Tag Archive for: acupuncture for fertility

Acupuncture for Fertility: What You Should Know

Acupuncture for Fertility: What You Should Know

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Facing infertility and fertility struggles can be a daunting and prolonged journey.

Fortunately, there are various treatment options available to couples seeking to conceive. Acupuncture, both as a standalone therapy, and in conjunction with Western medicine, is one approach to enhance the effectiveness of fertility treatments.

In this blog post, we will explore the role of acupuncture in addressing fertility challenges, its mechanisms, and essential considerations before embarking on this treatment path.

Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that involves the use of needles to stimulate specific points on the body.

The practice has been around for thousands of years and is known for its ability to promote physical and emotional wellbeing. Acupuncture for fertility involves the insertion of needles into specific points of the body, with the aim of improving reproductive function.

Studies have found that acupuncture can increase the success rate of fertility treatments such as IVF, IUI, and hormone therapy. Acupuncture also helps alleviate side effects associated with these treatments, including pain, nausea, and fatigue. Furthermore, acupuncture is non-invasive, painless, and low-cost, thus making it an attractive complement to modern fertility procedures.

It is important to note that fertility is a journey, and we highly recommend that both partners undergo acupuncture treatment.

This helps reduce stress and anxiety, enhances the overall experience, and increases the chances of a successful outcome. We believe that acupuncture can be a helpful adjunct to modern fertility treatments, and we’re dedicated to helping our patients achieve their dream of starting a family.

Acupuncture for fertility is a safe, painless, and low-cost complement to modern fertility treatments.

It works by stimulating specific points on the body to improve reproductive function and increase the success rate of fertility treatments.

At Lokahi Acupuncture, we take a comprehensive approach to fertility treatment, examining every aspect of our patients’ lives to develop an actionable treatment plan. We believe that a holistic approach to fertility treatment improves the overall experience and the chances of a successful outcome.

Research:

  • “The status and future of acupuncture mechanism research” – This study explores the mechanisms of acupuncture and its potential benefits in enhancing the success of IVF treatments. Source
  • “The role of acupuncture in the management of subfertility” – This research reviews studies on the effects of acupuncture on IVF outcomes and discusses its potential role in improving fertility. Source
  • “Acupuncture and in vitro fertilization research: Current and future directions” – This article examines the current use of acupuncture alongside IVF cycles and highlights its long-standing history in supporting fertility. Source
  • “Use of acupuncture in female infertility and a summary of recent acupuncture studies related to embryo transfer” – This study summarizes recent research on the effects of acupuncture before and after embryo transfer and its impact on pregnancy rates. Source
  • “Development of a fertility acupuncture protocol: defining an acupuncture treatment protocol to support and treat women experiencing conception delays” – This research focuses on developing a consensus among acupuncture fertility specialists to establish an effective treatment protocol for women experiencing conception delays. Source

Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any further inquiries or concerns or schedule a free consultation here.

Anna Rudel
San Jose Acupuncturist
408.279.9001
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Choosing the right fertility supplements for you!

Choosing the Right Fertility Supplements for You

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When it comes to fertility, there are many options and fertility supplements available to help couples conceive.

Acupuncture, Traditional East Asian Medicine, and even fertility treatments can all be beneficial when trying to conceive a baby. But what about supplements? With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which ones are right for you.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular supplements used by couples trying to get pregnant and discuss their potential benefits.

Choosing the Right Fertility Supplements

Folic acid

Folic acid is one of the most popular supplements for fertility because it helps reduce neural tube defects in newborns. It also helps your body produce red blood cells and helps prevent anemia. It is recommended that women taking folic acid should start taking it three months before they start trying to conceive.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that have been found to improve the quality of sperm in men and increase cervical mucus in women, both of which can help with conception. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish oil supplements or as part of a multivitamin supplement made specifically for fertility.

Vitamins C & E

Vitamins C & E are important vitamins for overall health and well-being but they have also been found to help with fertility as well. Vitamin C increases blood flow throughout the body, which can help support healthy ovulation cycles, while Vitamin E improves egg health and increases sperm count in men. Both vitamins should be taken together as part of a daily multivitamin supplement made specifically for fertility.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant that has been found to improve egg quality in women and sperm count in men. CoQ10 also helps protect against cell damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to infertility issues such as miscarriage or failed implantation attempts. CoQ10 should be taken as part of a daily multivitamin supplement made specifically for fertility or as an individual supplement.

