Acupuncture is one of the most widely used and well-researched complementary therapies in IVF. Dr D'Alberto has extensive experience supporting patients through every stage of IVF, IUI and ICSI.
A landmark 2002 study by Paulus et al. found a significantly higher clinical pregnancy rate in women who received acupuncture on the day of embryo transfer — 42.5% versus 26.3% in the control group. Subsequent research has continued to build on these findings, and many UK fertility clinics now actively recommend acupuncture alongside IVF treatment.
Acupuncture supports IVF through multiple mechanisms: improving endometrial receptivity, reducing the inflammatory response to stimulation medications, supporting ovarian response and significantly reducing the psychological stress of the process.
Ideally, acupuncture should begin at least three months before your IVF cycle starts. This preparation phase is when treatment makes the greatest difference — improving egg quality, regulating hormones and optimising the endometrial environment. Three months corresponds to one complete egg maturation cycle.
If your cycle is already underway, it is not too late. Dr D'Alberto will adapt the treatment plan to wherever you are in the process.
In ICSI cycles, sperm quality plays a critical role. Dr D'Alberto routinely treats both partners simultaneously — improving sperm parameters while supporting the female partner through the IVF protocol. See our male fertility page for more detail.
The psychological burden of IVF is significant and often underestimated. Acupuncture consistently produces meaningful reductions in anxiety and stress hormones — and the quality of relaxation it provides is something many IVF patients describe as one of the most valuable benefits of their treatment programme.