This study by Beijing Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology has shown acupuncture to be superior to clomophene on ovulation and pregnancy rates in treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome.
Other studies have shown that unlike Clomophene, acupuncture can have long term effect on PCOS by reducing the sympathetic nervous tonus. Apart from study methodology issues, another limitation of this study is that it only looked into the short term effect, but didn’t evaluate the effectiveness over a longer term. However, this is another study adding to the body of evidence. The study was published in the journal of Zhongguo Zhen jiu (Chinese Journal of Acupuncture & Moxibustion [2013, 33(11):961-964]).
Efficacy and safety evaluation of acupuncture combined with auricular acupoint therapy in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome
Department of Acupuncture and Physical Therapy, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China. geyongchun1981@sina.com
Zhongguo Zhen jiu = Chinese Acupuncture & Moxibustion [2013, 33(11):961-964]
Type: Journal Article, English Abstract (lang: chi)
OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy differences between acupuncture combined with auricular acupoint therapy and clomiphene oral administration in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
METHODS: One hundred cases of PCOS were randomized into two groups, 50 cases in each one. Acupuncture combined with auricular acupuncture group (group A): acupuncture was applied at Guanyuan (CV 4), Zhongji (CV 3) and Zigong (EX-CA 1), once daily; auricular point sticking was applied at Spleen (pi, CO13), Endocrine (neifenmi, CO18), Uterus and Kidney (shen, CO10), the plaster was changed once a week. Clomiphene group (group B): oral clomiphene was prescribed at the 5th day of the menstrual, for 5 consecutive days, totally 3 menstrual cycles was needed. The ovulation induction, pregnancy and menstruation resuming of patients in the two ‘ , The totally effective rate was 90.00% (45/50) in group A, which was group were observed and compared.
RESULTS: The totally effective rate was 90.0% (45/50) in group A, which was superior to 86.0% (43/50) in group B (P<0.05); the ovulation rate and pregnancy rate were 68.0% (34/50)and 64. 0% (32/50) in group A, which were superior to that of group B (all P<0. 05); the menstruation resuming rate was 94.00 (47/50) in group A, which was superior to 88.00 (44/50) in group B (P<0.05). No adverse effect was observed in group A, while in group B, varying degrees of nausea, vomiting, headache and dermatitis were observed in 29 cases, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) like polycystic ovary was observed in 14 cases under the B ultrasound.CONCLUSION: Acupuncture combined with auricular acupoint therapy has a better effect than clomiphene in the treatment of PCOS without any adverse effects.
Get pregnant faster with acupuncture
acupuncture, female infertility, infertility, unexplained infertilityWhen you decide to have a family, you want to get pregnant fast. How can you speed up your fertility journey? Does it feel like you have tried everything? But have you?
Recently I found a fertility acupuncture study from Australia, which has some good tips.
What we know about fertility acupuncture mostly comes from the studies about IVF. In contrast to IVF research, general reproductive acupuncture studies are hard to come by. While we see many IVF patients, about 50% of our couples are trying to conceive naturally, in the privacy of their homes. So studies discussing Chinese Medicine treatment for fertility without IVF are interesting to us and our switched-on patients.
Can you actually get pregnant faster without IVF?
This Australian study explored the effect of acupuncture on fertility awareness and regularity of your cycle. But what they actually discovered will surprise you.
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Ovarian reserve – acupuncture offers new hope
acupuncture, advanced maternal ageOvarian reserve is a major factor predicting outcomes in fertility treatments such as IVF. Recent studies suggest acupuncture may help. In this post we will explore what the evidence says.
What is “low ovarian reserve”?
“Low ovarian reserve” generally refers to situations when:
These markers are commonly used by fertility specialists to predict how ovaries may respond in IVF cycles.
In this study, researchers investigated how acupuncture influenced reproductive potential in women who had low ovarian reserve. They used a kind of acupuncture with no needles, where very gentle electric impulses are used to stimulate acupuncture points. This study has shown improved the hormone levels including AMH.
