FAQs

What is Acupuncture?

Because of its proven effectiveness, acupuncture has been embraced throughout the world, and is steadily gaining popularity in the United States as a powerful complement to western medicine. In fact, the clinical research on acupuncture and its effect on fertility is so compelling that many reproductive endocrinologists and fertility clinics in the United States and Europe are incorporating it as a standard component of IVF protocols. Many people are intrigued by the clinical effectiveness of acupuncture but wonder, “How does acupuncture actually work?” While the mechanisms behind its effective results remain somewhat mysterious, here is one widely held theory about how acupuncture works.

Our bodies are made up of different kinds of systems. The Reproductive, Digestive, Nervous, Endocrine, and Immune systems are all examples of how our bodies organize in order to develop specialized functions. Each of these systems is made up of different kinds of parts. The female reproductive system, for example, is composed of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, etc. The Digestive System is made up of the mouth, stomach, and intestines.

According to the theories of Chinese Medicine, all of these systems and parts are inter-connected, and they exert a mutual influence upon one another. If one system of the body becomes sick, or weak, or stops performing its normal functions, it starts to exert a negative impact upon other related systems.

It is the view of Chinese Medicine, that the systems and parts of our bodies are connected to one another by a network of internal pathways called, meridians. In the same way that highways and streets connect different regions of a city together, this meridian network forms an intricate web that helps the systems and parts of the body to communicate and interact with one another.

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific sites along these meridian pathways. These sites are called Acupuncture Points or Acupoints. By stimulating these points with acupuncture, the body’s meridian pathways become activated, and this activation of the meridian system helps to strengthen the relationships among all of the systems and parts of the body. As the systems of the body return to their naturally balanced and harmonious state, the organs, glands and hormones are strengthened and regulated, and they are better able to return to normal function.

Our goal as acupuncturists is to help your body to function optimally. As the systems of your body come back into balanced relationships, the reproductive system begins to function normally again, and fertility outcomes increase significantly.

Will I have to take Chinese herbs?

At the Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture we recommend the use of Chinese herbal medicine to most of our patients. In conjunction with acupuncture and nutritional therapy, herbal medicines help to regulate the movement of blood in and around the uterus and ovaries. Herbal medicines also help to strengthen and improve the function of organs and glands so that they are able to perform optimally.

By regulating blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, and correcting weaknesses in the organs and glands, herbal medicines form a very effective adjunct to acupuncture treatments, and play an integral role on the journey toward improved fertility outcomes.

If you are engaged in an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle, your doctor may ask you to stop taking herbal remedies. This is especially true during the ovarian stimulation phase of the IVF cycle. For patients who are doing IVF, we usually administer herbal treatments in the weeks and months leading up to the ovarian stimulation phase of the IVF cycle, and use this time to help to maximize each person’s response to the stimulation medications. Once the stimulation begins, most patients will discontinue the use of herbal medications as per their doctor’s instructions.

The Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture works very closely with many of the area’s leading Reproductive Endocrinologists and Fertility Specialists. We are deeply committed to a harmonious integration of Chinese Medicine with Western fertility treatments, and believe that these two systems of medicine work best when they are used to complement one another. If your doctor recommends that you do not take herbs during certain phases of your fertility care, you do not have to feel conflicted. You will never be forced to choose between the advice of your fertility doctor and the advice of your acupuncturist.

What are herbs made from?

The term “herb” is something of a misnomer. A more accurate term would be “Medicinal Substance.” Most of the medicinal substances used in Chinese Medicine are plant based, and include things like seeds, roots, leaves, barks, etc. These things are what most people think of when they hear the term, “herb.”

These plant based herbs, however, are not the only medicinal substances used in Chinese Pharmacology. Other commonly used substances include minerals, shells, resins, and even some animal parts (such as gelatins, bones, exoskeletons, etc.).

At The Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture, we use over 200 different medicinal substances that are known to be clinically effective in the treatment of infertility and reproductive disorders. Sometimes herbs are used in combination to help strengthen or enhance the properties of another group of herbs. Other times, substances might be used in combination to help to restrain or limit the effects of some other herb.

