Does Acupuncture for Unexplained Infertility Really Work?

In short, yes, there is acupuncture success with unexplained infertility. Looking at the research, it provides great promise for couples that have been trying for years to conceive.

According to NCBI, roughly 8 to 12% of couples that are trying to reproduce face unexplained infertility issues. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this is said to occur because the vital balance is disrupted and blocked with qi and blood circulation. The belief is that resolving this disruption and clearing the blockage will correct this problem.

The study presented from NCBI discusses a couple (28m and 28f) that could not conceive after a year of trying. Each of them were treated with acupuncture per the true TCM standards. These treatments lasted 35 to 40 minutes on both sides of the body. They used the same acupoints to treat both the man and woman. Interestingly, the woman had ovarian cysts that disappeared after having 7 acupuncture for infertility treatments. Once the cysts were gone, she was successful in getting pregnant.

Digging further, researchers at the University of Maryland’s School of Medicine gathered information from several studies and compiled them in 2008. In total, the 7 trials examined included 1,366 women. What they found was that when acupuncture for unexplained infertility was provided on the day the embryo transferred, there were significant improvements in pregnancies, continuing pregnancies, and live births.

What Role Does Acupuncture Play in Helping Unexplained Infertility?

The researchers in these cases explained that acupuncture for unexplained infertility is a very promising treatment that can restore fertility to patients in improving sperm quality and the function of the ovaries. It can also bring back balance to the hormones and endocrine system.

As studies continue into the merits of using acupuncture points for unexplained infertility, it seems that there are a number of connections. The promising news reveals that it may help boost sperm quality and counts for infertile men. It may also benefit the endometrium lining and give more blood flow to the uterus. And because of its ability to tap into hormones, it may be able to regulate them, resulting in improved ovulation rates.

Acupuncture and Stress: The Correlation with Unexplained Infertility

Unsurprisingly, stress is a major factor in all of this. When basal body temperatures are fluctuating, the Qi becomes stagnant in the liver. This is often found in women with cycles that vary by month. With the liver and the endocrine effects, it means that acupuncture points for unexplained infertility must be tapped.

Looking further into stress, adrenalin, the hormone released during moments of stress, it also hinders progesterone, a hormone needed for fertility. The way the human body is designed, it knows not to be pregnant during times of severe stress to keep from danger. While this was ideal in primitive times, the answer lies in controlling response to stress from nervous tension. In other words, finding a way to control stress and using acupuncture for unexplained infertility are the keys to finding success in pregnancy. Even acupuncture itself can reduce stress and help the body liberate the necessary energy needed.

What You Can Expect with Acupuncture for Unexplained Infertility

When seeking out TCM acupuncture for unexplained infertility, always choose someone licensed by the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) or the Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine (UK) (ATCM).

Once you find one and have a consultation, they will use small needles gently inserted to those acupuncture points for unexplained infertility. These are called acupoints which correspond with the energy flow, qi, in your body. Even for those that fear needles, the sterile, single-use needles used in acupuncture are thin like hairs and are incredibly flexible. Some patients feel so relaxed that they fall asleep during the treatment. Others may need time to adjust as it could lead to dizziness or nausea.

Generally, appointments should be weekly though it will depend on your medical history and other factors. Over time, you will not need to go as frequently for acupuncture success in unexplained fertility.

Assessing the Risks of Acupuncture for Unexplained Infertility

Take the time to research a licensed and experienced acupuncturist. You’ll want to look for one that has done acupuncture for unexplained infertility previously. Choosing someone you feel comfortable with is important. A credentialed acupuncturist will ask about your full medical history that will involve things that aren’t related to these infertility issues. It’s important to disclose this information as certain conditions make raise the risk for complications.

Additionally, the only other risk you may run into lies with the needles. Visit the office first to see the level of cleanliness. Ask questions, for any good acupuncture clinic will be fully transparent. The needles used in a proper place will only be disposable and sterile, which will eliminate any risks for infections. While needles may be pushed too far in rare circumstances, if that happens, the risk for injury is minor. The acupuncturist will remove all the needles before you leave, though if you notice a forgotten one, speak up to have it removed.

Final Thoughts on Acupuncture for Unexplained Infertility

For couples that want to start a family that have no known medical reasons causing infertility, seeking out acupuncture for unexplained infertility could be the answer. It is worth trying as the studies show great success in freeing the qi and relieving the stress which may be impeding your efforts. By exploring this possibility, you could finally start the family that you have always wanted.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We can’t guarantee the treatment result, as the symptoms of conditions are unpredictable and vary greatly from person to person. The treatment length and recovery time also varies for individual. Please visit our clinics website: GinSen where a specialists will discuss your care and provide a consultation, and the treatment will be designed to meet your individual needs.