Acupuncture for IUI
Intrauterine insemination, or IUI, is a common step on the fertility journey. In this procedure, a processed sperm sample is inserted directly into the uterus, allowing a greater quantity of sperm to meet an egg in the fallopian tubes by bypassing the need for travel through the cervix. An IUI cycle is frequently assisted by medications which encourage development of follicles and trigger ovulation.
Couples often choose IUI because it is both less expensive and less invasive than IVF (in vitro fertilization). An IUI cycle can work well for situations such as less than ideal cervical mucus, the need for sperm donation, issues with sperm motility, or erectile dysfunction. Overall success rates for one IUI cycle are about 15-20%, or as high as 40% when fertility medications are used during the cycle.
Including acupuncture and Chinese medicine in your fertility efforts can increase these chances even more. A 2012 study comparing standard IUI to IUI plus acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine found that the group receiving Chinese medicine had success rates of 65.5%, compared to 39.4% in the standard group.
At TCRA, we have assisted hundreds of couples in achieving pregnancy through IUI. Our treatment plans include regular acupuncture, nutrition and lifestyle recommendations, and Chinese herbal medicine when appropriate. Treatment beginning 1-3 months before an IUI cycle can help:
Increase blood circulation to developing follicles
Increase blood circulation to the uterus, helping the body create a healthy uterine lining
Lower stress: high levels of stress hormones such as cortisol have been shown to have a negative effect on fertility by influencing the HPO (hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian) axis
In cases where male factor infertility is also an issue, Chinese medicine can improve sperm motility and morphology to increase chances of successful fertilization.
Contact the reproductive specialists at TCRA today to discuss how we can support you during an IUI cycle!