The Science Behind Acupuncture for Fertility and Pregnancy

Female infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant after 12 months of unprotected sex. Infertility is rising in the U.S. Some infertile women can get pregnant but cannot carry a pregnancy to term.

Many women with fertility struggles turn to acupuncture for help. The ancient Chinese medical technique originated around 3,000 years ago. It involves inserting needles through the skin at strategic points (known as acupoints) in the body to heal energy blockages, believed to be the root cause of all illnesses.

Studies show that acupuncture can address fertility problems in several ways. Uterine fibroids can cause infertility by obstructing the fallopian tubes or preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. Acupuncture for fertility in Santa Rosa helps reduce the size of uterine fibroids and increases circulation to the uterus. A healthy uterus nurtures the fertilized ovum, so it can develop into an embryo and then a fetus.

Endometriosis is another common cause of fertility problems. It is a painful disorder that occurs when tissue that is similar to the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it. Studies show that around 30-50% of women with endometriosis are infertile. Acupuncture is an effective treatment for endometriosis pain and fertility struggles that manifest due to the condition.

Research suggests that stress and anxiety may affect fertility. Stress during pregnancy can trigger a chemical chain reaction that may lead to miscarriage. Acupuncture works to ease stress by stimulating the brain to secrete endorphins and other feel-good hormones. Acupuncture improves blood circulation throughout the body, oxygenates tissues, and lowers cortisol levels naturally.

Many women with fertility problems opt for fertility treatments such as IVF and IUI. If you are undergoing fertility treatment, acupuncture can improve your chances of getting pregnant by improving blood flow to your reproductive organs such as the ovaries and uterus. Women with a thick and well-nourished endometrial lining are more likely to have a successful pregnancy with IVF.

A weakened immune system may be unable to support a pregnancy. Acupuncture strengthens a weakened immune system by stimulating the bone marrow hematopoietic system to produce more WBCs and RBCs.

A thyroid disorder can also negatively affect a woman’s chances of getting pregnant or the ability to carry a fetus to term. Acupuncture can help manage thyroid disorders, restore hormonal balance, and regulate energy levels.

Hormonal imbalances are a common cause of fertility problems. Acupuncture for fertility can help achieve optimal hormonal balance by positively altering how female reproductive hormones are secreted. When a woman’s hormones are balanced, her body responds better to ovarian stimulation.

Acupuncture Mama is a reputable acupuncture clinic in Santa Rosa. Our team of professional practitioners use acupuncture to treat congenital and other acquired disorders. To learn more or make an appointment, call (707) 303-7200.