2 Studies on the Value of Acupuncture for Stress During IVF

FERTILITYTCMPREGNANCYMENTAL HEALTHACUPUNCTURE
Written By Lisa Burnley

If trying to conceive is taking longer than you expected, you and your partner are probably feeling anxious about becoming parents. You’re likely overwhelmed by information, what to do, what not to do, and when to do it.

By the time you consult a fertility specialist or commence IVF, there may be significant pressure on your psychological wellbeing. You might be experiencing anxiety, guilt, helplessness, financial stress, and strain on your relationship.

While doing your research (and I know you’ve done a lot), you’ve probably come across literature about acupuncture for fertility. Acupuncture can help enhance egg and sperm quality and prepare the body for conception but more than that, acupuncture can also support mental and emotional wellbeing during the IVF process.

Here are two recent studies exploring the value of acupuncture for stress during IVF.

1. Effect of Acupuncture on IVF-Related Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (2022)

This 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis looked at 8 randomised controlled trials assessing the effect of acupuncture on anxiety related to IVF.

Researchers measured anxiety using both standardised tests and qualitative questionnaires about stress levels and quality of life. The findings showed that:

  • Acupuncture had a small but positive effect on reducing IVF-related anxiety

  • It was deemed a safe and effective alternative to pharmacological treatments

  • It was especially beneficial for those wanting to avoid medication during IVF

The study did acknowledge limitations, including:

  • Variations in acupuncture points used

  • Differences in the number and length of sessions

  • Methodological inconsistency across trials

The authors concluded that while further research is needed, acupuncture is a promising option to support mental wellbeing during IVF.

2. IVF, Acupuncture and Mental Health: A Qualitative Study of Perceptions and Experiences (2021)

This 2021 Australian qualitative randomised controlled study involved 50 women, aged 18–42, undergoing a fresh IVF cycle.

Participants received either acupuncture or sham acupuncture, delivered by a registered acupuncturist. After completing treatment, they were interviewed about their experiences.

Key findings included:

  • Women in both groups believed their mental health had improved

  • Descriptions included feeling calmer, more optimistic, and less anxious

  • Many reported enhanced self-worth and a reduction in emotional stress

  • The environment of care and emotional support was considered valuable

Importantly, none of the women expressed concerns about adverse effects of acupuncture.

However, the study noted some limitations:

  • The sample was predominantly Caucasian and well-educated

  • Over half of participants had received acupuncture previously

Despite this, the study concluded that acupuncture during IVF may help reduce psychological symptoms and support emotional wellbeing.

A Holistic Tool to Support Your Journey

These two studies support what many people experience anecdotally, that acupuncture can help ease anxiety and stress during the IVF process.

And when your IVF is successful and you’re pregnant, that stress often doesn’t disappear. Ongoing anxiety, fear or worry in the first trimester can still affect your wellbeing, and acupuncture remains a safe treatment option during pregnancy when delivered by qualified and registered practitioners like us.

If you’d like to discuss how acupuncture might support your mental wellbeing during IVF, we’re here to help.

References

Lisa Burnley
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