Fertility Acupuncture: Can It Help Your Chances Of Conceiving?

For many couples who are trying to conceive, the journey to parenthood can feel like an uphill battle, especially when faced with fertility challenges. Acupuncture, a fundamental practice in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Singapore, has been gaining attention as a complementary treatment for these issues. By inserting thin needles into specific pressure points, acupuncture aims to support your body's natural balance. But how exactly does it increase your chances of pregnancy? Let’s explore how this centuries-old practice works and what you can expect from it.

Acupuncture Fertility Treatment

Acupuncture treatments in Singapore have long been used in TCM to promote overall health and wellness, but its role in fertility is particularly intriguing. The concept is that it helps regulate the menstrual cycle and addresses underlying conditions that may be affecting fertility. Balancing the body's energy flow, or "Qi," helps improve overall bodily functions, boost reproductive health, and increase your chances of conceiving.

Acupuncture Benefits For Female Fertility

• Preconception Care: Fertility acupuncture is often done at least three months before trying to conceive to help prepare the body. For women, this means addressing hormonal imbalances that might cause painful periods, irregular cycles, or conditions such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The treatment aims to create a more supportive environment for conception by promoting better hormone balance.

• Complementing IVF Treatments: Many couples undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) turn to the practice to increase their chances of success. It can help improve egg quality and optimise the endometrial lining, making the womb more responsive to implantation and reducing the risk of miscarriage. Moreover, the treatment may also minimise the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a possible side effect of fertility medications.

Acupuncture Benefits For Male Fertility

While much of the focus is on female fertility, it’s important to recognise that fertility acupuncture can also benefit men. Treatments aimed at male fertility often concentrate on addressing issues such as erectile dysfunction, as well as improving sperm quality and count. By targeting specific acupuncture points, these treatments can enhance overall bodily health, boost energy levels, and reduce stress, which are all vital factors in reproductive health. As a result, acupuncture may not only improve sexual function but also support better reproductive outcomes, making it a valuable option for couples on their journey to parenthood.

When Should You Visit a TCM Physician If You’re Trying to Get Pregnant?

If you’re considering TCM to get pregnant, it’s recommended to start treatments at least three months before trying to conceive. This gives your body enough time to respond to the treatments and work through any underlying issues. Acupuncture can be beneficial at any stage — before, during, and after assisted reproductive technologies like IUI and IVF, potentially improving IVF success rates and supporting overall fertility.

How Often Should You Go for Your Acupuncture Treatments

• Before IVF/IUI Treatment: To get the most out of fertility acupuncture, it’s best to start treatments about three months before starting IVF or IUI. This allows your body to become primed for these intensive fertility treatments. Typically, having sessions once a week is recommended to support your journey.
• During IVF/IUI Treatment: During ovary stimulation for IVF or IUI, acupuncture can help manage stress and improve follicular response. To maximise these benefits, you might have sessions twice a week during this time. Generally, the treatments will continue for around 10 to 12 days after the IUI procedure or embryo transfer.
• After IVF/IUI Treatment: Once your pregnancy is confirmed, continuing with fertility acupuncture can support a stable and healthy pregnancy, especially through the first trimester. The goal is to maintain a calm and balanced state, which is crucial for a healthy gestation period. It’s usually advised to have weekly sessions through the end of the first trimester.

What to Expect During Your First Acupuncture Consultation

During your first TCM fertility appointment in Singapore, your acupuncturist will conduct a thorough examination, much like a doctor’s visit. They will discuss your medical history, symptoms, and fertility journey with you. They will also check your tongue and pulse, a TCM diagnostic technique used to understand your body’s internal state and identify any imbalances.

Based on this initial assessment, your acupuncturist will select specific pressure points for needle insertion. These points are located along the body’s energy channels or meridians, which are essential in TCM for regulating bodily functions and promoting overall health. Each session typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes, and you might experience a slight tingling or warmth at the needle sites.

Acupuncture, a time-honoured part of TCM, provides a holistic approach to fertility. As we've discussed, it can be a helpful option for those trying to conceive. If you're interested in exploring acupuncture for fertility, along with the benefits of herbal medication, consider visiting Thomson Chinese Medicine. Our experienced practitioners offer personalised treatment plans designed to support your journey to parenthood with a gentle, natural approach.

Book a consultation today!