Acupuncture – IUI / IVF / Pre & Post Embryo Transfer
Acupuncture is the insertion of ultra-thin, sterile needles into specific acupuncture points on the body to achieve a therapeutic effect. These points regulate the way in which the body functions. Using the information gathered during the extensive initial assessment, a specific acupuncture protocol is set in place to help address the potential issues that may be causing difficulty conceiving. No drug is injected. The needles alone create the beneficial effects of acupuncture.
What is acupuncture?
Benefits of Acupuncture to Support Fertility
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Decrease stress & anxiety – especially during the 2-week wait
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Promote blood flow to the reproductive organs to help support function
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Thicken the uterine lining
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Support ovulation
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Regulate the menstrual cycle
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Balance hormones – FSH/LH/cortisol
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Sperm quality – improve motility
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Improve response to medicated cycles
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Support implantation
What influence does acupuncture have on the female reproductive system?
Acupuncture has been reported to promote the circulation of blood in the pelvic cavity and enhances the ovarian environment where the follicles are growing and producing a mature egg(s). With research constantly growing, we understand that acupuncture treatment is beneficial in enhancing follicle growth, supporting ovarian function, and enhancing uterine blood flow.
How does acupuncture help improve the chances of getting pregnant?
In addition to acupuncture specifically stimulating and supporting the functioning of the reproductive organs, many patients also experience enhanced feelings of well-being. Improvements such as enhanced sleep quality, better digestion, decreased anxiety, increased energy, enhanced moods, and more, are reported. Many women also notice changes in their menstrual cycle such as decreased menstrual cramps, normalized blood flow, and a decrease in blood clots. These physical and emotional shifts positively influence the chances of conceiving, regardless of whether one is trying naturally or undergoing assisted reproductive treatment.
What is the best time of the month to have acupuncture?
It is generally recommended that you start acupuncture treatments at the beginning of each cycle (after you start menstruating), anywhere from 1 to 2 times a week throughout your cycle. Research shows that having acupuncture regularly for 3 months provides the most ideal benefits in supporting fertility. Acupuncture treatments support the different phases of the woman’s cycle. Having acupuncture done in the first 2 weeks of the cycle is especially important to help stimulate the growth of the follicle(s)/egg(s), as well as the uterine lining leading up to ovulation. Once ovulation has occurred, acupuncture can be done to help support implantation.
How can I best prepare for an embryo transfer?
Click play to learn some of my top recommendations!
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I will be undergoing IVF. When should I start acupuncture and how often should I receive treatment?Ideally, it is recommended that you start acupuncture treatments at least 1-3 months prior to the commencement of the IVF cycle. Acupuncture is done initially to support the egg retrieval part of the cycle. This treatment brings blood flow to the reproductive organs and helps support ovarian function to stimulate and grow as many follicles/eggs as possible. After egg retrieval, acupuncture is used to prepare for the embryo transfer. This phase supports thickening of the uterine lining to help optimize implantation of the embryo. Acupuncture provides a great benefit for both aspects of the IVF cycle as well as helping keep stress levels down as this is to be a very stressful time.
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My IVF cycle has already started. Is it too late to start acupuncture?It is never too late to start acupuncture. While you would likely obtain more cumulative benefits from starting treatments early, acupuncture provides such powerful benefits with each session, that it is something you can begin doing at any stage of your fertility journey!
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Shall I have acupuncture right before and after the embryo transfer?Absolutely – Yes!! On the day of the embryo transfer, I usually suggest to patients to have an acupuncture treatment before the transfer and then have a subsequent treatment right after the transfer. These half-hour acupuncture treatments promote a tremendous relaxation benefit during this very stressful time, as well as preparing the uterus for implantation of the embryo. Research has shown that having acupuncture immediately pre & post embryo transfer can improve your chances of success by 40%.
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Shall I have acupuncture right around my IUI?Just as acupuncture provides a huge benefit pre/post embryo transfer, the same goes for pre/post IUI. The idea is to help reduce stress levels on the day of the procedure, promote blood flow to the reproductive organs and help support implantation.
Contact Me
Dr. Irena Bergmann, ND
My Office Locations:
Pollin Fertility
2360 Yonge St., 2nd Floor
Toronto, ON, M4P 2E6​
P: (416) 342-3552
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Aurora Massage & Chiropractic Wellness
150 Hollidge Boulevard, Unit C3
Aurora, Ontario, Canada L4G 8A3
P: (905) 727-4400
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