Fertility Acupuncture
Brisbane
Meet Michelle Blum - Naturopath and AHPRA registered Acupuncturist.
With over 24 years of clinical experience and a heavy focus on women’s health, Michelle understands how to best support women and couples wishing to improve their fertility and increase their chances of pregnancy.
Michelle’s clinic is located in Moorooka, Brisbane and is registered with all the major health funds.
Michelle is also a member of the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA), the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS) and the Australian Branch of Toyohari Association (ABTA).
Fertility Acupuncture FAQs
Does acupuncture really help with fertility?
Research into acupuncture and fertility has produced mixed results. Studies can be difficult to compare because acupuncture treatments are often individualised, and clinical trials may use standardised protocols that do not reflect how treatment is practised in real life.
In Chinese medicine, treatment is tailored to each person’s presentation rather than following one protocol for everyone. The aim is to support overall wellbeing and address patterns of imbalance identified during your consultation.
You might think of this approach as preparing the soil before planting a seed: the focus is on supporting your overall health and creating favourable conditions, while recognising that acupuncture cannot guarantee conception.
Why might acupuncture be used as part of fertility care?
The role of acupuncture in fertility care is still being studied, and evidence of its effect on pregnancy or live-birth rates remains uncertain. In Chinese medicine, the aim is to support balance and wellbeing. Practitioners may assess concepts such as Qi—traditionally understood as vital energy circulating through the body—alongside signs such as the pulse, tongue and abdomen.
Treatment is based on a Chinese Medicine assessment and is intended to support your general wellbeing.
How does acupuncture support fertility?
Fertility acupuncture is tailored to your health history, symptoms and goals. Your practitioner will consider your overall presentation and may also take your menstrual cycle and fertility treatment plans into account. In Chinese medicine, this assessment can include observing the tongue, feeling the pulse and gently examining areas such as the neck and abdomen.
Your appointment may include:
A comprehensive health and fertility history.
Pulse assessment on both wrists.
Observation of the tongue and assessment of relevant areas of the neck.
Gentle abdominal palpation, where appropriate.
A treatment plan based on your individual presentation, using acupuncture points selected for you.
Points related to the reproductive system may be considered as part of the treatment plan. The points used, and the focus of treatment, may change over time depending on your needs and cycle.
How many acupuncture sessions might I need for fertility?
The frequency and number of sessions depend on your health, treatment goals, menstrual cycle and whether you are trying to conceive naturally or preparing for fertility treatment such as IVF. Some people attend weekly or fortnightly, with appointments adjusted as their needs change.
Michelle will recommend an initial plan after learning more about your circumstances. The plan may be reviewed over time, and there is no single schedule that is right for everyone.
When should I start acupuncture for fertility?
If you are considering acupuncture as part of your fertility care, you can discuss starting when you begin planning to conceive or while preparing for fertility treatment.
Appointments may be planned around your menstrual cycle when relevant. For example, Michelle may consider cycle timing if you have concerns such as delayed ovulation, premenstrual symptoms or period pain. Your treatment schedule will be tailored to your presentation and may change over time.
How often should I have acupuncture for fertility?
For many clients, appointments are scheduled weekly or fortnightly. The appropriate frequency depends on your health, goals, cycle and fertility-care timeline. Michelle will recommend a schedule that suits your individual needs.
How much does fertility acupuncture cost?
An Initial Fertility Acupuncture appointment is $150, and follow-up appointments are $120. Appointments last approximately 45 minutes to one hour. Private health fund rebates may be available, depending on your level of cover and fund. Please check your eligibility with your health fund before your appointment.