Acupuncture has not been proven to help you get pregnant naturally. There is some research that suggests acupuncture can help you conceive via IVF if it is performed on the day of embryo transfer, but other studies suggest this does not make a difference. The UK's Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority points out that the majority of IVF treatments are successful without acupuncture, so it is really a personal choice. On a positive note, embryo transfer day can be very anxious, and you may find an acupuncture appointment offsets this, whether it aids implantation or not.

What is acupuncture?

From a modern biological perspective, acupuncture stimulates the body to balance itself through complex neurochemical pathways that affect your immunity, nerves, and inflammatory response. From a Chinese Medicine perspective, it is based on the theory that our bodies are microcosms of the natural world with energy that makes us alive, and each of our organs contains a type of energy called chi that travels through the body along pathways called meridians. Along those pathways, there are points where this energy is thought to collect, and, by applying needles to each of those points, your acupuncture practitioner seeks to create change in the body depending on what you want to treat.

Why do some people feel acupuncture is beneficial when they're trying to conceive?

Proponents of acupuncture for fertility believe it increases blood flow to the uterus (helping to support implantation), makes for better-quality eggs, and can regulate your menstrual cycle.

There is some research that suggests that it improves sperm quality and motility, but this is not uncontroversial. In general, it is best to maintain good lifestyle habits and seek medical advice if sperm improvement is your aim.

However, if acupuncture is something you and your partner find deeply relaxing, it can help you manage everyday stress. In this way, even if there is not an established link, the therapy is supporting you on your preconception journey. In addition, some women use acupuncture for pain management of chronic conditions like endometriosis. Any safe, regulated therapy that helps you with pain and improves your quality of life is helping you to start a healthy pregnancy.

Are there any risks associated with acupuncture?

Acupuncture is generally considered safe when done with sterile, single-use needles by a fully qualified, reputable professional. If this does not happen, the risks include infection and injury caused by dirty and misplaced needles.

Even in a sterile, professional situation, you may feel sore at the needle sites and experience minor bruising. Some people don't react well to acupuncture and report headaches, sweating, and dizziness afterwards, but it is generally well-tolerated, and large studies have found a low risk of adverse incidents. Some doctors may still recommend against having it if you are already pregnant.

Is acupuncture dangerous if I may already be pregnant?

Acupuncture is generally considered safe in pregnancy if you choose a qualified practitioner. However, it is vital to inform them that you are pregnant or think you might be, as there are acupuncture points that cannot be used safely on a pregnant woman.

How do I choose an acupuncturist?

It is best to look at how acupuncture is regulated in your country and ensure your practitioner is reputable and fully qualified. This should be the case whenever you're looking into complementary therapy for fertility. Do not begin a new therapy in pregnancy without consulting your doctor. In the UK, the British Medical Association for Acupuncturists represents regulated healthcare professionals who perform acupuncture as part of their practice. There's also a self-regulatory body called the British Acupuncture Council that requires all members to be fully qualified and pursue continuous professional development. Their register is Professional Standards Authority-accredited.

For information on evidence-based ways to begin a healthy pregnant, watch Unii’s Preconception Journey with Dr. Shree Datta.

Can acupuncture help me get pregnant?

Unii looks at whether this alternative therapy can boost your fertility.