Fertility, IVF & Pregnancy Acupuncture

Acupuncture has long been valued for its role in supporting women’s reproductive health, from improving fertility to helping with pregnancy-related concerns. Beyond conception and pregnancy, it also plays a valuable role in postpartum recovery, offering holistic support as a woman’s body transitions after childbirth. Acupuncture has also gained popularity for supporting In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). As couples increasingly turn to other treatment modalities to improve their chances of conception, acupuncture has emerged as a popular choice that increases success rates. Our acupuncturist, Dr. Mackenzie Steward-Snook L.Ac, DACM has extensive training, years of experience and success helping women get pregnant and families grow.

One of the primary ways acupuncture assists women in getting pregnant is by regulating the menstrual cycle and balancing hormones. Many women experience irregular ovulation or disrupted cycles, which can make conception more difficult. Research shows that acupuncture can influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, helping to normalize the release of reproductive hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and luteinizing hormone (LH). This balance is essential for healthy ovulation and the development of a receptive uterine lining. Acupuncture has also been shown to increase blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, improving follicle development and enhancing the chances of successful implantation.

Several studies have explored the effects of acupuncture on IVF outcomes. A notable study published in Fertility and Sterility found that women who received acupuncture on the day of embryo transfer (though we do recommend a course of treatment leading up to implantation) had higher pregnancy rates compared to those who did not. Another meta-analysis concluded that acupuncture improves pregnancy rate and live birth rate. Fertility treatments often involve the use of medications that can cause side effects such as bloating, mood swings, and fatigue. Acupuncture helps mitigate these side effects, making the overall IVF experience more manageable.

Stress is another major factor in fertility challenges, as elevated cortisol levels can interfere with reproductive hormone function. Acupuncture stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering stress and promoting relaxation. Clinical studies have found that women receiving acupuncture often experience reduced anxiety and improved emotional well-being, which in turn can support fertility and early pregnancy health.

Once pregnancy is established, acupuncture can help ease common discomforts such as nausea, fatigue and back pain. Research on morning sickness shows that acupuncture at certain points, such as Pericardium 6 (nei guan / inner pass), can significantly reduce nausea and vomiting. In later pregnancy, acupuncture is often used to relieve sciatica, pelvic discomfort and sleep disturbances by encouraging circulation and reducing inflammation.

Postpartum, acupuncture becomes especially valuable as the body recovers from childbirth. Many new mothers experience fatigue, hormonal fluctuations, emotional shifts, and physical discomfort. Acupuncture can help restore energy by supporting circulation and qi flow, as well as regulate hormones to ease postpartum mood changes such as anxiety or depression. It also assists with lactation difficulties by stimulating points associated with milk production and supporting the body’s overall recovery. Additionally, acupuncture can relieve musculoskeletal pain caused by labor or the physical demands of caring for a newborn.