[embroider]

All I really know is what I have seen on TV. Do they help you with herbs and such, or is it the pins and smoke that I see on TV. Anybody have any success with it?

[ctdougherty]

Hi,
Yes, they couple the actual acupuncture with herbal teas or pills. Also-it does hurt a little, I found the deeper the needle went the more I felt it (waves of relaxation). Acupuncture did not work for me but I hear it does work for some women, good luck

[slobin]

Just some info on acupuncture. I have had a ton of acupunture and unfortunately so far hasn't helped me to get/stay pregnant but it does for many. It's not a quick fix- it can take at least 3 months to optimize cycles and clear up any long-standing imbalances, so it's impossible to have a few sessions and then decide that it "didn't work." You really have to commit to say 6 months of weekly sessions and herbs to give it a fair chance. Acupuncture entails having tiny hair thin sterile needles inserted into several acupuncture points on the body. This stimulates the flow of Qi (energy/life force) in the body and brings the person into balance. It ranges from no sensation to a dull ache, to occasionally some momentary strong pain. Most people get very relaxed and many fall asleep during the treatment. Most people feel great and very relaxed after sessions. Most acupuncturists also give herbs to do along with acu. These can either be teas that you boil, powders or pills. The smoke that you see on tv is called "moxibustion" or "moxa" which is an herbal heat therapy which tonifies and warms the body and can help fertility.

It's definitely worth a try, but again it's not an instant fix. I do encourage you to give it a try. Also it will improve your overall health and well-being even if you don't get pg.

If you do it let us all know what you think.

Any other opinions on acupuncture/herbs?

[30somethingmom]

I think acupuncture and herbs are probably worth a try. Every person is different, so what doesn't work for one person may be the answer for someone else. When faced with infertility, the more options you try, the better your chances of success.

Anyone else have any other thoughts on the subject?

[J9yinyang]

Well, I'd be willing to try it, but $85 a session seems a bit steep, considering we're talking about 4 per month for at least 3 months. I'd have to get a second job to pay for it, which I don't think would improve my stress levels at all.

[Angelwithhope]

The money to me is nothing!! If it were to save me costs on further treatments I would be all for it!! I used to have accupuncture done in Calgary, where I knew and trusted the clinic! Now that I've moved FAR UP NORTH, I have no idea where I could go and don't know which clinics are good!! But I would really love to give it a shot!!

[Dr. Mubina Jiwa, ND]

I have treated several patients successfully with acupuncture. Although as mentioned it can take many sessions it can also work with just a few.

In my experience with regards to IVF it is better to get the acupuncture before, during & after the fertilization. This yields the most optimal results.

In the case of an individual who is trying to enhance their natural fertility before going the assisted route, they might find the acupuncture needs upwards of 10 sessions.

Alternative medicine is a very individualised medicine and thus each patient is examined holistically. Most practitioners will allow free consults to answer any basic questions and give you an idea of what your treatment might entail.

Regardless of your journey I suggest that if you decide to try acupuncture you look for a licensed Naturopathic Doctor or Acupuncturist.

Yours in health,
Dr. Mubina Jiwa, BSc., ND
Toronto Naturopath Dr. Mubina Jiwa specializes in a variety of naturopathic services...
Director - Essence of Health
Associate Professor - Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine

[lugotwins2007]

I have been going through acupuncture for the past two months. I went through for about a month before that. Acupuncture takes time and you need to be with someone whom you trust. Acupuncture is about moving energy through the body. We have been trying for almost two years and went through two rounds of Clomid, 1 failed IUI with injectibles and OHSS. We are going for IVF in August and plan to be successful. My acupunturist says that I am responding well and should be ready in August!

[jen-hoping]

My RE's practice is actually affiliated with an accupuncturist and is offered at their offices if you are interested. The hours are not great for someone who works but the accupuncturist has her own office as well and I intend to try that route. At this point, I would jump up and down while singing if someone told me that there was a chance it would help.