Impact of Acupuncture on In-Vitro Fertilization
Years ago Paul C. Magarelli M.D. Ph.D., my co-medical director of Corona Institute for Reproductive Medicine & Fertility (CIRMF), realized the value of integrating the age-old technique and for the last few years he and his colleague, Diane Cridennda L.Ac., D.O.M. of East Winds Acupuncture Inc., have dedicated their research to the impact of acupuncture on in-vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes.
Research demonstrates that women who receive acupuncture combined with high-tech fertility treatments may improve reproductive outcomes. Research published in The Fertility & Sterility Journal in 2005 showed an astonishing increase in pregnancies by 15 percent and a 23 percent climb in actual births in IVF patients treated with acupuncture.
How does acupuncture impact fertility? Dr. Magarelli notes: there are eight common attributes to acupuncture that relate to enhancing fertility and, in turn, conception. Acupuncture is gaining greater credibility for its ability to:
- Reduce stress hormones
- Increase blood flow to the ovaries and uterus
- Improve ovarian function
- Improve thickness of uterine wall
- Regulate menstrual cycles
- Lessen ectopic pregnancies miscarriage rates
- Lessen uterine contractions after embryo transfer in IVF patients
- Enhance the effectiveness of IVF medications and reduce side effects
Acupuncture also provides many women with a resemblance of control and an opportunity to be actively involved with their care at a time when they may feel especially helpless and vulnerable.
A similar study also recently appeared, for more read on: