Acupuncture and Fertility: FAQs

What can I expect at my first fertility acupuncture appointment?

At your first appointment Michelle hopes to make you feel at ease, comfortable and assured that you are in the most experienced and capable hands.

You will have a relaxed chat with Michelle about your fertility and overall health history.

Michelle will ask about your diet, sleep, stress and emotional wellbeing for example, which all play a part in your fertility.

Michelle may draw on her Naturopathic knowledge which may involve going over any blood test results you may have or discussing which pathology testing may be beneficial. These might include routine testing, nutrient testing and hormone assessments. For more information regarding Naturopathy for fertility click here.

Once you are on the treatment table, Michelle will conduct a physical assessment which includes inspecting your tongue, checking different pulse positions according to Chinese Medicine, gently assessing your abdomen or Hara as well as feeling the Acupuncture meridians. All of these give Michelle clues about the state of your health and more specifically the condition of your various bodily systems.

The information gleaned by the interview and physical assessment informs the Chinese Medicine diagnosis and treatment.

While you are on the table, you should find your Acupuncture treatment, gentle, comfortable and relaxing.

At the end of your treatment, Michelle may make recommendations regarding the frequency of visits as well as supportive treatments such as herbs or in between treatment suggestions.

Does Acupuncture hurt?

Most people find acupuncture comfortable and relaxing. The needles are very fine, and many people barely feel them go in. Some people notice a brief tingle, a dull ache or a feeling of warmth around the needle. Let Michelle know if anything feels uncomfortable, as she can adjust the treatment straight away. Whilst Michelle trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine, she has spent the last 24 years learning and practicing Japanese style Acupuncture which is gentle and comfortable.

How often should I have acupuncture for fertility, and how many sessions will I need?

There is no single number that suits everyone. Most people have acupuncture weekly or fortnightly, and Michelle will recommend a schedule based on your health, your cycle and how soon you plan to conceive or begin IVF.

Many people plan treatment over about three months, as this is roughly how long eggs and sperm take to mature. Michelle may also time your appointments around particular phases of your cycle.

When should I start acupuncture for fertility?

Ideally, as soon as you know you want to conceive. Acupuncture can be used at any stage, whether you are preparing for pregnancy, trying naturally or about to start IVF. If you have an IVF or embryo transfer date coming up, start as early as you can to give yourself the best preparation time.

Does acupuncture work for fertility?

Research on acupuncture and fertility has produced mixed results. Acupuncture is highly individualised, which makes it difficult to study in a standard clinical trial.

Michelle uses acupuncture to support your overall health and wellbeing, including your menstrual cycle, stress and sleep, all of which can influence fertility.

How might acupuncture help with fertility?

In Chinese medicine, treatment aims to identify and address the patterns of imbalance that may be affecting your health. Michelle also assesses the factors specific to your fertility, such as cycle irregularities, period pain, PMS and stress.

Many people also find acupuncture helps them relax, sleep better and feel more supported through the process of trying to conceive.

Can acupuncture help with stress while trying to conceive?

Many people find it can. Trying to conceive, especially over a long period or through IVF, can be emotionally demanding. Acupuncture sessions give you regular time to rest, and many clients report feeling calmer and more supported afterwards. Michelle also takes the time to listen, which many clients find just as valuable.

Can I have acupuncture while doing IVF?

Yes. Many people have acupuncture in the lead-up to, during and after an IVF or IUI cycle. Michelle can time your appointments around the stages of your cycle, such as stimulation, egg collection and embryo transfer.

Let Michelle know your IVF cycle dates so that she can coordinate your treatments accurately.

Should I have acupuncture around my embryo transfer?

Many people choose to have a course of acupuncture in the weeks before an embryo transfer, and some have a session shortly before or after the transfer. Research on treatment on the day of transfer is mixed, so it is worth talking with Michelle about the timing that suits you.

If you are planning a frozen embryo transfer, contact Michelle as early as you can so she can plan your sessions around your transfer date.

How much does fertility acupuncture cost, and can I claim a rebate?

Your first fertility acupuncture appointment is $150, and follow-up appointments are $120. Treatments run for 45 minutes to one hour.

Michelle is registered with all the major health funds, and appointments are eligible for in-clinic private health fund rebates. The amount you can claim depends on your policy, so check your level of cover with your fund.

How do I find the right acupuncturist for fertility?

Look for a practitioner who:

1. Is registered with the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia through AHPRA. You can check this on the AHPRA public register.

‍2. Has experience working with fertility concerns and understands what you are going through.

‍3. Will work alongside your GP or fertility specialist.

‍4. Belongs to a professional association.

‍5. Makes you feel comfortable and listened to.

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Is there anything I should do before or after an acupuncture session?

Eat a light meal beforehand rather than coming in hungry or very full. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and allow yourself time to rest afterwards rather than rushing straight into a busy schedule.

Is it worth trying acupuncture after a miscarriage or pregnancy loss?

Many people seek acupuncture after a loss for physical and emotional support. Michelle will take the time to understand your history and go at a pace that suits you.

Can acupuncture affect my cycle, such as cervical mucus or ovulation signs?

Some people notice changes in their cycle while having acupuncture, such as changes in cervical mucus, basal body temperature or period pain. Responses vary from person to person. If you track your cycle, bring your chart to your appointments, as it helps Michelle see how your body is responding.

Is acupuncture worth trying if I have only just started trying to conceive?

Yes. You do not need a diagnosis or a long history of trying to conceive. Many people start acupuncture to prepare their body for pregnancy, support their cycle and reduce stress before they begin trying.

Are there any risks or side effects?

Acupuncture performed by a registered practitioner using sterile, single-use needles is generally considered safe. Minor effects can include slight bruising, tenderness at a needle site or feeling light-headed or sleepy after a treatment. Tell Michelle if you are pregnant or think you might be, take blood-thinning medication or have a bleeding disorder.

Can I speak with Michelle before booking?

Yes. If you would like to ask a few questions about your fertility concerns, you are welcome to book a complimentary 15 minute phone chat with Michelle.