/ Health Concerns / Fertility & IVF

Infertility

Female Infertility

Most research on acupuncture has focused on its use as a complementary treatment to IVF and other assisted reproductive techniques, with much less attention given to its role in supporting natural fertility. Evidence suggests that acupuncture helps with menstrual and ovulatory issues in women facing difficulties conceiving. Notably, recent studies on polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) indicate benefits for ovulation, menstruation, and pregnancy rates by regulating reproductive hormones.

In the past two years, at least six randomized trials on acupuncture for PCOS-related infertility have been published in Western databases, all conducted in China. These studies suggest acupuncture may be beneficial, often compared to the drug clomiphene. The results are promising, and there is substantial experimental evidence that it influences reproductive functioning through various mechanisms.

Male Infertility

Acupuncture has shown potential in improving sperm quality in men, based on trials conducted over the years. A systematic review in 2015, which included 12 studies with a total of 2,177 patients, found that acupuncture was superior to medication or provided enhanced benefits when combined with it. Improvements were noted in sperm concentration, quality, and response rates.