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 Natural Awakenings Lancaster-Berks

Acupuncture Effective in Treatment of Infertility and Pregnancy-Related Conditions

Apr 29, 2015 11:37PM ● By Jennifer Kegel, M.D.

The 2,000-year-old Chinese medical practice of acupuncture is, in many cases, effective in the treatment of infertility—of both male and female etiology. The technique is of significant value as a supplement to in vitro fertilization (IVF). A literature review published in Alternative Therapies in May/June 2007, “suggests that acupuncture may improve the success rate of IVF and the quality of life of patients undergoing IVF.”

There are several pregnancy-related conditions that respond to acupuncture. The October 2000 issue of Journal of Pain and Symptom Management reported a significant reduction in morning sickness in those patients receiving active, as opposed to placebo, acupuncture. There are also various acupuncture protocols for correcting fetal positioning during the third trimester of pregnancy.

A 1992 article in Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion described acupuncture as comparable to an intravenous oxytocin drip for the induction of labor. In the postpartum state, acupuncture can elevate blood prolactin levels, thereby stimulating milk secretion. It is particularly helpful in treating deficient lactation due to postpartum depression, according to reports in Shanghai Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine from 1958 and an Indonesian publication in 1995.

Moreover, the Complementary Medical Technique of Acupuncture is worth considering during a woman’s reproductive years.

Jennifer Kegel, M.D., is the owner of Lancaster Medical Acupuncture, in Lancaster. Prior to acupuncture, Kegel practiced diagnostic radiology for 18 years. Connect with her at 717-575-9816 or [email protected].