Vitamin D3

Vitamin D3 is an essential vitamin for numerous bodily functions, including fertility. Vitamin D3 helps increase the hormone progesterone and also helps regulate the menstrual cycle. Studies have shown that higher levels of Vitamin D3 can help improve ovulation and in turn, chances of conception. Further studies have shown that supplementing with Vitamin D3 can lead to a decreased risk of miscarriages. To maximize fertility, women should make sure they have adequate levels of Vitamin D3 in their bodies by taking a daily supplement or getting regular sun exposure (but wearing sunscreen!).

Methylated folate

Prenatal vitamins that contain methylated folate are an essential part of any fertility health plan. Methylated folate is the active form of folic acid found in prenatal vitamins, and it plays a critical role in reducing birth defects. Folate helps create healthy, new cells in both mother and baby – this includes red blood cells, cell membranes and DNA. For women trying to conceive, taking prenatal vitamins with methylfolate can increase the chances of a successful pregnancy and healthy baby. Additionally, these vitamins can reduce the risk of neural tube defects by up to 70%, making it even more important for prospective mothers to include this essential supplement in their fertility plans.

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is an important supplement for women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and other fertility issues. NAC helps to regulate hormones, including the main sex hormones estrogen and progesterone. It also helps reduce the effects of oxidative stress in the body, which can be caused by hormonal imbalances that can lead to PCOS and infertility. NAC also helps break down cyst formation and improves ovulatory function. Additionally, it has been shown to increase insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and support egg health – all of which can help improve fertility outcomes for those with PCOS or other reproductive issues.

Conclusion:

When it comes to improving your fertility, there are several different options available including acupuncture, Traditional East Asian medicine, and even fertility treatments like IVF or IUI.

However, there are also several different types of supplements you can take that may improve your chances of getting pregnant quickly and easily too! From folic acid and omega-3 fatty acids to CoQ10 and vitamins C & E – each one has its own unique benefits that can help you achieve your goal of having a healthy baby.

Just make sure you always check with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen so you can ensure that what you’re taking is safe for both you and your baby!

At Lokahi Acupuncture, we have 20 years of experience working with fertility patients, and with fertility clinics throughout the Bay Area. If you  would like to speak to one of our specialist fertility acupuncturists about your situation, you can schedule a free 15 minute online consultation.

Anna Rudel
San Jose Acupuncturist
408.279.9001
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Causes Secondary Infertility - Lokahi Acupuncture

Secondary Infertility: 5 Reasons You May Have Trouble Conceiving Again

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Primary infertility is classified as difficulty conceiving a first child. Secondary infertility affects those who already have a child but experience difficulty conceiving again.

Secondary infertility can be especially hard for a variety of physiological and emotional reasons.

Acupuncture, herbs, diet and lifestyle changes can be very helpful when working with secondary infertility.

Secondary infertility is a common problem affecting about 12% of couples, and it’s one that traditional East Asian Medicine is adept at supporting. Conditions such as blockage of fallopian tubes, endometriosis, uterine scarring or a history of surgical birth are all potential contributors.

Here are 5 more reasons of secondary infertility that we see in our acupuncture clinic.

1) A depleted body

Other children, and members of the family needing care, work demands, other health issues and breastfeeding can all take a toll on the mother’s body.While it may have been easier to conceive previously, the passage of time and increased responsibilities can make it more difficult to conceive With secondary infertility, it is important to assess how depleted the mother is and work to boost vitality in order to conceive again.

2) Stress

Stress is an umbrella word that encompasses many potential factors that may be contributing to difficulty conceiving again. Whatever the stressors are they can be a factor when trying to conceive.

3) Hormone imbalances

Many hormones are involved with conception. It is important to make sure that a full blood panel is taken so that doctors can see if hormones might be an issue. Common issues involve the thyroid or with the hormones responsible for ovulation. Only testing can confirm this, which is why it is important to see a professional.

4) Birth trauma

A surprising number of our patients have experienced some form of birth trauma with a previous pregnancy. In East Asian Medicine, it is important to identify and acknowledge these traumas since they can cause an energetic blockage in the body, resulting in difficulty conceiving. Acupuncture can support movement of the energy and processing of the trauma.

5) Egg quality or quantity

As we age, our number of viable eggs declines. Sometimes the number of eggs available is less than expected. Low egg count is a common reason for seeking IVF and acupuncture. Acupuncture and herbal medicine can help the body produce the best eggs that it is capable of. By increasing the blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, acupuncture supports egg production within the body. IVF doctors commonly refer to our clinic in order to support the medications that are stimulating the body to produce eggs.

At Lokahi Acupuncture, we have 20 years of experience working with fertility patients, and with fertility clinics throughout the Bay Area. If you are experiencing secondary infertility and would like to speak to one of our specialist fertility acupuncturists about your situation, you can schedule a free 15 minute online consultation.