For these reasons, herbal substances are rarely prescribed alone. Instead, they are almost always combined into formulas. An herbal formula is a collection of several individual medicinal substances that are mixed together. Each formula is carefully crafted to enhance and balance the effects of the formula’s individual constituents, and produce the maximum therapeutic effect. Most of the formulas used at The Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture contain between 10 and 30 individual herbs.

Are herbs safe?

At the Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture, we use herbs in their whole form. Rather than being synthetically derived or created, whole herbs maintain the integrity of the plant from which they came. We have worked for over 10 years developing our formulas using classical references that are over 2500 years old. Our acupuncturists compound all of our custom formulas in our own personal herbal pharmacy to ensure that we know exactly the dose and quality of the products that we recommend. The formulas recommended to you will be part of a comprehensive, customized treatment program.

Are herbs safe to take during an IVF/IUI cycle?

Most RE’s will request that you do not take herbs during your IVF/IUI cycle. They have expressed concern about the hormonal effects of the herbs. The herbs that we use at the Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture do not contain phytoestrogens or progestins. That would be a very western approach to use herbs that contain homones to improve hormone levels. Remember, we are trying to treat the cause of the problem, so the herbs we are using are designed to maximize your ability to produce your own hormones.

How do I take my herbs?

You will receive a vial of liquid called a tincture from the acupuncturist. We have taken the formula and processed it for over a month to produce a highly concentrated version of a tea. Your acupuncturist will prescribe a dose for you to take. A common does might be 2 dropperfuls 3 times per day. On an empty stomach, put 2 dropperfuls directly into your mouth. If the taste is unpalatable, you can drink some water or dissolve your herbs in a small glass of water. Our herbs should not produce any negative side effects. They have been specifically designed to meet your particular health needs. If you experience any side effects whatsoever other than something positive, you should discontinue your herbs until you can speak with your acupuncturist so that he/she can adjust your herbs.

Will the herbs interfere with my medication?

The herbs work by influencing systems as a whole, not by targeting an organ through a specific mechanism of action, the way pharmaceutical do. Additionally, most herb prescriptions consist of four to twelve herbs, making it unlikely that any one herb has the potential to interfere with medication. However, please do not adjust your medication without checking with your prescribing physician, even if you feel the herbs help.

Did the herbs cause that?

There are many factors that can cause the appearance of a symptom. A one-time dose of herbs is unlikely to be the cause. Usually, if the herbs are causing a symptom they will appear within the first few hours of taking the herbs and will go away within 8 hours of taking the herbs.

Can I combine herbs with my medications?

If you are engaged in an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle, your doctor may ask you to stop taking herbal remedies. This is especially true during the ovarian stimulation phase of the IVF cycle, when drugs are being prescribed to help your ovaries to produce eggs and follicles. For patients who are doing IVF, we usually administer herbal treatments in the weeks and months leading up to the ovarian stimulation phase of the IVF cycle, and use this time to help to maximize each person’s response to the stimulation medications. Once the stimulation begins, most patients will discontinue the use of herbal medications as per their doctor’s instructions.

The Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture works very closely with many of the areas leading Reproductive Endocrinologists and Fertility Specialists. We are deeply committed to a harmonious integration of Chinese Medicine with Western fertility treatments and believe that these two systems of medicine work best when they are used to complement one another. If your doctor recommends that you do not take herbs during certain phases of your fertility care, you do not have to feel conflicted. You will never be forced to choose between the advice of your fertility doctor and the advice of your acupuncturist.

Can I take herbs during my IUI or IVF cycle?

If you are engaged in an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle, your doctor may ask you to stop taking herbal remedies. This is especially true during the ovarian stimulation phase of the IVF cycle. Because there is not a reliable body of research on the interactions of Chinese herbs with ovarian stimulation drugs, most doctors are concerned about how the herbs may interact with the medications. In addition to general safety concerns, many doctors have expressed concern that the herbs may somehow alter or diminish the effects of the medications. Given that ovarian stimulation drugs are very expensive, often have negative side-effects, and are given as part of a very expensive IVF procedure, this is a very understandable concern. One would hate to spend so much money on an IVF procedure, bear the cost of the drugs, and endure the injections only to have some herbal remedies interfere and derail the process!

