When you’re having difficulty getting pregnant, it’s easy to feel alone. However, you are not. Fertility struggles are incredibly common, affecting women and men around the world. According to the World Health Organization (2023), one in six people experiences infertility. In addition to difficulty conceiving, you may also face high stress levels, hormonal imbalances, and irregular menstrual cycles.
While there are many possible causes of infertility, there often don’t seem to be many solutions. Conventional medicine can help treat some underlying conditions, but it does not always result in pregnancy. That’s where natural fertility support, like acupuncture, comes in.
Common Causes of Infertility
There are many different causes of infertility. Many times, infertility is brought on by other hormonal imbalances and is related to your pituitary or thyroid glands. However, the most common cause is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). PCOS causes you to develop cysts on your ovaries, and this can create a hormonal imbalance by increasing androgen production. When you have elevated androgen levels, it can disrupt ovulation, making conception more difficult. Symptoms include insulin resistance, obesity, acne, unwanted hair on your face and body, male-pattern baldness, and anxiety and depression. If you have PCOS, you must manage it because not only does it impact your ability to conceive, but it can also increase your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Endometriosis is a physically painful condition that can create challenges with you getting pregnant because it causes the lining of your uterus (endometrium) to develop in the wrong areas, such as your fallopian tubes or ovaries. Symptoms include pelvic pain, heavy and painful periods, as well as pain with intercourse, urination, and bowel movements. Endometriosis can also make you feel nauseated, fatigued, and create symptoms of IBS.
Untreated sexually transmitted diseases or infections can also cause infertility. Get yourself tested so you can begin to heal and prepare yourself to have your baby.
Sometimes there is no medical answer for why you are unable to conceive. Even though you and your partner may be very healthy, you are still unable to get pregnant. Because there is nothing to "treat," a lack of diagnoses can be frustrating because you may be unsure of what next steps to take.
The good news is that whether the cause is known or unexplained, acupuncture offers a safe and effective way to support your fertility naturally.
How Acupuncture Supports Fertility
Acupuncture is an ancient therapy that works with your body’s energy systems, Qi and Blood in Traditional Chinese Medicine, to restore balance and enhance function. Here’s how acupuncture can support your fertility:
1. Hormone Regulation
Acupuncture helps balance hormones by supporting the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis. This regulates your menstrual cycles and improves your ovulation, increasing your chances of conception.
2. Improved Blood Flow to the Uterus and Ovaries
Better circulation means a thicker uterine lining and healthier egg (and sperm) quality.
3. Stress Reduction
Trying to conceive can be incredibly stressful. Acupuncture calms the nervous system, reducing cortisol levels and easing anxiety. When your mind and body are more relaxed, you are more likely to become pregnant.
4. Support for Underlying Conditions
If you have PCOS, endometriosis, or other conditions, acupuncture can help manage symptoms gently and holistically. While it is important to consult your OB/GYN or fertility specialist, acupuncture can be a supportive part of your care team.
5. Works Alongside ART
Acupuncture can be used on its own or in conjunction with Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART), such as IUI or IVF. It is completely safe to receive acupuncture during ART cycles and may even improve outcomes by reducing side effects and enhancing receptivity.
Acupuncture During Pregnancy
Once you become pregnant, you can continue receiving acupuncture to support a healthy pregnancy. Many patients find that it helps with common discomforts like nausea, fatigue, and stress and help you feel your best during this special time.
Ready to Boost Your Fertility Naturally?
Whether you are just starting your fertility journey or looking for additional support, acupuncture is a safe, natural option to help you conceive and feel your best.
Contact us at Foundation Chiropractic today to schedule your fertility consultation. We are here to support you every step of the way.