Why couples plan for IVF (in vitro fertilization) Choose to seek TCM Support

By registered Chinese Medicine Practitioner: Dr. Clara Chan

In the context of the growing trend of delayed marriage and childbearing, an increasing number of couples are considering in vitro fertilization (IVF) to achieve pregnancy. As age increases, particularly for women, fertility declines. After the age of 35, the number of eggs in women significantly decreases, with an increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the eggs. Diagnosis of infertility is the most common reason for choosing IVF. Apart from age, issues with sperm motility or morphology, blocked fallopian tubes, hormonal imbalances, ovulation disorders, and other factors can also contribute to infertility. IVF allows bypassing some of the natural barriers to conception. IVF can be combined with pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) to screen embryos for genetic diseases, which is crucial for couples with known genetic conditions or carriers of genetic diseases. IVF can also serve as a method to preserve fertility by freezing eggs or embryos for future use.

In recent years, many couples have sought complementary support from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) before and during IVF treatments. Numerous foreign studies over the past 20 years have shown that acupuncture can improve the success rate of IVF. The main reasons are that acupuncture can enhance uterine blood circulation, thereby improving the nutritional supply to the endometrium and increasing the chances of embryo implantation. Additionally, acupuncture can stimulate the release of β-endorphins, regulate the balance of estrogen and progesterone, and promote the production of cytokines, enhancing the uterine lining’s immune response and facilitating embryo implantation and development.
When couples seek assistance for IVF treatment, we carefully consider their constitution and physical condition. If time permits, we recommend a preparation period of three months or at least ensuring that the menstrual cycle is within the normal range in terms of timing, quantity, color, and quality.

If there are issues with sperm motility or morphology in the male partner, we can also provide support. After all, high-quality embryos resulting from the combination of high-quality sperm and eggs not only have a higher survival rate but also ensure the baby’s health.

We typically use acupuncture, moxibustion, herbal medicine, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes to optimize the overall health of the individuals undergoing treatment. From my clinical experience, TCM therapies have shown efficacy in promoting sperm production and vitality. In the process of using hormonal stimulation to induce egg production and retrieval in the IVF process, TCM can have a synergistic effect, increasing the number of mature eggs. Since the mother need to nourish the embryo in the womb for 40 weeks after artificial conception, TCM not only focuses on whether the embryo successfully implants but also places great importance on the mother’s Qi and blood status, the uterine environment, and the mother’s emotional well-being.

Many mothers seeking our assistance may have already experienced early miscarriages or prior IVF failures. Combined with the impact of hormones, they will often have anxiety and other emotional imbalances during the IVF process. Hence, in each treatment session, we not only focus on enhancing the mother’s reproductive capacity but also use acupuncture and sound therapy to help stabilize her mind, balance her emotions, so as to minimize her suffering and enhance her total well-being.

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