Quite often couples will start thinking, it’s time to start their family. Aside from stopping the contraceptive pill ladies can often feel they would like a little more help. Unless they have been trying for at least 3 years or have specific difficulties the medical profession don’t usually get involved.
When couples make these decisions, they feel impatient to be pregnant. Fertility acupuncture can do a variety of things, from helping irregular periods, decreasing pre-menstrual tension (PMT) and increasing chances of implantation, all of which are important in preparation for pregnancy.
Lots of ladies ask, why are regular periods important? I just want to be pregnant. When we know that a period is due love making can occur at optimal times as we know when ovulation is likely to occur, allowing sperm to reach the egg at the optimal time resulting in pregnancy.
Why is reduction of PMT important? A relaxed and happy woman has already increased her chances of pregnancy. Traditional Chinese acupuncture believes in the idea of Qi. In the western world the best word to describe Qi is energy. PMT can result in disrupted Qi that is not able to flow through the body evenly and calmly. Fertility acupuncture can help smooth the Qi so it flows evenly. Smooth Qi results in a calm disposition which is favourable for pregnancy.
Acupuncture has been gaining support in the western medicine world of In Vitro Fertilisation or IVF as science has started to recognize its many benefits. There have been a variety of studies conducted reviewing the implications for acupuncture and fertility, and recent reports have shown a 65 percent increase in pregnancy success rates when IVF is combined with acupuncture treatments. Those same studies have shown rates of live births nearly doubled in cases where acupuncture was used, compared to IVF patients who received no acupuncture or sham acupuncture.
What makes acupuncture so effective?
The reason acupuncture can increase success rates aren’t fully understood. Ultrasounds have shown that acupuncture can improve uterine blood flow, which may create a more hospitable environment for implantation.
One thing most doctors and scientists seem to agree on is that acupuncture at the very least can have a calming effect on patients. While embroiled in the stress of fertility treatments, that improved relaxation can be crucial to overall wellness – particularly when you understand how stress hormones can inhibit fertility. If for no other reason, acupuncture can be a great relaxation technique to rely on.
Remember that acupuncture is not a guarantee that your IVF cycle will work, but it can be a natural way to improve your chances of success. If you’re going through IVF come in or make an appointment with our registered Acupuncturist Jas Kandola to discuss things further.
For more information about different services we offer call 0207 177 207 or visit the Services page of our website or newbodyosteo.wpengine.com .
Author Bio:
Jas Kandola MSc BSc (Hons, Ost Med ND DO, BSc (Hons) Acupuncture Lic Ac. MBAc
Jas is a registered Acupuncturist and Osteopath she graduated in 2003 with an Honours Degree in Osteopathic Medicine and a Diploma in Naturopathy and worked as an NHS Osteopath for 10 years. Extensive additional study has resulted in a Masters degree from the Osteopathic Centre for Children and a BSc degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture. Jas has a special interest in osteopathy for newborns, pregnant mothers and in treating fertility issues with Traditional Chinese acupuncture.