It helps reduce pain and stress.
A new study suggests that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) techniques, especially acupuncture, may offer meaningful benefits to women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). These therapies were found to significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and pain, contributing to a more holistic and supportive fertility treatment experience. Researchers believe that integrating such complementary methods can enhance overall well-being during the emotionally and physically demanding IVF process.
Conducted by a team at University Hospitals Connor Whole Health in Cleveland, the study involved 146 women across 202 embryo transfer cycles. Many participants received acupuncture, acupressure, and light therapy on the day of embryo transfer, and a majority also used these therapies in the weeks leading up to the procedure. Results showed notable reductions in patient-reported stress levels, with anxiety, stress, and pain scores each dropping significantly on a 10-point scale.
The research also identified specific acupuncture and acupressure points that provided the most noticeable relief. These findings have prompted more fertility clinics to consider incorporating such techniques into their treatment offerings. The study’s leaders believe these therapies not only help with physical symptoms but also enhance the emotional resilience of patients navigating fertility challenges.
Dr. Rebecca Flyckt, a reproductive endocrinologist involved in the study, emphasized the value of evidence-based complementary therapies. She noted that patients frequently ask about how nontraditional approaches might affect IVF outcomes, and this study provides data that can guide clinical decisions. The collaborative approach, she added, enables healthcare providers to support patients more fully—addressing their medical, emotional, and physical needs throughout fertility treatment.
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