Acupuncture For Fertility

Acupuncture is an exceptionally versatile treatment. Dating as far back as 1500 BCE, acupuncturists have manipulated the body's energy by inserting rudimentary needles into various places on the body. Today, we use stainless steel, filiform needles the thickness of a single human hair. These needles are sterile, used only once, and then destroyed. Depending on the acupuncture style, some people report experiencing heaviness, aching, tingling, coolness or warmth at the site of needle insertion.

A typical acupuncture treatment includes six to eight acupuncture points with 15 to 25 minutes of needle retention time, but the exact time depends upon the needs and tolerance of each individual. Occasionally, needles are inserted and removed almost immediately. Other times, the needle retention time can last nearly 45 minutes. Again, this depends upon each individual and needs on the day of treatment.

Most people generally find acupuncture painless. Acupuncture can often make you feel relaxed to the point of falling asleep. So not only does the treatment directly address issues such as fertility, hormonal imbalances, ovulation, and menstrual cycle, but acupuncture also helps your body to deeply relax.

In scientific terms, the insertion of needles into specific acu-points signals the body to release ßeta-endorphins. These chemicals are the body's own natural opiods or painkillers. They relax muscles, dilate blood vessels and calm the nervous system. Acupuncture is also thought to influence the release of Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH), which is specifically important in the treatment of fertility.

In more esoteric terms, acupuncture directly addresses and gently adjusts the flow of Qi (often pronounced "chee") within the meridians of the body. Qi is the energy animating the body with movement, imagination, and life. Without Qi, the body is merely an empty shell or case. Meridians are the pathways in which Qi flows throughout the body. These adjustments in Qi allow the body to return to a more homeostatic balance.