Fertility Acupuncture

Acupuncture for Fertility in London

If you are trying to conceive, acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine may offer a supportive approach alongside your fertility care. At Acubody in London, treatment is tailored to the individual, taking account of your health, menstrual cycle, medical history and personal circumstances. Acupuncture is not a proven cure for infertility, and research evidence that it improves pregnancy or live-birth rates remains uncertain. However there are issues with the methodology of the research, and many people have found acupuncture and Chinese medicine useful in their journey to start a family. So much so that most assisted reproductive techniques clinics endorse or encourage people to use it alongside their treatments. The aim is to provide considered, individual care while being clear about what treatment can and cannot be expected to achieve.

In short

Acupuncture for fertility can be considered as complementary care when trying to conceive naturally or undergoing fertility treatment.
Female and male fertility can both be discussed as part of an individual assessment.
Research into acupuncture and fertility has produced mixed findings. It has not established a reliable improvement in the chance of having a baby.
Some people choose acupuncture to support their general wellbeing during what can be a physically and emotionally demanding time.
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine should complement, not replace, appropriate medical assessment or fertility treatment.

How does acupuncture help fertility?

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine treatment in which fine needles are inserted at selected points on the body. The points used and the treatment approach depend on the individual assessment.

In traditional Chinese medicine, reproductive health is considered in the context of the body’s wider patterns of health and function. A practitioner may consider your menstrual cycle, general health, sleep, digestion, energy levels and other symptoms when developing a treatment plan.

From a modern medical perspective, the mechanisms through which acupuncture might influence reproductive outcomes are not fully established. Research has explored possible effects on processes such as blood flow, nervous-system activity and the body’s stress response, but proposed mechanisms should not be confused with proof that acupuncture improves fertility.

The important distinction is between supporting your wellbeing and increasing your chance of pregnancy. Acupuncture may help some people feel more supported while trying to conceive, but it cannot be promised to improve egg quality, sperm quality, implantation, pregnancy rates or the likelihood of a live birth.

For a fuller explanation of how to interpret research findings, see the Acubody Acupuncture Research and Evidence page.

Acupuncture for female fertility

Trying to conceive can involve many different considerations, including menstrual health, ovulation, age, medical history and whether you have been given a specific diagnosis.

Traditional Chinese medicine takes an individualised approach rather than assuming that everyone experiencing difficulty conceiving needs the same treatment. During a consultation, we can discuss your menstrual cycle, symptoms, general health and reproductive history, along with any investigations or treatment you have already received.

Depending on your circumstances, you may wish to discuss acupuncture if you are:

Trying to conceive naturally.
Experiencing irregular or uncomfortable menstrual cycles.
Living with a diagnosed reproductive condition, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), while receiving appropriate medical care.
Preparing for, or undergoing, fertility treatment such as IVF.
Looking for supportive care during the uncertainty and emotional demands of trying to conceive.

These are reasons someone might consider acupuncture; they are not evidence that acupuncture treats the underlying cause of infertility.

Can acupuncture help with IVF?

Some people choose acupuncture before or during IVF because they value having time for treatment and support alongside their medical care. Research has investigated acupuncture at different stages of fertility treatment, including ovarian stimulation and embryo transfer.

However, the findings are mixed. Studies and reviews have reported different results, but limitations in study quality and certainty make the overall findings difficult to interpret.

At present, acupuncture should not be presented as a treatment proven to increase IVF success or live-birth rates. However almost all of the research has been done on acupuncture immediately pre and post implantation. As there is other evidence that treatment can improve blood supply to the ovaries and uterus, and may improve egg quality, having acupuncture for 3-4 months before an IVF cycle is what is recommended traditionally

If you are undergoing IVF or another assisted reproductive treatment, discuss complementary therapies with your fertility team before starting. Treatment should be coordinated around your clinical plan, appointments and any medical advice you have been given.

Acupuncture for male fertility

Fertility involves both partners, and male reproductive factors can play an important role in difficulties conceiving. A semen analysis and appropriate medical assessment can help identify issues that may need investigation or treatment.

Some men explore acupuncture as a complementary approach while trying to conceive. A consultation can provide an opportunity to discuss general health, relevant symptoms and your reasons for seeking treatment.

Research has examined acupuncture in relation to aspects of male reproductive health, including semen parameters. However, changes in laboratory measurements do not necessarily translate into improved natural conception or live-birth rates. The evidence is not sufficient to conclude that acupuncture reliably improves male fertility.

If you have concerns about sperm count, sperm movement, sperm shape or another aspect of reproductive health, seek advice from your GP or a fertility specialist. Acupuncture should not delay investigations or established medical treatment.

You can also read more about the related conditions covered on our men’s health page.

