At the Zita West Fertility Clinic, our experienced team of acupuncturists are on hand to support you at every step of your journey. You may have some questions about acupuncture and how could support you.
Our acupuncturist Lui Yeung has answered some of the common questions she is asked…
1. How can acupuncture help fertility or support my IVF/ICSI?
Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture can:
- Help regulate female and male reproductive hormones
- Improve blood circulation to the ovaries and uterus
- Support ovulation
- Help to reduce cortisol levels – the body’s main stress hormone
- Help to promote follicle development
- Help the body deal with the side effects of medication
- Reduces stress and anxiety.
2. When is it recommended that I have acupuncture during my IVF/ ICSI?
We would recommend acupuncture in the 3 months leading up to your IVF/ ICSI cycle, as sperm and follicles take 100 days to mature. Acupuncture may also benefit you during your IVF stimulation phase, before and after embryo transfer and 7 days after your embryo transfer.
3. What happens during my initial consultation?
In your initial consultation, you will have an in-depth discussion about your fertility history, current medical health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist will take your pulse and look at your tongue. This helps your acupuncturist develop a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Acupuncture needles will be then be inserted into different parts of your body and you will relax for 20-30 minutes. Many people fall asleep during acupuncture and feel very relaxed afterwards.
4. I am scared of needles, will acupuncture hurt?
Please be reassured that no, acupuncture won’t hurt.
The needles are thinner than a strand of hair and most people do not feel them being inserted. You may feel a slight dull ache sensation when your acupuncturist manipulates the needle – this is known as De Qi – which has a therapeutic benefit.
5. I just found out that I am pregnant, can I have acupuncture during pregnancy?
Congratulations! Yes, it is safe to have acupuncture during pregnancy with an experienced fertility acupuncturist. During the first trimester, we frequently see women who have experienced recurrent miscarriage or who are suffering from severe morning sickness or anxiety.
Acupuncture can be extremely effective in supporting them and their pregnancy. In second and third trimesters we frequently see women who are experiencing oedema, back pain or pubic symphysis pain. We also help prepare women for labour or if their baby is in a breech position towards the end of their pregnancy.
6. Are there any side effects to acupuncture?
There is a small chance of bruising or slight nerve sensations after acupuncture, but these are temporary side effects.
You can find out more about acupuncture at the Zita West Clinic here, or contact us today.