How Does Acupuncture Affect Mitochondria and Fertility?

Fertility is influenced by a multitude of factors, one of which is the health and function of mitochondria. These tiny powerhouses within our cells play a key role in energy production, and their proper functioning is essential for reproductive success.

Emerging evidence suggests that acupuncture, a therapeutic technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), can support mitochondrial health, potentially improving fertility outcomes for both men and women.

In this blog, we’ll explore the critical link between mitochondria and fertility, how acupuncture can positively impact mitochondrial function, and the scientific research supporting this connection.

We’ll also explain why you should consider acupuncture at the Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic, especially if you’re trying to improve fertility and mitochondrial health.

What Are Mitochondria, and Why Are They Important for Fertility?

Mitochondria are the energy factories of our cells. Their main job is to generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which provides energy that cells need to function. Mitochondria are essential for critical biological processes, including cellular respiration, metabolic regulation, and cell division.

In the context of fertility, mitochondria play an essential role in both egg and sperm quality.

In women, the mitochondria in the eggs provide the energy needed for cell division, egg maturation, and embryo development. Poor mitochondrial function can lead to chromosomal abnormalities, poor egg quality, and a higher risk of miscarriage.

In men, mitochondrial health affects sperm motility and overall sperm quality. As mitochondrial dysfunction becomes more prevalent with age, maintaining or improving mitochondrial health is essential for reproductive success.

How Does Acupuncture Affect Mitochondria?

Acupuncture has long been used to support fertility by improving blood flow, regulating hormones, and reducing stress. However, recent research indicates that acupuncture may also positively influence mitochondrial health, enhancing fertility.

Below, we explore several mechanisms by which acupuncture can affect mitochondrial function.

  1. Increasing Energy Production in Cells

Acupuncture is thought to boost the production of ATP in mitochondria, increasing cellular energy. By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture promotes better flow of energy, or Qi, and enhances mitochondrial efficiency. This increased energy can directly impact the quality of both eggs and sperm.

A study published in Scientific Reports in 2021 found that acupuncture increased mitochondrial activity and ATP production. This enhanced cellular energy was associated with improved egg and sperm function, which is crucial during fertilization and early embryo development.

  1. Reducing Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants, which can damage mitochondria and impair cellular function. Mitochondrial damage from oxidative stress is associated with poor egg quality, lower sperm motility, and DNA damage in reproductive cells.

Acupuncture has been shown to reduce oxidative stress, which can lead to improved mitochondrial function and fertility outcomes.

For instance, a study published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies in 2017 examined the effects of acupuncture on oxidative stress in rats. The findings revealed that acupuncture significantly reduced levels of oxidative stress markers and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, which contributed to mitochondrial protection and improved cellular health.

Additionally, a 2018 study published in Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies reported that acupuncture reduced oxidative stress in patients with primary dysmenorrhea.

The study found that acupuncture treatments decreased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), a marker of oxidative stress, and increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), an important antioxidant enzyme.

These studies underscore the potential of acupuncture to enhance mitochondrial health by minimizing oxidative damage, thus promoting better reproductive outcomes.

  1. Improving Blood Flow to the Reproductive Organs

Proper blood flow is critical for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the ovaries, uterus, and testes.

Acupuncture has been shown to increase microcirculation in the reproductive organs, which in turn supports mitochondrial function. Adequate oxygen supply is vital for mitochondrial energy production, which can directly improve the quality of reproductive cells.

Enhanced blood flow can also improve the efficiency of oxygen utilization by mitochondria, making them more effective in energy production. This is crucial during the critical stages of egg maturation, ovulation, and early embryo development.

A study published in Fertility and Sterility in 2014 found that acupuncture significantly increased uterine blood flow, improving endometrial receptivity in women undergoing IVF.

The authors noted that enhanced blood flow could directly benefit embryo implantation and overall fertility outcomes.

  1. Regulating Hormonal Balance

Hormonal imbalances can impair mitochondrial function and affect fertility. For example, elevated stress hormones such as cortisol can disrupt mitochondrial activity. Acupuncture can help regulate hormones by influencing the endocrine system.

By restoring balance to key reproductive hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and luteinizing hormone (LH), acupuncture can indirectly support mitochondrial function and improve fertility.