Men’s Health

This section of the site is devoted to information about Men’s health problems. Men are less likely to seek treatment in general than Women. Don’t suffer in silence.

Male subfertility/ infertility

Male subfertility is a growing problem in the western world at least. The amount of sperm considered normal in the 1970’s (80 million per ml) is four times what is considered a normal threshold now (20 million per ml). It is estimated that 30%-50% cases of subfertility in couples involve a male factor.

As well as some great herbal formulae that have been seen to work to increase sperm count and quality over the years, there is also some great research on acupuncture fertility in the treatment of male subfertility. It is something you want to look at over a time period of three months or more, but given a test at the beginning and at the end you can know for sure that it has made a difference as far as Acupuncture fertility in London is concerned.

Erectile dysfunction

It is said that most men experience erectile dysfunction at some point in their life. For those who experience it over long periods or regularly it can be hellish, spoiling their enjoyment of life, and affecting their well being and sense of self. Sometimes the problems may be from a physical or organ problem, but a lot of the time it is more wrapped up in thoughts, ideas and expectations, history, experiences and relationships. This is where fertility acupuncture in London helps.

I have found acupuncture to have helped all the men so far who have sought help from me with such problems. Perhaps it is because it can be calming and reduce anxiety? Perhaps fertility acupuncture helps cut through overthinking and helps the person become more embodied? Whatever the scientific rationale, the Chinese medical system of diagnosis leads to individualised treatments which help people.

Urology and the prostate

Because the prostate gland encircles the urethra in a man, if it develops a problem it can affect urination. Problems of flow strength, dribbling and control can result from swelling of this gland, whether benign or malignant. Although we couldn’t say it can treat the possible diseases underlying, it can help manage the symptoms, and be useful in the recovery of function after other conventional treatment.

Chinese medicine for fertility and infertility

Traditional Chinese medicine approaches reproductive health within the context of the individual as a whole. Rather than using one standard treatment for everyone, a practitioner considers the combination of symptoms and health history presented during the consultation.

This approach may be meaningful to people who want individualised, complementary care. However, traditional Chinese medicine concepts and diagnostic patterns are not the same as diagnoses established through modern reproductive medicine, and they should not be used as a substitute for fertility investigations.

At Acubody, any discussion of traditional Chinese medicine takes place alongside a clear understanding of the limits of the available scientific evidence.

What about Chinese herbal medicine?

Some traditional Chinese medicine approaches include herbal preparations as well as acupuncture. Herbal products require particular care when you are trying to conceive, undergoing IVF or might be pregnant.

Products can have side effects, vary in composition and interact with prescribed medication. Do not start Chinese herbal medicine without discussing it with your fertility clinician and a suitably qualified practitioner who can assess its safety in your circumstances.

Acupuncture and herbal medicine are separate interventions. Evidence relating to one should not automatically be treated as evidence for the other.

What does the research say about acupuncture for infertility?

Research into acupuncture for infertility includes randomised controlled trials, observational studies and systematic reviews. The results vary according to the condition being studied, the treatment protocol, the comparison group and the outcome measured.

It is important to distinguish between outcomes such as changes in hormone levels, ovulation, implantation, a positive pregnancy test, an ongoing pregnancy and a live birth. These are not interchangeable measures of success.

For example, a study reporting a change in a laboratory marker does not necessarily show that more people will conceive. Likewise, a study reporting a higher pregnancy rate does not automatically establish a higher live-birth rate.

The quality and consistency of the research also matter. A systematic review can bring together many studies, but its conclusions are still limited by the quality of the studies it includes.

For these reasons, the most responsible conclusion is that the evidence does not currently establish acupuncture as a reliable way to increase the chance of having a baby. This does not mean that every possible effect has been ruled out; it means that the available evidence does not justify making a stronger promise.

For further information, including how the evidence pyramid works and how different types of research should be interpreted, visit the Acubody Acupuncture Research and Evidence page.

Independent sources of information

If you would like to explore the research and guidance for yourself, these independent resources may be useful:

Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA): Complementary and alternative therapies — information for people considering complementary therapies alongside fertility treatment.
Randomised controlled trial of acupuncture during IVF, published in JAMA — a large trial comparing acupuncture with sham acupuncture and measuring live births.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of acupuncture and IVF outcomes — a review of clinical trials that also discusses limitations in the certainty of the evidence.
British Acupuncture Council: Acupuncture research — information about acupuncture research and evidence.

You can find a broader discussion of research quality and evidence interpretation on our Acupuncture Research and Evidence page.

What happens during a fertility acupuncture consultation?

Your first appointment is an opportunity to discuss your health, your concerns and what you hope to gain from treatment. We will consider your medical history, relevant symptoms, menstrual or reproductive history where applicable, and any investigations or fertility treatment you are receiving.

