Embryo transfers are a vital part of the in vitro fertilisation (IVF) process, giving a chance at pregnancy for those with difficulties conceiving. The embryo transfer process can be exhilarating and nerve-wracking at the same time, but thankfully, you are not alone. On top of your assisted reproductive treatment (ART) plan, acupuncture is sometimes used as a complementary therapy to support your body during the IVF process. Many people are unaware that using TCM both before and after IVF can help ensure a healthier baby, make the pregnancy process easier, and increase the success rate.
The Role of Acupuncture in Embryo Transfer
An embryo transfer involves a professional obstetrician-gynaecologist (ob-gyn) implanting a fertilised egg (or embryo) into the uterus. The success rate of the implantation depends on multiple factors, including the embryo quality, uterine receptivity towards the implantation, and the type of embryo transfer. Thorough care is still necessary to encourage favourable conditions for a successful implantation that leads to conception, especially as your body undergoes various changes during and after the procedure, including hormonal fluctuations.
Acupuncture can be a complementary therapy for an embryo transfer to maintain your body’s balance. It is believed to improve blood circulation (especially essential for the embryo’s development), which some believe can create more favourable conditions for implantation. In fact, some research has suggested that acupuncture is helpful as an adjunct treatment for embryo transfers.
Supportive Role of Acupuncture Before Embryo Transfer
You may start acupuncture sessions well before your embryo transfer date, as acupuncture may help to prepare your body for the many changes it will experience during the transfer. In TCM, acupuncture supports natural fertility and allows smooth blood and Qi (vital energy) flow to promote physical and reproductive well-being. Part of that includes increasing blood flow to the uterus to nourish the endometrium (the uterine lining), supporting a healthy menstrual cycle, and maintaining hormonal levels, which may help with ideal implantation conditions.
The quality of the embryos and the implantation rate are directly impacted by the physical state of the couple before IVF. TCM emphasises “regulating Qi and blood, nourishing essence and blood, and strengthening the kidney foundation.” TCM can improve ovarian function and egg quality, regulate the uterine lining to facilitate embryo implantation, and increase sperm vitality and improve sperm morphology in males using approaches such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage, and nutritional treatment.
Supportive Role of Acupuncture After Embryo Transfer
TCM can further play its role in “stabilising pregnancy and harmonising Qi” during this critical period after embryo transfer. By warming and nourishing Qi and blood, calming the mind and spirit, TCM can help:
- Reduce uterine contractions and stabilise the embryo
- Relieve anxiety and tension
- Lower the risk of miscarriage
In TCM, additional acupuncture sessions may continue to support your well-being and help a successful embryo transfer, as they promote your body’s healing process post-transfer. It may soothe anxiety during this emotional period while nourishing your uterus with blood and nutrients to support the embryo’s development.
Once the embryo transfer succeeds, you do not have to stop your acupuncture sessions. Further sessions may help to prepare your body for the trials and tribulations of pregnancy, especially as your body will undergo numerous changes to support the foetus. The demands of pregnancy can be greater than those of an embryo transfer, so it can be wise to keep up with acupuncture sessions to maintain your body’s natural harmony.
This is particularly true for older mothers, have a history of repeated miscarriages, or have immune-related conditions. A strong foundation for a healthy pregnancy and unborn child may be laid by continued TCM therapy, which can support the pregnancy and promote foetal growth.
Tips That May Help Your Embryo Transfer
In between acupuncture sessions and visits with your doctor, you may do other things to encourage favourable conditions for your embryo transfer.
- Take all medications as instructed by your doctor.
- Keep yourself entertained with activities and hobbies you enjoy. This will help distract you from the nerve-wracking procedure (and the waiting).
- Get sufficient rest and sleep to maintain your well-being.
- Minimise your caffeine and alcohol intake, and stop smoking.
- Keep yourself warm at all times to minimise the risk of a cold uterus. Warm socks are a handy addition to have at home.
- Enjoy a high-fat (healthy fats), low-carb diet to reduce inflammation in your body. Balance it with a healthy mix of whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables.
- Avoid products that contain formaldehyde, parabens, phthalates, and BPAs, among other chemicals. These are known to be harmful to your hormone levels and reproductive health.
Everybody’s constitution is unique. Since TCM treatment strongly emphasises “individualised diagnosis and treatment,” it is advised to see a qualified TCM physician. TCM is excellent in enhancing general health and constitution, whereas IVF is a strength of Western treatment. Combining the two strategies and utilising their advantages can make the pregnancy journey easier.
If you are keen to know more about acupuncture for IVF treatments, contact 1TCM today!
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I start acupuncture after an embryo transfer?
You can schedule an acupuncture session one day after the embryo transfer. That way, you can resume maintaining your body’s natural harmony and reproductive health while waiting for the implantation results. Check out our detailed acupuncture and IVF timeline for a clearer understanding.
Does acupuncture help with implantation?
In TCM, acupuncture helps the uterus be nourished with blood and nutrients and regulates physical wellness by clearing blockages that may impede healthy blood and Qi circulation. Relaxing your mind and body may also help you manage stress.
Is doing TCM when combined with IVF safe for me?
Acupuncture and TCM herbs don’t conflict with IVF therapy. To improve your chances of success, TCM therapies are often planned around your IVF procedure.
For instance, to improve blood flow to your ovaries and womb, acupuncture will be planned around the days of egg harvesting and embryo transfer.
What can I expect from my first session of acupuncture?
Your initial acupuncture session often includes a thorough consultation with a TCM physician to learn about your medical history and present issues. Tiny needles are inserted at certain acupoints to provide real acupuncture therapy.
Can acupuncture improve my chances of becoming pregnant and the success rate of IVF?
Acupuncture can correct abnormalities in the body’s constitution that might lead to infertility. Additionally, it can reduce stress, restore hormonal balance and Qi (vital energy) to the body, and promote circulation to the womb to raise IVF success chances.
How should my IVF schedule match with my acupuncture treatment?
With more extensive therapy planned around the dates of your IVF treatments, our TCM physicians will customise your treatment plans based on your IVF cycle.
How many sessions of acupuncture do I need to get pregnant?
The patient’s age, the condition of your body, and the severity of the anomalies will all affect how many therapy sessions you need. The likelihood of getting pregnant is not guaranteed, and various bodies will require varying amounts of time and sessions to conceive.
Our TCM physicians will provide you with a tailored treatment plan to address the underlying causes of your problems and assist you in your reproductive journey. Generally speaking, it takes 3 to 6 months of bodily fitness to achieve your best reproductive health.
Can acupuncture help relieve the side effects of IVF treatment?
Yes. Bloating, exhaustion, and mood swings are some adverse effects of IVF treatment that acupuncture can help manage. It may improve energy levels and emotional balance, improving general well-being.
