Fertility and Acupuncture
Improve your chances of conception, healthy pregnancy and uncomplicated birth
“What feels like the end, is often the new beginning.”
For many couples achieving parenthood is a difficult and very stressful experience. Often gynaecological disorders such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, irregular periods, polycystic ovaries stand in the way of an easy conception. However, about 40% of infertility cases are due to a male factor like low sperm count, poor sperm quality and motility or both. Sometimes no organic cause is found by conventional doctors.
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Whether you are trying to conceive naturally, or undergoing IVF or ICSI treatment, already pregnant or preparing for labour and birth, Traditional Chinese Acupuncture can be of great benefit for men and women by strengthening the body to help reduce your stress levels, improve your hormonal balance or boost the effects of fertility drugs.
The British Acupuncture Council have reviewed research on acupuncture and infertility and suggests that acupuncture may work by:​
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Increasing egg production
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Improving oocyte quality
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Strengthening the immune system
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Reducing stress, relaxing the uterus
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Regulating fertility hormones
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Supporting implantation and blood flow
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Nourishing embryo growth
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Preventing uterine contractions
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Enhancing luteal function
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Normalising cortisol and prolactin levels
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Regulating FSH expression
Trying to conceive
Even miracles take a little time.
Acupuncture can help the body achieve optimal health ready for conception to take place (with or without IVF treatment). Having troubles conceiving can cause a lot of worry and distress. I am able to support you through this testing period in your life with the latest scientific advice, acupuncture treatment and general holistic support.
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By rebalancing the body, acupuncture can regulate ovulation & menstruation as well as support the healthy implantation of a fertilised egg.
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​Additionally acupuncture can in many cases help with low sperm count and low motility by improving sperm quality and thereby increasing fertilisation rates.
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It is well documented that acupuncture during IVF can increase the chances of fertilisation and a healthy pregnancy.
IVF Support
Ideally I would like to start seeing you at least 3 months BEFORE you embark on IVF treatment in order to give your body the chance to adjust to treatment, improve and benefit from dietary and lifestyle changes. Both the development of new healthy follicles and sperm takes time - and sometimes the invasive and costly methods of IVF are no longer needed.
Eggs take 3 – 4 months to mature, but even a month of supplements, acupuncture, diet and lifestyle can improve egg quality, especially when you are preparing for an IVF cycle. Of course, the more time you have, the more your eggs and your overall health will benefit.
A healthy pregnancy
Acupuncture is also a safe and effective treatment during pregnancy, at a time when medications have to be taken with care. It may bring relief with issues such as:
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Nausea and sickness
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Acid reflux and heartburn
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Sciatica & muscle tension
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Constipation
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Carpal tunnel syndrome
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Anxiety
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Fatigue and insomnia
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Water retention
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Studies show that a special treatment called moxibustion is a safe and effective way of turning a breech baby.
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Usually one visit is required, as treatment can be continued at home by you and your partner. I will show you how to do this, to give your baby the best chance of turning.
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Treatment can start from around 33-35 weeks.
Birth & Motherhood
Preparing for Birth
Research shows acupuncture can reduce the average labour time and improve the chances of a natural birth without intervention.
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Weekly treatment from 36 weeks can prepare your body for birth by encouraging the cervix to ripen and dilate, relaxing the ligaments and regulating hormones.
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Overdue
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If your pregnancy goes overdue, you may face a medical induction. Studies have found acupuncture to be very effective in inducing labour naturally.
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Not Enough Milk
Acupuncture can help to stimulate milk production following childbirth, in women with insufficient lactation.
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Post Natal Depression
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​Sometimes the ‘baby blues’ can develop further and depression can be the result. This can be a very confusing time for you as a new mother as well as for your partner and family.
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Acupuncture can settle your anxieties and help to lift the dark clouds, enabling you to enjoy motherhood and your life again.
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