Fertility Acupuncture in Vancouver Expertise for Your Family's Future

At West End Wellness, we are excited to offer Acupuncture as a natural way to support fertility and enhance chances of conception. Acupuncture provides several benefits for fertility:

• It improves blood circulation to the reproductive organs, which nourishes the uterus and ovaries

• Regulates hormones to support ovulation and a healthy menstrual cycle

• Reduces stress levels and promotes relaxation

• Increases the thickness of the uterine lining to support implantation

• It can be used alongside reproductive treatments like IVF to improve outcomes

We customize Acupuncture treatments to address each individual's fertility challenges, whether that involves irregular cycles, poor egg quality, recurrent miscarriages, or unexplained infertility.

Acupuncture is a safe, drug-free option that supports overall well-being on the journey to conception. It can be used alone or combined with other fertility treatments. We look forward to helping couples enhance their fertility naturally with acupuncture. Contact us today to learn more or schedule your first appointment.

Studies on Acupuncture for Fertility

• A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis of 27 randomized controlled trials with over 7,600 participants found acupuncture significantly increased clinical pregnancy and live birth rates compared to control groups. [1]

• A 2016 pilot study found an Acupuncture protocol normalized menstrual cycles and increased fertility awareness compared to lifestyle controls in subfertile women. [2]

• A 2020 randomized controlled trial showed Acupuncture increased pregnancy success rates from IVF compared to controls. [3]

• A 2017 meta-analysis showed Acupuncture improved sperm concentration, motility, and morphology compared to controls. [4]

• Multiple studies show Acupuncture reduces stress and anxiety levels, which is beneficial for fertility. [5]

While more research is still needed, these studies demonstrate Acupuncture can improve fertility outcomes through effects on reproductive hormones, sperm parameters, IVF success rates, menstrual regulation, and stress reduction.

The evidence supports Acupuncture as an effective complementary therapy alongside standard fertility treatments.

How Acupuncture Can Help With Fertility

• Improves blood flow to the reproductive organs like the ovaries and uterus. This nourishes the uterus and can increase mature eggs. [1] [2]

• Regulates hormones and menstrual cycle. Acupuncture helps balance hormones to promote ovulation and support normal cycles.[1] [3]

• Reduces stress and anxiety levels. Stress reduction is critical for fertility, and acupuncture promotes relaxation. [2] [4]

• Increases thickness of the uterine lining to support implantation and early pregnancy. [3] [5]

• Improves sperm health and parameters like concentration, motility and morphology. [1] [4]

• It can be used alongside IVF to increase success rates. Studies show improved fertilization and pregnancy rates. [2] [6]

• Addresses conditions like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism that impact fertility. [4]

• When combined with herbs, it improves ovarian and follicular function. [5]

• It provides a drug-free option to support fertility without side effects. [3]

The evidence shows acupuncture regulates hormones and circulation, reduces stress, and improves egg/sperm quality to enhance fertility naturally. It is a safe complementary therapy that can boost fertility on its own or with treatments like IVF.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

• Mild bruising, bleeding, or soreness where needles are inserted [1] [2]

• Temporary fatigue, dizziness, or feeling faint after treatment [2] [3]

• Aggravation of symptoms initially before improvement [4]

• Very rare risks like infection or punctured organs if not performed properly [1] [5]

• Should not be used alongside anticoagulant medication due to bleeding risk [1]

• Not recommended for those with bleeding disorders like hemophilia6

• Not advised for those with metal allergies [3]

• It can potentially stimulate labour if used at certain points, so caution in pregnancy [1]

• Interaction with pacemakers is possible through electrical stimulation [1]

However, when performed by a licensed, certified Acupuncturist using single-use disposable needles, Acupuncturist is considered very low risk [1].

Most side effects are mild. Serious risks can be avoided through proper patient screening. Overall, the evidence supports Acupuncturists as a relatively safe fertility treatment when proper precautions are taken.

What to Expect With Fertility Acupuncture

• Initial Consultation - The Acupuncturist will discuss your fertility goals and medical history and develop a customized treatment plan.

• Relaxing Setting - The room will have soft lighting and calming music to create a peaceful atmosphere.

• Comfortable Positioning - You'll lie down on a treatment table or sit in a reclining chair. Supportive pillows make sure you're comfortable.

• Needle Insertion - The acupuncturist will insert very thin, sterile, single-use needles at specific points on your body. You'll feel only minimal pain or discomfort.

• Points Targeted - Needles are often placed in areas like the abdomen, legs, ears or hands. Points are selected to benefit fertility.

• Gentle Stimulation - The needles may be gently twisted or stimulated to activate the intended effects. Some points involve electrical stimulation.

• Duration - Sessions typically last around 30-60 minutes. The needles remain in place the entire time.

• Relaxation - Many people experience deep relaxation or even fall asleep during the session.

• Aftercare - The acupuncturist removes the needles and may provide lifestyle advice. Most people feel relaxed and energized after.

• Frequency - Depending on your fertility goals, treatments may be weekly or more frequent.

Acupuncture is a safe, relaxing therapy that can enhance fertility in both women and men. Each customized session supports your reproductive health.

Is Acupuncture Covered by Insurance For Fertility Treatment

Yes! All services are covered by most extended health plans in BC. Before booking, it is best to get in contact with your employer or extended health provider (including students) to find out about your coverage. We will sort out any direct billing for RMT and acupuncture for you, so to avoid one less stress.