Acupuncture could dramatically boost the
chances of IVF treatment working, a study suggests.
For the 4.5 million couples experiencing infertility each year, acupuncture may be just what the doctor ordered. Acupuncture can increase fertility by reducing stress, increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs and balancing the endocrine system, according to several studies and medical research.
- Laura Donnelly, health editor, Helsinki
A British study found that rates of success were twice as high among those having the alternative therapy. Fertility experts said the findings were interesting and statistically significant.
However, they warned that it was unclear whether the apparent benefit stemmed from the traditional Chinese practice – or from a placebo effect, because the women became more relaxed after time was invested in them.
The study by Homerton University Hospital in London, involved 160 couples suffering from fertility problems. Half were assigned to have four sessions of acupuncture during their IVF cycle. 
Fertility treatment is stressful and it can be quite helpful to have a therapy which relaxes them
Dr Adam Balen
One year on, those who underwent the ancient practice, involving fine needles,
had achieved pregnancy rates of 46.2 per cent. Among those who had not,
pregnancy rates were just 21.7 per cent.
Leave a Reply