Acupuncture During IVF: What Research Says
- Andrea Izquierdo
- 1 day ago
- 6 min read
If you are preparing for IVF, you are probably thinking about everything you can do to support your chances. You may have heard about acupuncture from friends, online forums, or your fertility team, but you may still wonder what the research actually says and how it works. Here is what you need to know.
Studies show that acupuncture can lower stress, improve blood flow, regulate hormones, and support the body during key stages of IVF. Research also shows higher embryo transfer comfort and better treatment outcomes when acupuncture is used alongside standard IVF care. Many patients also share that they feel calmer, more grounded, and more supported during a process that can feel physically and emotionally overwhelming.
At Bodhi TCM Acupuncture in Melbourne FL, we support Brevard County families through each stage of IVF. Our approach is evidence based and personalized so every patient receives the right plan for their cycle and symptoms.
In this article, you will learn:
What IVF does to the body
Why many clinics recommend acupuncture
What research says about acupuncture and IVF
When to start and how often to get treatments
Simple tips you can use at home to support your body
Key Takeaways
Acupuncture improves blood flow to the uterus and ovaries
Acupuncture helps lower stress hormones and supports relaxation
Several studies show higher pregnancy rates when acupuncture is used around embryo transfer
Starting acupuncture before your IVF cycle gives the body time to build balance
Table of Contents
What is IVF?
IVF, or in vitro fertilization, is a fertility treatment where eggs are taken from the ovaries and combined with sperm in a lab. Once an embryo develops, it is placed back into the uterus.
An IVF cycle often includes:
Hormone medications that help the ovaries grow more follicles
Monitoring through bloodwork and ultrasounds
Egg retrieval
Fertilization in the lab
Embryo transfer
A two week waiting period
IVF can be physically and emotionally demanding. The body works hard during stimulation, and hormone changes can affect sleep, stress, digestion, and energy levels. Many patients tell us they feel overwhelmed, tense, or unable to relax during the process.
This is why many choose acupuncture as a natural way to support their body throughout treatment.
What IVF Does to the Body
IVF is a powerful medical process. It also places the body under stress. You may experience:
Hormonal changes
Bloating or tension in the lower abdomen
Emotional stress
Sleep changes
Headaches
Fatigue
These changes can affect blood flow, mood, and the nervous system. Many patients tell us they feel “wired but tired,” overwhelmed, or unable to relax.
Key takeaway: IVF can stress both the body and mind. Acupuncture helps calm the system so the body can function more smoothly.
Why Acupuncture Is Used During IVF
Fertility clinics around the world and here in Brevard County FL often recommend acupuncture because it supports the body in several key ways.
Acupuncture helps:
Improve blood flow to the uterus and ovaries
Regulate stress hormones
Support the menstrual cycle
Reduce muscle tension
Improve sleep and mood
Help patients feel more grounded before embryo transfer
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine view, acupuncture helps regulate Qi and Blood so the reproductive system can function more smoothly.
What Research Says About Acupuncture and IVF
Many studies have looked at acupuncture and IVF. Here are the most important findings in simple terms.
1. Acupuncture "significantly increased the IVF outcomes in women undergoing IVF compared with no acupuncture"
A well-known study published in "International Journal of Reproductive Biomedicine" found higher pregnancy rates in patients who had acupuncture before.
2. Acupuncture may help reduce stress during IVF
A study from the University of Western Sydney found that acupuncture helped lower anxiety and stress levels while undergoing IVF.
3. Acupuncture may improve blood flow to the uterus
Research shows that acupuncture can help increase uterine blood flow and may improve endometrial thickness. (https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2022.858587/full)
4. Acupuncture can reduce side effects of IVF medications
Patients often report fewer headaches, less tension, and better sleep with acupuncture during stimulation. (https://news.uhhospitals.org/news-releases/articles/2025/06/acupuncture-reduces-stress-pain-and-anxiety-for-ivf-patients)
Key takeaway: The strongest research supports acupuncture for stress reduction, blood flow, and embryo-transfer support.
