If you are preparing for an IVF cycle, you may be looking for ways to give yourself the best possible chance of success. Acupuncture is one of the most well-researched complementary therapies for IVF, and at Artemis Wellness Clinic in Richmond, our Registered Acupuncturist Mandy Tam provides specialized fertility acupuncture protocols designed to support each stage of your IVF journey.
The Research Behind Acupuncture and IVF
The relationship between acupuncture and IVF outcomes has been studied extensively. Several key findings support the use of acupuncture during IVF treatment. A meta-analysis published in the British Medical Journal found that acupuncture administered around the time of embryo transfer was associated with improved pregnancy rates. Research in Fertility and Sterility has shown that acupuncture may improve ovarian response to stimulation medications. Studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can increase endometrial thickness, creating a more receptive environment for implantation. And multiple studies confirm that acupuncture significantly reduces stress and anxiety during IVF — important because high stress levels have been associated with lower IVF success rates.
How Acupuncture Works During an IVF Cycle
At Artemis, Mandy provides stage-specific acupuncture treatment that aligns with your IVF protocol.
Before Stimulation (1 to 3 months prior)
The preparation phase focuses on optimizing your overall reproductive health. Treatment aims to regulate menstrual cycles and hormonal balance, improve blood flow to the ovaries and uterus, improve egg quality through enhanced ovarian circulation, reduce stress and improve sleep quality, and address any underlying health issues that could affect outcomes.
During Stimulation
Once you begin stimulation medications, acupuncture sessions are typically scheduled 1 to 2 times per week. Treatment during this phase supports ovarian response to medications, manages side effects such as bloating, headaches, and mood changes, maintains optimal blood flow to the developing follicles, and keeps stress levels manageable during an intensive medical process.
Around Embryo Transfer
The most studied application of fertility acupuncture is treatment immediately before and after embryo transfer. Research protocols typically include a session 24 to 48 hours before transfer to promote uterine relaxation and blood flow, a session immediately before transfer to calm the nervous system and relax the uterus, and a session immediately after transfer to support implantation and reduce uterine contractions.
During the Two-Week Wait
The period between embryo transfer and pregnancy test can be the most stressful part of IVF. Acupuncture during this phase focuses on supporting implantation, reducing anxiety, and maintaining progesterone support.
Acupuncture for Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
If you are preparing for a frozen embryo transfer, acupuncture can help prepare your body by building optimal uterine lining thickness, promoting blood flow to the uterus, regulating hormone levels, and reducing stress. Treatment typically begins 4 to 6 weeks before your scheduled transfer date.
Real Patient Experiences
Our patients consistently report that fertility acupuncture helps them feel more in control of their fertility journey, experience less anxiety during treatment cycles, manage the physical side effects of medications, and feel physically and emotionally supported throughout the process.
One patient, Belinda, incorporated acupuncture into her egg freezing protocol and retrieved 19 eggs — a result that gave her confidence in both the process and her decision to preserve her fertility.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start acupuncture before IVF?
Ideally 2 to 3 months before your IVF cycle begins. This allows time to optimize egg quality and overall reproductive health. However, starting at any point — even during stimulation — can still be beneficial.
Will my fertility clinic support me getting acupuncture?
Most fertility clinics in the Vancouver area are supportive of acupuncture as a complementary therapy. Some actively recommend it to their patients. Mandy works collaboratively with local fertility clinics to ensure treatment is coordinated.
How much does fertility acupuncture cost?
Acupuncture sessions at Artemis are covered by most extended health benefit plans. We offer direct billing with major insurance providers. For patients without coverage, please contact us for our current rates.
Can acupuncture help if previous IVF cycles have failed?
Yes. Acupuncture can help address factors that may have contributed to previous unsuccessful cycles, including poor egg quality, thin uterine lining, high stress levels, and suboptimal implantation conditions.
Book Your Fertility Acupuncture Consultation
Ready to add acupuncture to your IVF protocol? Contact Artemis Wellness Clinic at 604-242-2233 or book online. Mandy Tam, R.Ac, R.TCM.P specializes in fertility acupuncture and is here to support your journey.
Learn more about fertility acupuncture at Artemis: Fertility Acupuncture in Richmond BC