Infertility is set to double in Europe over the next decade, whilst in the UK one in seven couples now has trouble conceiving naturally.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine has been shown to increase fertility and increase the success rates of IVF. Whether you want to conceive naturally, or use IVF, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can significantly increase your fertility.

3-4 Month Preconception Care

Preparation for pregnancy can begin months prior to conception. If both partners adopt a preconceptual healthcare programme including fertility acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for at least 3-4 months prior to conception, it is possible to have an impact on the health of both the egg and sperm and reproductive outcomes.

Even a six week fertility acupuncture programme prior to commencing IVF or fertility acupuncture treatment is beneficial. During this period, your acupuncturist may prescribe Chinese herbal remedies, which are approved by the UK Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine.

During IVF or Fertility Treatment

Your acupuncturist recommends weekly acupuncture for the women from the first day of medication through to embryo transfer. Where there is no male factor infertility, your acupuncturist recommends a single fertility acupuncture treatment for the male prior to egg collection to relieve anxiety.

Where there is male factor infertility, a fertility acupuncture programme is recommended for the male to optimise sperm quality, motility and count.

Embryo Transfer

Your acupuncturist recommends a fertility acupuncture treatment before and after embryo transfer to improve pregnancy rates. Ideally, this is recommended on the same day as close to your embryo transfer appointment.

After Embryo Transfer

Your acupuncturist recommends one or two fertility acupuncture treatments during the two week wait period before you take a pregnancy test. This is primarily to support you emotionally, to ease anxiety and promote relaxation.

Once your pregnant

Your acupuncturist recommends weekly acupuncture treatment during the first trimester, up to week 12/13 as there is a higher risk of miscarriage in IVF induced pregnancies. The treatments are gentle and supportive and help promote a healthy pregnancy.