When performed by an experienced, NCCAOM-licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture can enhance egg quality during IVF by improving blood flow to the ovaries and uterus. Fertility and Pregnancy acupuncturist Remee L. Gemo, L.Ac Dipl. NCCAOM of Empress Acupuncture in Midlothian & Chesterfield, VA has been supporting women in their IVF/IUI and fertility pursuits since 2005. She specializes in pregnancy acupuncture and IVF and IUI support with over 20 years specialized experience in women’s health.
By gently stimulating specific points, acupuncture helps dilate blood vessels and reduce stress-related vasoconstriction, ensuring that developing follicles receive an optimal supply of oxygen, nutrients, and hormones. This improved microcirculation supports healthier follicular development and creates a more balanced internal environment for egg maturation.
Acupuncture also plays a key role in regulating the body’s hormonal balance through its influence on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. This regulation helps to optimize levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estrogen—critical hormones for proper follicle development and ovulation. At the same time, acupuncture reduces cortisol and other stress hormones, which can otherwise interfere with reproductive function. By promoting relaxation and endocrine balance, it supports more consistent and higher-quality ovulation.
Additionally, acupuncture’s ability to reduce oxidative stress and improve mitochondrial function may directly enhance the cellular health of the eggs themselves. Mitochondria provide the energy needed for fertilization and early embryo development, so improving their efficiency can lead to better-quality embryos and higher implantation potential. When integrated into an IVF protocol by a skilled, board-certified practitioner, acupuncture serves as a complementary therapy that nurtures both the physical and emotional aspects of fertility, increasing the chances of a successful IVF outcome.