Can Acupuncture Increase My Chances of Getting Pregnant?

Couples undergoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF) may find acupuncture helpful, according to what some research suggests, however no research can be found to tell whether it is helpful in general.  Similiar and smaller studies have shown compromising results, although more research must be gathered prior to saying that on record, that it will infact help you become pregnant.

Acupuncture is based on the theory of pathways throughout the body that flow with vital energy.  Acupuncturists try to restore health and balance this energy by stimulating specific points along the pathways.  Just in the past two decades, Acupuncture has been accepted by americans, however as a staple of chinese medicine, been used for 5,000 some years by the chinese. 

"Medical studies have indicated that acupuncture and certain herbs can increase blood flow to the uterus and stimulate ovulation in women and can help increase sperm motility in men." Acupunture Denver,Oriental Medical Arts.

Researchers suggest acupuncture helps the blood flow to the uterus allowing the embroys a better chance of implanting.
Amongst a group of 160 woman who were undergoing IVF treatment in 2002 german researchers found acupunture dramatically increased the outcome of pregnancy.  Out of the 160 that took part in the experiment, fourty two percent of them became pregnant, compared to twenty six of them who were unable to become pregnant.  

Other research suggests that acupuncture can also help in the reduction of stress. Stress has allready been shown to interfere with getting pregnant, so it makes sense that reducing your stress through acupuncture could also help improve your odds of becoming pregnant.  

Acupuncture could also help male infertility.  Studies have shown that regular treatments significantly improve sperm counts and motility (the strength to which the sperm swim).