Integrating Acupuncture with IVF: Timing for Optimal Results

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) are opening new doors for couples and individuals looking to conceive. The problem, however, is that results cannot be guaranteed despite technological advances and doctors’ best efforts.

For this reason, many individuals preparing for in vitro fertilization (IVF) and other complex ART treatments often look for ways to boost their chances of success. One method that has been gaining traction is acupuncture for fertility, available in various clinics across Downey, CA.

Of course, this comes as no surprise. After all, acupuncture has been around for over two millennia, and has been shown to help regulate hormones, improve egg health, and promote uterine receptivity – in addition to reducing stress levels.

Logically, when combined with IVF, these effects can create a favorable environment for embryo implantation and development. However, knowing when to start acupuncture and how to time sessions is essential if you want to maximize chances of success.

When is the best time to have acupuncture during IVF?

While acupuncture can be integrated as a support therapy throughout the IVF cycle, certain timings can provide very specific, targeted benefits.

Before ovarian stimulation (8 to 12 weeks before)

Acupuncture has been shown to improve blood flow to the ovaries and promote follicle development – two things necessary for the creation of healthy oocytes (eggs). Since oocytes take about three months to mature, starting sessions well before ovarian stimulation ensures that forming eggs receive steady nourishment, developing strong and healthy.

During ovarian stimulation

Once the treatment begins, acupuncture can be used as a hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis support, which can contribute to the retrieval of higher-quality eggs by helping:

• Regulate the body’s hormonal balance;
• Further promote follicle development;
• Mitigate potential side effects, such as bloating and mood swings. 

Immediately before & after implantation

These periods are widely considered to be the most critical stages of the IVF cycle, which is why supporting them with acupuncture can be beneficial in several ways:

• Before: A session (or several) immediately before egg transfer can create a more favorable environment for the egg by:
  • Increase the blood flow to the uterus;
  • Promoting endometrial lining development;
  • Reducing uterine contractions;
  • Promoting a more relaxed state of mind.
• After: Post-transfer sessions can help support the ongoing implantation process and further support patients’ well-being during the critical “two-week wait” period by helping with:
  • Hormonal balance and regulation;
  • Stress and anxiety reduction;
  • Uterine irritability reduction;
  • Immune system modulation;
  • Further enhancing uterine blood flow.

During early pregnancy or the luteal phase

Continuing with acupuncture through the luteal phase or early stages of pregnancy means that you’ll continue to receive the benefits described above in the “After” section. However, it may also help relieve some discomforts common during this critical fertility period, including anxiety, fatigue, and cramping, thereby making the entire experience more pleasant – and more likely to bear fruit.

Who does professional acupuncture for fertility near me in the Downey area?

At Oasis Healing Arts, helping couples and individuals in the Downey area maximize their chances of conception is what we do best. With individualized protocols timed to your specific cycle, we’re helping you nurture the body and the mindset that support successful implantation.

Whether you’re still considering IVF or you’re well into the treatment, you can count on our doctors’ mindful guidance to keep you well-informed and confident every step of the way. Schedule your consultation today!