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Acupuncture and Infertility – Tracing Its Roots

Acupuncture originated in China over 1,000 years ago.  Many people in the Western medical practice see it as an effective procedure to address a wide range of health problems.  It can remedy muscle tension, improve skin condition and get rid of smoking, to name a few.  Recent research findings show that acupuncture is beneficial to couples experiencing infertility.

View From The West

There remain some Westerners who doubt acupuncture’s effectiveness, despite its popularity.  Many consumers are reluctant to try acupuncture due to a lack of scientific validation.  A lot of studies are already being conducted on the matter, the National Institutes of Health in the US says.

Risks To Health

The procedure is painless when performed by a trained practitioner.  Only a few suffer ill effects.  Puncturing of organs, spreading of infectious diseases, forgotten or broken needles and minimal bleeding are the usual risks infrequently associated with acupuncture.  These can be done away with by having an experienced practitioner perform therapy.  However, people who have bleeding disorders and those who use blood thinning agents should not use acupuncture.

A Single or Complementary Process

Acupuncture may be used as an alternative to fertility issues, especially when used as a single treatment.  It is also viewed as greatly complementary to modern fertility procedures.  When used on its own, acupuncture probably offers more positive results for couples who have functional problems like irregular ovulation.  Taken alone, it may not work as well in addressing structural issues, like a blockage in the sperm duct.

Some acupuncture practitioners recommend that Chinese herbs be used alongside acupuncture procedures and treatments.  If you are taking prescription drugs, check with your doctor before starting any program of herb therapy.  Some herbal medications prevent the proper functioning of some fertility drugs and processes.

Acupuncture & Fertility – Does It Work?

How acupuncture works as a cure for infertility is still debatable.  However, many acupuncturists stress that even this age-old therapy can aid in normalizing the body’s functions.  It helps boost blood flow into reproductive organs and regulates hormone levels.  As a result, ovarian function is improved among females and sperm production is increased among males.

Acupuncture has been found to benefit women who are using it in conjunction with therapies that aim to increase fertility.   Acupuncture has been found to help women relax while undergoing fertility procedures.  Findings of recent studies show acupuncture’s ability to increase the conception rate in women who opt for in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Choosing the Right Practitioner

In order to practice acupuncture, doctors are required to complete more or less 300 hours of special training before they are awarded a certification.  Professionals in other fields who would like to specialize solely in acupuncture have to train for 2,000 to 3,000 hours and complete board examinations to qualify as acupuncturists.

The number of people who are practicing acupunture is continuously increasing.  There are a few things to consider before seeking the services of practitioners.  Patients must first look into the background of the acupuncture therapist before undergoing a procedure.  A practitioner should have the training and certification required by the state or other government authority where he or she conducts practice.One can find good recommendations from family and friends who have tried acupuncture services of certain providers.

Would-be patients should first inquire about ballpark total expenses just to be prepared with the costs early on.  Many individuals are relieved that some insurance plans cover charges for acupuncture treatments.

What You Can Expect

Several acupuncture treatments have to be undergone before one gets the best results.  Frequent visits, usually lasting a few weeks to a few months, must be done to maximize its benefits.  A visit to the acupuncturist normally goes on for an hour or so, as this time will be used to discuss your present health condition and entertain any question about the entire procedure.