Increasing pregnancy rates with acupuncture during IVF

With rapid economic development, lifestyle changes, daily stress and increased environmental pollution, the incidence of infertility has gained increased worldwide attention.

In vitro fertilization (IVF)-embryo transfer is the most successful infertility treatment, and for many people, it provides the last possibility for pregnancy. However, the average IVF delivery rate per single initiated cycle using fresh nondonor oocytes is still only 33%.

Studies have found that using acupuncture with IVF achieves a clinical pregnancy rate of more than 42%. Clinical experience with use of Chinese traditional medicine and acupuncture during IVF suggests the pregnancy rate can be raised to at least 60%.

The primary modalities used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat infertility and/or to enhance fertility are acupuncture and Chinese herbs. Chinese diet, lifestyle therapy and massage are also integrated into the treatment plan to ensure greater success.

Chinese traditional medicine and acupuncture during IVF can help:

• Improve the function of the ovaries to produce better quality eggs
• Regulate the hormones to produce a larger number of follicles
• Increase the blood flow to the uterus and increase the thickness of the uterine lining
• Relax the patient and decrease stress
• Prevent uterine contraction
• Lessen the side effects of Western hormone drugs used in IVF
• Improve the patient's immune system, circulation, lymphatic drainage
• Improve male semen to create better quality and quantity of embryos
• Decrease the chance of miscarriage

Research on increased pregnancy rates with acupuncture during IVF appears in the study Effects of Acupuncture on Pregnancy Rates in Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis, by Cui Hong Zheng, M.D., Ph.D.; Guang Ying Huang, M.D., Ph.D.; Ming Min Zhang, M.D., Ph.D.; and Wei Wang, M.D., Ph.D.

TriBalance Acupuncture and InVia Fertility Specialists have been working together over the past two years to increase our patients' success by fusing western and eastern/alternative medicine.

To receive fertility treatment from an integrated IVF-acupuncture team, make an appointment at one of InVia's four convenient Chicagoland locations.