Acupuncture Increases Egg Quality Supporting Improved Fertility
If you’re struggling with fertility you are not alone. Infertility rates are increasing worldwide and miscarriage rates are rising about 1% per year. Most miscarriages are due to abnormalities in the DNA of the embryo — meaning that likely either the egg or the sperm (or both) were of poor quality.
Acupuncture for Improved Egg Quality and Fertility
Studies show that acupuncture can improve egg quality which should lead to faster pregnancies and fewer pregnancy losses. Unfortunately many OB/GYNs are not aware of the research and do not send their fertility patients to acupuncture.
Studies show that acupuncture can also:
- Increase embryo implantation rate;
- Increase pregnancy rate; and
- Increase live birth rate.
How to Start Your Acupuncture Journey
Make sure to find an acupuncturist who specializes in women’s health and fertility. At your first appointment your acupuncturist will conduct a thorough heath history. After discussing your health at each appointment the acupuncturist will feel the pulses in your wrists to understand your current state of health. Feeling your pulses will help your acupuncturist understand which areas of your body and health system are under-functioning, where there may be inflammation, and how much stress and anxiety may be impacting your overall health and fertility.
Your acupuncturist will recommend a certain number of treatments based on your current state of health. Typically we recommend at least three months of weekly acupuncture to create the necessary changes to enable improved fertility.
Does Acupuncture Also Work For Male Fertility?
Yes it does! Acupuncture is shown to help:
- Increase sperm motility;
- Increase sperm concentration;
- Increase testosterone levels; and
- Improve the “plumbing” in the male reproductive tract to enabled improved quality of ejaculate.
Research shows that 1/3 to 1/2 of infertility cases are due to male factors. Sperm testing can show motility, concentration, and morphology, so if there are any deficiencies in the male partner’s tests then acupuncture is a prudent next step.
How Does Chinese Herbal Medicine Fit In?
Chinese herbal formulas work really well to complement acupuncture therapy. Herbal medicine can be used to adjust hormone levels, decrease inflammation, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall energy and circulation. All of these factors may be at play during a fertility challenge. If your practitioner is a seasoned herbalist they will be able to provide appropriate herbal formulas to support both male and female fertility.
If you have any questions about how and whether acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can support your family in your fertility journey, call Inspire Family Acupuncture for a free consultation. Here’s to your family’s health!
