Infertility is something that impacts more than 180 million people all over the world. For those struggling with this issue, it can be an incredibly stressful experience, especially when traditional medical interventions don’t result in the desired outcome. However, western medicine isn’t the only option. Research has shown that the traditional Chinese practice of acupuncture can have positive impacts on fertility for both men and women. Read on to learn more about acupuncture for fertility and the best time for treatment. 

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that dates back thousands of years. It involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow, balance the body's energy, and promote natural healing. It is based on the concept of Qi (sometimes called “Chi”), which is believed to be the body's vital energy.

The theory behind acupuncture is that disruptions or imbalances in the flow of Qi can lead to illness and pain. By inserting needles into specific points along meridians (energy pathways) in the body, practitioners aim to restore the balance of Qi and promote overall well-being.

You do not need to believe in acupuncture to reap its benefits. Blind studies have proven its effectiveness, even in skeptical patients.

How Fertility Acupuncture Works

Targeted Acupuncture Points

Fertility acupuncturists target specific acupuncture points that are believed to influence the reproductive organs, hormonal balance, and overall fertility. These points may be located on the abdomen, lower back, legs, and other areas associated with reproductive function.

Hormonal Regulation

Fertility acupuncture is thought to influence the endocrine system, helping to regulate reproductive hormones. This is particularly relevant for women with irregular menstrual cycles or hormonal imbalances that may affect fertility.

Individualized Treatment Plans

Practitioners of fertility acupuncture typically develop individualized treatment plans based on a thorough assessment of a person's reproductive health, medical history, and specific fertility concerns. Treatment frequency and duration can vary depending on individual needs.

Fertility Acupuncture Benefits

Regulating Hormones

Acupuncture may help regulate the menstrual cycle and balance reproductive hormones. This can be particularly beneficial for women with irregular menstrual cycles or hormonal imbalances.

Improving Blood Flow to the Reproductive Organs

Acupuncture is thought to increase blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, which may create a more favourable environment for implantation and support the development of healthy eggs.

Reducing Stress

Stress can negatively impact fertility by affecting hormonal balance. Acupuncture is known for its stress-reducing effects, and by promoting relaxation, it may help mitigate the impact of stress on fertility.

Supporting Ovulation

Acupuncture may stimulate the release of certain neurotransmitters and hormones that are involved in the ovulation process. This can be beneficial for women who experience ovulatory issues.

Enhancing Male Fertility

Acupuncture may also be used to support male fertility. Studies suggest that acupuncture may improve sperm quality, count, and motility.

Supporting Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)

Acupuncture is often used in conjunction with fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). It is believed to enhance the effectiveness of these treatments by improving blood flow and reducing stress.

Enhanced Overall Well-Being

Acupuncture is a holistic therapy that aims to balance the body's energy and promote overall well-being. Acupuncture can contribute to a healthier lifestyle, potentially benefiting fertility.

When to Do Fertility Acupuncture

The timing for fertility acupuncture can vary depending on individual circumstances, menstrual cycles, and specific fertility goals. However, below is a general guideline that practitioners may follow.

Women

Menstrual Cycle Phases

Acupuncture can be used at any point during the menstrual cycle and its benefits vary by cycle phase. 

Follicular Phase

This phase starts on the first day of your menstrual period and lasts until ovulation. Fertility acupuncture during this phase may focus on promoting follicle development, regulating hormones, and supporting overall reproductive health.
Ovulatory Phase

Acupuncture around the time of ovulation may aim to support the release of a mature egg and improve conditions for fertilization. Ovulation prediction methods or kits can help identify this phase.

Luteal Phase

Post-ovulation, acupuncture may focus on promoting a healthy luteal phase, supporting implantation, and addressing any issues that could affect early pregnancy.

Men

Unlike women, men do not have menstrual cycles, so fertility acupuncture for men is not typically tied to specific phases of the menstrual cycle. Instead, the timing for fertility acupuncture in men can be more flexible and is often based on individual needs and circumstances. Here are some considerations:

Consistent Sessions

Fertility acupuncture for men may involve regular and consistent sessions to address issues related to sperm quality, count, and motility. Regular acupuncture sessions over a period of time may be recommended to see improvements.

Sperm Production Cycle

Sperm production takes approximately 74 days from the initial cell division to mature sperm. Acupuncture sessions throughout this period may be beneficial in supporting the various stages of sperm development.

Before ART:

If a couple is undergoing assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), the male partner may consider acupuncture sessions before the collection of sperm for the procedure. This is believed to help optimize sperm quality.

Turn to Fertility Acupuncture in Toronto

Acupuncture is used by many as a stand-alone treatment, or together with conventional medicine. For those who feel like they’ve tried everything to improve fertility, acupuncture is a worthwhile option. If you’re interested in acupuncture for fertility, it’s important to find a trained acupuncturist with experience practicing fertility acupuncture. 

At Total Wellness Centre, we focus on fertility acupuncture in Toronto, as well as a host of other services designed to promote health and well-being. Contact us today at 416-532-9094 to book an appointment.