Trying to get pregnant can take longer than you hoped, and fertility treatment can be hard on body and mind. Some people add acupuncture during that time. Acupuncture is offered here alongside fertility care, not in place of it.
From Lesley's practice
Lesley's own experience in her practice. It is not research, and results vary from person to person.
Acupuncture may be a supportive part of a fertility care plan for some patients. It can help support overall well-being and may be particularly helpful for managing stress and anxiety during what can be an emotionally demanding process. If you are pursuing fertility treatment, acupuncture can be coordinated with your medical care. You can learn more from The American Society for Reproductive Medicine.
What is a session like?
In my office, I use soft music and encourage clients to try and slow their thoughts and pay attention to their breathing. Rarely does a session pass without me discussing how to cultivate these feelings of peace in daily life.
When is acupuncture not the right fit?
As a true holistic practitioner, I never rule out other (safe) options of care.
Start with a doctor
Fertility care starts with your OB-GYN or a reproductive endocrinologist, who is an OB-GYN with special training in infertility. Your OB-GYN usually does the first assessment.
If you are having regular unprotected intercourse, have regular periods, and neither partner has a known fertility problem, ask for an evaluation:
- under 35: after 12 months of trying
- 35 through 40: after 6 months of trying
- over 40: talk with your OB-GYN about an evaluation now
Don't wait if you have irregular periods or no periods, endometriosis or very painful periods, a history of pelvic inflammatory disease, known or suspected problems with the uterus or tubes, more than one miscarriage, or conditions that can reduce ovarian reserve. Do not delay seeking care if a male partner has an injury to the testicles, past hernia surgery, past chemotherapy, infertility with another partner, or sexual problems. A provider will take a medical and sexual history from both partners.
Is acupuncture safe while trying to conceive?
Relatively few complications from acupuncture have been reported, but some have come from needles that were not sterile or from treatment that was not done properly. The FDA requires acupuncture needles to be sterile and labeled for single use.
If you are pregnant or might be, tell your acupuncturist. Tell your fertility clinic or OB-GYN that you are getting acupuncture, too.
Booking a visit
To book, use the Book now button at the top of the page, or see the contact page for the office address and phone.