How Well Does Acupuncture for Fertility Work?
According to some research that is out there today, acupuncture for fertility may be very effective for couples that are undergoing the process of in-vitro fertilization. However, it seems there still is some debate as to whether or not in can generally improve fertility. More research is essentially needed to determine whether or not this therapy alone can help a woman improve her chances of becoming pregnant.
The belief that vital energy or "qi" is vastly flowing throughout a person's body in different spots is what the process of acupuncture is based on. By utilizing this method, the balance of the body's energy and health are trying to be restored by an acupuncturist. A specialist will partake in this process by using thin needles at different places on the body. This practice has only become better known in the United States medical community within the past few years despite being practiced in China for well over 5,000 years.In 2002, German scientists came out with results from research that showed that the odds of pregnancy among women who were undergoing in-vitro fertilization increased when they received acupuncture. 42% of women who received acupuncture out of 160 studied became pregnant. Only 26% of women who didn't receive acupuncture got pregnant. Looking at these results more closely, researchers suggested that acupuncture causes an increase in blood flow to the uterus. Because of this, embryos would have a much better chance of implanting.It's always important to remember that research has suggested that acupuncture can be a fantastic way of reducing stress on the body. Stress can largely effect whether or not a woman can get pregnant. Along with this reasoning, it makes excellent sense why acupuncture can help with pregnancy issues, since a lowered stress level can help a woman to conceive.Much research has also shown that male fertility can become vastly improved using acupuncture. In fact, some studies have shown that many who get acupuncture done have stronger sperm, which increased how fast they can swim, as well as a higher sperm count.Recent studies have even showcased that the health of sperm can be improved with acupuncture. A case in 2005 looked at various infertile men's sperm where the cause was unknown both before and after acupuncture was performed. These results later showed that there was a healthy sperm increase as well as less structural defects within the sperm after acupuncture was performed.Despite what many may think, acupuncture is a safe and relatively painless procedure to undergo. Even if certain people believe that it can't help them with their pregnancy issues, it is known to provide a fair amount of relaxation.To determine whether acupuncture for fertility will actually work, be sure to contact a specialist to further discuss the problem. If deciding to go through with this process, be sure to visit a certified acupuncturist, many whom are doctors.I enjoy blogging about lots of health-related topics. To learn more, here's a great starting point: http://fiveseasonshealing.com.