Pregnancy

Can Acupuncture Help You Get Pregnant?

pregnant woman in white dress near a window

Have you heard that acupuncture can help you get pregnant? You aren’t alone! As naturopathy grows in popularity across Australia, more people are asking whether this treatment can help improve their chances of conceiving. While the scientific evidence is conflicting, many naturopaths believe there is a link between acupuncture treatments and increased fertility. We walk you through whether acupuncture can help you get pregnant today, and everything you need to know about its relation to fertility.

Acupuncture and pregnancy

Some scientific evidence proves that acupuncture can improve sperm quality and ovarian function, which can increase your chances of getting pregnant. Naturopathic doctors often recommend acupuncture to help with your fertility. Not only for these benefits, but also as a stress reliever. Fertility and attempting to conceive can be a challenging time and add stress to most people’s lives. Stress can negatively impact your ability to conceive, so taking part in acupuncture can help reduce this stress and increase your fertility.

While there is some evidence to support acupuncture and its link to fertility, there is no conclusive evidence that supports it. Studies have been performed, and they have not drawn a clear line between acupuncture and pregnancy. While this can be disappointing, many people believe acupuncture and its benefits helped them to conceive and seeing an acupuncturist or naturopathic doctor can offer great support while you try for a baby.

woman receiving an acupuncture treatment
Photo by Antoni Shkraba Studio

Is acupuncture safe if you are trying to get pregnant?

Yes, acupuncture is safe if you are trying to conceive, provided it is performed correctly by a licensed professional. Acupuncture can also be performed alongside most conventional therapeutics, so you don’t need to worry about any issues. Regular acupuncture, where sterile needles are inserted into your skin at different acupoints, can prompt your body’s healing response. For those focusing on their fertility, they might notice the following benefits:

  • Regulated menstrual cycle
  • Improved sperm count and mobility
  • Increased blood flow to reproductive organs
  • Decreased stress and anxiety

Even though there is no clear link between acupuncture and pregnancy, the stress relief it provides makes it an excellent treatment for anyone trying to conceive. Fertility issues add stress, which can manifest itself in physical symptoms and significantly impact your life. To help manage your stress, your naturopathic doctor might recommend acupuncture to help relieve your stress. Stress negatively affects your body and can make it harder to conceive, so pursuing acupuncture for these reasons could also help increase your chances of conception.

What will happen during an acupuncture treatment?

What happens during an acupuncture treatment will vary slightly depending on the practitioner you see and the reason for your acupuncture. Before any session, discuss the treatment with your doctor to ensure it is safe for you. Typically, when you arrive for your treatment, you will follow the steps below:

1.   Initial assessment

When you arrive for your treatment, you will have an initial assessment with your practitioner to ensure this is the right treatment for you. They will want to know your case history and might conduct some examinations. You must answer any questions honestly to ensure you receive the right treatment.

They will use your information to create the right acupuncture treatment plan for you.

2.   Acupuncture treatment

Depending on the treatment you require, you will be asked to lie face down or on your back on a bed. You might be asked to change or remove some of your clothing, so be sure to wear something comfortable that is easy to remove. Your practitioner will then insert thin, sterile needles into various points around your body. As these needles are inserted, neurotransmitters fly through your nervous system towards your brain, and your body’s healing process jumps into action The practitioner will remove the needles, giving you the privacy to redress.

therapist pricking skin with needles during treatment procedure
Photo by Ryutaro Tsukata

3.   Further treatment

After all the needles are removed, your practitioner will discuss how many treatments they think you need. They will recommend a frequency, too, and encourage you to discuss this with them to ensure you have the right treatment plan for your needs. They will also discuss any aftercare with you, and make recommendations for any additional treatments which could benefit you.

photo of pregnant woman standing on field
Photo by Jonathan Borba

Find your acupuncture clinic in Brisbane today

Acupuncture can be beneficial if you are trying to conceive, although it is worth noting that there is conflicting evidence supporting its effectiveness. When finding your acupuncture clinic, visit an expert, like those at Shift Clinic, who prioritise your health and wellness and are committed to supporting you. Contact their acupuncture clinic in Brisbane to begin your treatment today.

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