Key findings
Researchers observed increased number of eggs collected with IVF. The embryo quality was also improved. Consequently, women who had acupuncture had better IVF pregnancy outcomes.
Infertility Acupuncture info NZ
Infertility Acupuncture info NZ
Infertility Acupuncture info NZ
The study was published in The Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research.
Summary
Low ovarian reserve can make fertility treatment more difficult. Early evidence shows acupuncture may support ovarian reserve and improve IVF outcomes, though more research is needed.
Are you interested in learning how acupuncture can support your fertility? Contact Dr Vitalis Acupuncture Auckland.
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Reproductive acupuncture vs medication for anovulation
acupuncture, anovulation, polycystic ovariesHow does reproductive acupuncture compares to the medication at improving ovulation?
One of the causes of anovulation is luteinised unruptured follicle syndrome (LUFS).
LUFS affects 5%-10% of healthy women and 25%-43% of women with infertility. This syndrome is more common among women diagnosed with endometriosis.
Most commonly LUFS is diagnosed during a series of ultrasound scans.
In women with LUFS, the dominant follicle will grow bigger than usual (up to 4 centimeters). The follicle will undergo the luteinisation process, but it will not rupture during the midcycle to release the mature egg. Progesterone levels will increase as if you have ovulated. Your endometrium will undergo premenstrual changes. In other words, you won’t be able to see any difference in your period. The menstrual flow will be no different from a healthy menstrual cycle. But, obviously, if the egg is not released, and if you have LUFS it is not, pregnancy cannot happen.
There is a clear explanation of why some women get LUFS. The main treatment for it is ovulation induction with hCG hormonal injection or Clomiphene. These treatments are a risk of hyperstimulation syndrome and other side-effects.
Does acupuncture offer a treatment alternative to anovulation?
A recent literature review on acupuncture’s effect on LUFS has been published in the Journal Of Acupuncture and Tuina Science. And if offers a safe and effective alternative. Read more
Hyperprolactinemia: reproductive acupuncture holds a promise
acupuncture, prolactinomaHyperprolactinemia can be a significant obstacle for women trying to get pregnant, and reproductive acupuncture may be one way to address the condition in some women. Previous research has shown that acupuncture influences prolactin levels in women undergoing IVF. We have studies showing acupuncture can reduce prolactin levels (auricular acupuncture using NADA protocol).
This study is interesting because the researchers were looking at natural conception rates, and women who had acupuncture treatment showed a significant difference – they were more fertile. Acupuncture plus standard treatment resulted in 43% pregnancy rate vs 20% of standard treatment alone. Bromocriptine has some nasty side-effects, including dizziness, nausea, confusion, even hallucinations and uncontrolled body movement. Women undergoing acupuncture treatment had a much better response to the drug but also had fewer side-effects.
Obviously, this is a small study; and further research looking into hyperprolactinemia and acupuncture are needed. The abstract of the study is below.
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Acupuncture and moxibustion help androgen deficiency
male fertilityEffects and mechanisms of acupuncture and moxibustion on reproductive endocrine function in male rats with partial androgen deficiency.
Ren Y1, Yang X1, Zhang Y2, Wang Y1, Li X1.
Author information
Abstract
OBJECTIVES:
Partial androgen deficiency of the aging male (PADAM) is characterised by a deficiency in serum androgen levels. Both electroacupuncture (EA) and mild moxibustion (MM) can raise serum testosterone levels in PADAM. We investigated the mechanisms underlying the use of EA and MM in a rodent model of PADAM. Read more
Comprehensive Traditional Chinese medicine approach improves IVF outcomes
acupunctureImpact of whole systems traditional Chinese medicine on in-vitro fertilization outcomes.
Hullender Rubin LE, Opsahl MS, Wiemer KE, Mist SD, Caughey AB.
Abstract
Patients undergoing IVF may receive either acupuncture or whole-systems traditional Chinese medicine (WS-TCM) as an adjuvant IVF treatment.
