Acupuncture is proving to be truly complementary to the modern western conventional treatments offered for fertility. Not only has research proved its ability to enhance the effectiveness but it also helps the body to deal with the side effects of the drugs and relieve some of the stress and anxiety which is inevitable with this type of treatment.

Recent research has shown that acupuncture increases the success rates of IVF and IVI by almost 50%. Studies show that acupuncture decreases stress and increases blood flow to the uterus/fallopian tubes and ovaries. It can increase the thickness of the womb lining overnight by almost 4-6 inches. It also deceases cramping in the womb after IVF treatment thereby decreasing expulsion of the embryo. It is known to assist the implantation of the embryo.

Ideally best results are seen if acupuncture commences 2-3 months prior to IVF/IVI. During this time the menstrual cycle is balanced, the uterus is nourished and the quality of the eggs is increased.

However, if time is of the essence then starting acupuncture sessions as soon as possible will have a positive effects on the outcome of your treatment.

Generally I would see you weekly throughout the IVF process and then before/after egg collection and embryo transfer. Treatment can then be continued weekly for a while to maintain the infertility of the pregnancy.

High FSH

High FSH levels according to TCM indicates a deficiency in Ki Yin E, which is normally needed to make good, fertile eggs. As in western medicine, fertility decreases with age, in TCM the Ki Yin and energetics of the Ki decreases with age. Acupuncture nourishes and supports the Ki Yin and thus decreases raised FSH levels. FSH levels can also be related to factors such as movement of blood in the uterus or the emotional state of a person – in these circumstances acupuncture can stabilise FSH levels.

FSH

A baseline FSH blood test on day 3 of the menstrual cycle gives an overall indication of the ‘ovarian reserve’ which is the capacity of the ovary to provide eggs that are capable of fertilisation resulting in a healthy pregnancy.

Increased FSH generally represents a reduced egg supply and may also reflect a decrease in egg quality.

Generally FSH levels are expected to be below 10 miu/ml levels of 10-15 miu/ml are considered borderline.