Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of medicine which originated in China over 3000 years ago. It is one of the most researched forms of complementary medicine and thousands of studies have been carried out worldwide and have shown it may be effective for a wide range of health problems. Today the World Health Organisation now recognises over 100 conditions that may be helped by acupuncture.
Recent scientific research shows that acupuncture stimulates the brain to produce endorphins. These chemicals affect various body systems, reduce pain and make you feel good. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine the view is that the body’s vital energy or Qi flows around the body in channels or meridians. When Qi flows feely, the body is in a healthy state. However if there is a problem the energy becomes unbalanced and stagnates. Emotional disturbances such as anxiety, anger, grief, poor diet, overwork or stress may influence the flow of Qi in the body. By inserting fine, sterile needles into specific points along these channels, may free the stagnation of Qi and stimulate the body’s own healing mechanisms.
Acupuncture and its use in Fertility Problems
Fertility problems are common and currently one in six couples in the UK are considered to experience difficulty in getting pregnant. The desire to have children later in life is also having an effect on conception. However there are many things that couples can try in order to improve their levels of fertility and an integrated approach to health may play an important part. Optimum health may contribute to optimum fertility levels and maybe to that much wanted happy, healthy baby.
Until fairly recently the medical profession has been sceptical about integrating complementary therapies with conventional medicine, but there is now an increasing amount of research that suggests that acupuncture may have some benefit during IVF treatment and also in helping with natural conception by possibly helping to regulate the menstrual cycle.
Many of our patients come with recognised conditions which may cause fertility issues. For women this can include polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, high FSH or irregular cycles. For many couples the cause of infertility is frustratingly unknown.
In our clinic we like to look at the menstrual cycle and attempt to regulate it. This could involve changing the length or regularity of the cycle, the heaviness of the flow, removing period pains or premenstrual symptoms. Making these improvements may have a positive affect on ovulation and the menstrual cycle.
We like to pay close attention to every detail of the cycle and by studying the subtle changes in symptoms and temperature we can provide a very specific treatment. Depending on where you are in your cycle and what the body needs to be doing at that time will determine our treatment.
Acupuncture is not an alternative to western medicine. Many medical personnel may recomend its use in conjunction with medication like Clomid or Metformin or during an IVF cycle.