Acupuncture
A Holistic Approach
TCM views menstrual health as part of a woman's overall health. In addition to acupuncture, a TCM practitioner might recommend dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, or stress management techniques to support your menstrual health journey.
Finding Balance
Acupuncture and TCM offer a natural approach to promoting menstrual health. By addressing the root cause of imbalances, acupuncture can help women achieve a more regular, comfortable, and symptom-free cycle. If you're looking for a complementary approach to managing your menstrual health, consider consulting one of our practitioners at Melbourne Reproductive Acupuncture.
The Modern Science
Western medicine offers a different explanation. Acupuncture needles trigger the release of various chemicals in the body. These include:
The Traditional View
Traditional Chinese medicine believes our health hinges on the smooth flow of qi, through our body. Blockages in this flow are thought to cause illness. Acupuncture needles inserted at specific points are believed to stimulate qi, restoring balance and promoting healing.
Acupuncture to Support IVF
We commonly see people who are receiving acupuncture treatment alongside or in preparation for IVF treatment. We have been doing this type of treatment for over 10 years and some of us at MRA have been involved in administering studies looking at acupuncture’s role in supporting IVF treatment. At MRA we suggest the following acupuncture schedule for optimal acupuncture support.
Before Starting Your IVF Cycle (2-3 Months)
Weekly Sessions
Focus on regulating your menstrual cycle, balancing hormones, and improving pelvic blood flow to enhance egg quality and overall well-being. This lays the foundation for a healthy reproductive system.
During your IVF Cycle
Weekly to twice-weekly sessions
Continue supporting egg development, endometrial lining thickness, and managing stress levels. Adjustments might be made based on your cycle phase and medication usage.
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3-5 days post embryo transfer: Support implantation, reduce anxiety.
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1 week into the stimulation cycle: optimise blood flow to your ovaries to support follicle development.
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Weekly during early pregnancy: Continue to support implantation and calm the nervous system.
Acupuncture While Trying to Conceive
Acupuncture is commonly used to support a couples trying to conceive (TTC). Some studies suggest acupuncture can improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, potentially enhancing ovulation and egg quality as well as uterine lining thickness. Additionally, acupuncture is known to reduce stress, which can hinder fertility. If you're considering acupuncture while trying to conceive, please feel free to contact us here (link) to discuss
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Day 1-4 of your cycle: To potentially improve follicular growth.
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3-5 days post embryo transfer: Support implantation, reduce anxiety.
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Post-embryo transfer (same afternoon of the next day): Reduce any cramping, and calm the nervous system.
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Pre-embryo transfer (morning of or evening before): Enhance uterine receptivity and promote relaxation.
Neurotransmitters
Signaling molecules that influence mood, sleep, and the nervous system.
Endorphins
Our body's natural painkillers, reducing pain perception.
Anti-inflammatory Substances
Reducing inflammation, a key player in many chronic conditions.
Increase in Blood Flow
Supporting healthy blood flow to the body's organs.
We care about you
Acupuncture While Trying to Conceive
Acupuncture is commonly used to support a couples trying to conceive (TTC). Some studies suggest acupuncture can improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, potentially enhancing ovulation and egg quality as well as uterine lining thickness. Additionally, acupuncture is known to reduce stress, which can hinder fertility. If you're considering acupuncture while trying to conceive, please feel free to contact us here to discuss
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Pre-embryo transfer (morning of or evening before): Enhance uterine receptivity and promote relaxation.
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Day 1-4 of your cycle: To potentially improve follicular growth.
