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Get to the Point

Can Acupuncture Help You Conceive?

By Kim Seidel

There is no scientific proof that acupuncture increases a woman's fertility, says Dr. Fred Licciardi, associate director of New York University Fertility Center in New York, N.Y. He says some of his patients have used acupuncture as a complementary treatment, and he has not discouraged the practice. Some women believe they receive important benefits from acupuncture, he says.

Some women with infertility challenges are better patients than others for acupuncture treatments. "A good candidate would be someone who has a functional rather than a structural reason for infertility," Pobiak says. "A patient with blocked fallopian tubes or a patient with a large uterine fibroid, which might require removal, would not be good candidates for acupuncture merely for conceiving. However, they might still want to consider acupuncture while they receive treatment for their condition, especially if they are to undergo any kind of surgical procedure."

Acupuncture treats a multitude of symptoms. "It can help regulate a woman's cycle, decrease menstrual pain and regulate blood flow," Pobiak says. A woman visiting an acupuncturist for infertility may be treated for insomnia, digestive problems, headaches, back pain and other issues at the same time, she says.

"Look for an acupuncturist who specializes in infertility," Pobiak says. "Although it is not unusual for a practitioner to specialize in more than one field, it is imperative that the practitioner knows how to treat the patient according to each week of her menstrual cycle."

Another important consideration according to Pobiak is location. It's best to find a practitioner located close to your home or work. "This will make it easier for you to keep your scheduled appointments and not add to your stress by traveling long distances," she says.

In addition, Phobiak point out the following: "Make sure that you can easily communicate to your acupuncturist and feel a high comfort level, [and] find an office with a serene environment so that you can relax during your treatment."