For patients who are undergoing IVF, we usually administer herbal treatments in the weeks and months leading up to the ovarian stimulation phase of the IVF cycle, and use this time to help to maximize the body’s response to the stimulation medications. Once the stimulation begins, most patients discontinue the use of herbal medications as per their doctor’s instructions.

The Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture works very closely with many of the areas leading Reproductive Endocrinologists and Fertility Specialists. We are deeply committed to the harmonious integration of Chinese Medicine with western fertility treatments, and believe that these two systems of medicine work best when they are used to complement one another. If your doctor recommends that you do not take herbs during certain phases of your fertility care, you do not have to feel conflicted. You will never be forced to choose between the advice of your fertility doctor and the advice of your acupuncturist.

Do herbal medicines have any side effects?

How do I use Tinctured Herbs?

You will receive a vial of liquid called a tincture from the acupuncturist. We have taken the formula and processed it for over a month to produce a highly concentrated version of a tea. Your acupuncturist will prescribe a dose for you to take. A common does might be 2 dropperfuls 3 times per day. On an empty stomach, put 2 dropperfuls directly into your mouth. If the taste is unpalatable, you can drink some water or dissolve your herbs in a small glass of water. Our herbs should not produce any negative side effects. They have been specifically designed to meet your particular health needs. If you experience any side effects whatsoever other than something positive, you should discontinue your herbs until you can speak with you acupuncturist so that he/she can adjust your herbs.

What are your acupuncturists’ credentials?

At The Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture, all of our acupuncturists are licensed by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners. This is the agency responsible for licensing and regulating the practice of doctors, acupuncturists, and osteopaths in the throughout the state of Texas.

Each of our acupuncturists holds a Masters Degree in the science of Oriental Medicine (MSOM) and each have been nationally certified by NCCAOM (the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine).

The training to become certified as an acupuncturist is rigorous. In order to qualify for certification and licensure, an acupuncturist must graduate from an accredited college. These programs of study typically last four years and require over 3,000 hours of classroom and clinical training and see over 1,000 patients in residence.

Additionally, all acupuncturists in the state of Texas are required to take continuing education classes each year to maintain their license. This means that all of the acupuncturists at The Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture are trained in the most current research and the best techniques in Reproductive Acupuncture available.

Our clinic's specialists and case managers are also Board Certified by the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine (ABORM). This means that they have acquired enough specialized training and expertise to pass the ABORM's national board examination. Our case managers were in the first group of 50 specialists in North America to pass the ABORM exam and become Board Certified as reproductive acupuncture specialists.

How long should I expect to receive treatment?

More information coming soon.

How much does acupuncture cost?

More information coming soon.

What is your approach?

With over thirty years of combined clinical experience, our team of acupuncture experts has developed a comprehensive treatment program that emphasizes a nurturing and natural, holistic approach to reproductive wellness. Our approach strives to balance and restore all the systems of the body in order to promote optimal reproductive health, and enhance fertility. In addition to acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, our Fertility Wellness Program includes nutritional consulting, stress management, and emotional support services. By taking a comprehensive approach and integrating a wide range of complementary services, we have been able to achieve an uncommonly high rate of success in helping women of all ages to become pregnant and have safe and healthy births.

At The Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture, we recognize that the needs of each patient are highly individualized, and that no two patients ever share the same history, diagnosis, or personalized needs. Our staff will work with you to clearly identify the specific factors that may be inhibiting your fertility and then work to correct them so that pregnancy can occur naturally. Whether you are trying to get pregnant naturally, or you are using procedures like IUI and IVF, our reproductive acupuncture experts look forward to meeting with you to see whether our programs can help to make a difference for you and your future family.

What if I can't afford acupuncture?

At the Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture, we are passionate about what we do. Chinese Medicine has a long track record of success in helping couples to overcome infertility, and we want everyone to be able to enjoy the benefits of Chinese Medicine. We got into the field of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine out of a genuine desire to help people and change people’s lives for the better, and we hate to turn people away for financial reasons.

Every year we meet women and couples who possess a genuine need for the services that our clinics provide, but who lack the financial means to pay for the care that they need. To address this need, The Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture has created a Charitable Grant Program. This program selects 6 couples every calendar year to receive free care in our clinics or care at a reduced cost.