Anna Rudel
San Jose Acupuncturist
408.279.9001
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Acupuncture for PCOS

Acupuncture for PCOS

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Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine condition of reproductive-age women.

Women with PCOS have higher levels of androgens, or male sex hormones, that are  normally present in smaller amounts. This hormone imbalance causes the body to skip menstrual periods and can make it harder to get pregnant. The name polycystic ovarian syndrome describes the numerous small cysts that form in the ovaries. However, some women with this disorder do not have cysts.

The diagnosis of PCOS can be overwhelming especially if you are trying to get pregnant.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can improve your overall health and lead to a healthy pregnancy.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

  • Missed periods, irregular periods, or very light periods

  • Weight gain, especially around the belly (abdomen)

  • Ovaries that are large or have many cysts

  • Excess body hair, including the chest, stomach, and back (hirsutism)

  • Acne or oily skin

  • Dark or thick skin patches on the back of the neck, in the armpits, and under the breasts

How can acupuncture and Chinese medicine treat PCOS?

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can treat the symptoms of PCOS, while also addressing underlying imbalances and inflammation in the body. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs aid to regulate the endocrine system and improve circulation to the reproductive organs, thus improving egg quality and promoting ovulation.

In Traditional East Asian Medicine, we assess the patient and put together a profile of the symptoms.

Then we see if that profile fits a specific pattern that East Asian medicine has already identified, or whether it is a mixture of more than one pattern. Once we have identified the pattern, we can create a treatment plan. This is important since no one person presents in the same way.

The 4 main patterns are:

  • Kidney Yang Deficiency: always feeling cold, low thyroid function, loose stools, low sex drive, pale tongue, frequent urination

  • Spleen Qi Deficiency with Dampness: bloating, loose stools, low thyroid function, anemia, brain fog, cold hands or feet, low energy, puffy tongue with tooth marks

  • Liver Qi Stagnation Transforming to Heat: headaches, constipation, IBS symptoms, depression, distention and pain in the breasts, irritability, tongue color red or slightly purple especially on the sides of the tongue

  • Kidney Yin Deficiency: insomnia, anxiety, thirst, low back pain, dry skin, short menstrual cycles, the tongue is thin, red, and dry

We treat the whole body, including our patients’ underlying factors and symptoms of PCOS.

Once we know which pattern or patterns apply we know which acupuncture points, herbal formulas, diet and lifestyle recommendations we might make. Since PCOS is such a complex syndrome, we do not subscribe to the idea that one size fits all. Rather we take our time to figure out a sustainable set of steps to support the body in coming back to balance.

Chinese herbal medicine can be very effective in the treatment of PCOS as well as lifestyle and dietary modifications. If you would like to know more about how acupuncture and herbs can be helpful for you, give us a call for a free 15-min consultation!

Cara Ortiz, L.Ac. joined the fertility team at Lokahi Acupuncture in 2022 and specializes in working with fertility patients with PCOS and thyroid conditions.

Cara Ortiz, L.Ac.
San Jose Acupuncturist
408.279.9001
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Acupuncture treatment supports IUI

Acupuncture treatment to support IUI

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Intrauterine insemination, or IUI, is considered one of the earliest forms of intervention for couples with difficulty trying to conceive.

It is also one of the most common methods used for lesbian couples starting a family.

IUI is the placement of sperm directly into the uterus. The sperm is “washed”, and put in a sterile fluid, and then injected through the cervix into the uterus. It is common for patients to take medication prior to the IUI to stimulate the production of eggs in preparation for the introduction of the concentrated sperm.

There may also be a “trigger shot”, or injection of hormones, timed near the IUI in order to provoke the body into releasing the egg(s).

Is IUI the right option for me?

IUI is generally less invasive, more cost-effective, and more “natural” since the egg and sperm have the opportunity to fertilize inside the body without interference. IUI is more effective as an intervention than timed intercourse in cases of male factor infertility.

It is also a useful tool for cases of unexplained infertility, although it should be noted that a thorough evaluation is important before making decisions about fertility treatment options.

IUI might be an option to consider if:

  • You have been trying to conceive for 6 months or more

  • You have a low sperm count

  • You have poor sperm motility

  • You have been diagnosed with “unexplained infertility”

  • You want to try something before advancing to or thinking about IVF

How can acupuncture increase the chances of IUI working?

Acupuncture increases blood flow to the ovaries. The increased flow optimizes the delivery of nutrients to nourish the eggs. Acupuncture also helps to ensure the ovaries respond well to the stimulation medications.

