Acupuncture for Fertility

Text Box: Harmonious relationships can be illustrated By the cycle of the seasons Which produces rain and dew At exactly the right time. From The Complete Works of Lao Tzu, Translation and elucidation by Hua-ching Ni Acupuncture for Fertility-
Acupuncture can help the body prepare for pregnancy in several ways. For many women, having an irregular, early, or late menstruation is their first concern about becoming pregnant. Because acupuncture stimulates blood flow to the uterus and reproductive system, it helps to regulate the period which enables a woman to know when she is ovulating. Regulating the period and ovulation is the primary goal of acupuncture fertility treatments.
Not only does acupuncture regulate ovulation and menstruation, it also encourages the building of a healthy uterine lining. This is why acupuncture is often used in conjunction with IVF treatments. Even if a patient is not infertile, she can benefit from acupuncture whilst she is preparing her body to nurture new life. A healthy and strong uterine lining is the perfect place for an embryo to implant and new life to begin.
Most importantly, acupuncture decreases stress and stress hormones by encouraging the release of endorphins and balancing the endocrine system. Recent studies illustrate that one of the key factors to infertility among modern women is stress and a woman’s inability to truly relax. Taking time for the self each morning and each evening may be the only fertility treatment a woman needs.
However, I encourage women who are preparing their bodies and minds for pregnancy to come for a course of treatments (9 treatments = a course or 3 months of treatment minus the weeks of the period as we do not usually treat during menstruation).                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   
Please remember that male infertility due to low sperm count, abnormal sperm shape and size, and reduced motility is on the rise. It is always worth having this checked by a medical professional before embarking your journey toward conception.
To further encourage conception-

    • Eat a well balanced diet of high quality foods (Organic if possible)
    • Learn to meditate or relax daily
    • Take moderate exercise regularly
    • Take a good quality multi-vitamin
    • Take less than 6 units of alcohol/week
    • Quit smoking