FAQ about Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the practice of inserting extremely fine needles into specific points on the body in order to restore balance and encourage healing. These points or acupoints as they are referred to, stimulate energy pathways throughout the body to obtain a desired outcome. Acupuncture is based on a complex medical system that originated several thousand years ago in China. It is part of a whole, that includes several modalities like heat therapy, Chinese herbal medicines, moxibustion, cupping and dietary therapy. Acupuncture is recognized as one of the fastest growing alternative medical practices by the World Health Organization and is the oldest written medicine continuously practiced in the world.

Is acupuncture painful?

No. The needles used in an acupuncture treatment are hair – thin and are for the most part painless. The patient will usually experience an unusual sensation at the site of insertion, like a surge of energy or an electrical flux. This surge is known as obtaining the Qi or “life force” and is a positive sign. Most patients experience a great sense of calm and relaxation during and after an acupuncture treatment.

Can acupuncture help improve pregnancy rates?

Acupuncture has been shown through numerous studies to greatly improve pregnancy rates for those undergoing IVF. Studies have shown anywhere from a 40% – 91% increase in success rates of patients who received acupuncture in adjunct with traditional Western medical practices. The British Medical Journal recently published an article reporting that acupuncture increased live birth rates of IVF patients by 91%.

What can acupuncture do for IVF patients?

Acupuncture can help with a myriad of concerns for those undergoing IVF. It can reduce stress, balance hormone levels, increase thickness of the uterine lining, improve egg quality, offset drug reactions, increase the flow of blood to the reproductive organs and many other things. It is a very safe and effective medicine.

Can acupuncture address male infertility?

Yes. Acupuncture can help with male infertility. More and more studies are showing that sperm quality greatly influences the health of the embryo and affects the overall success and vitality of pregnancy. Acupuncture can improve sperm count, sperm quality and in general, male virility.

Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?

Yes! Acupuncture is a wonderful solution to address all of the changing concerns a woman experiences during pregnancy. Acupuncture can help nausea, bloating, constipation, pain, fatigue, balance hormones, it can help to prevent miscarriage and many other symptoms. Acupuncture has even helped to turn breech babies into their proper birthing position.

(After becoming pregnant, be sure to check with your doctor before receiving acupuncture.)

How should I prepare for my acupuncture treatment?

You should wear comfortable clothing that keeps you warm. You should be sure to eat a decent meal before your treatment and to  drink plenty of water. Most of all you should come prepared to enjoy your treatment and relax- let the needles do the work.

More questions? – Check out our other FAQ:

• Blood Flow Acupuncture Treatment FAQ
• Pre/Post Embryo Transfer Treatment FAQ