Acupuncture for IVF: What You're Not Being Told

Every week in my clinic, I meet women who feel lost in the system — exhausted, overwhelmed, and often unsure where to turn.

One client recently paid £280 for an initial IVF consultation at a private clinic. What did she walk away with? A simple “Yes, you can do IVF.” No clarity, no root-cause investigation, no emotional support. Just a very expensive tick-box.

The IVF sector is a rapidly growing industry, but for many individuals and couples, the journey can feel transactional and emotionally draining. Success rates, particularly for women over 35, remain lower than expected, and much of the publicly cited data is still catching up.

IVF is an incredible option for many, but it isn’t always the first or only step.

The Cost of IVF vs. Acupuncture: What You Need to Know

Let’s talk numbers. A single round of private IVF in the UK typically costs between £5,000 and £8,000, not including medication, consultations, or potential extras like ICSI or embryo freezing. Many couples need more than one round.

Even if you’re receiving IVF through the NHS, the emotional and physical toll is still significant, and support options are often limited.

Now, compare that to acupuncture. At our clinic, fertility acupuncture starts from £80 per session, with many clients choosing a 12-week personalised program. That’s under £840 for three months of tailored, whole-body care — a fraction of a single IVF cycle.

Unlike IVF, acupuncture improves overall health, stress response, fertility hormones, menstrual cycle regulation, and emotional well-being.

It’s not just cost-effective. It’s whole-person care.

The Benefits of Acupuncture for Fertility Treatments

In my clinic, I see it every week: women reclaiming their fertility stories.

Acupuncture isn’t a miracle, but it works in remarkable ways. By gently guiding the body back into balance, it creates the conditions where fertility can naturally thrive.

Let’s break down how acupuncture for IVF can support your journey.

How Acupuncture Helps Before and During IVF

• Improves blood flow to the uterus and ovaries to support implantation and create a healthy uterine environment

• Regulates fertility hormones, including follicle-stimulating hormone, to improve egg quality and menstrual cycle regularity

• Reduces stress hormones like cortisol and supports emotional resilience during your IVF cycle

• Supports overall health by improving digestion and sleep, reducing inflammation, and balancing hormone levels

• Enhances embryo implantation by calming the nervous system and creating optimal conditions for early pregnancy

Real Women, Real Results: The Effects of Acupuncture

Take Emily (name changed). After two failed IVF rounds, she felt completely deflated. Her menstrual cycle was irregular, she wasn’t sleeping, and she felt disconnected from her body.

We worked together weekly, using fertility acupuncture sessions to support digestion, hormone regulation, stress relief, and sleep quality.

On her third IVF round, she had two high-quality embryos — and today, she’s holding her baby girl.

Emily’s story is one of many. I’ve worked with clients told they would never conceive naturally — who went on to do just that, with consistent acupuncture and personalised care.

Why does this happen?

Because acupuncture supports the whole person. We look at stress, sleep, cycles, and emotional health — not just lab results and numbers.

Acupuncture Can Help Before and After Embryo Transfer

Many patients undergoing fertility treatments choose to receive acupuncture treatment just before and after embryo transfer. Why?

Because it helps:

• Relax the uterus

• Improves blood flow to reproductive organs

• Reduce stress and anxiety levels at a pivotal moment

This gentle yet powerful approach can make a real difference during one of the most emotional stages of treatment.

Supporting Male Fertility: Acupuncture Works for Both Partners

It’s important to remember that fertility is a shared journey. Up to 50% of fertility challenges are linked to male factor infertility, and acupuncture can help here, too.

I have worked with many men experiencing issues such as low sperm motility, poor morphology, and low count. Through tailored acupuncture sessions and lifestyle support, we’ve seen improvements in semen parameters, stress levels, and overall well-being.

• Healthy sperm development and maturation
• Hormonal balance, including testosterone regulation
• Improved blood flow to reproductive organs
• Reduction in stress and inflammation
• Better outcomes in IVF treatment when male health is optimised

When both partners are supported, IVF outcomes improve.

What the Research Shows About the Benefits of Acupuncture for Women and Men

Acupuncture has been extensively studied in the context of female and male fertility. While it’s widely known for supporting hormone regulation, blood flow, and emotional well-being in women, emerging research shows significant benefits for men, too.

Recent clinical studies have found that acupuncture can:

• Improves sperm motility, morphology, and concentration

• Supports hormonal balance, including LH, FSH, and testosterone

• Reduces scrotal temperature, which has been linked to improved sperm quality

• Enhance sperm ultrastructure, such as acrosome position and nuclear shape

• Improves blood flow to the testes and reduces inflammation

• Reduce stress, a known factor in male infertility

In one notable study published in Fertility and Sterility, men receiving acupuncture twice a week for five weeks saw a 16% improvement in sperm structure. Another randomized controlled trial found acupuncture significantly improved sperm motility in men with severe oligoasthenozoospermia compared to placebo acupuncture.

