Planning a family is a beautiful thing, but it also can be stressful, and for 1 in 6 couples, disappointing. According to the World Health Organization, 17% of the adult population experiences infertility. Infertility is defined as failing to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse. While there are many different causes for a couple's infertility, acupuncture and Chinese herbal supplements can aid in the process of achieving pregnancy, and carrying a baby successfully to term.
Before pregnancy
Acupuncture can help achieve a successful pregnancy without the use or in conjunction with Western interventions. Depending on the case, balancing the hormones can take an average of three to six menstrual cycles - sometimes more, sometimes less. With weekly acupuncture treatments, and herbal supplements, and lifestile changes, a healthy and successful pregnancy is possible.
Sometimes Western invention is necessary and acupuncture can assist in this process too. Making acupuncture part of your planning process is best when done weekly starting at least two months before your planned procedure. This gives the body time to regulate and become more balanced.
During pregnancy
Acupuncture is a safe and effective way to address many conditions during pregnancy. Morning sickness, backaches, anxiety, insomnia, headaches, and heartburn are just some of the common conditions that occur during pregnancy which acupuncture can relieve.
Many patients also use acupuncture to help with chronic conditions that they are unable to treat with pharmaceuticals during pregnancy.
Preparing for birth
Acupuncture can be very helpful in the weeks leading up to your birth. It helps the body to prepare for the birthing process and the weeks following
Post-Partum
Once the baby arrives, the real job begins, and the body also goes through a lot of changes as you go back to your "normal" self. Acupuncture can aid in this process.
Male Fertility
Male infertility is just as common as female infertility. Common causes are abnormal sperm production, blockage of delivery of sperm, and low sperm count. Fortunately, acupuncture and herbal supplements can assist in improving sperm count, motility and morphology.
For both women and men, infertility may be a result of an imbalance, whether caused by hormones or stress. Acupuncture is about restoring balance and overall health and well-being. Acupuncture has been shown to improve fertility in many ways:
Improving sperm count and motility
Reducing stress and anxiety associated with infertility
Normalizing hormone production and endocrine systems
Improving blood flow to the reproductive organs (uterus and testes)
Decreasing chance of miscarriage
Decreasing inflammation that may be causing infertility
Regulating the menstrual cycle
Increasing the chance of pregnancy for women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)
What to expect from your first visit
Our initial visit consists of a detailed intake and history analysis where you and your practitioner will go over your case and any lab results you may have. You will also go over diet, exercise, stress reduction, when to have intercourse, and the importance of a regular treatment plan. Along with acupuncture, cupping, moxa, and extra needling may likely occur.
Dr. Maria Yung and Dr. Joy Zhao are our in-house fertility specialists. Their treatments using acupuncture, herbs, moxibustion and lifestyle recommendations have been helpful to many hopeful couples.
For more information call our office at (925)-280-6026 or book a Fertility Consultation and Treatment on our patient portal!