Acupuncture and assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), are different tools to treat different types of infertility problems. When used together, acupuncture and ART may provide complementary benefits, making the combined treatment more effective than either treatment by itself.
Background
Traditional Chinese medicine teaches that energy streams exist in the body which can become blocked, causing disease. Acupuncture or the insertion of thin needles into the skin at specific points is thought to regulate the energy and restore overall well-being. IVF is an example of an ART technique that was invented to treat a specific infertility problem, namely to bypass blocked fallopian tubes, the natural site of fertilization. IVF is performed by removing eggs, fertilizing them in the laboratory and returning embryos to the uterus for pregnancy.
Benefits
Acupuncture may promote relaxation and good blood flow to the reproductive tract, which improves fertility. ART techniques, such as IVF, can bypass not only blocked tubes but can overcome problems due to low sperm numbers because fewer sperm are needed to become pregnant with IVF when compared to intercourse.
Misconceptions
Acupuncture can be complementary to ART techniques like IVF, but they cannot replace IVF for the treatment of blocked tubes.
Time Frame
Acupuncture should be started three to four months before any ART treatment, to achieve the full benefit of acupuncture ,according to Dr. Mike Berkley, writing for the American Pregnancy Association.
Expert Insight
Acupuncture, when used with ARTs like IVF, may improve pregnancy rates, according to a study reviewed by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Women undergoing IVF who had acupuncture within a day of their embryo transfer were more likely to become pregnant than women who did not have acupuncture.