Acupuncture supports egg development and increases blood flow to the uterus.

By increasing blood flow to the uterus, acupuncture treatment during an IUI cycle ensures the endometrial lining is as hospitable as possible for the implantation of the embryo. Blood flow brings with it nutrients and plumps the uterine lining to be thick enough to support implantation.

In preparation for your IUI, your acupuncturist will:

  • Assess your overall health

  • Talk with you about how you are feeling and what steps you have already taken to support conception

  • Assess your reproductive health from a perspective of East Asian Medicine

  • Talk with you about your diet and lifestyle

  • Talk with you about possible support from herbs and/or supplements

  • Explain your acupuncture treatment plan

How many acupuncture treatments will I need when undergoing an IUI cycle?

By committing to weekly treatments, your acupuncturist is able to support you through each stage of your hormonal cycle – from menses, through ovulation and the implantation stage. Sometimes we suggest increasing the frequency of treatment right around the time of the procedure if we think that it would be beneficial.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture should not be painful at all. Acupuncturists are trained to insert sterilized, hair-thin needles into the skin in a way that can be hardly perceived. Sometimes it may feel like a mosquito is biting at most.

Receiving an acupuncture treatment for IUI is typically a very relaxing experience, one that induces many patients to fall asleep, or experience a deep sense of rest and relaxation.

How do I learn more?

If you are interested in learning if acupuncture is right for you in your fertility journey, we invite you to schedule a free online consultation to meet with a fertility specialist and discuss if we can help.

If you are ready to make an appointment, you can schedule your acupuncture treatment here, or call the office at (408) 279-9001.

Anna Rudel
San Jose Acupuncturist
408.279.9001
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How to Improve Your Egg Quality

4 Tips to Improve Your Egg Quality

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One of the most common challenges in infertility is that of egg quality.

We are born with a set number of eggs that decrease over time until we reach menopause. As we age, we not only have fewer eggs, but the quality declines with time. Both make it more difficult to get pregnant and harder to carry a healthy baby to term.

There are additional factors that can contribute to lower egg quality as well, such as PCOS, endometriosis and premature ovarian aging. While we cannot change the number of eggs we are born with, we can influence the quality of our eggs.

The good news is that it takes 90 days for an egg to mature for ovulation and you can influence developing eggs over the course of several months.

Here are 4 tips to improve your egg quality to improve your chances of getting and staying pregnant.

1. Clean up your diet

What we take in as food and drink ends up building and fueling our cells, so we want the best possible building blocks. Focus on veggies and low-sugar fruits like berries, healthy protein and fats like pasture-raised poultry and fish, avocados, olives, nuts and seeds. Keep your carbohydrate intake on the low to moderate side (30% or less of your total daily food intake) from foods like starchy veggies like sweet potatoes, beets, potato, whole grains and legumes.

2. Supplements

Consider adding supplements to help support mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative damage to cells. These include CoQ10, NAD, inositol, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants like açaí, resveratrol, and alpha-lipoic acid. Talk to your practitioner about a regimen that will be the best support for you.

3.Reduce damage to existing eggs

By severely limiting or eliminating alcohol, processed foods and added sugars, you reduce damage to existing eggs. Additionally, reducing caffeine intake is helpful to ensure maximum blood flow to the ovaries. Stress reduction techniques like meditation, mindfulness and movement release built up tension and increase endorphins.

4. Get Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a great way to promote egg health by improving circulation of blood, oxygen and nutrients to the ovaries. We use microcurrent electro-acupuncture to boost the effects leading up to ovulation or an IVF retrieval.

Not only does acupuncture help to improve blood flow, but it also reduces stress and balances hormones, which can also influence egg quality. Lokahi Acupuncture offers a free 15 minute consultation if you have questions about how acupuncture can help you on your fertility journey.

Cathryn Davidson, L.Ac. is a senior fertility specialist at Lokahi Acupuncture.

Click here if you would like to schedule a free online consultation to evaluate if acupuncture might be right for you.

Cathryn Davidson, San Jose Acupuncturist
408.279.9001
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Acupuncture for IVF - Your Top Questions Answered

Acupuncture for IVF – Your Top Questions Answered

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Acupuncture has been used for decades to support IVF treatments.

Here are our most commonly asked questions:

1. Do I really need acupuncture if I am doing IVF?

The reason many Reproductive Endocrinologists recommend acupuncture for IVF is they want their patients to succeed in becoming pregnant. Acupuncture is an adjunct therapy that optimizes the chances of achieving pregnancy. Acupuncture increases blood flow to the uterus and reproductive organs, reduces stress, and minimizes the side effects of medication.

