Acupuncture for IVF Support

IVF Acupuncture in Surrey | IVF Acupuncture in Surbiton

Acupuncture for IVF Support

Undergoing IVF can be an emotionally and physically demanding experience. As a Chinese medicine practitioner based in Surbiton, Surrey, I offer acupuncture as a gentle, complementary therapy to support you at every stage of your IVF treatment. Whether you’re preparing for an IVF cycle, in the stimulation phase or waiting for embryo transfer, acupuncture can provide a moment of calm, help manage side effects and support your body’s natural processes.

Acupuncture can help you prepare for IVF treatment and can also complement your cycle once it starts.

What Is IVF Support Acupuncture?

IVF support acupuncture is a specialised form of acupuncture tailored to the unique needs of those undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART). It is used to support the body before the IVF cycles stars and during the various phases of IVF, from ovarian stimulation to embryo transfer and beyond.

Acupuncture aims to strengthen qi and blood, improve circulation, and reduce stress—all of which can support the success of your IVF cycle and your overall wellbeing.

How Acupuncture May Help During an IVF Cycle

Acupuncture for IVF support is used at specific stages of your cycle to address common challenges and enhance your overall experience. Here’s how it may help:

Preparation for an IVF Cycle: Consistent acupuncture can be an excellent preparation before the start of IVF treatment. Ideally I recommend a three-month period of treatment leading up to an IVF cycle to prepare and correct any underlying issues before the cycle begins, particularly where the patient is over 35 and/or has had previously unsuccessful attempts at IVF.
Downregulation: This is the phase of treatment in a “long protocol” IVF cycle where patients are given medication by their doctor to suppress their natural hormones and allow for greater control over the treatment cycle. Acupuncture can moderate any uncomfortable side-effects of the medication and also help to support the patient emotionally.
During Ovarian Stimulation: During this phase of treatment medication will be prescribed by your clinic to stimulate the ovaries to produce as many ovarian follicles as possible. Acupuncture can help to complement the body’s response and thicken the endometrium. A 2012 meta-analysis of research found that acupuncture administered during the ovarian stimulation phase significantly increased clinical pregnancy rates and live birth rates and this increase was greater than if acupuncture was only given on the day of embryo transfer.
Between Egg Collection and Transfer: I find that acupuncture between egg collection and embryo transfer can be very useful, as it calms the mind during the anxious waiting period before transfer and if you are suffering from mild to moderate OHSS can be very useful to counteract some of the unpleasant symptoms you might be experiencing. Please note that any symptoms of OHSS should always be reported immediately to your clinic and monitored closely.
On the day of Embryo Transfer: Acupuncture on the day of embryo transfer has been shown to increase pregnancy rates. I usually follow the protocols used in a randomised controlled trial carried out in Germany in 2002 which found that a pregnancy rate of 42.5% was achieved when acupuncture was carried out on the day of embryo transfer, compared to a pregnancy rate of 26.3% when women did not receive acupuncture on the day of transfer.
After Embryo Transfer: In certain cases I recommend a gentle treatment to help patients through the “two week wait’, particularly, if there is a history of several previous failed cycles
Emotional Support throughout: The IVF journey can be emotionally taxing. Acupuncture promotes deep relaxation and supports emotional wellbeing, helping you navigate the process with greater calm and resilience.

What a Typical IVF Support Acupuncture Session Involves

Your acupuncture treatment will be tailored to your specific stage in the IVF cycle. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Personalised Consultation

At our first meeting, I’ll discuss your current cycle, any symptoms you’re experiencing, and we will discuss your general medical history and overall health. This helps me make a diagnosis within the TCM framework and select the appropriate acupuncture points.

2. Gentle Needle Stimulation

You’ll lie comfortably on a treatment couch while I insert fine, single use, sterilised needles at specific points on your abdomen, lower back, legs, and ears.

3. Relaxation and Support

Many patients find acupuncture deeply relaxing, which can be especially beneficial during the emotionally charged IVF process. The first appointment lasts 90 minutes approximately and follow up sessions typically last 45-55 minutes.

4. Program and Advice

At the end of your first appointment I may recommend specific dietary or lifestyle adjustments to support your IVF cycle. I’ll also provide guidance on managing any side effects and offer emotional support as needed. We will also discuss how often you will need to come to see me and how many appointments you might need.

Who Is IVF Acupuncture Suitable For?

IVF support acupuncture is suitable for:

Those who are about to start or are at the beginning of their IVF cycle.
Individuals looking to support their emotional wellbeing during a challenging process.
Women preparing for embryo transfer.
Women with low AMH and low ovarian reserve
Couples who want to complement their medical treatment with holistic care.

Appointment

Want to make booking or have a question?

If you’re undergoing IVF and would like to explore how acupuncture may support your journey, please get in touch to discuss your needs and how I can help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the best time to start acupuncture for IVF?

Many patients begin acupuncture three months before their IVF cycle to prepare the body. Sessions can also be tailored to specific phases, such as before embryo transfer or during the two-week wait.

Is acupuncture safe with IVF medications?

Yes, acupuncture is generally safe to use alongside IVF medications. However, it’s important to inform your practitioner about all medications you’re taking.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on your individual needs and response to treatment. Some patients benefit from weekly sessions before the IVF cycle starts and once the IVF cycle starts you can expect at least 2-4 treatments during the stimulation phase of your cycle and a treatment on the day of transfer.