Acupuncture and Embryo Transfer: Increase Pregnancy Success Rate!
For those undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), the embryo transfer phase is critical. A successful pregnancy depends on the health of the uterine lining, hormonal balance, and emotional well-being.
Acupuncture has gained popularity as a complementary therapy that can enhance IVF outcomes, including improving embryo transfer success rates. The well-known Paulus et al. study has shown that acupuncture can significantly improve pregnancy rates during IVF.
In this blog, we’ll explore how acupuncture can increase embryo transfer success, delve into scientific research on the optimal timing of acupuncture treatments during IVF, and explain why the Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic is an excellent choice for fertility support.
What Is Embryo Transfer?
Embryo transfer is the final step in an IVF cycle, where one or more fertilized embryos are placed into the uterus in the hopes that they will implant. This critical step determines the success of the IVF process and can be a source of stress and anticipation for many women. Success depends on a range of factors, including:
Embryo quality
Uterine lining receptivity
Hormonal balance
Emotional well-being
Acupuncture offers a holistic approach that addresses many of these factors and has been shown to increase pregnancy success rates during IVF.
How Acupuncture Can Increase Embryo Transfer Success
Acupuncture, an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to balance energy (Qi) and promote overall health. In the context of IVF and embryo transfer, acupuncture helps by addressing several key aspects of fertility:
- Enhancing Uterine Blood Flow
A healthy uterine lining is essential for successful implantation. Acupuncture has been shown to improve blood flow to the uterus, ensuring that the endometrial lining receives the oxygen and nutrients it needs to become thick and receptive. Increased uterine circulation creates optimal conditions for the embryo to implant successfully.
- Balancing Hormones
Hormonal imbalances are common in women undergoing IVF and can affect the success of embryo transfer. Acupuncture helps stimulate the endocrine system, which regulates hormones such as estrogen and progesterone—two critical hormones for preparing the uterus for implantation. By promoting hormonal balance, acupuncture supports a more receptive uterine environment.
- Reducing Stress and Anxiety
IVF and embryo transfer can be stressful experiences, and stress is known to negatively affect fertility outcomes. Acupuncture has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety by promoting the release of endorphins—natural “feel-good” hormones. A relaxed, stress-free state can improve the body’s ability to accept the embryo and support a healthy pregnancy.
- Reducing Uterine Contractions
Uterine contractions after embryo transfer can hinder implantation. Acupuncture helps to relax the uterine muscles, reducing contractions and creating a more stable environment for the embryo. This can enhance the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.
- Supporting Immune Function
A well-functioning immune system is critical to successful implantation. In some cases, an overactive immune response can lead to the body rejecting the embryo. Acupuncture helps regulate the immune system, reducing the risk of immune-related implantation failure and promoting overall reproductive health.
Optimal Acupuncture Timing During IVF
Acupuncture is most effective when treatments are timed to support the different phases of the IVF cycle. Research shows that acupuncture can benefit women during the preparatory phase, stimulation phase, on the day of embryo transfer, and during the two-week wait before the pregnancy test.
Acupuncture Before IVF
Acupuncture is advised and recommended three months before any IVF medication commences to ensure that you are in your optimum state of health before you commence fertility treatment. This is important as the body is more likely to respond positively to medication and subsequent side affects reduced.
Acupuncture During the Stimulation Phase of IVF
The stimulation phase of IVF involves the use of fertility medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. This phase is crucial for egg development and overall IVF success. Research suggests that acupuncture during this stage helps improve ovarian response, egg quality, and the effectiveness of the fertility medications being used.
It is generally recommended that women receive acupuncture treatments two to three times during the stimulation phase to support ovarian function and ensure an optimal response to the medications.
A 2019 study published in Fertility and Sterility found that women who received acupuncture during the stimulation phase experienced better ovarian outcomes and a higher number of high-quality eggs. These improvements can ultimately lead to a higher chance of successful embryo implantation during IVF.
