Fertility Acupuncture
Substantial research shows that in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment is more effective when combined with acupuncture. Studies have also shown that TCM needling is effective in normalizing the function of the ovaries in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).
Acupuncture, as part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been used for centuries to support reproductive health by enhancing blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, reducing stress hormones, and regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. These effects are now supported by modern studies, which suggest that acupuncture can improve ovarian response, endometrial receptivity, and implantation rates. When timed correctly with a woman’s menstrual cycle—or alongside fertility treatments like IVF or IUI—acupuncture appears to promote hormonal balance, egg quality, and uterine lining thickness, all of which contribute to increased chances of a successful pregnancy.
I have used TCM needling, along with other naturopathic treatments such as targeted nutritional support, herbal medicine, and lifestyle recommendations, to help many patients—whether undergoing IVF or trying to conceive naturally—achieve a healthy, full-term pregnancy. In my experience, acupuncture is safe and effective and emotionally grounded during what can be a stressful and uncertain time. Treatments are tailored to each patient’s fertility diagnosis, whether that involves PCOS, low ovarian reserve, endometriosis, unexplained infertility, or irregular cycles.
The treatment itself is gentle. The needles used are extremely fine—barely thicker than a human hair—and are sterile and single-use to eliminate any risk of infection. When skillfully inserted, most people feel little more than a mild sensation or dull ache that fades quickly. The needles remain in place for about 20 minutes and are stimulated gently once or twice during the session to enhance their therapeutic effect. Most patients find the process relaxing, and many even fall asleep during the treatment.
On removal, bleeding is rare, and any minor bruising resolves quickly. In addition to its fertility-enhancing effects, acupuncture has also been shown in some studies to reduce the risk of ectopic pregnancy, likely due to its influence on tubal function and uterine motility.
I typically recommend six-week weekly treatment sessions to establish a strong foundation. After this initial phase, monthly treatments help maintain the benefits. For IVF patients, we schedule treatments on the day before and the day of the embryo transfer, as this timing has been shown to improve implantation success in clinical studies.
Acupuncture offers a holistic approach to fertility that addresses not just the reproductive system but the whole person. Calming the nervous system and reducing cortisol levels can help regulate menstrual cycles, improve sleep, and enhance emotional resilience during fertility treatment. For individuals struggling with anxiety or burnout related to trying to conceive, acupuncture provides a calming, restorative experience that many find deeply grounding. When integrated with conventional reproductive technologies or naturopathic care, it acts as a bridge—combining the best of traditional wisdom with modern science to support the body’s innate ability to conceive and carry a healthy pregnancy.
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Pamela Frank
A Sample of the Acupuncture Research
There is much more research on TCM needling for infertility; this is just a small sampling:
- Combined therapy of acupuncture, herbal medicine and clomiphene improves the pregnancy rate and reduces early abortion rate: Jiang D, Zhang Y, Wu X, Wu S. Infertility in polycystic ovary syndrome treated with acupuncture and clomiphene: a randomized controlled trial. Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2015 Feb;35(2):114-8.
- Electroacupuncture increases the high-quality egg rate and high-quality embryo rate: Lian F, Chen C, Xiang S. Improvement of the oocyte quality with electroacupuncture in infertility patients of kidney deficiency pattern Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2015 Feb;35(2):109-13.
- Acupuncture, selenium supplementation, weight loss, and psychotherapeutic intervention had 3 or more studies demonstrating beneficial effect: Clark NA, Will M, Moravek MB, Fisseha S.A systematic review of the evidence for complementary and alternative medicine in infertility. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2013 Sep;122(3):202-6. doi: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2013.03.032. Epub 2013 Jun 21.