Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments in the East. In recent years, however, acupuncture has gained popularity in the western world as alternative medicine, slowly working its way into use as a treatment for fertility. If you are considering fertility acupuncture to help you conceive, here is what you need to know.
How Does Fertility Acupuncture Work?
Fertility acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body. These points are connected to energy channels, which are responsible for the flow of Qi (pronounced "chee"). The theory behind acupuncture is that when Qi is not flowing smoothly, it can cause imbalances in the body, eventually leading to disease. By stimulating these points with needles, practitioners can encourage the smooth flow of Qi and help to restore balance in the body.
Does It Really Work?
While more research needs to be done in this area, there is some evidence that suggests that acupuncture may be an effective treatment for infertility issues. The Mayo Clinic views "acupuncture points as places to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue" that could be beneficial for stimulating fertility as well. Furthermore, the National Institutes of Health report that "acupuncture as a treatment for infertility shows great results both in men and women" and "can be considered as [a] successful treatment."
What Are the Benefits?
There are many potential benefits of acupuncture for fertility. One of the most well-known benefits is that it can help to reduce stress. Stress can be a major factor in infertility. In fact, a recent study showed that women with high levels of stress hormones indicated in their salvia took 29 percent longer to get pregnant. Acupuncture reduces stress levels in patients and, in doing so, may help to improve fertility in female patients trying to conceive.
Acupuncture has also been shown to improve blood circulation and increase the production of endorphins, both of which can improve fertility in men and women. In addition, acupuncture can help to regulate hormones and improve ovarian function.
If you are considering fertility acupuncture as a treatment for infertility, it is important to consult with a licensed practitioner. While there is some evidence that suggests it may be an effective treatment, more research needs to be done in this area. When performed by a qualified practitioner, however, fertility acupuncture is generally considered safe with few side effects. For more information on fertility acupuncture, contact a professional near you.
