Acupuncture for IVF & Assisted Conception
Mary is a BAcC-registered acupuncturist with 35+ years of experience and a background in midwifery.
Starting IVF or another form of assisted conception is a significant step - emotionally demanding, physically intensive, and often uncertain. Many women use acupuncture specifically to support their IVF cycle, both to optimise their physical readiness and to manage the anxiety and stress that comes with the process.
Mary is a member of the Acupuncture Fertility Network (AFN) and affiliated with the Zita West Network - the UK's leading integrated reproductive health clinic. She has extensive experience working alongside fertility clinics, and will complement your medical treatment rather than replace it.
For broader fertility support not limited to IVF, see the Fertility Acupuncture page.
How Acupuncture Supports an IVF Cycle
Acupuncture can be timed to each phase of the IVF process:
- Preparation (2-3 months before) - improving blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, regulating hormones, and supporting egg quality before stimulation begins
- Stimulation phase - supporting the body during ovarian stimulation, reducing side effects of the stimulation drugs, and improving follicle response
- Egg collection - supporting recovery and reducing discomfort
- Around embryo transfer - the most searched area; research suggests acupuncture before and after transfer may improve implantation rates
- Two-week wait - gentle, calming treatment to support implantation and manage the anxiety of waiting
The Research
A number of clinical studies have examined acupuncture as an adjunct to IVF treatment:
Effects of acupuncture on rates of pregnancy and live birth among women undergoing in vitro fertilisation
BMJ: British Medical Journal (systematic review and meta-analysis)
"Current preliminary evidence suggests that acupuncture given with embryo transfer improves rates of pregnancy and live birth among women undergoing in vitro fertilisation."
Mary follows Zita West protocols, which are informed by current evidence and updated as the research base grows.
Male Factor Fertility
IVF is often a joint journey. Acupuncture can also support sperm quality - including count, motility, and morphology. Since sperm takes around three months to mature, ideally treatment for male factor fertility begins well before the cycle starts. Mary treats both partners where appropriate.
When to Start
Ideally, starting acupuncture two to three months before your IVF cycle gives the best preparation window. However, acupuncture can be introduced at any stage of the process - including during a cycle already in progress. If you are starting IVF imminently, contact Mary to discuss what is still possible and beneficial.
See Prices & Clinic Hours for appointment costs and availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When should I start acupuncture before IVF?
The ideal starting point is two to three months before your IVF cycle begins. This allows time to improve egg quality, support hormone balance, and prepare the uterine lining. However, even starting during the stimulation phase or just before embryo transfer can be beneficial. Contact Mary to discuss what is most useful given your timeline.
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How many sessions do I need during an IVF cycle?
During the preparation phase, weekly sessions are typical. During the cycle itself, sessions are often timed to the key stages - before and after egg collection, and on the day of or around embryo transfer. Mary will work with your clinic's schedule and discuss a plan tailored to your cycle at your first appointment.
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Can acupuncture help with IVF side effects?
Yes. Ovarian stimulation drugs can cause bloating, discomfort, mood changes, and fatigue. Acupuncture may reduce these side effects and help you feel more comfortable during the stimulation phase. After egg collection, treatment can support recovery. During the two-week wait, acupuncture is used to reduce anxiety and support implantation.
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Do you treat male fertility issues too?
Yes. Acupuncture can help improve sperm count, motility, and morphology. Research suggests improvements after a course of treatment, with best results when started at least three months before the cycle - the time it takes for sperm to mature. Mary is happy to treat both partners.