Fertility and IVF support

One of the primary ways acupuncture and herbal medicine may benefit female fertility is by assisting with the regulation of menstrual cycles. Irregular periods may indicate hormonal imbalances, such as PCOS, or other underlying issues that can affect ovulation. We will work with you at each stage of the menstrual cycle and adjust each treatment, or herbal formula, accordingly, to help balance follicular and luteal phases, and encourage a healthy menstrual flow. Acupuncture and herbal medicine can support the menstrual cycle by promoting the flow of qi and blood, thereby encouraging regular ovulation and increasing the likelihood of conception.

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Acupuncture may improve blood flow to the uterus, helping to create a more hospitable environment for embryo implantation. Enhanced blood flow helps to ensure that the uterine lining is thick and healthy, which is optimal for a successful pregnancy. By increasing circulation to the reproductive organs, acupuncture may assist the enhancement of fertility and support overall reproductive health.

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For male fertility, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine may offer several benefits. One key area is to support the improvement of sperm quality and quantity. Acupuncture may assist sperm motility and morphology by increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs and reducing stress, which can negatively impact sperm production. By addressing these factors, acupuncture and herbal medicine can work together to help create a more conducive environment for sperm health, thereby increasing the chances of successful conception. This holistic approach also emphasises lifestyle changes, such as stress reduction and dietary improvements, which further support male fertility and overall wellbeing.

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Unexplained infertility can be particularly challenging for couples, as there are no identifiable medical reasons for the slow start to conception. In such cases, Traditional Chinese medicine can offer a holistic approach. One of its benefits is the use of a differential diagnostic framework to identify and support the regulation of underlying imbalances, even when biomedicine cannot pinpoint the cause. This system views each person as uniquely individual and works at root cause level as well as the symptoms. 

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Acupuncture and IVF

Acupuncture can play a significant supportive role during the IVF cycle. By incorporating acupuncture sessions, patients may experience reduced stress levels and improved emotional balance, which are important during the often challenging IVF process. This ancient practice may help support hormone balance, enhance blood flow to the ovaries, and may improve the response to ovarian stimulation, potentially increasing egg retrieval.

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Additionally, acupuncture is believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can be particularly beneficial during embryo transfer. By promoting relaxation this may also improve the chances of successful implantation. 

At Eight Branches, our approach to acupuncture during IVF is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual or couple. We take into consideration the specific stages of the IVF cycle and adjust our treatments accordingly to provide the most effective support. Whether you are at the beginning of your IVF journey or in the middle of cycles, acupuncture can offer a complementary strategy to support your fertility goals.

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How we can support you

At the initial consultation we take a closer look at all aspects of your life and health, both physical and emotional. We explore which areas may be affecting fertility, and from this create a treatment plan. You can choose to opt for acupuncture, herbal medicine, reflexology, lifestyle guidance, or a combination thereof. You may have already selected which form of treatment option you have in mind. But if you are undecided your practitioner can provide guidance to suit your individual needs and requirements, and a bespoke package of treatments can be discussed. Bespoke packages provide the opportunity to explore in more detail beneficial ways to help yourself, such as addressing lifestyle choices which may not be serving you well during this time. It can also include providing dietary wisdom using the principles of Chinese nutritional therapy, and self-care practices to help improve wellbeing.  

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All packages can be tailored to suit you as the individual, whether stand-alone sessions focusing on one treatment option, or a combination of several approaches.  Whatever your support needs during this time, we may be able to help you.