Acupuncture: An Eastern Solution to Infertility

While many of us from the Western world might cringe at the thought of becoming a human pincushion, acupuncture has always been a fixture in eastern medicine.  Acupuncture is a process where ultra thin sterilized needles are shallowly inserted into specific points of the body also known as acupoints. These spots lie on meridians or channels that have specific effects on the patient.

This process is known to alleviate pain and is known to address a wide range of diseases and symptoms.  Acupuncture primarily works by stimulating nerves and regulating circulation and blood pressure. One of the most significant effects it has on a body is it stimulates the release of the “happy hormone”, also known as endorphins.  Endorphins give patients a sense of wellbeing and serve also as the body’s natural pain management mechanism.  Acupuncture also stimulates the release of neurotransmitters that facilitate the body’s natural healing process.

Like most alternative medicine interventions, doctors that ascribe to the western school of thought tend to be a little wary of the “magical” promises of acupuncture.  There is a growing number of doctors, however, that are beginning to prescribe acupuncture in tandem with traditional western medication.

In the area of infertility, acupuncture helps primarily because it does wonders for correcting hormonal imbalance.  Acupuncture does not directly affect hormonal balance, rather, it has a systemic effect.  By increasing blood flow to the vital organs,  the organs respond better to the brain’s signals to release hormones.

Acupuncture also has some effects on the reproductive system.  It is known to improve ovarian function and it increases blood flow to the uterus, helping facilitate the forming of a lining which is essential to housing the fertilized egg.

Studies also show that acupuncture ups the success rate of In Vitro Fertilization.  In fact, many of the hospitals that offer IVF actually offer acupuncture in their package.

Unlike synthetic medication that has immediate results, most homeopathic medicine is process-oriented and systemic.  It takes awhile to get results, but there are little to no side effects.

Fertility treatments is emotionally taxing, particularly on the woman.  The stress, the suspense and the disappointment does take its toll. This is why acupuncture is a great option that enhances traditional medicine.

Make sure however, that you go to an acupuncturist that specializes in treating infertility, because there is a risk of miscarriage if they hit the wrong acupoint.

Overall, the case for acupunture is strong.  As more and more western doctors begin to become more open to eastern and homeopathic medical interventions, couples that suffer from infertility can look forward to more options and better success rates!