focuses on clearing any blockages in the body that could prevent an individual’s energy, or qi, from flowing freely. It is said that when this energy is able to move through the body without disruption, balance and health are often restored.

Understanding the connection between acupuncture and fertility

Fertility specialists at our Los Angeles fertility center have found many ways that acupuncture can enhance the results of fertility treatments, which could offer hopeful parents with an interest in acupuncture and fertility a better chance of conceiving.

• Stress relief. During acupuncture, the body releases endorphins, which are naturally occurring chemicals in the body that bring about a state of deep peace and euphoria. In addition, the individual receiving acupuncture is able to relax in a quiet and comfortable space during their visit with the acupuncturist. Navigating infertility can be incredibly stressful, so utilizing this form of medicine can provide a well-deserved and restorative reprieve from the stress of infertility.
• Hormone regulation. Another important connection between acupuncture and fertility involves hormones. It’s believed that acupuncture can affect the brain in such a way that it regulates certain issues in the neuroendocrine system. This regulation can correct the release of hormones that influence the adrenal glands, ovaries and additional reproductive systems. There is the potential that acupuncture could be a complementary aid to the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome, hopeful fathers with diminished sperm count and many other infertility issues.
• Enhanced blood flow. To support a healthy pregnancy, it’s important for the uterus to receive a steady supply of blood. Acupuncture may improve the flow of blood to the uterus, which could help the uterine lining thicken. A healthy uterine lining is needed for conception, as that is where the fertilized egg will implant.

For men, the link between acupuncture and fertility could also result in improved blood flow, which can reduce inflammation in the pelvic cavity and testicles, positively affecting his sperm production.

In addition to these benefits, some research has found that acupuncture may decrease the risk of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancies and pregnancies with multiples.

Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is safe when performed by a certified therapist who adheres to proper safety standards. To simplify your search for an acupuncturist, our Los Angeles fertility center can provide recommendations for highly skilled and certified therapists.

If you have a fear of needles, rest assured that most people who utilize acupuncture report that the needles are not painful, and instead promote an almost immediate sense of relief. These needles are so thin that many people can barely feel them.

As a complement to western medicine, acupuncture provides another tool to enhance the likelihood of pregnancy.

Contact us to learn more about acupuncture and fertility.