It is suggested that 1 in 6 couples experience issues with conceiving. Whether you are trying to conceive naturally, or through assisted conception, I can support you.
You may have started trying to conceive fairly recently or perhaps you have been trying for while and are exploring other options. Maybe you are looking to conceive your first child, or you may be having difficulties having subsequent children, particularly if you have experienced miscarriage.
While taking a holistic view and using traditional diagnostic tools, I work in an integrated way, using western diagnostic approaches and reports to help with your treatment. If pregnancy occurs you may wish to continue with acupuncture treatment as research shows acupuncture helps with reducing the risk of miscarriage.
FOR WOMEN
Your treatment plan will incorporate a Chinese medicine approach to take a comprehensive look at the menstrual cycle to see how each phase of your cycle is performing in order to see where improvements can be made. We will also discuss taking your basal body temperature, signs of ovulation, your general health, diet and lifestyle and any stress which could be affecting your reproductive wellbeing.
FOR MEN
It is commonly considered by many that sub-fertility is solely a female problem. However, it is estimated that 30% of couples who are struggling to conceive, the issue relates to the fertility of the male.
The World Health Organisation defines male factor infertility as the presence of one or more abnormalities. It is also reported that in involuntarily childless couples, a male infertility associated factor is found together with abnormal semen parameters.
We will discuss your lifestyle and any stress issues which research suggests can have an impact on sperm quality and male fertility.
Assisted Conception (IVF, IUI, Donor egg, Donor Sperm)
I work closely with you and your assisted reproductive protocol. I use the most appropriate treatments during down regulation, follicle stimulation, egg retrieval, before and after egg transfer, and around implantation. Through each phase I continuously work with your emotions, stress levels and general health to optimise your confidence and promote relaxation throughout your fertility journey.
Acupuncture is thought to help boost male and female fertility to provide a perfect environment for conception by:
Other conditions acupuncture is frequently used for:
Planning Ahead
Pre-conception care is extremely important when planning to have a baby. Ideally, it is advised to plan ahead. The perfect time to start acupuncture is three months before conception or assisted reproductive cycle. As it takes around 90 days for both egg and sperm to mature, this will ensure that your eggs and sperm are at the best quality.
However, research suggests that acupuncture may still improve your chances of becoming pregnant if for some reason you started acupuncture treatment later than the recommended 90 days.