WS-TCM is a complex intervention that can include acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, dietary, lifestyle recommendations.
n this retrospective cohort study, 1231 IVF patient records were reviewed to assess the effect of adjuvant WS-TCM on IVF outcomes compared among three groups: IVF with no additional treatment; IVF and elective acupuncture on the day of embryo transfer; or IVF and elective WS-TCM. The primary outcome was live birth.
Of 1069 non-donor cycles, WS-TCM was associated with greater odds of live birth compared with IVF alone (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.09; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.36 to 3.21), or embryo transfer with acupuncture only (AOR 1.62; 95% CI 1.04 to 2.52).
Of 162 donor cycles, WS-TCM was associated with increased live births compared with all groups (odds ratio [OR] 3.72; 95% CI 1.05 to 13.24, unadjusted) or embryo transfer with acupuncture only (OR 4.09; 95% CI: 1.02 to 16.38, unadjusted).
Overall, IVF with adjuvant WS-TCM was associated with greater odds of live birth in donor and non-donor cycles. These results should be taken cautiously as more rigorous research is needed.
Can acupuncture help 35+ year old pregnant women reduce pregnancy risks
acupuncture, advanced maternal ageCan acupuncture help 35+ year old pregnant women reduce pregnancy risks?
Women of this age, are a high risk for developing stillbirth and fetal growth restriction among other complications.
This study, published in Journal of Physiology, researchers from the University of Manchester, UK concluded that the blood flow to placenta may be the reason for increased risks. Acupuncture increases the blood flow to uterus. Use acupuncture in pregnancy as a preventative measure to reduce the risks for the developing baby.
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PCOS: acupuncture normalises ovarian volume and AMH
acupuncture, female infertility, polycystic ovariesAcupuncture helps to normalise both ovarian volume and AMH in PCOS patients. These changes are beneficial for fertility.
Both acupuncture and exercise help to normalise overactive sympathetic nervous system in PCOS patients. Acupuncture, however, is much more effective. Furthermore, as shown by this study, exercise has no effect on AMH nor ovarian volume.
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PCOS insulin resistance – Acupuncture can help
acupuncture, polycystic ovariesPCOS can improve with acupuncture treatment. More research looks into the mechanism of it. One of the lead researchers in PCOS and acupuncture Dr Elisabet Stener-Victorin from Sweden has long suspected that acupuncture may play a role in regulating blood glucose levels and helping with insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is one of the features of PCOS. This study put the theory to test.
The study revealed acupuncture increases whole-body glucose uptake during and after stimulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. See the abstract and a full text of the study below.
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Chinese medicine for uterine fibroids
Chinese herbs, Chinese medicine, uterine-fibroidsWhat if I told you that there was an ancient Chinese secret that could potentially aid in the battle against uterine fibroids? For many women who have experienced fibroids, a common solution is often the surgical removal of these benign growths, particularly if they obstruct the chances of embryo implantation. But what if surgery is not the desired option? Enter the intriguing world of Chinese fertility herbs.
The Guizhi Fuling Formula, a renowned herbal concoction from China, has recently garnered the attention of researchers for its potential benefits in treating uterine fibroids.
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Electro acupuncture decreases risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation in IVF patients
acupuncture, IVFThis recent study highlights how acupuncture, specifically electro-acupuncture (EA), can reduce the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation in IVF patients. Despite some limitations, the findings are crucial for tailoring acupuncture protocols to each IVF patient’s needs.
Published in the Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, the research by Hong YL and colleagues from the Department of Gynecology at Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine examined the effects of EA on clinical outcomes and the occurrence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in in vitro fertilization and embryo transplantation.
The study involved 109 patients at a Reproductive Center, divided into a control group and an EA group based on their appointment dates. While the control group underwent standard ovarian stimulation protocols, the EA group received additional electro-acupuncture from the start of their Gn injection until the day of embryo transfer.
Key findings from the study include:
These results suggest that electro-acupuncture could be a valuable adjunct therapy in IVF treatments, potentially reducing the risk of OHSS. This study underscores the importance of integrating traditional techniques like acupuncture with modern reproductive technologies, offering a holistic approach to fertility treatments.
