Acupuncture and Infertility – Needle or Needless Therapy?
Acupuncture for Infertility – Tracing Its Roots
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing practice dating back over a thousand years. A lot of health professionals in the West consider this type of treatment valid when applied to different kinds of illnesses. It can address problems with muscle tension, the skin and even help one quit smoking, among others. Recent research findings show that acupuncture is beneficial to couples experiencing infertility.
The West’s Point Of View
Despite its popularity, a lot of Westerners still doubt the effectiveness of acupuncture. No scientific evidence is available to support acupuncture and, as a result, many healthcare professionals are reluctant to recommend it. A lot of studies are already being conducted on the matter, the National Institutes of Health in the US says.
Health Risks
The procedure is painless when performed by a trained practitioner. Only a small few have reported adverse outcomes. Organ puncturing, the spead of infection, or forgotten/broken needles are some of the risks that come with acupuncture. These can be eliminated by having the treatment peformed by an experienced professional. However, acupuncture must not be performed on people who have bleeding disorders and those who use blood thinning agents.
A Single or Complementary Process
Acupuncture, when used as a solo treatment, is regarded as an alternative method in treating fertility concerns. It is also viewed as greatly complementary to modern fertility procedures. Used as a single method, acupuncture brings positive results to people who have functional reproductive problems, like intermittent ovulation. By itself, effectiveness in treating structural problems, as with sperm duck blockage, could be weak.
Some acupuncture practitioners say that acupuncture treatments are best complemented by the use of Chinese herbs. If you are under medication, check your doctor before taking herbs. There are certain herbs that may inhibit the action of fertility procedures and drugs.
Acupuncture & Fertility - Effectiveness Factor?
How acupuncture works as a infertility cure is still debatable. Many practicing experts say that this ancient therapeutic procedure can help regulate the body’s system. It improves the flow of blood to reproductive organs and steadies hormone levels. The general outcome is enhanced ovarian function in females and a higher sperm count in males.
Acupuncture positively affects women who use it together with other procedures that aim to boost fertility. Some also say that acupuncture, when incorporated with rather stressful fertility procedures, helps women relax. Findings of recent studies show acupuncture’s ability to increase the conception rate in women who opt for in vitro fertilization (IVF).
The Selection Process
Doctors looking to enter the field of acupuncture will need to complete around 300 training hours to receive 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.
There are many people who practice acupuncture, and the number continues to rise. 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. It is good to know that certain insurance plans include acupuncture expenses in their roster.
Things You Should Expect
To get the best results, one has to undergo more than one acupuncture treatment. To maximize the benefits of acupuncture, the entire procedure would take some weeks to several months. Expect every visit to the acupuncturist to last about an hour, as the practitioner will be discussing your current health status in detail and entertain whatever queries you might have on the process.