Fertility Acupuncture joins general acupuncture among the oldest healing practices in the world, and is considered a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Rooted in the philosophy of restoring balance and harmony within the body, fertility acupuncture is a holistic treatment that involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and overall well-being.
Fertility acupuncture has been increasingly recognized as a supportive therapy for enhancing reproductive health, whether as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with conventional fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). The practice is grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles, which aim to restore balance to the body’s energy (Qi) and optimize physiological function.
Dr. Rachel Abare, OMD, a skilled practitioner based in Reno, Nevada, specializes in this practice, which has been refined over thousands of years, and is gaining recognition worldwide for its ability to address a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional health issues. Call 775-548-6949 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rachel Abare today.
How Acupuncture May Assist with Fertility
- Improves Blood Flow to Reproductive Organs
Acupuncture can enhance blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, ensuring they receive optimal oxygenation and nutrients. This improved circulation may help create a healthier uterine lining for embryo implantation and support ovarian function, which is vital for egg development. - Regulates Hormonal Balance
By influencing the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, acupuncture can help regulate hormones that govern the menstrual cycle. This is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or irregular cycles, which can interfere with ovulation. - Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Chronic stress can negatively impact fertility by disrupting hormone levels and ovulation. Acupuncture is known to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural stress relievers, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, which are essential for reproductive health. - Improves Egg and Sperm Quality
Acupuncture has been shown to support both female and male fertility by potentially improving egg quality and enhancing sperm motility and morphology. This makes it a valuable treatment for couples experiencing infertility due to male factors. - Supports IVF Success Rates
Studies have indicated that acupuncture may increase the success rates of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like IVF. Acupuncture performed before and after embryo transfer has been linked to improved implantation rates and reduced stress during the process.
Fertility Acupuncture is Also Known As:
Fertility acupuncture may be known by several other names and terms depending on the region, practice, or cultural variations. These include:
- Reproductive Acupuncture
- Acupuncture for Infertility
- Fertility Acupressure (Note that acupressure is a related but distinct technique)
- Traditional Chinese Medicine for Fertility
- IVF Acupuncture (when used specifically to complement in vitro fertilization treatments)
- Acupuncture for Reproductive Health
- Assisted Reproductive Acupuncture
- Hormonal Balancing Acupuncture
- Womb Acupuncture
- Conception Acupuncture
These terms are often used interchangeably to describe acupuncture treatments tailored to improve fertility, balance hormones, or support reproductive health.
Dr. Rachel Abare’s Approach to Fertility Acupuncture
Dr. Rachel Abare, OMD, incorporates acupuncture into holistic fertility treatment plans, addressing not only physical aspects like hormonal regulation and blood flow but also emotional well-being. Her comprehensive approach may include additional TCM therapies such as herbal medicine, cupping, or auricular acupuncture to further enhance reproductive health. Dr. Abare’s personalized care ensures treatments are tailored to each individual’s specific needs, providing a natural and supportive pathway toward achieving fertility goals.
Acupuncture is a gentle, non-invasive option for those seeking to optimize their fertility naturally or complement medical interventions, offering a holistic path to conception and overall wellness.
Acupuncture can play an equally significant role in addressing infertility by supporting the body’s natural functions and complementing medical fertility treatments. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture works by restoring the body’s balance of energy (Qi), improving circulation, and optimizing organ function, all of which contribute to reproductive health.
Ways Acupuncture Assists with Infertility
- Regulating Menstrual Cycles
Acupuncture can help balance hormones and regulate the menstrual cycle, addressing conditions such as irregular periods, luteal phase defects, or anovulation (lack of ovulation), which are common causes of infertility. - Enhancing Blood Flow to Reproductive Organs
By improving circulation to the uterus and ovaries, acupuncture ensures these organs receive sufficient nutrients and oxygen. This can promote a thicker, more receptive uterine lining, increasing the chances of implantation and pregnancy. - Reducing Stress and Cortisol Levels
Stress can negatively impact fertility by interfering with the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, which regulates reproductive hormones. Acupuncture promotes relaxation by stimulating the release of endorphins and reducing cortisol levels, helping to create an environment more conducive to conception. - Addressing Underlying Conditions
Acupuncture has been shown to improve conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and unexplained infertility, which can hinder conception. By targeting these root causes, it supports a holistic approach to reproductive health. - Supporting Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
Acupuncture can increase the success rates of treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI). Research indicates that acupuncture sessions before and after embryo transfer may improve implantation rates and reduce stress, optimizing the chances of success. - Improving Male Fertility
Acupuncture is not limited to female infertility—it can also benefit male partners by improving sperm quality, including motility, morphology, and count, which are critical factors in conception.
A Time-Tested Approach to Infertility with Acupuncture
Dr. Rachel Abare, OMD, specializes in using fertility acupuncture to address infertility through customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. Her approach may include techniques such as auricular acupuncture, herbal remedies, and complementary therapies like cupping or gua sha. Dr. Abare works to restore balance and support overall reproductive health, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of infertility.
Fertility acupuncture is a holistic and non-invasive therapy that offers a supportive pathway for those facing reproductive health issues, whether as a natural option or as an enhancement to conventional medical treatments.
Health Issues that Fertility Acupressure Treats
Fertility acupressure, akin to fertility acupuncture, is utilized to address various health issues that may impact reproductive health. It’s important to note that while acupressure is a complementary therapy, its efficacy varies among individuals, and it should not replace conventional medical treatments. Consulting with a healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment is recommended. While scientific evidence is limited, practitioners often use acupressure to support the following conditions:
1. Hormonal Imbalances:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Acupressure is believed to help regulate menstrual cycles and improve ovulation in individuals with PCOS.
- Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Techniques aim to promote regular menstruation by stimulating specific points associated with hormonal balance.
2. Stress and Emotional Well-being:
- Anxiety and Depression: Acupressure may alleviate stress and improve emotional health, which are crucial for fertility.
- Emotional Problems Related to Infertility: Studies suggest acupuncture can improve emotional well-being in women experiencing infertility.
3. Reproductive Health Conditions:
- Endometriosis: Some practitioners use acupressure to manage pain and symptoms associated with endometriosis.
- Uterine Fibroids: While not a cure, fertility acupressure may help alleviate symptoms related to fibroids.
4. Male Fertility Issues:
- Sperm Quality and Count: Acupressure is sometimes applied to improve sperm parameters, including count and motility.
5. General Health Concerns Affecting Fertility:
- Insomnia: Improving sleep patterns through acupressure may positively influence reproductive health.
- Digestive Issues: Addressing digestive health is considered beneficial for overall fertility.
Formal Citations for Fertility Acupuncture Information:
- Wolfgang E Paulus, Mingmin Zhang, Erwin Strehler, Imam El-Danasouri, Karl Sterzik (2002)
Influence of acupuncture on the pregnancy rate in patients who undergo assisted reproduction therapy
- Kewei Quan, Chuyi Yu, Xiaohui Wen, Qiuping Lin, Naiping Wang, Hongxia Ma (2022).
Acupuncture as Treatment for Female Infertility: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials - Manheimer, E., Zhang, G., Udoff, L., Haramati, A., Langenberg, P., Berman, B. M., & Bouter, L. M. (2008).
Effects of acupuncture on rates of pregnancy and live birth among women undergoing in vitro fertilization: Systematic review and meta-analysis