Acupuncture in the Treatment of Infertility



Although there are many people who still view acupuncture as more mumbo jumbo than anything based on scientific fact, it is the area of the treatment of infertility that acupuncture has seemed to gain the most acceptance among the skeptics. This is especially true when the cause of the infertility is functional rather than structural. Structural infertility would be a condition such as a blocked fallopian tube. Functional infertility would be a condition where the cause is rooted more in either a hormonal or emotional problem.

Of course, the acupuncturist looks at the treatment of infertility as he does at all conditions that suggest a disharmony within the natural order of the human body. Studies have shown that acupuncture is extremely effective when it is used in conjunction with such infertility procedures as "in vitro" fertilization. It is thought by the Western practitioner that this is due to the stimulation of certain essential gender specific chemicals within the female body by the insertion of the acupuncture needles. It is also thought that the sense of mental well being and confidence that often accompanies acupuncture is helpful as well.

The acupuncturist would see the reasons for the success rate as a restoration of blood flow to the reproductive organs and the stabilization of hormone levels within the body. This aids ovulation and even sperm production in males and these factors make the chances of conception more likely. Even the most skeptical physicians admit that acupuncture is virtually without risk and they often take a "more is better" approach when dealing with most infertility issues. This means that anything that can not hurt you might help.

Most acupuncture treatments that are designed to treat infertility problems will be coupled with herbal medicines. There are a wide variety of herbal preparations that are thought to have a desirable impact on infertility problems. It is fairly common for most acupuncture treatments to be coupled with herbal treatments as well as diet and other lifestyle related approaches. This is typical of the approach of Traditional Chinese Medicine to treating the whole person and not just a specific disorder.

Although acupuncture has also been shown to reduce miscarriages and troublesome pregnancies, there are certain acupuncture points that are not thought to be safe for needling during the later stages of pregnancy. These acupuncture body points would be well known to an experienced acupuncturist. Western practitioners still recommend that you select an acupuncturist who specializes in infertility and pregnancy treatments.