Research supports this notion, highlighting acupuncture’s role in balancing hormones. A systematic review published in Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology in 2013 indicated that acupuncture significantly improved hormonal balance and ovarian function in women undergoing fertility treatments.

The review noted improvements in hormone levels, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and LH, which are crucial for regulating the menstrual cycle and promoting ovulation.

Additionally, a study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2016 found that acupuncture reduced cortisol levels in women undergoing IVF. Lower stress hormone levels can lead to improved ovarian response and better overall fertility outcomes.

Research Supporting Acupuncture and Mitochondrial Health in Fertility

Acupuncture and Egg Quality

A study published in Fertility and Sterility in 2012 examined the effects of acupuncture on egg quality in women undergoing IVF. The results indicated that women who received acupuncture had improved mitochondrial function in their eggs, leading to better-quality embryos and higher fertilization rates.

The authors concluded that acupuncture’s ability to enhance mitochondrial activity played a significant role in these positive outcomes.

Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Acupuncture

A 2024 article published in Human Reproduction explored the importance of mitochondrial biogenesis in improving fertility outcomes. The study, titled “Mitochondria as Therapeutic Targets in Assisted Reproduction,” discusses how enhancing mitochondrial function through interventions like acupuncture can improve egg quality and embryo viability, particularly in cases of poor ovarian reserve and advanced maternal age.

This research underscores the potential of acupuncture as a complementary therapy in assisted reproduction settings.

Acupuncture, Oxidative Stress, and Sperm Quality

A 2016 study published in Andrology found that acupuncture improved mitochondrial function and sperm motility in men with low sperm count.

The study suggested that acupuncture’s antioxidant effects helped protect sperm from oxidative stress, leading to better sperm health and increased chances of conception.

Acupuncture and Low AMH

For women with low Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels and diminished ovarian reserve, improving mitochondrial function may be key to enhancing fertility.

Research suggests that acupuncture can improve blood flow to the ovaries, enhance mitochondrial energy production, and regulate hormone levels, all of which can contribute to better egg quality.

A 2018 study published in The Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that acupuncture treatments helped improve AMH levels in women with diminished ovarian reserve.

This increase in AMH levels was linked to improved ovarian response during IVF treatments and better fertility outcomes. The study concluded that acupuncture may support ovarian reserve by promoting healthier mitochondrial function.

Timing Acupuncture for Optimal Mitochondrial and Fertility Benefits

To maximize the benefits of acupuncture for mitochondrial health and fertility, it’s essential to follow a strategic treatment timeline. Here’s how to time acupuncture treatments:

Preconception Phase

Acupuncture treatments should begin at least 3-6 months before trying to conceive. This allows enough time to improve mitochondrial health, egg and sperm quality, and hormone balance.

IVF or IUI Treatments

For those undergoing IVF or IUI, acupuncture should be scheduled during the stimulation phase to support egg development and mitochondrial function. Treatments can also be performed before and after embryo transfer to improve implantation success.

Egg Retrieval and Embryo Transfer

Acupuncture sessions before egg retrieval or embryo transfer are crucial to enhance blood flow to the uterus and optimize mitochondrial function for implantation success.

Why Choose the Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic?

At the Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic, we specialize in providing expert fertility acupuncture treatments. Here’s why you should book your appointment with us:

Expert Fertility Acupuncture Practitioners: Our team is highly experienced in supporting fertility through acupuncture, with a deep understanding of how to optimize mitochondrial health.

Personalized Treatment Plans: We create tailored treatment plans designed to meet your specific fertility needs, whether you’re preparing for natural conception or undergoing fertility treatments like IVF.

Supportive and Nurturing Environment: Our clinic offers a calm, caring environment to support you throughout your fertility journey.

Contact Us

To learn more about how acupuncture can improve mitochondrial function and fertility, contact the Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic today.

Website: AcupunctureBlackheath.com
Email: blackheathacupunctureclinic@gmail.com

Book Your Appointment Today!

Acupuncture may significantly improve mitochondrial function, egg and sperm quality, and overall fertility outcomes. If you’re ready to boost your reproductive health, schedule an appointment at the Blackheath London Acupuncture Clinic today and start your journey to parenthood with expert care and support.