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Millions of women around the world have trouble getting pregnant or carrying a pregnancy to term. There are several causes of fertility problems, ranging from unhealthy lifestyle choices to age-related complications.

Acupuncture and IVF

In vitro fertilization (or IVF) is a ray of hope for women who have been trying to get pregnant with no success and those who have had multiple miscarriages. The process involves fertilizing mature eggs with sperm in controlled conditions in a lab.

Many women use acupuncture as an adjunct to IVF. The ancient Chinese practice involves inserting paper-thin needles at strategic points on the body to restore the body’s natural healing mechanism.

Studies show that acupuncture can increase the chances of getting pregnant for women undergoing IVF by 65%. Acupuncture for fertility in Albany increases ovarian blood flow and helps set up an ideal environment for implantation.

Sudden or abnormal weight gain can affect the chances of having a baby through IVF. If you are undergoing IVF, your acupuncturist will help you maintain a healthy weight. They will recommend foods rich in essential nutrients, but low in calories. Your acupuncturist will also teach you exercises to reduce stress and maintain a healthy weight. 

Benefits of Acupuncture During Early Pregnancy

A woman’s body undergoes several changes during pregnancy. These changes prepare the body to accommodate a new life and nurture it. In the first trimester, acupuncture alleviates several common ailments associated with the initial months of pregnancy. Some examples include heartburn, fatigue, vomiting, discomfort, and nausea.

Acupuncture can help regulate vital systems. It can be used to treat different pregnancy-related ailments, ranging from nausea to lower back pain.

Stress during pregnancy can affect both the mother’s and baby’s health. Several studies have linked prenatal stress to increased risk of miscarriage. Acupuncture can help reduce stress by stimulating the endocrine gland to secrete endorphins, natural pain-killing chemicals.

The ancient Chinese practice improves the circulation of blood throughout the body. Oxygen flushes out cortisol and other stress hormones. Acupuncture also relaxes and softens uterine ligaments and increases blood flow to the pelvis. This prepares the baby to descend into the birth canal, in the proper position. When blood flow to the pelvis increases, the cervix is able to soften and dilate, and the uterine muscles are able to contract when needed.

Women are at high risk for developing depression during and after pregnancy. A 2020 study concluded that acupuncture is an effective treatment for reducing depression symptoms and preventing depression in pregnant women.

Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy? This is one of the most common questions women ask their doctors. When performed by a licensed practitioner, acupuncture does not have any major side effects and is considered 100% safe.

Grappling with fertility problems? Anchor Acupuncture & Wellness can help. We use acupuncture to help treat the root cause of infertility for women in Albany. If you have questions, call our office at (415) 855-3112.