Studies suggest a promising relationship between acupuncture and fertility
The physicians at Texas Fertility Center – San Antonio believe in the value of a comprehensive approach to resolving infertility. Consuming a well-balanced diet, maintaining a healthy body weight and avoiding risky behaviors like smoking all have a positive impact on fertility. The physicians at our San Antonio fertility center have also seen studies that suggest a compelling link between acupuncture and fertility.
The link between acupuncture and fertility
Acupuncture is an ancient form of Chinese medicine that involves placing thin needles in the skin to stimulate the body’s energy points. People around the world turn to the practice to relieve pain, stress and the symptoms of various medical conditions. The physicians at our San Antonio fertility center have been reviewing studies about acupuncture and fertility, which suggest that acupuncture can improve IVF success rates and stimulate egg production.
The premise of acupuncture is simple. People experience problems with their physical and psychological health when the flow of energy in the body is blocked. To unblock the energy and restore balance, a licensed acupuncturist inserts tiny needles at different points on the body. When acupuncture is performed for fertility, the acupuncturist focuses on points associated with the reproductive system and stress hormones.
Our fertility specialists realize that most of our patients are not eager to see more needles; however, acupuncture needles differ from those used to inject fertility medications. The disposable needles used in Chinese medicine are very small, and most people report experiencing little to no pain with acupuncture.
Texas Fertility Center can help you get started with acupuncture
If you are interested in acupuncture for fertility, you can ask our office to recommend reputable acupuncture clinics in the San Antonio area that maintain the standards of the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture and/or the American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
At your first appointment, you will speak with an acupuncturist about your health history, sleep habits, appetite and pregnancy goals. In this way, your initial visit is very similar to your first fertility consultation with Erika Munch, M.D., or Susan Hudson, M.D.
During your treatment, you will lie down in a comfortable position while the acupuncturist places tiny needles along meridians on your back, arms, head and/or hamstrings. To enhance the treatment, they may also add heat, electrical stimulation or a rolling motion. After your appointment, you can resume all of your normal activities.
If you have more questions about using acupuncture in conjunction with fertility treatment, please contact us. Our physicians take a comprehensive approach to treating infertility, recognizing the validity of combining functional medicine and acupuncture.