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Posted October 5, 2010 in Chinese Medicine by admin

Research report on Acupuncture and Infertility

Researchers at the Center for Integrative Medicine, at the University of Maryland’s School of Medicine, conducted a meta-analysis of several research studies on the effects of acupuncture on IVF outcomes. (A meta-analysis is a research study that gathers information from several studies and evaluates them together.) The meta-analysis considered seven trials, which all together included 1,366 women.

The researchers found that when acupuncture took place on the day of embryo transfer, statistically significant improvements were found in the rates of clinical pregnancies, ongoing pregnancy, and live births. They also found that 10 woman would need to be treated with IVF and acupuncture to see one additional pregnancy.

In another study, often referred to as the “German study,” a German fertility clinic offered 160 IVF patients who had good-quality embryos an opportunity to participate in a study on acupuncture and IVF outcomes. Half of the patients received acupuncture treatment, 25 minutes before and after embryo transfer. The control group did not receive any supportive therapy.

In the acupuncture group, 34 of the 80 patients got pregnant. In the control group, 21 out of 80 got pregnant.

There have been a number of other, smaller sized research studies on acupuncture and fertility. Because of their small size, the results of these studies are controversial. Just a few of the possible connections between acupuncture and fertility found in the smaller studies:

  • Acupuncture may improve sperm quality and counts in infertile men.
  • Acupuncture may improve the lining of the endometrium, including increased the blood flow to the uterus.
  • Acupuncture may help regulate hormone levels, specifically gonadotropin-releasing hormone, which in turn may improve ovulation rates.
  • Acupuncture may help women with PCOS and anovulatory cycles.
  • Acupuncture may help those with thyroid problems. (And problems with the thyroid can lead to problems with fertility.)
  • Acupuncture may increase the number of follicles produced during an IVF treatment.
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Aina Mogas
15:57 15 Jan 26
I have polycystic ovary syndrome, which has always given me problems with irregular periods and mood changes. The acupuncture treatment provided here helped regulate these symptoms visibly: my periods finally were regular and my mood changes were under control. Dr. Zou always provided tailored treatment to my circumstances (where was I in the cycle, body temperature or anything else I might have been experiencing at the time). I sincerely appreciate her help, knowledge and professionalism. Istead of focussing on a series of symptoms, Dr. Zou provided an integrated and tailored treatment approach focussing on the root of the problem and offered advice for my day to day. Her expertise helped me regulate my periods and, with that, I also felt more in control of my day to day for the first time. Thank you.
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Sara Heath
21:35 02 Dec 25
I have benefitted from Dian's treatment physically and mentally for many years and, as 'an older person' she keeps me fit and active. She is also a kind and caring person.
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Laura Moody
08:53 02 Dec 25
I sought help for unexplained infertility, and Dr Zou asked me to give her three menstrual cycles. It was either this, or starting medical treatment. Sure enough, I am writing this with a 4 month pregnant belly! She was professional, kind but, most of all, she held me accountable for making sure I was listening to what my body needed. She told me about my body type and what it can and can't handle and gave me advice on what to do outside of acupuncture to further my progress. Within just a cycle or two my fertile signs had dramatically improved already. Thank you so much!! Can't wait to meet my baby!!
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Gerry Richards
18:18 11 Nov 25
I broke my wrist just after Christmas. I had surgery and excellent treatment from the NHS. I did all prescribed exercises but did not regain full feeling in my fingers. My doctor told me that I may have severed a nerve and there was nothing that could be done. I am a strong, fit, active 76 year old grandmother who can touch type and loves to sew, craft and cook. A friend recommended Daian. Thank goodness I took her advice and had a course of treatment. I now have full feeling and strength back. It’s hard to believe the fracture ever happened. She is an excellent practitioner and a charming, intelligent, sympathetic person. I have had acupuncture in the past and greatly appreciate her skill.
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Chris Hawkes
19:30 13 Jul 25
Excellent service and relief from my long lasting illness. Highly Recommend.
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Maureen Duffy
12:46 11 Mar 25
I first received acupuncture when on a cruise last autumn and my back went causing great pain. I was surprised at how effective it was. On a recent trip to see my sister in Shropshire the pain returned and I saw Dr Zou several times. She was excellent and the pain reduced considerably. I have no hesitation in recommending Dr Zou. She was really caring and knowledgeable and imparted her knowledge to both my sister and myself. It was so helpful and we are following her advice. I have booked to see her again when up in Shrewsbury again.
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Beata Milon
18:26 13 Oct 24
I went to see Daian a few months ago due to health problems caused by recent bereavement. I was suffering from anxiety and insomnia not responding very well to medication. I started seeing results after just a few acupuncture sessions and now I am anxiety free and able to sleep well without any medication. I found Daian to be a very experienced and knowledgeable practitioner, who takes the time to explain everything and to answer any questions I may have. She is friendly and kind and was very patient with me at times when I was very anxious. I feel she has given me my life back and I cannot recommend her highly enough.

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