Infertility issues are heartbreaking, and are all too common. Yet with proper intervention, many couples can achieve their dreams of pregnancy. Both fertility acupuncture and IVF (in vitro fertilization) have been repeatedly shown to increase the chances for a successful pregnancy. Increasingly, however, they are being used together for even better results. If you are considering blending fertility acupuncture with IVF treatments, here is what you can expect.

Fertility Acupuncture

In Eastern medicine, patients are treated holistically, with a focus on creating optimal health and wellness. Fertility acupuncture helps the mother to become as healthy as possible, and gently prepares the body for pregnancy. Because each woman is unique, the approach to fertility acupuncture is highly individualized. However, it always proceeds along the same general path:

• Evaluation: Your first appointment will consist of a thorough evaluation of your current state of emotional and physical health. Your acupuncturist will ask detailed questions to help him or her understand the issues that you currently face, and your specific challenges to pregnancy.

• Fertility Plan: Based on the results of your evaluation, your acupuncturist will work with you to develop a comprehensive three to six-month fertility plan. Your plan will include close monitoring, ongoing nutritional and lifestyle assessment, and compassionate counseling.

• Personalized Treatment: Besides regular acupuncture sessions, your individualized treatment protocol might include dietary changes, supplements, vitamins, and herbal remedies designed to support your body and help it get ready for the stresses of pregnancy.

• Coping Strategies: In addition to in-office support and treatment, you will learn strategies for managing the stress hormones that are triggered by day to day life, and how to prevent them from interfering with your body’s ability to conceive.

In Vitro Fertilization

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a Western medical procedure in which an egg is fertilized outside of the body, and then transferred into the uterus. It can have excellent results, especially when used by younger couples. However, it is expensive and complicated, and there are no guarantees, especially for couples over age 40.

Thankfully, an increasing number of Western doctors have discovered that fertility acupuncture can boost the effectiveness of IVF. It appears that the process of gently preparing the body for pregnancy also makes it more likely that the IVF will be successful.

Many Western doctors now refer their IVF patients to fertility acupuncturists, or are open to the idea if suggested by the patient. Many acupuncturists are equally open to working with Western physicians, and might already have established relationships with local doctors. Be sure to speak with both practitioners before you begin treatment to establish how they will work together to best meet your needs.

The goal of blended treatment is to develop and execute a comprehensive, holistic treatment plan that provides the best chances for a successful pregnancy. If desired, your acupuncturist can continue to work with you and your doctor throughout your pregnancy, providing supportive treatments and even helping your body get ready to give birth.

Male Fertility Concerns

Acupuncture and Eastern medicine treat both partners who are trying to conceive. Male fertility issues are surprisingly common, but are often overlooked by Western medicine. Using a combination of acupuncture, herbal remedies, and nutrition and lifestyle changes, your acupuncturist can help to ensure that both parents are as healthy as possible, and are physically and emotionally ready to become biological parents.

Infertility is heartbreaking, but with proper treatment, many couples can become natural parents. Blending fertility acupuncture with IVF combines the best of the East and the West, giving you the best possible chances for a successful and healthy pregnancy. Talk to both practitioners in advance to develop a holistic treatment plan that is customized to your individual needs.

Located in Pacific Palisades, with satellite clinics in Santa Monica, Sherman Oaks, and Beverly Hills, Thumos Health Center offers patients exceptional personalized care. If you are ready to take the first steps toward a more integrative approach to your health care, we invite you to phone 310-927-2792 to schedule an appointment at any of our Los Angeles locations. Our highly knowledgeable and friendly staff will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you might have.