Acupuncture has been used to boost fertility for thousands of years. This is how it might work.
1. Promoting ovulation
One of the most common reasons a woman cannot conceive is lack of ovulation (anovulation) or very irregular ovulation. One reason for anovulation is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is the most common hormonal disorder and affects as many as 5 million women of reproductive age in the U.S. Another reason for anovulation is hypothalamic amenorrhea, a technical name for when the brain and ovaries do not communicate and the ovaries are taking a nap. This is what happens when some women rapidly lose weight, are on too restrictive of a diet, or their BMI is too low and their periods stop. In both cases, hypothalamic amenorrhea and PCOS, studies show acupuncture can help women begin to ovulate regularly. For example, in one study, women with PCOS who received acupuncture treatments for 10 to 13 weeks saw an increase in ovulation frequency, compared to women who only received therapeutic counseling.
2. Increasing blood flow to the uterus and ovaries
As women age, blood flow to the uterus and ovaries naturally decreases. Some studies have shown that acupuncture not only improves blood flow to the uterus and ovaries but may also help improve the quality and receptivity of the uterine lining, a key factor in successful implantation.
3. Improving IVF success rates
There is some evidence that acupuncture may help improve implantation rates when performed around the time of an embryo transfer. A recent study found that acupuncture performed three weeks leading up to and during IVF ovarian stimulation helped increase the number of mature eggs retrieved and fertilization rates. As more studies are performed exploring this integrative approach, we will have a better understanding of the many ways acupuncture can help.
4. Reducing stress and anxiety
One of the most commonly reported effects of seeing an acupuncturist regularly is a reduction in perceived stress and anxiety. Acupuncture sessions, whether for back pain, headaches, fertility issues, or anything in between, help activate the side of the nervous system associated with relaxation, called the parasympathetic division (aka "rest and digest"). Its opposite, the sympathetic division (aka "fight or flight"), often runs on overtime when we are stressed. Since blood to the reproductive organs is de-prioritized when we are in "fight or flight," this switch to "rest and digest" during acupuncture helps fertility patients. It can also improve sleep quality, digestion, energy levels, and more.
5. Reducing Inflammation
Inflammation is emerging as an underlying factor in difficulty conceiving. Conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, hidden infections, autoimmune diseases, and other inflammatory states can negatively affect fertility in multiple ways, including possible egg and sperm quality, endometrial receptivity, and some types of pregnancy loss.
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