Fertility problems can be emotionally devastating, but understanding your treatment options can help you feel in control again. One of those treatment options might be acupuncture. Although it isn’t a substitute for medically needed fertility services, such as selecting an egg donor, acupuncture can work with medical treatments to help you successfully achieve pregnancy.
What Acupuncture Can and Can’t Do
Acupuncture can be effective in treating underlying medical problems that contribute to infertility. These include hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. It can’t address all medical problems, such as the presence of adhesions that block fallopian tubes—caused by pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or endometriosis. However, it’s still possible for women affected by these problems to benefit from acupuncture. This is because acupuncture can:
- Support the development of a thick, healthy uterine lining
- Improve the function of the ovaries
- Reduce stress to balance hormones
When to Start Acupuncture
To see benefits from acupuncture, it’s necessary to receive multiple treatments. Some women decide to start acupuncture treatment about three to four months before they select an egg donor and start an IVF cycle. Acupuncture can safely continue through the IVF cycle, and afterward. However, once there is a possibility of pregnancy, the acupuncturist will avoid inserting any needles into the abdominal and pelvic regions.
Why Women Should Continue Acupuncture
It’s often thought that acupuncture is no longer needed once a pregnancy test turns positive. But unfortunately, women with a history of fertility problems are still at risk of miscarriage—especially during the first three months. Continuing to see an acupuncturist during the first trimester may help expecting moms avoid this tragedy.
What to Expect from Acupuncture
The acupuncturist will swab each area of insertion to cleanse it and prevent infection. The needles used for acupuncture are very small and thin. After an initial pinprick, you shouldn’t feel any discomfort. You’ll lie still and relax, usually for about 15 to 30 minutes, and then the acupuncturist will remove the needles.
Fertility Resources of Houston is pleased to offer the services of our accomplished acupuncturist, Dr. Sadhna Singh. Before she completed her master’s degree in acupuncture, Dr. Singh practiced medicine for more than 10 years as an Ob/Gyn and internal medicine specialist. If you’re experiencing fertility issues and live near Houston, give us a call today at (877) 983-0046.