The Science Behind Acupuncture and Fertility: A Closer Look
Many couples discover their journey of becoming parents to be extremely stressful and challenging. There has been a surge in the utilization of additional alternative therapies in recent years in order to enhance the success rate of mainstream reproductive treatments. The ancient Chinese practice of acupuncture is growing in popularity as a possible means of boosting fertility. To know whether there is any truth to the theory, you can visit the best acupuncturist in Santa Fe with all your questions. Alternatively, this article examines the research around acupuncture's claimed ability to boost fertility.
Understanding Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting extremely fine needles into different acupuncture spots all over the body. The meridians with which these locations are connected are believed to impact the body's vital processes. In addition to acupuncture's centuries-old tradition of application in treating a broad spectrum of health issues—including infertility—its efficiency has recently become the focus of comprehensive scientific study.
Scientific Studies on Acupuncture and Fertility
Numerous studies have examined how acupuncture impacts fertility, and the results have been promising. In 2002, experts at Johns Hopkins University published a study in the journal "Fertility and Sterility," indicating that acupuncture could boost the success rate of in vitro fertilization (IVF) through improved blood flow to the uterus and ovaries. Successful embryo implantation might get better with this increased blood circulation.
In 2015, researchers published an article in the journal "Reproductive Biomedicine Online" that indicated acupuncture could boost ovulation and egg quality in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a prevalent cause of infertility, by managing the menstrual cycle and hormones.
The Role of Stress Reduction
It is generally accepted that stress could have an adverse impact on fertility. High-stress levels could interfere with one’s hormones, preventing one from ovulating. It has been suggested that acupuncture can alleviate stress by stimulating the release of endorphins. Acupuncture's ability to mitigate stress may be one way it increases conception.
Regulating Hormones
When hormones are out of balance, it can be tricky to conceive a child. There is evidence that acupuncture can affect hormonal balance by triggering the discharge of neurotransmitters. Hormones, including luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), play a significant part in the menstrual cycle and ovulation, which can help manage their levels.
Improving Blood Flow
Increased blood flow to the genitourinary system is a possible mechanism by which acupuncture enhances conception. The creation of viable eggs and the strengthening of the uterine lining required for the implantation of embryos are both reliant on an adequate blood supply.
Conclusion
Although research on the impact of acupuncture on fertility is still in its infancy, evidence to date seems to indicate that it could be beneficial. Blood flow, hormone regulation, and stress reduction are every domain in which acupuncture has demonstrated promise as an option to enhance conception. However, if you plan to use Chinese Herbal tinctures, you should be careful and discuss it with your doctor, as not many studies have been done regarding its safety.