[Effect of electro-acupuncture on clinical outcomes and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in in vitro fertilization and embryo transplantation].
(PMID:25566616)
Hong YL, Tan Y, Yin YY, Zou YJ, Guo YH, Nie XW
Department of Gynecology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, China.
Zhongguo Zhong xi yi jie he za zhi Zhongguo Zhongxiyi Jiehe Zazhi = Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine / Zhongguo Zhong xi yi jie he xue Hui, Zhongguo Zhong yi yan jiu Yuan zhu ban [2014, 34(11):1292-1296]
OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of electro-acupuncture (EA) on clinical outcomes and the occurrence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in in vitro fertilization and embryo transplantation.
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Acupuncture improves receptivity of endometrial lining in IVF Frozen Embryo Transfer
acupuncture, endometriosis, hydrosalpinx, infertility, IVF, polycystic ovariesIVF Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) patients benefit from Acupuncture. This helps us understand how Acupuncture benefits fertility.
Electro stimulation on acupuncture points leading to the IVF transfer improves the quality/receptivity of the uterine lining. A study published in the latest issue of peer-reviewed British Medical Journal (Acupuncture in Medicine) found the rates of embryo implantation, clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were higher in patients who received acupuncture leading to the transfer. They also found significant measurable changes in the endometrium (uterine lining):
How much acupuncture should you have to see those enhancements to your fertility? Women in this study had six acupuncture sessions per cycle for three menstrual cycles.
See the abstract of the study below. Read more
Stress reduces sperm quality, is acupuncture the answer?
acupuncture, male fertilityAcupuncture has been shown to improve sperm quality, it has also been shown to help with stress. Researchers at the Georgetown University Medical Center have shown that acupuncture interferes with the very mechanism of stress.
Effects of work and life stress on semen quality
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Stress doubles the chance of infertility
stress/anxietyToo much stress is a serious factor affecting your fertility. The study, published in the Journal of Human Reproduction found that stress can lead to a two-fold increase in infertility among women trying to conceive for one year. Are you trying to conceive and are stressed? Perhaps it’s a good idea to consider acupuncture. It interferes with the very mechanism of stress.
Preconception stress increases the risk of infertility: results from a couple-based prospective cohort study—the LIFE study
C.D. Lynch1,*, R. Sundaram2, J.M. Maisog2, A.M. Sweeney3 and G.M. Buck Louis2
+ Author Affiliations Read more
Low uterine blood flow = no pregnancy
acupuncture, IVFAcupuncture has been shown to increase the uterine blood flow (decreasing uterine blood impedance). But does this boost to blood flow really matter when you’re having an IVF? This study below provides the answer. The researchers utilised specialised ultrasound method to assess uterine blood flow. They discovered that it had an immense effect on both pregnancy and implantation rates. IVF with women, who had the lowest blood flow below a certain level on the day of transfer, unfortunately didn’t result in any pregnancies.
In this study the blood flow is referred to as uterine blood flow impedance and pulsatility index(PI). The higher the impedance and PI, the lower the blood flow. None of the women who had PI value above 3 conceived.
Fertil Steril. 1992 Feb;57(2):372-6. Read more
Acupuncture – effective treatment for CPID Chronic Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
acupuncture, chronic pelvic inflammationYet another study shows that acupuncture does quite a bit more in the abdominal cavity than just increasing the blood flow to ovaries and uterus. Obviously, the study doesn’t directly link with treatment of infertility, but the promise is there.
Zhen Ci Yan Jiu. 2014 Apr;39(2):156-63.
[A meta-analysis on effectiveness of acupuncture and moxibustion for chronic pelvic inflammatory disease].
Fan LL, Yu WH, Liu XQ, Cui Z, Ma J, Li CP.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To evaluate the clinical effect of acupuncture and moxibustion therapies for chronic pelvic inflammatory disease (CPID) by Meta-analysis.
