The Role of Acupuncture in Fertility
Written by Rhiannon Davis and Hannah Pearn, Chair of Acupuncture Fertility Network. Reviewed by Jenny Wordsworth
Acupuncture is a buzzword in fertility that has been around for a while. Although medical treatments often take the centre stage, more people are turning to complementary approaches like acupuncture to support their fertility and overall wellbeing.
Acupuncture is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine and has been a documented practice since 100 BCE. It is believed to enhance reproductive health by balancing the body’s energy, improving blood flow, and reducing stress.
Now, if you should know one thing about OVUM, it’s that we like to do our research. We recently explored a comprehensive systematic review of 27 studies involving over 7,600 participants to understand acupuncture's role in fertility. The studies were all Randomised Control Trials (IYKYK, we love a RCT at OVUM), the gold standard of clinical evidence.
The review found that acupuncture can improve key fertility outcomes, such as live birth rates, clinical pregnancy rates, and implantation rates when compared to control treatments. However, it also noted that these effects were similar between true acupuncture and sham (placebo) acupuncture, suggesting that factors like stress relief or the placebo effect might contribute to the observed benefits. So, while the evidence is still mixed, acupuncture remains a popular complementary therapy for fertility, with some studies showing promising results.
To further research, we spoke with an experienced acupuncturist to answer some of the most common questions about fertility-focused acupuncture and how it can become a meaningful part of your TTC journey. Hannah Pearn is the Chair of the Acupuncture Fertility Network. Alongside her work in clinic, she’s committed to improving fertility education and information through her community group and podcast, Don’t Tell Me to Relax.
What is the science behind how acupuncture supports fertility?
Hannah: Acupuncture can improve fertility by regulating hormones, increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs, and reducing stress.
OVUM n.b research suggests that acupuncture can affect blood flow of the peripheral, mesenteric, and retrobulbar arteries. Overall, studies also suggest that acupuncture increases oestrogen.
How does acupuncture fit into a holistic approach to improving fertility?
Hannah: As acupuncture is a whole-body approach to improving health, it is thought that the knock-on effect of better sleep, improved digestion and feeling more in control contributes to better health and, therefore, fertility. As acupuncturists, we work alongside diet, lifestyle changes, and medical treatments to enhance overall reproductive health.
What are the most common fertility challenges people seek acupuncture for?
Hannah: People often seek acupuncture for issues like irregular menstrual cycles, painful periods, ovulation disorders, and unexplained infertility. It’s also commonly used for support during treatments like IVF or IUI and has been used to help support male fertility outcomes.
Can acupuncture improve the success rates of fertility treatments like IVF or IUI? If so, how?
Hannah: Yes, acupuncture may improve IVF or IUI success rates by increasing blood flow to the uterus, reducing stress, and supporting hormone balance. These factors can improve embryo implantation and overall treatment outcomes.
OVUM n.b - of course, we had to bring it back to the clinical research here. We found that research suggests acupuncture on the day of ET significantly improves the reproductive outcome of IVF/ICSI, compared with no acupuncture. Alongside this, luteal phase acupuncture positively affects the outcome of IVF/ICSI.
What does a typical fertility-focused acupuncture session involve?
Hannah: A typical session includes a consultation to assess reproductive health, overall health, lifestyle, and life history. We leave no stone unturned and want to know as much as possible about the person we work with. Initial consultations with us last an hour and a half, with follow-ups lasting an hour. There is time to talk and discuss what is happening with treatment or with a natural cycle. We then insert fine needles into specific points that are usually left in for about 20 minutes while you have a lovely lie down and relax.
How soon should someone start acupuncture when trying to conceive, and is there an optimal timeline?
Hannah: Starting acupuncture 3–6 months before trying to conceive is often recommended to allow time for regulation of cycles and hormone balance. This also gives us time to work on improving the environment for the ovaries and improving follicular growth. For men it takes on average 70 – 90 days to work on improving the semen quality.
However, it can also be beneficial at any stage of the journey as there is always a benefit to treatment and the ongoing support and care. For those starting treatment alongside their fertility treatment we would be working to alleviate side effects, calm the nervous system and work on blood flow to the reproductive organs.
Are there specific acupuncture points that target reproductive health, and what do they do?
Hannah: We use a lot of points on the lower legs and arms, and specifically for fertility and menstrual health support, we focus on the abdominal area below the belly button and above the pubic bone.
What changes or benefits do patients typically notice after starting acupuncture for fertility?
Hannah: Patients often report improved menstrual cycles, reduced stress, better sleep, and a greater sense of well-being. Many also say they have increased energy, a more regular ovulation pattern, feel well supported and therefore more in control.
Are there any myths about acupuncture for fertility that you’d like to dispel?
Hannah: A common myth is that it’s painful; the thought of needles to relax sounds counterintuitive. However, we usually use tiny and fine needles, which are generally painless. Fertility acupuncturists will ensure you are warm, comfortable, and cosy and that most people feel very relaxed after treatment.
What advice would you give to someone who is nervous about trying acupuncture for the first time?
Hannah: Start with a discovery call before you book your treatment to learn more about your practitioner and discuss your concerns. Choose a licensed acupuncturist experienced in fertility using the links listed below, and discuss how you feel when you come for the treatment. Your practitioner will usually start with just a few needles so you see how it feels and then work from there; if in doubt, speak to your practitioner!
Key Takeaways on Acupuncture
Whether you’re new to acupuncture or considering it alongside fertility treatments, we hope this guide has helped you understand its potential benefits and how it might support your goals.
The Acupuncture Fertility Network is the largest professional body of acupuncturists specialising in fertility. You can find a practitioner who is local to you via their website.