Fertility

So you’ve heard your girlfriend has tried acupuncture and she swears by it. But you aren’t exactly sure of what it is and how it can help, plus the thought of needles scares you! We have both personally experienced the positive effects acupuncture can have on our hormones and have seen the success it can have on patients dealing with infertility. Here is everything you need to know about acupuncture and how it can help you boost your fertility!

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese therapy, which dates back 2,500 years. It involves the insertion of thin needles at specific points in the body in order to balance the flow of “qi” or energy circulating throughout. The pattern of smooth energy flow or qi along various channels or meridians in the body is required for maintaining health. The treatment works to encourage the natural healing process by rebalancing the physical, mental and emotional disharmonies within the body.

How can acupuncture help you conceive?

• Induces ovulation
• Balances hormones
• Reduces stress and improves emotional well-being
• Tonifies the uterus
• Prevents miscarriages
• Decreases inflammation
• Improves IUI and IVF success

Stay tuned for next week’s Fertility Friday for the nitty gritty on HOW acupuncture does this.

What to expect during treatment?

Acupuncture needles are solid, hairlike thin, and tend to cause very little discomfort when inserted. Most patients do not find needle insertion to be painful. However, you may experience an aching sensation, which indicates the needles are inserted to the correct depth. This also means the needles have activated the qi in your body. Typically the needles will stay in for 25-35 minutes.

Is acupuncture safe while trying to conceive?

Acupuncture is definitely safe while trying to conceive. The points work to support the natural processes of the body and will not interfere with any drugs or supplements and your chances of conceiving.

How long is a session and how many treatments will I need?

Usually sessions will last approximately 30-40 minutes in total and the number of treatments will depend on what is going on (ie. PCOS, endometriosis, etc). If you have been dealing with hormone imbalances for years we tell patients to give us at least 3 months as it takes time for the egg to mature. However, during an IVF treatment cycle we will try to optimize your success with specific acupuncture points.

What is the average cost of acupuncture?

The cost of acupuncture will depend on the location. Even in the same city the price will be different. But on average the cost of one acupuncture session can range from 50-80 dollars. Good news is, all acupuncture treatments are covered under Naturopathic insurance!

So what are you waiting for?? Give it a try! It might just be the one thing you are missing that will help boost your fertility and help you create that family you have been dreaming of <3

Please Share our blog if you know someone who would benefit from these messages, xo.

Your fertility friends,

Jodie and Samina  
#fertilitywithjodieandsamina