Acupuncture during this phase also helps balance hormone levels, promoting a smoother and more predictable ovarian response, while reducing the emotional stress that often accompanies fertility treatments.
Acupuncture on Embryo Transfer Day
One of the most critical times for acupuncture is on the day of embryo transfer. The Paulus et al. study (2002) is a landmark study that demonstrated the powerful effects of acupuncture at this stage. In this study, women undergoing IVF were divided into two groups: one received acupuncture both before and after embryo transfer, while the other did not. The results were significant: the pregnancy rate in the acupuncture group was 42.5%, compared to 26.3% in the control group.
The Paulus et al. study showed that acupuncture performed before and after embryo transfer can improve pregnancy outcomes by enhancing uterine blood flow, reducing uterine contractions, and alleviating stress. The findings have since been supported by multiple studies, making acupuncture on the day of embryo transfer a common practice for women undergoing IVF.
At the Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic, we often recommend that women schedule an acupuncture session both before and after embryo transfer to maximize the benefits of this approach.
To minimise stress on the day of embryo transfer, we typically see clients the evening before and the day or evening of embryo transfer.
Acupuncture During the Two-Week Wait
The two-week wait is the period between embryo transfer and the pregnancy test. This phase can be emotionally challenging, as women often experience anxiety while waiting to learn if the IVF cycle has been successful.
Acupuncture can provide vital support during this period by continuing to promote relaxation and reducing stress hormones that could interfere with implantation.
Research also indicates that acupuncture during the two-week wait can help maintain the health of the uterine lining and promote healthy blood flow to the uterus, creating a supportive environment for the embryo to implant and thrive.
Acupuncture During the First Trimester
Many women continue acupuncture treatments on a weekly basis throughout this phase and into early pregnancy to reduce the risk of miscarriage and support overall reproductive health.
Scientific Research Supporting Acupuncture for IVF
Several studies support the use of acupuncture to improve IVF outcomes:
The Paulus et al. study (2002) is one of the most well-known and frequently cited pieces of research, demonstrating that acupuncture around the time of embryo transfer significantly increases pregnancy rates.
A 2017 systematic review published in Reproductive BioMedicine Online analyzed multiple trials and concluded that acupuncture around embryo transfer improves clinical pregnancy rates. The review emphasized acupuncture’s role in improving uterine receptivity and reducing stress.
A 2019 study published in Fertility and Sterility found that acupuncture performed during the stimulation phase of IVF improved ovarian response and the quality of retrieved eggs, leading to better overall outcomes.
These studies, along with many others, highlight the effectiveness of acupuncture as a supportive treatment during IVF.
Why Choose the Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic?
If you are considering acupuncture to support your IVF journey, the Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic is an excellent choice for personalized fertility care. Here’s why:
Expertise in Fertility Acupuncture
At the Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic, our practitioners specialize in fertility acupuncture and have extensive experience working with women undergoing IVF. We use evidence-based techniques to enhance fertility outcomes and support you at every stage of the IVF process.
Tailored Treatment Plans
We believe in a personalized approach to fertility care. Whether you need acupuncture during the stimulation phase, on the day of embryo transfer, or during the two-week wait, we create a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs and IVF timeline.
A Relaxing and Nurturing Environment
At the Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic, we offer a peaceful, nurturing environment where you can relax and feel supported throughout your fertility journey.
Contact Information
If you’re ready to explore how acupuncture can increase your chances of a successful embryo transfer, contact the Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic today to schedule a consultation.
Website: AcupunctureBlackheath.com
Email: blackheathacupunctureclinic@gmail.com
Book Your Appointment Today!
Acupuncture is a natural and effective way to support IVF success. By enhancing uterine blood flow, balancing hormones, and reducing stress, acupuncture can significantly improve the chances of embryo implantation and a successful pregnancy.
Take the next step in your fertility journey by booking an appointment at the Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic today!