Natural fertility support

Acupuncture has been used for over 2000 years in China to improve reproductive health. More recently with clinical feedback and
modern research, acupuncture is now widely recognised for its effectiveness in enhancing fertility.

Acupuncture can be used to assist with natural conception by boosting
fertility and by helping prepare the body for conception. It can also be used at different stages of fertility treatment, and may form part of a 'fertility plan.

It is usually a good idea, but not essential, to begin acupuncture treatment about 6 to 8 weeks (3 months is optimal) before conception or an IVF programme, to ensure health of egg and sperm and to help the body be as receptive as possible.

Studies together with clinical evidence suggest acupuncture can aid conception in the following ways:

• regulate menstrual irregularities
• regulate reproductive hormones
• improve ovarian response and follicle function
• regulate ovulation
• increase blood flow to the uterus, leading to improved endometrial lining, improving chance of implantation
• treat underlying conditions such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and Endometriosis
• treat recurrent miscarriage
• improve sperm count and quality (motility and morphology)
• lower stress hormones that interfere with ovulation
• treat emotional problems