It is helpful to bring details of relevant diagnoses, medications and current treatment plans. If you are working with a fertility clinic, information about your treatment schedule can help us discuss whether and how acupuncture might fit alongside your care.

Treatment is individualised. The points selected and the proposed frequency of appointments will depend on your circumstances and the approach agreed with you.

We will also discuss any relevant precautions, what acupuncture involves and the limits of what can reasonably be expected. There is no single treatment schedule that is appropriate for everyone, and a particular number of sessions cannot guarantee a fertility outcome.

If you are taking medication, undergoing fertility treatment or have a medical condition that may affect the safety or timing of acupuncture, please let us know before treatment begins.

Where can I get acupuncture for fertility in London?

At Acubody, fertility acupuncture consultations provide an opportunity to discuss your individual circumstances and consider whether acupuncture may be a suitable complementary option for you.

Whether you are trying to conceive naturally, exploring fertility investigations or undergoing IVF, treatment begins with understanding your health, your priorities and any medical care already in place. We aim to offer a considered, individual approach without making promises about outcomes that the evidence cannot support.

Practitioner: Duncan McGechie, BA MSc G.Dip, MBAcC, MBMAS, MRCHM, MISRM

Appointments: You can book an appointment here

Fees and Cancellation policy: for details click here

If you would like to discuss whether fertility acupuncture may be appropriate for your circumstances, you are welcome to contact Acubody to arrange an initial consultation.

Is acupuncture safe when trying to conceive?

Acupuncture is generally considered a low-risk treatment when carried out by a properly trained practitioner using appropriate hygiene and needling procedures. Some people experience temporary soreness, minor bleeding or bruising, light-headedness or tiredness. Serious complications are uncommon but can occur.

Please tell your practitioner if you take anticoagulant medication, have a bleeding disorder, have a relevant allergy or have any other health concern that could affect treatment.

If you might be pregnant, are undergoing fertility treatment or have recently had an embryo transfer, let your practitioner know. Treatment should be adapted to your circumstances, and any concerns about its timing should be discussed with your fertility team.

If Chinese herbal medicine is being considered, the need for additional safety checks is particularly important when trying to conceive or during pregnancy.

Acupuncture should not delay or replace appropriate medical assessment. If you have been trying to conceive without success, have irregular or absent periods, have a known reproductive condition or have concerns about male fertility, speak to your GP or fertility specialist about appropriate investigations. The right timing for assessment depends on your age, medical history and circumstances.

A final note on fertility and treatment choices

Difficulty conceiving can be emotionally demanding, and there is rarely one explanation or one approach that suits everyone. It is understandable to look for additional support while navigating investigations or fertility treatment.

Our approach is to take your concerns seriously, explain what acupuncture involves and be open about the evidence. Acupuncture may be something you choose as part of your wider care, but it cannot guarantee conception or a successful pregnancy.

We encourage you to make decisions with clear information and, where appropriate, in partnership with your GP or fertility specialist.

To find out more about treatment at Acubody, visit the page on your consultation, book an appointment, or get in touch to discuss your requirements.

About your practitioner

Duncan McGechie Duncan McGechie (BA, MSc, Grad Dip, MBAcC, MBMAS,MRCHM, MISRM, FHEA) has practised acupuncture and Chinese medicine since 2003, bringing 23 years of clinical experience to complex conditions.

He is currently working from London Natural Health in Holborn and the Acubody Therapies studio in Grove Park, Lewisham. The Holborn clinic is within 10 mins walk of Holborn, Chancery Lane, Farringdon tube, right by Gray’s Inn and Lambs Conduit Street. The Grove Park Studio is in a peaceful garden setting near the Grove Park Bannatynes’ Gym and well situated for people in Blackheath, Hither Green, Lee, Eltham, or Bromley.

He is a member of the British Acupuncture Council, the British Medical Acupuncture Society, the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine and the Institute of Sports and Remedial Massage, and holds over 215 five star Google reviews. Read Duncan’s full profile.

Further information and useful resources

For independent information about fertility treatment and the evidence for complementary therapies, the following organisations provide useful guidance:

Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA): Complementary and alternative therapies — information about acupuncture and other complementary approaches during fertility treatment.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE): Fertility problems — guidance on investigating and managing fertility difficulties, including male-factor infertility.
American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) — professional guidance and research relating to reproductive medicine and assisted conception.

For information about appointment costs and cancellation arrangements, please see our pricing and cancellation policy

Take the next step

If you are considering fertility acupuncture, an initial consultation is an opportunity to discuss your circumstances, understand the possible role of complementary treatment and decide on an appropriate way forward.

Contact Acubody to discuss acupuncture and Chinese medicine for fertility in London.