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Embryo implantation failure – acupuncture increases number of implanted embryos
acupuncture, infertilityThe researchers of this study have discovered acupuncture can optimise this subtle uterine environment by modulating cytokines, and therefore it can increase the implantation rate.
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Acupuncture more effective than clomophene in treatment of pcos
acupuncture, polycystic ovariesOther studies have shown that unlike Clomophene, acupuncture can have long term effect on PCOS by reducing the sympathetic nervous tonus. Apart from study methodology issues, another limitation of this study is that it only looked into the short term effect, but didn’t evaluate the effectiveness over a longer term. However, this is another study adding to the body of evidence. The study was published in the journal of Zhongguo Zhen jiu (Chinese Journal of Acupuncture & Moxibustion [2013, 33(11):961-964]).
Efficacy and safety evaluation of acupuncture combined with auricular acupoint therapy in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome
Department of Acupuncture and Physical Therapy, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China. geyongchun1981@sina.com
Zhongguo Zhen jiu = Chinese Acupuncture & Moxibustion [2013, 33(11):961-964]
Type: Journal Article, English Abstract (lang: chi)
OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy differences between acupuncture combined with auricular acupoint therapy and clomiphene oral administration in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
METHODS: One hundred cases of PCOS were randomized into two groups, 50 cases in each one. Acupuncture combined with auricular acupuncture group (group A): acupuncture was applied at Guanyuan (CV 4), Zhongji (CV 3) and Zigong (EX-CA 1), once daily; auricular point sticking was applied at Spleen (pi, CO13), Endocrine (neifenmi, CO18), Uterus and Kidney (shen, CO10), the plaster was changed once a week. Clomiphene group (group B): oral clomiphene was prescribed at the 5th day of the menstrual, for 5 consecutive days, totally 3 menstrual cycles was needed. The ovulation induction, pregnancy and menstruation resuming of patients in the two ‘ , The totally effective rate was 90.00% (45/50) in group A, which was group were observed and compared.
RESULTS: The totally effective rate was 90.0% (45/50) in group A, which was superior to 86.0% (43/50) in group B (P<0.05); the ovulation rate and pregnancy rate were 68.0% (34/50)and 64. 0% (32/50) in group A, which were superior to that of group B (all P<0. 05); the menstruation resuming rate was 94.00 (47/50) in group A, which was superior to 88.00 (44/50) in group B (P<0.05). No adverse effect was observed in group A, while in group B, varying degrees of nausea, vomiting, headache and dermatitis were observed in 29 cases, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) like polycystic ovary was observed in 14 cases under the B ultrasound.CONCLUSION: Acupuncture combined with auricular acupoint therapy has a better effect than clomiphene in the treatment of PCOS without any adverse effects.
PCOS Acupuncture: the most comprehensive paper to date?
acupuncture, polycystic ovariesPolycystic Ovary Syndrome: Effect and Mechanisms of Acupuncture for Ovulation Induction
Julia Johansson and Elisabet Stener-Victorin
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age, is characterized by the coexistence of hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and polycystic ovaries (PCO). PCOS also represents the largest part of female oligoovulatory infertility, and the management of ovulatory and menstrual dysfunction comprises a third of the high costs of PCOS treatment. Current pharmacological and surgical treatments for reproductive symptoms are effective, however, associated with negative side effects, such as cardiovascular complications and multiple pregnancies. For menstrual irregularities and ovulation induction in women with PCOS, acupuncture has indicated beneficial effects. This review will focus on the results from randomized controlled acupuncture trials for the regulation of menstrual dysfunction and for inducing ovulation in women with PCOS although there are uncontrolled trials with nonetheless interesting results. Animal experimental studies will be further discussed when they can provide a more mechanistic explanatory view.
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Boost embryo quality with acupuncture
acupuncture, ICSI, polycystic ovariesCan acupuncture improve embryo quality?
The short answer is yes, acupuncture can improve embryo quality. Now let’s have a look into study details.
Dr Rashidi and his team explored if acupuncture can improve pregnancy rates for PCOS patients undergoing IVF and ICSI. As a result, they found that acupuncture can improve embryo quality.
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