The Role of Acupuncture in Enhancing IVF Success Rates

The journey toward parenthood through in vitro fertilization (IVF) often leads couples to explore complementary therapies that might improve their chances of success. Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese healing practice dating back thousands of years, has emerged as a promising adjunctive treatment that may enhance IVF outcomes by reducing stress, improving blood flow to reproductive organs, and potentially balancing hormonal levels. For many intended parents navigating the emotionally and physically demanding process of fertility treatments, acupuncture offers not just potential clinical benefits but also a sense of agency and active participation in their family planning journey. 

At Chedid Grieco, we embrace a holistic approach to fertility care that considers all aspects of your well-being. As one of only eight clinics outside the United States with a New York tissue license, we pride ourselves on combining cutting-edge reproductive technologies with complementary therapies that support the whole person. Our team provides customized treatment plans with boutique care, addressing each individual’s unique needs on their path to parenthood, whether through conventional methods or with supportive therapies like acupuncture.

Understanding Acupuncture in Fertility Treatment

Acupuncture involves the strategic insertion of ultra-thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote natural healing processes. When applied to fertility treatment, acupuncture targets points believed to enhance reproductive function and overall well-being.

The relationship between acupuncture and fertility has been studied with increasing scientific rigor in recent years. It has been suggested that several mechanisms through which acupuncture might support reproductive health and improve IVF outcomes, including the following:

• Reducing stress hormones
• Increasing blood flow to the uterus and ovaries
• Regulating ovulation in women with certain conditions
• Potentially improving sperm quality in men

To learn more about how acupuncture may positively impact your fertility journey with IVF, contact us today!

Timing of Acupuncture Treatment During IVF

The timing of acupuncture sessions relative to your IVF procedure can be strategically planned to maximize potential benefits. Our fertility specialists and your acupuncturist can work with you to recommend different treatment schedules depending on your individual needs and treatment protocols.

Some common approaches include:

• Pre-treatment phase: Regular acupuncture sessions for 2-3 months before beginning IVF to improve overall reproductive health
• During stimulation: Sessions during the ovarian stimulation phase to potentially enhance follicle development and egg quality
• Pre and post embryo transfer: Sessions immediately before and after embryo transfer, known as the “Paulus protocol” after the researcher who first studied this approach
• Throughout pregnancy: Continued sessions during early pregnancy to support implantation and reduce the risk of miscarriage

The potential benefits of acupuncture vary for each individual, and our fertility specialists can help determine if this complementary approach aligns with your unique family planning journey.

What to Expect During Acupuncture Treatment

If you’re considering acupuncture as part of your fertility journey, knowing what to expect can help ease any concerns. Your first appointment usually begins with a comprehensive consultation about your medical history, fertility challenges, and current treatment plan. The acupuncturist will often check your pulse at different points on your wrist and examine your tongue, which are traditional diagnostic methods in Chinese medicine. Based on this assessment, they’ll develop a treatment strategy tailored to your specific needs.

During the treatment itself, you’ll lie comfortably on a treatment table while the practitioner inserts very thin, sterile needles at selected points. Most people feel minimal or no discomfort during insertion. Once placed, the needles typically remain for 20-30 minutes while you rest quietly. Many patients report feeling deeply relaxed during this time, which itself can be beneficial given the stress often associated with fertility treatment. 

Contact Chedid Grieco for Comprehensive Fertility Care

As we approach our 30th year of practice in 2025, Chedid Grieco remains committed to providing innovative, patient-centered fertility solutions that consider all aspects of your reproductive health journey. Our approach recognizes that complementary therapies like acupuncture can play a valuable role alongside advanced medical treatments in helping you achieve your dream of parenthood.

Our female-led team has helped bring nearly 9,000 babies into the world through our customized treatment plans and boutique care approach. With both FDA and NYDH licensing, we maintain the highest standards while providing compassionate, personalized care to each patient. As proud supporters of LGBTQI+ families and with decades of experience working successfully with patients from the United States, we’re uniquely positioned to guide you through all available options for building your family. To learn more about how we can support your fertility journey, including the potential role of complementary therapies like acupuncture, call us at (305) 912-0050 or fill out our contact form. Remember that consultations are held in Miami, while treatments are conducted in Brazil with our fertility tourism program.