IUI/IVF/ICSI
Many women find acupuncture helpful as they prepare for a cycle of IUI. Acupuncture can help with enhancing blood flow to the lining of the uterus, as well as relaxing the body/mind in preparation for the procedure.
During the down regulation stage of a long protocol IVF cycle, acupuncture can help relieve the unwanted side effects of medication such as headaches, hot flushes, bloating or mood swings. It can also support an efficient elimination of the womb lining in preparation for the next stage of the protocol.
During the ovarian stimulation stage of IVF, acupuncture treatments focus on optimising the quality and function of the womb lining, helping it both thicken and have a good blood supply. Acupuncture can also support women if there is a risk of ovarian hyper stimulation.
Prior to egg collection, acupuncture can help the woman feel more relaxed and can help open and soften the cervix in preparation for egg collection.
Acupuncture at the time of an IVF transfer
Acupuncture can help provide physical and emotional support leading up to and throughout an IVF cycle. In particular, it can be used on the day, or within 24 hours of embryo transfer.
This is the time that many patients have heard of and that much of the research focuses on. Acupuncture is performed both before and after the embryo transfer. The purpose of the treatment is to increase blood flow to the womb lining in order to increase receptivity, and to reduce any uterine contractions or spasms that may occur due to the transfer procedure itself. The most evidence-backed approach involves treatments immediately before and after the embryo transfer (often within 24 hours).
While some studies indicate a significant increase in pregnancy rates (sometimes by up to 65% in specific studies “Influence of acupuncture on the pregnancy rate in patients who undergo assisted reproduction therapy” (PDF) by Wolfgang E. Paulus MD, Christian-Lauritzen-Institut, Ulm, Germany 2001, results across clinical research are mixed. Studies suggest that acupuncture increases the flow of blood to the uterus and relaxes uterine muscle to aid transfer and increase uterine receptivity. It can also regulate and calm the sympathetic nervous system and help to reduce stress responses that might otherwise inhibit implantation.
Post transfer.
Once the ART treatments are completed, women can often feel anxious and on their own awaiting a pregnancy test. Acupuncture can help relax the body and mind during this wait.
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