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.
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.
Does acupuncture help address infertility?
Yes. Acupuncture has been effectively used in women and couples with infertility who are trying to improve their chances of pregnancy. Research indicates that acupuncture can optimize fertility in several ways, including regulating the menstrual cycles, increasing the blood flow to the uterus and the ovaries, and reducing stress. Acupuncture can also improve egg and sperm quality, and provides excellent support for patients undergoing assisted reproductive treatments such as IVF.
“CCRM stands behind and highly recommends the use of acupuncture to optimize your well-being, to reduce stress, and to provide you with the very best chances for pregnancy during your treatment.” ~Dr. Aaron K. Styer, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist, co-founding physician partner & co-medical director at CCRM Boston
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.
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.
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What people are saying...
"Acupuncture helped me throughout my IVF journey, all the way to my day of transfer. I am very grateful."
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