How to Support Your Fertility Naturally With Acupuncture

Many women and couples come into the studio on their journey to conceive. They are looking for natural fertility support, a little more balance, and ways to look after their body and mind while trying for a baby.

“Hi Hayley, hope you are well? I found out some happy news. I am pregnant 🙂 Just wanted to thank you for all the relaxing treatments you gave me, which I am sure helped contribute to getting my body ready to being able to make a baby! Best wishes xx”— Christine

“I took a test today and it was a very happy result, let’s just say, and thank you for everything too xx”— Laura

Do you want a baby?

Bringing one into the world and raising it is perhaps one of the most beautiful experiences possible. It can call the best in you forward and shape you in unexpected ways.

Acupuncture for fertility is increasingly popular because it offers a gentle, holistic and relaxing approach to wellbeing. I always feel acupuncture is a celebration of life. It encourages the body and mind to be at their best, to perform at their highest potential.

That is why people float off the table afterwards. Coming into balance feels so good!

What does acupuncture do to support female fertility?

Acupuncture works across multiple systems in the body, including the reproductive, neurological and endocrine systems. These systems work together to regulate hormones, ovulation and reproductive health, all of which play important roles in fertility.

Research into acupuncture and female fertility has explored its effects on reproductive hormones, ovarian function, circulation and the body’s stress response.

Acupuncture is often incorporated into a holistic fertility plan to support general wellbeing, encourage relaxation and help women feel more balanced throughout their menstrual cycle and their journey to conception.

In traditional Chinese medicine, treatment may focus on nourishing Qi and Blood, supporting Yin and Yang, and bringing the body into harmony. Your treatment is tailored to you as an individual, taking into account your health, menstrual cycle and particular needs.

Acupuncture is also used during pregnancy to support general wellbeing and help manage common pregnancy symptoms, such as morning sickness. And during the post-partum period it helps with healing, mood management, and milk production.

Can acupuncture help male fertility?

Absolutely — fertility is not just a woman’s issue. Male reproductive health is equally important when trying to conceive.

Men often come in for support with concerns about sperm count, motility or morphology. These are important factors in male fertility and can influence the chances of conception.

Research has explored the role of acupuncture for male fertility, including its potential effects on sperm parameters and reproductive function.

Acupuncture can also provide men with valuable time to relax and focus on their wellbeing during what can be an emotional journey for both partners.

Looking after fertility together can help couples feel supported as they work towards their shared goal of having a baby.

What about stress and fertility?

Reducing stress and fertility is a wonderful way to support your wellbeing during the fertility journey, for both women and men.

When we experience stress, our nervous system responds by activating the body’s fight or flight response. The nervous system and reproductive system are connected, and researchers continue to explore how stress and hormonal regulation interact with reproductive health.

Acupuncture has been studied for its effects on the nervous system and relaxation. One of the things I love most about my work is seeing how people feel after a treatment.

The most common response is something along the lines of, “Ahhh, I feel wonderful!” followed by a question about whether they can stay longer for more treatment!

Trying to conceive can take up a lot of emotional space. Making time for yourself, relaxing and receiving support can help you feel calmer and better equipped to navigate the ups and downs.

Remember, you do not have to be perfectly relaxed to conceive. Be kind to yourself throughout the process.

Can I have acupuncture with IVF or IUI?

Yes, acupuncture for IVF is often used alongside fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI). As Dr. James Dillard (Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons) says, “It can allow you to cross the line from infertile to fertile by helping your body function more efficiently, which in turn allows other, more modern reproductive treatments, like IVF, to also work more efficiently.” (Source: WebMD)

Many women choose acupuncture during IVF to help them manage stress, make time for self care and feel supported throughout their treatment. Sessions can be planned around your individual fertility treatment schedule, including the preparation phase and egg retrieval, in consultation with your fertility team.

There is a growing body of research investigating acupuncture and IVF outcomes, including clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. Findings from clinical trials and systematic reviews have been encouraging in some areas, although results vary according to the treatment protocol and study design.

Acupuncture can form part of a holistic fertility support plan alongside the advice and treatment provided by your fertility specialist.

If you are undergoing IVF or IUI, let both your acupuncturist and fertility team know so that your care can be coordinated appropriately.

How does acupuncture work?

From a Western medical perspective, acupuncture stimulates sensory nerves and can influence the nervous system and other physiological processes. Research has investigated its relationship with the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and ovaries, which work together to regulate reproductive hormones.

Studies have also explored acupuncture’s effects on circulation, ovarian function and the body’s stress response.

In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture works to strengthen Qi and Blood, support Yin and Yang, and harmonize the whole you.

Because acupuncture takes a holistic approach and works with the body and mind, treatment considers your overall wellbeing rather than focusing on just one symptom. The aim is to support balance throughout the body while addressing your individual needs.

Do you want to support your fertility journey naturally?

If you are trying to conceive and looking for natural ways to support fertility, acupuncture can be a lovely way to make time for yourself and focus on your wellbeing.

Whether you are trying for a baby naturally, preparing for IVF, undergoing IUI or simply looking for ways to feel more balanced, I would love to support you.

Get in touch to find out more about acupuncture for fertility and arrange a relaxing session at home or in the studio.

Your fertility journey is personal, and your treatment should be too.

I look forward to hearing from you!
Hayley

Want to read more about acupuncture for fertility?

Check out WebMD’s article here.