LifeQuest Centre for Reproductive Medicine

At LifeQuest, we have found that patient interest in alternative therapies has increased substantially over the last few years. Many thanks to Dr. Tim Tanaka, PhD (in Medical Science) and Doctor of Acupuncture, and The Pacific Wellness Institute for providing the following article about acupuncture and infertility.* If you are considering alternative therapies, please talk to your LifeQuest physician in advance to ensure they will not interfere with your fertility treatment.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a natural therapy that is used to improve well-being. Tiny, hair-thin needles are inserted into specific points in the body, where they are gently stimulated to trigger the body's natural healing response.

How does it work?

Acupuncture was developed on the understanding that there are twelve main channels, or "regular meridians" running vertically across and throughout the human body connecting the internal organs. It is a theory of acupuncture that Qi flows along these meridian lines. Qi is somewhat equivalent to the western idea of vitality or life-force. The operating philosophy of traditional acupuncture is that disease is caused by interrupted energy flow at specific points on the body's surface. Acupuncture thus involves the insertion of a needle(s) at the affected point(s) in order to stimulate Qi flow and harmonize energy flow in the body.

How does it work for infertility patients?

Acupuncture has been reported to promote the circulation of blood in the pelvic cavity and improve ovarian function. Acupuncture treatment may be beneficial in promoting follicle production, enhancing uterine blood flow and improving uterine lining thickness.

Acupuncture should not be considered a specific fertility treatment. Rather, acupuncture should be considered a modality to help promote and optimize overall health, thus leading to enhancement in fertility and helping optimize the chance of carrying to term.

Because it is non-invasive, patients who are undergoing IVF, IUI or cycle monitoring can safely receive acupuncture.

How does acupuncture work with Western medicine, specifically fertility treatment?

In the area of female health and fertility, acupuncture has been shown to be beneficial for women with PCOS and anovulation, and it has been shown to increase uterine blood flow. Acupuncture has also been shown to decrease the symptoms related to endometriosis and primary dysmenorrhea. There have been some recent studies suggesting that acupuncture may increase the pregnancy rate in women undergoing IVF. However, despite the growing number of studies, the scientific basis for this therapy is still in its infancy.

Are there any safety concerns, specifically for patients receiving fertility treatment?

Are there any research articles showing the efficacy of acupuncture for fertility?

There are several studies suggesting a positive influence of acupuncture on the female reproductive system, and using acupuncture treatment in conjunction with ART. The May 2006 issue of the journal Fertility and Sterility featured a series of acupuncture-related articles (three original research papers and additional commentary articles). Two of the original articles reported higher pregnancy rates among patients who received acupuncture in conjunction with their IVF cycles versus patients who received “placebo acupuncture” or no treatment. One study found no significant difference in pregnancy rates between the acupuncture group and control (placebo) group. While it is encouraging to see the additional data supporting the efficacy and safety of acupuncture use in conjunction with IVF, some experts have raised a number of issues and questions regarding the somewhat contradictory evidence on acupuncture. They are urging for more rigorous studies.

How often do patients need to have acupuncture?

For fertility patients, it is recommended to have two treatments per week for the initial stage (one to two weeks), then once weekly sessions for the next several weeks. A “maintenance” stage can be incorporated every few weeks. More frequent treatments are recommended for IVF patients around egg retrieval and embryo transfer.

What does it cost?

While treatment costs vary greatly, on average, one treatment costs about $95. Discounted packages are often available. Additionally, many company benefits also cover acupuncture treatment.

Here are some suggested criteria to follow when you are choosing an acupuncturist:

Qualifications

In the US, about 40 states have established training standards for acupuncture certification. In Canada, only certain provinces such as British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec regulate acupuncture. Ontario is in the process of regulating and developing standards for acupuncturists.

Education

In some provinces such as Ontario, where acupuncture standards have not yet been established, each acupuncturist's training varies greatly. While some have completed 3-4 years of study in a full time program, others may be providing acupuncture after taking only a few weekend courses.

Clean Needle Technique

It is also very important to confirm that the acupuncturist practices Clean Needle Technique and uses disposable needles.

Experience

Ask the acupuncturist the number of years of clinical experience. It is impossible to develop mastery and fluency in acupuncture only by classroom training. There are many elements in acupuncture that can only be earned through years of clinical practice.

Continuing Education

Health care knowledge is advancing at a rapid pace. It is important that your acupuncturist is up-to-date in the field.

Acupuncture Styles

It is also useful to ask which technique the acupuncturist uses. Even among qualified acupuncturists, the techniques used vary greatly according to each one's background For example, some acupuncturists hook up a few needles to an electro-stimulator for several minutes, while others utilize more traditional procedures involving more systemic needling during an hour long appointment. Both procedures are still referred to as “acupuncture”, and this is important to keep in mind when making inquiries. It should also be noted that in North America, acupuncture was initially introduced as an analgesic method and it is still most commonly used as a pain management modality. Many acupuncture programs offered in North America today, especially the ones offered for physiotherapists or chiropractors, focus on analgesic acupuncture techniques, which may not necessarily be most suitable for fertility issues.

* Please note, this article is provided solely by Dr. Tim Tanaka and The Pacific Wellness Institute. LifeQuest is not responsible for and does not necessarily endorse any or all of the information contained within.