Why Choose a Licensed Acupuncturist and Women's Health Expert for IVF Acupuncture?
IVF is a complex medical process, and the body goes through many changes at each stage. This is why it matters who you choose for acupuncture support.
A licensed acupuncturist with advanced training in women's health understands:
How hormone medications affect your body
When acupuncture should be used during stimulation, retrieval, and embryo transfer
What points to avoid during certain parts of the cycle
How stress, sleep, digestion, and circulation affect IVF outcomes
How to support side effects like bloating, nausea, and anxiety safely
A women's health expert also knows how to adjust your treatments based on:
Your age
Your diagnosis
Egg and embryo quality concerns
Endometrial thickness
PCOS, endometriosis, or autoimmune factors
How many IVF cycles you have completed
Working with a licensed acupuncturist is also safer. They use clean needle technique, follow medical guidelines, and understand how acupuncture interacts with fertility medications and procedures.
At Bodhi TCM Acupuncture in Melbourne FL, our IVF support is more than stress relief. Treatment plans are based on research, your medical history, and your doctor’s recommendations. This is why many local patients and clinics trust us to provide safe and effective acupuncture during IVF cycles.
Key takeaway: IVF acupuncture is most effective and safest when performed by a licensed professional who understands both reproductive medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine. You deserve someone who knows exactly how to support your cycle from start to finish.
When to Start Acupuncture for IVF
Every patient is different, but most fertility experts recommend starting:
Best:
8 to 12 weeks before IVF
This allows time to support blood flow, stress levels, and cycle regulation.
Better:
4 to 6 weeks before IVF
Minimum:
Before and after embryo transfer
Frequency:
Once weekly or twice weekly: leading up to IVF
Twice weekly: during stimulation (if possible)
Before and after embryo transfer
What to Expect at Bodhi TCM
During your consultation with Dr. Andrea Izquierdo, LAc. You will discuss:
Medical history
IVF protocol
Stress levels
Sleep
Cycle patterns
Digestive health
Physical tension
If we can help we will let you know right away and we can start treatment that same day.
Your personalized program may include:
Acupuncture and Electroacupuncture
Far Infrared Heat therapy to support circulation
Cellular BioModulation Therapy for nervous system and reproductive health
Personalized Herbal formulas if needed for support
Lifestyle recommendations to follow at home
Most patients report feeling calmer, clearer, and more balanced after each treatment.
At-Home Tips to Support IVF
You can support your treatment with simple daily habits:
1. Get enough sleep
Aim for sleep before 10 pm to support hormonal balance.
2. Eat warm, cooked foods
Helps digestion and improves nutrient absorption.
3. Keep your feet and abdomen warm
Warmth helps circulation.
4. Avoid cold drinks
Cold slows digestion and may affect circulation.
5. Practice slow breathing
Helps keep stress hormones low.
6. Gentle movement
Walking or stretching keeps blood flow healthy.
FAQs
1. Does acupuncture improve IVF success rates?
Studies show higher pregnancy rates, especially on the day of embryo transfer. Acupuncture supports stress, blood flow, and overall balance.
2. Is acupuncture safe during IVF?
Yes. When performed by a licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture is safe.
3. How often should I get acupuncture during IVF?
Every patient is different, during your consultation we will go over your recommendation which will include frequency.
4. Does acupuncture hurt?
Most patients feel relaxed during treatment, even falling asleep.
Conclusion
IVF can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone. Acupuncture gives your body and mind extra support during this process. Research shows it helps reduce stress, improve blood flow, and support treatment outcomes.
At Bodhi TCM Acupuncture in Melbourne FL, we support Brevard County families undergoing IVF. If you are preparing for IVF or beginning treatment soon, we would be honored to help you feel supported, grounded, and ready.
Call 321-312-0771 to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help you.