Medical professionals define infertility as being unable to conceive, or the inability to stay pregnant after conception. And according to health organisations such as the NHS or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), infertility affects a significant amount of the population.
Both men and women may play a role in fertility issues, and the solutions for couples looking to have a child can involve a variety of treatments, including IVF.
Additionally, the popularity of fertility acupuncture in London and throughout the UK has been growing steadily over the last decade, partly thanks to an increased awareness of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as an alternative to modern-day pharmaceuticals.
Acupuncture and Fertility
Acupuncture, a less well-known method of treating infertility, is a Traditional Chinese Medicine practice that people use to manage a variety of conditions.
This involves a trained acupuncturist inserting very thin, sterile needles into specific points of the body to stimulate blood flow to that area. When used as a treatment for infertility, it is said that acupuncture can help to:
- relieve stress
- balance hormones
- boost blood flow to reproductive organs
Stress Relief
Reducing stress is known to improve the body’s natural functions and alleviate various health conditions. Also, high levels of cortisol (the hormone released when you are stressed) have been shown to increase the risk of miscarriages and other post-conception pregnancy issues.
As such, proponents of acupuncture as a treatment method for infertility believe that it can improve fertility by counteracting stress and anxiety in the body.
Certain studies have also proven that acupuncture helps the body release endorphins, reducing pain and increasing relaxation.
Hormone Balance
Good hormonal health is an important part of conceiving a baby naturally and studies have shown that acupuncture is able to influence sex hormone levels in both men and women.
There are a number of drugs on the market designed to do things like stimulating ovulation and control productive hormones, but the thought of taking fertility drugs is unappealing for many future parents who want to stick to natural methods only.
As acupuncture involves minimal risk to your health when you work with trained and experienced professionals, many parents consider it as an alternative treatment method before resorting to pharmaceuticals.
Blood Flow to Reproductive Organs
Acupuncture treatment is said to improve blood flow to reproductive organs, subsequently leading to increased chances of conception. For example, studies show how it can improve ovarian blood supply and pregnancy rates in those receiving IVF treatment.
Identifying Underlying Health Conditions
If you are considering acupuncture for the purpose of improving your fertility, it is advised that you also consult a physician. This will help to clarify the underlying causes of infertility and give you a full picture of the potential treatment options available to you.
Learn More About Acupuncture for Fertility
If you’re intrigued by the potential of acupuncture for improving fertility and want to learn more about how it works, get in touch with one of our experts at Acubody.
We’ll happily explain what fertility acupuncture in London involves and help you make a decision about whether it’s the right choice for you.
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