Acupuncture and fertility by Steve Coster
Acupuncture for Fertility
For some failure to get pregnant, either naturally or with IVF, can be devastating.
According to the Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority (HFEA), infertility is estimated to affect around 1 in 6-7 UK couples at some point in their lives. Some couples turn to acupuncture as a last resort, meaning that their conditions may be rather complex and they are often extremely stressed by their situation.
Stress and Anxiety Most women, and indeed couples, with fertility issues are stressed and anxious due to the frustration of being unable to conceive, so relaxation is essential for supporting them, and acupuncture is often beneficial. I work closely with women who have been diagnosed with PCOS, endometriosis or unexplained infertility, but also with men who want to improve the quality, morphology or motility of their sperm.
Lifestyle is an important factor in fertility. By reestablishing balance and therefore improving a person’s overall health both physically and mentally, acupuncture can increase the possibility of a natural conception. I closely analyze the body basal temperature (BBT) which allows me to monitor the state of the female’s estrogen and progesterone levels and whether she is ovulating at the right time. This highlights any potential problems and gives conception the best possible chance. I also consider a couple’s diet and lifestyle (stress, exercise, smoking, drinking, etc.) as well as their full medical history, including the male’s sperm test results. Traditional Chinese Medicine allows me to consider people as individuals, not simply boxes to be ticked.
As well as physiological problems there may also be psycho-emotional aspects blocking successful conception. Stress affects every process in the body, from the digestive system to the reproductive system. Acupuncture can help to reduce stress and build your vitality and general health.
Acupuncture has demonstrated that it can help women conceive with or without IVF. And although a Western diagnosis can complement an Acupuncture treatment, as an acupuncturist I find that a TCM differentiation integrated with BBT analysis can be the most effective treatment of infertility prior to taking the IVF route.
Steve Coster
Testimonial
“Just to let you know I took a pregnancy test over the weekend and the results were positive. I am absolutely over the moon and truly believe the Acupuncture played a part in the result…so thank you very much!” Nicola - IVF Support client