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Acupuncture and egg maturation in ART: a natural and complementary approach

egg quality acupuncture

Introduction

Assisted reproduction (ART) is a solution for many couples facing infertility. The quality and maturation of eggs (oocytes) play a crucial role in the success of treatments such as IVF (in vitro fertilisation). However, some hormonal treatments can have side effects and do not always guarantee an optimal result. A growing body of research suggests that acupuncture could improve egg maturation and thus optimise the chances of conception naturally. How does this Traditional Chinese Medicine work, and what are its effects on ART?

Acupuncture and how it acts on fertility

Acupuncture, which comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine, is based on stimulating strategic points on the body to restore energy balance. It is part of a holistic approach that takes into account the patient’s general condition, including their level of stress, their diet and the quality of their sleep.

In the context of fertility, it may act on several biological mechanisms:

  • Improved blood circulation to the ovaries and uterus: a better supply of oxygen and nutrients supports egg maturation.
  • Reduced stress and inflammation: high cortisol levels can affect the ovarian response to hormonal treatments.
  • Regulation of the hormones involved in the ovarian cycle: acupuncture may help to balance FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), LH (luteinising hormone) and oestradiol.
  • Improved egg quality: a stable hormonal environment supports the production of mature, viable eggs.
ACUPUNCTURE ART EGG

Acupuncture and egg maturation: what the studies say

Scientific research has examined the effect of acupuncture on egg maturation in ART. Some studies indicate that:

  • Acupuncture may increase the number of mature eggs collected during egg retrieval, which may improve the chances of obtaining viable embryos.
  • Better egg quality has been observed in some studies in patients having acupuncture sessions alongside ovarian stimulation.
  • Endometrial receptivity may be improved, which might support embryo implantation and reduce the risk of miscarriage.

For example, a meta-analysis published in Fertility and Sterility observed that acupuncture as support for ART might increase the clinical pregnancy rate by 26% on average. Other studies suggest that patients receiving regular acupuncture sessions might have a higher rate of mature eggs and a better fertilisation rate.

How can acupuncture be included in an ART journey?

To optimise the benefits of acupuncture on egg maturation, it is recommended, in liaison with the medical team overseeing the protocol, to:

  • Start sessions several months before the ovarian stimulation protocol to prepare the body and regulate hormones.
  • Increase the frequency of sessions during the critical phases of the cycle (stimulation, egg retrieval, embryo transfer) to maximise the effects.
  • Combine acupuncture with a healthy lifestyle: a balanced diet, stress management and suitable physical activity.
  • Work with a practitioner specialising in fertility for a personalised protocol suited to your situation.

Some techniques, such as electro-acupuncture (applying micro electrical pulses to the needles), may be used to reinforce the effects on ovarian stimulation.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is a worthwhile complementary approach that might help to improve egg maturation in ART. By supporting an optimal hormonal and circulatory environment, it might contribute to the success of fertility treatments. For those who wish to maximise their reproductive potential, combining ART and acupuncture can be a worthwhile natural strategy, alongside medical care.

If you are considering ART and would like to explore the benefits of acupuncture, feel free to consult a specialist to develop a protocol suited to your needs.