2. How many acupuncture treatments will it take to work?

We typically recommend 12 treatments before the IVF procedure, with a minimum of two treatments per week for the 4 weeks leading up to the retrieval itself. The purpose of acupuncture for IVF is to optimize the quality and quantity of eggs for retrieval, and to prepare the body for transfer.

3. Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture should not be painful at all. Acupuncturists are trained to insert sterilized, hair-thin needles into the skin in a way that can be hardly perceived. Sometimes it may feel like a mosquito is biting. Receiving an acupuncture treatment for IVF is typically a very relaxing experience, one that induces many patients to fall asleep, or experience a deep sense of rest and relaxation.

4. Can I have acupuncture without the needles?

Acupuncture, by definition, involves the insertion of hair-thin needles. A professional will insert the needles without pain, ensuring the patient has a relaxing experience.

5. Where will you put the needles?

One of the amazing things about acupuncture is that there are many, many options for where to place needles. Typically to support the stimulation part of IVF, we insert needles in the abdomen, over the uterus and ovaries. Additional needles are placed on the body to support as needed.

6. Can acupuncture hurt my chances of conceiving?

Acupuncture for IVF is an extremely low risk treatment. An acupuncturist specializing in fertility is trained specifically on optimizing, rather than negatively affecting, the chances of pregnancy.

Quality fertility specialists not only works in tandem with local IVF doctors, but they’re also familiar with the IVF protocols and medications, what they do and how they make patients feel. They understand the nuances and intricacies of IVF, and work with patients to support them through the process.

If you are interested in acupuncture for IVF, but have more questions, we encourage you to reach out and schedule a complimentary online consultation.

As fertility specialists, we believe that if you are going to spend the time, energy and money to come and work with us, you deserve to have every opportunity to succeed in becoming pregnant.

We invite you to make an appointment or speak to one of our fertility specialists.

Anna Rudel
San Jose Acupuncturist
408.279.9001
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5 ways Acupuncture can help you with IVF

5 Ways Acupuncture Can Help You With IVF

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For some people wanting to have a baby, IVF may be the only option.

Reproductive Endocrinologists know that acupuncture improves IVF outcomes. Here’s why they refer patients to acupuncturists, like Lokahi Acupuncture, who specialize in fertility medicine:

1.   Acupuncture increases blood flow to the ovaries

Correct placement of the acupuncture needles has been shown to increase blood flow to internal organs. With increased blood flow to the ovaries, nutrients are delivered and blood flow is optimized.

Since IVF medications are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce as many eggs as possible, acupuncture helps make sure that the ovaries are able to do what the medication is asking of them.

2.   Acupuncture supports egg development

By improving ovarian function, acupuncture supports the body to produce the best possible eggs. IVF stimulation requires the body to produce as many eggs as it can.

While nothing can increase the number of eggs you were born with, acupuncture can help make sure that what you do have is the best quality it can be. The IVF medications bring the eggs to the surface and get them growing; the acupuncture shunts blood and energy to the growing eggs, supporting the quality.

3.   Acupuncture increases blood flow to the uterus

By increasing blood flow to the uterus, acupuncture treatment during the transfer phase of an IVF cycle ensures the endometrial lining is as hospitable as possible for the implantation of the embryo. Blood flow brings with it nutrients as well as plumping the uterine lining to be thick enough to support implantation.

Typically, acupuncture treatment specifically working on this would happen in conjunction with IVF stimulation medications prior to retrieval and then continue until just before transfer.

4.   Acupuncture helps minimize the side effects of IVF medication

IVF medication can have uncomfortable side effects such as anxiety, bloating, night sweats, breast tenderness, headaches and mood changes. Acupuncture helps mediate and minimize side effects, making for a more pleasant experience. As one of our local Reproductive Endocrinologists put it, “patients just do better with acupuncture”.

5.   Acupuncture reduces stress

With the combination of hormonal treatment and the busy IVF schedule, this can be a very stressful time. Acupuncture promotes relaxation in the body, calms the nervous system and allows you to experience the journey in a better headspace.

As fertility specialists, we believe that if you are going to spend the time, energy and money to come and work with us, you deserve to have every opportunity to succeed in becoming pregnant. We invite you to make an appointment or speak to one of our fertility specialists.

For further information and sources, consider reading research papers by Lee Hollender Rubin, Aaron B. Caughey, Michael S. Opsahl and Klaus Weimer Impact of Whole Systems Traditional Chinese Medicine on In Vitro Fertilization Outcomes

Anna Rudel
San Jose Acupuncturist
408.279.9001
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