Fertility & Women’s Health
Fertility & Women’s Health
FERTILITY ACUPUNCTURE in Encinitas, CA
Be + Well Acupuncture is dedicated to nurturing and supporting individuals and couples on their unique fertility journeys. Our comprehensive care includes specialized assistance for natural conception, IVF, and IUI treatments. Through an integrative approach, we empower you to confidently embark on your path to parenthood.
Fertility Support
Be + Well Acupuncture is proud to support the families of North County San Diego during their fertility journey. Whether you are undergoing IVF or are trying naturally, acupuncture greatly increases pregnancy and birth rates, reduces stress, and can make labor and delivery easier. Acupuncture for fertility support comes highly recommended by the American Society of Reproductive Medicine. If you are still in the planning stages, it is recommended to begin acupuncture treatments 3 months prior to actively trying to conceive or 3 months before beginning IVF treatments if possible. We are happy to work alongside your OBGYN or reproductive endocrinologist along the way.
Acupuncture, whether utilized independently or in combination with herbal remedies, has demonstrated numerous positive effects, including:
- Enhanced Uterine Blood Flow: Acupuncture promotes increased blood circulation to the uterus, which can improve the uterine environment for conception and implantation.
- Improved Ovarian Function: By stimulating the ovaries, acupuncture may help enhance ovarian function, leading to improved follicle development and better egg quality.
- Hormonal Regulation: Acupuncture has the potential to regulate hormone levels, fostering hormonal balance and optimizing reproductive health.
- Prevention of Uterine Contraction: Acupuncture treatments can help prevent uterine contractions, reducing the risk of early pregnancy loss.
- Reduction of Drug Side Effects: Acupuncture has been found to mitigate the adverse effects of fertility medications, minimizing discomfort and enhancing overall well-being during the treatment process.
- Immune System Regulation: Acupuncture has the ability to modulate the immune system, creating a more favorable environment for successful conception and pregnancy.
- Decreased Miscarriage Risk: By addressing underlying factors that contribute to miscarriage, acupuncture may help reduce the chances of pregnancy loss.
- Reduction of Physical and Emotional Stress: Acupuncture can provide relaxation and stress relief, supporting both physical and emotional well-being during the fertility journey.
- Improved Egg and Sperm Quality: Acupuncture has been associated with enhancing the quality of eggs and sperm, potentially increasing the chances of successful fertilization and healthy embryo development.
These remarkable benefits highlight the potential of acupuncture as a valuable adjunct therapy for those seeking to optimize their fertility and increase their chances of conception.
IUI/IVF
For individuals and couples pursuing assisted reproductive techniques such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), the journey to parenthood can be both exciting and challenging. At Be + Well Acupuncture, we understand the unique needs and concerns that arise during these fertility treatments.
Preparing for your cycle:
In order to maximize the influence of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine on your fertility, we recommend starting treatment in the three months leading up to your active cycle. This is particularly important because eggs undergo a maturation process in the ovaries for a few months before they are recruited for an active cycle. By enhancing blood flow and providing adequate nutrition during this crucial period, we can help improve the vitality of the developing follicles and enhance the ovary’s response to medication.
Preparing for an IVF cycle:
For individuals preparing for an IVF cycle, our typical recommendation is to receive acupuncture treatment twice per week in the three months leading up to the active cycle. In some cases, herbal formulas may also be recommended during this period. We focus on balancing hormones, improving uterine blood flow, and addressing any constitutional deficiencies. By utilizing acupuncture, dietary guidance, and/or herbal support, we aim to provide your body with the necessary nutritional building blocks for optimal response to your assisted reproductive technology (ART) protocol.
During the active IVF cycle, we increase the frequency of acupuncture sessions to twice weekly while you are on stimulating medications. We also time the treatments around the transfer procedure. Please note that the use of herbs is generally not recommended during this phase, especially if you are taking multiple stimulating medications.
Preparing for IUI:
For individuals undergoing IUI cycles, we focus on promoting all four phases of the menstrual cycle, similar to natural cycles. Whether you are pursuing a natural IUI without medications or including some form of medication, we will determine the appropriate acupuncture treatment plan for you. Generally, we recommend acupuncture sessions once or twice per week to support all phases of the cycle. Some individuals opt for an additional session around the time of the IUI procedure.
FAQ
The number of acupuncture sessions needed for fertility treatment varies depending on individual circumstances. Generally, it is recommended to undergo a series of treatments, often ranging from 6 to 12 sessions. The frequency of sessions can be weekly or bi-weekly. Your acupuncturist will assess your specific needs and provide a personalized treatment plan to maximize your chances of success.
Absolutely. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can complement Western fertility treatments effectively. Many individuals choose to combine these modalities to enhance the effects of Western treatments such as IVF or IUI. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help optimize reproductive health, regulate hormones, reduce side effects from medications, and support emotional well-being during the process. It’s important to communicate and coordinate with both your acupuncturist and medical doctor to ensure a comprehensive and integrated approach to your fertility journey.