The way the Charitable Grant Program works: Each year, we offer 2 full service grants: one at our Austin location and one at the San Antonio Location. The full service grants provide patients with acupuncture treatments, herbal medicines, and nutritional supplements for up to one full year, or until they become pregnant, whichever comes first.

We also offer 4 partial service grants: two at our Austin location and two at the San Antonio Location. The partial service grant matches funds with patients who qualify, so that couples end up paying half-price for all acupuncture services, herbal medicines and nutritional supplements that are prescribed throughout their care program.

Who Qualifies? We always try to make medical need our first priority. In finding out whether you qualify for our Charitable Grant Program, the first step is to schedule an initial consultation with one of our acupuncture specialists. We will first need to make a full assessment of your health and fertility history and determine whether or not you are a good candidate for Chinese Medical treatment.

Once an initial assessment has been made, if we feel that we can help you to achieve your fertility goals, you can then apply for financial assistance through our Charitable Grant Program. Applicants will be screened based on Health History, Financial Need, and Program Availability.

How do I use online scheduling?

For your convenience, we keep our appointment schedule available online. With online scheduling, you can schedule and manage your own appointments. When necessary, you can use our online booking calendar to reschedule or cancel appointments at your own convenience.

This service is very and easy to use. To begin using online scheduling, call the front desk or ask about it next time you are in the office. We will supply you with a User Name and Password that will give you access to the online schedule.

Online scheduling is not available for new patients. If you are new to our clinic, please call the front desk to schedule an initial consultation. Once you have completed your preliminary intake, you will be able to access the online schedule.

Do you take insurance?

Many of our patients submit the invoices from their visits with us to their insurance company for reimbursement; however, we do not do any direct insurance billing. If you are interested in filing an insurance claim for your treatments with us, talk with our staff and we will be happy to walk you through the procedures that will help you to get reimbursement.

Do you accept credit cards?

Yes, we accept all major credit cards except American Express.

What are your fees?

No Risk Initial Consultation: $150

Acupuncture Sessions: $85

Treatment Packages: Variable

An initial consultation is an opportunity for one of our specialists to review you entire health history and perform a comprehensive exam. After this initial visit, if you choose not to proceed with a follow-up visit, we will refund the $150 fee.

We provide this consultation at no financial risk so that those who are unfamiliar with acupuncture and Chinese Medicine will have the opportunity to see our office, get to meet our staff, hear what we have to say, and then decide if Chinese Medicine is right for you. If you find that acupuncture is not the right choice for you after the initial consultation, there will be no charge for the visit.

Treatment Packages

Once your acupuncturist makes a care-plan for you, you will be given several payment options to choose from. Fees per service may vary depending on which payment plan you choose.

Do you have payment plans available?

Yes. In order to make treatment affordable to everyone, we offer several different payment options. Once you have completed the complete intake and consultation, your acupuncturist will discuss payment options for the treatment plan that he or she recommends.

How often do I have to come for treatment?

This will be determined by your acupuncturist in the first few visits following your initial consultation. Because treatment with Chinese Medicine is often individualized, different care plans are recommended to different patients. Once your acupuncturist has had an opportunity to review your health history and evaluate your condition thoroughly, a treatment plan will be created for you that best meets your needs and your goals.

How do I make an appointment?

You can call a Practice Coordinator at 512-302-5600 or 877-302-5603 (outside of Austin) to schedule your initial consultation.

What if I can’t afford acupuncture?

The way the Charitable Grant Program works:

Each year, we offer 2 full service grants: one at our Austin location and one at the San Antonio Location. The full service grants provide patients with acupuncture treatments, herbal medicines, and nutritional supplements for up to one full year, or until they become pregnant, whichever comes first.

Who Qualifies?

We always try to make medical need our first priority. In finding out whether you qualify for our Charitable Grant Program, the first step is to schedule an initial consultation with one of our acupuncture specialists. We will first need to make a full assessment of your health and fertility history and determine whether or not you are a good candidate for Chinese Medical treatment.

Call Us Now!

877-302-5603

FAQs