Acupuncture: How does it help fertility?

Acupuncture is now slowly being recognized as a valid type of treatment for various illnesses especially by Western doctors. The first practice of acupuncture can be traced from thousands of years ago in mainland China. Although it is known to be effective in treating various illnesses, recent studies suggests that it is also beneficial for those experiencing infertility issues. Because of its benefits, it is now considered a complementary therapy to fertility treatments.

 When acupuncture is used alone, it is mostly effective in treating fertility issues that resulted from functional problems such as an irregular ovulation. It will be less effective in structural problems like a block in the sperm ducts or fallopian tubes. In some cases, practitioners would often suggest the intake of certain Chinese herbs to supplement the use of acupuncture. But it is important to consult your doctor if you are planning to start on herbs because it may interfere with the fertility drugs you are taking or with the medical treatments you are currently undergoing.

 Although effective, the use of acupuncture for fertility is still debatable. However, acupuncturists say that acupuncture helps in regulating our body systems responsible for pregnancy. It works by aiding blood flow to important reproductive organs and it stabilizing hormone levels. As a result, ovarian function in women and sperm production in men are increased.

 Acupuncture also helps women who are currently undergoing fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) to be more relaxed especially during a tiring and stressful procedure. A study done in Germany in 2002 proves that acupuncture increases the chances of pregnancy in women receiving IVF. With 80 women who underwent IVF and received an acupuncture therapy, 34 got pregnant. This shows a 42 percent success rate.

 In finding an acupuncturist, it is important to look for trained practitioners with certification that is mandated by the province or state where you live. You can also ask your family and friends if they can recommend one. Do not forget to ask the price, some insurance company plans do cover these treatments, you may want to look at this as well.

 The success of acupuncture practice can be attributed to it being a natural infertility treatment. Unlike other medical treatments, acupuncture is safe and does not cause any side effects.

 The most up-to-date instructions for using acupuncture for fertility is included in the e-book Pregnancy Miracle by Lisa Olson.

 

 

Infertility Treatments: What are the risks?

Like any medical procedures, fertility treatments carry serious risks and it is but important to discuss these risks with your fertility doctor and clinic before undergoing such procedures. Risks include untoward reactions from fertility drugs that are used during treatment, any risks that go along with pregnancy and other risks that are not yet fully known and understood.

 Here are some of the most common risks of fertility treatments that you should know about:

  1.  Fertility drug reaction. This usually involves just a mild reaction from fertility medications. Symptoms include hot flushes, feeling depressed, irritability, restlessness and headache. In some cases, potentially dangerous drug reaction from fertility drugs may occur such as ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome. A patient may end up having a swollen stomach, severe stomach pains, nausea and vomiting, reduced urine output and shortness of breath.

  2. Multiple births. This is considered the greatest health risk related to fertility treatments especially in IVY (In-Vitro Fertilization). Multiple births are too risky for the mother and the baby. Babies are more likely to be born premature and may have a low birth weight. The risk of death before and 1 week after birth is higher in twins and triplets compared to a single baby. And the risk of cerebral palsy is also relatively higher.

  3. Ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy is a condition in which the embryo implants outside of the uterus, sometimes it can develop in the woman’s ovary. The risk of having an ectopic pregnancy is higher in women undergoing IVF.

  4. Birth defects. In the general population, the risk of birth defects is low, just about 2%. But studies suggest that the dawn of fertility treatments may be associated with the increased incidence of birth defects.

 Because of these risks, a lot of couples opted to try natural fertility treatments instead. Since the method is all natural, risks and side effects are minimal. Many have tried the e-book Pregnancy Miracle , wherein author Lisa Olson, explains all-natural method of overcoming infertility and getting pregnant.

 

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