An alternative to "so-called" modern methods for the treatment of fertility is an ancient method of healing - acupuncture. Of course, it's not a catch-all for couples that have been having problems having a baby. For example: Acupuncture treatment for couples with structural issues (i.e. blocked sperm or duct damaged fallopian tubes) are less likely to have success than couples with issues like inconsistent ovulation.

Working Principle of Acupuncture

The interrelationship of exactly how fertility and acupuncture relate is still less than completely clear. However, most acupuncture experts currently believe that acupuncture works by improving overall body functions by increasing blood flow to the genital organs and balancing blood hormone levels. This ability results in enhanced ovarian function in women and in men increased sperm production.

Invisible channels of energy run throughout the body, called chi, according to the traditional concept of Chinese medicine. Also called meridians, if obstructed at any one point, these channels of energy begin to build up in certain regions of the body or organs while other areas no longer get adequate energy to properly function. To alleviate obstructions needles are placed on select spots. Modern medical science is of the opinion that the use of needles helps to stimulate the nervous system and triggers the release of chemicals within the muscles, spinal cord and brain. This results in the body being put into a position to heal itself which is always the best method of healing.

Fertility in Women

Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated that acupuncture is a good complementary form of therapy in women who are undergoing other forms of fertility treatments. One take on the positive relationship acupuncture generates in women is that it relieves the worry and stress they undergo while being treated fertility.

In addition, it's been found that the success rate for women who are undergoing in-vitro fertilization is higher if the treatment is accompanied with acupuncture treatment. Another positive aspect of has been the ratio of ectopic (out of place) pregnancies and miscarriages has been found to be significantly lower for women who underwent acupuncture treatment.

Higher Rates of Pregnancy and Acupuncture

The causal relationship between fertility and acupuncture has also been studied. One example has been the number of pregnancies that were reported in women who were classified as hopeless by medical doctors but as a last desperate hope in getting pregnant turned to the use of acupuncture needles and actually got pregnant.

These studies have been challenged by the medical establishment who have argued that even without acupuncture such women could have gotten pregnant by using biofeedback (i.e. changing their thought patterns to positively influence their internal systems). While the opinion of the medical community remains divided on the issue of acupuncture and fertility, because it has been proven to be a safe procedure most doctors have no problem in giving their patients the go-ahead to give acupuncture a try.

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