Acupuncture and Fertility
1 in 6 couples have difficulty conceiving and in up to 40% of cases, there is a male fertility issue. There is a growing body of research which suggests that acupuncture has a valuable role in increasing the chances of a positive outcome for natural conception and healthy pregnancy.
We work with one or both partners, looking at lifestyle factors, diet (and nutritional supplementation programs), interpreting Basal Body Temperature (BBT) charts and sperm analysis according to Chinese medicine. We work with natural family planning, helping a woman to recognise signs in her cycle which indicate when she may be more fertile.
Assisted Reproductive Techniques
Acupuncture can be very effective working alongside Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART) such as IVF, IUI and ICSI. It may help:
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Improve the blood flow to the uterus
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Calm the uterus ready for implantation
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Alleviate unwanted side effects of the medical treatment
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Improve responses to hormonal stimulation
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Deal with the inherent stress and tension that accompanies these procedures.
Male Fertility
Fertility has traditionally been considered a female concern, but male related factors can now account for around 35-40% of cases of non-conception. Sperm counts, in particular, have been declining at a very rapid rate over recent years. However, there is a lot that can be done to improve sperm. New sperm are constantly being produced and by making a few, often simple changes in a number of areas, together with acupuncture treatment, male partners can make a significant difference to both the quality and quantity of sperm.
Miscarriage
It is important to prepare as much as possible before conceiving to ensure an optimal start to pregnancy. Alongside acupuncture treatment, we look at aspects of diet and lifestyle which need to be considered by both partners when planning a pregnancy and to try to prevent miscarriage.
Pregnancy and Post-natal care
It is recommended that acupuncture is continued during pregnancy to support the growing foetus, and to nourish and balance the mother’s energy through the 9 months. We also offer induction and breech treatments, a childbirth service and post-natal home visits.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a system of healing which has been practiced in China and other Eastern countries for thousands of years. According to traditional Chinese philosophy, our health is dependent on the body’s energy—known as qi—moving in a smooth and balanced way through a series of channels beneath the skin. By inserting fine, disposable needles into the channels of energy, an acupuncturist can stimulate the body’s own healing response and help restore its natural balance.
Frequency of Treatments
In traditional acupuncture, each person is considered unique. The number of treatments required depends on the individual. However, on average, treatments are required once or twice a week for 4 - 6 treatments. The treatments are then spaced out according to individual requirements. Sometimes the effects of the treatment are dramatic and only one or two treatments are required. With other patients, the effects are more subtle and they may need treatment over several months. It takes approximately 3 months for eggs and sperm to come to maturation, so when considering natural fertility techniques, it is sometimes recommended to consider having treatment initially for 3 - 6 months.
For further information and appointments telephone:
Houri Alavi 01273 705178 or Email: hourialavi@btinternet.com
Elaine Gibbons 01273 562676 or Email:megibbons@ntlworld.com
Houri and Elaine are members of British Acupuncture Council.
To find out more about Houri and Elaine please visit the profiles page
For more detailed information about acupuncture and fertility please visit www.acupuncture4women.org.uk