While more large-scale trials are needed, the current evidence strongly suggests that acupuncture can be a valuable complementary therapy for male factor infertility.

While some dismiss acupuncture, research shows its value:

• A 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis published in Fertility and Sterility examined 27 randomized controlled trials involving over 6,000 women undergoing IVF. The study found that women who received acupuncture around the time of embryo transfer were 42% more likely to achieve a clinical pregnancy compared to those who did not (Xie et al., 2019).

• A 2022 retrospective cohort study published in Reproductive Biomedicine Online found that women who received acupuncture during the IVF cycle had higher implantation rates and improved endometrial receptivity scores compared to controls. The authors concluded that acupuncture “may offer an advantage when integrated into IVF treatment for patients with poor outcomes” (Zhao et al., 2022).

• A Cochrane Review (2018) acknowledged that acupuncture might improve pregnancy outcomes when used alongside IVF and highlighted its role in reducing stress and supporting hormone levels (Cheong et al., 2018).

• Studies published in the European Journal and others show that acupuncture increases blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, regulates fertility hormones, and lowers cortisol levels—all crucial for successful implantation.

While the HFEA currently suggests acupuncture as a “treatment with no proven effectiveness,” this classification refers to outcomes not yet verified through large-scale randomized controlled trials under NHS standards. 

However, growing evidence from international clinical research shows that acupuncture may positively influence fertility markers, emotional health, and IVF outcomes — especially when delivered by trained practitioners as part of an integrative care plan.

In plain terms? Acupuncture helps. It makes your body more receptive, more resilient, and hormonally balanced. This isn’t just something you feel; it’s something that researchers and licensed acupuncturists observe, especially in patients selected for integrative medicine approaches.

What the Research Says About Acupuncture and IVF

Acupuncture is more than a calming add-on, it’s a powerful therapy that can support your fertility at every stage of your IVF journey. Both clinical studies and personal success stories point to its benefits for egg and sperm quality, hormone balance, and emotional well-being.

Acupuncture for Women Going Through IVF

Recent research shows that acupuncture may increase pregnancy and live birth rates, particularly when it’s done throughout the IVF cycle:

• A review of 31 randomised controlled trials found improved pregnancy rates in 20 of them (Gu et al., 2019).

• A meta-analysis of 27 studies noted more success with increased acupuncture frequency during IVF (Xie et al., 2019).

• An Australian review found acupuncture around embryo transfer improved live birth rates and lowered miscarriage risk (Smith et al., 2019).

Some studies even showed pregnancy rates nearly doubling in acupuncture groups:

• 60.9% vs. 33.3% with acupuncture at embryo transfer (Coksuer et al., 2019)

• 33.6% vs. 15.6% when done after transfer and again 3 days later (Dieterle et al., 2006)

• Positive outcomes in women with previous IVF failure (Shuai et al., 2019)

This reinforces what I see in clinic: when acupuncture is tailored to your IVF cycle, it can enhance how your body responds to treatment.

Acupuncture for Male Fertility Support

Up to 50% of fertility challenges involve male factor infertility—and research supports acupuncture here too. It can:

• Improve sperm motility, shape, and count

• Support hormone levels like testosterone and FSH

• Lower scrotal temperature to aid sperm quality

• Boost blood flow and reduce inflammation

• Reduce stress and improve emotional resilience

In one study, men receiving acupuncture twice weekly for five weeks showed a 16% improvement in sperm structure (Fertility and Sterility). Another found better motility in those with previously poor semen quality.

Acupuncture Throughout the IVF Cycle

While many people only receive acupuncture at embryo transfer, research suggests regular treatment during the whole IVF process offers even greater support:

• Improved embryo development in PCOS patients (Rashidi et al., 2013)

• Higher success rates in women with poor ovarian reserve (Dong et al., 2019)

• Better outcomes after repeated IVF failure (Villahermosa et al., 2013)

• Reduced stress, anxiety, and cortisol levels (Balk et al., 2010; Magarelli et al., 2009)

The Bottom Line

Acupuncture helps prepare your body and mind for IVF. Whether you’re working on egg quality, sperm health, or managing stress, it’s a safe, natural therapy that brings your whole system into balance—backed by research and results.

Why Acupuncture is Often Overlooked in Assisted Conception

Because it doesn’t easily fit the conventional model.

Acupuncture is:

• Natural

• Personalised

• Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine

• More affordable than many other interventions

In a system driven by protocols and procedures, this holistic, tailored care can be undervalued — but it’s exactly what many people need.

Acupuncture Can Help You Feel Empowered and In Control

You deserve personalised care. A treatment plan that considers your mind, body, and spirit.

So before you spend thousands on IVF stimulation and medication, ask yourself:

Has anyone looked at your whole picture? Has anyone supported your stress levels, your cycle health, your digestion, your sleep? Has anyone explored male factor infertility or how both partners can improve IVF outcomes?

Because every piece matters.

Let Acupuncture Be Part of Your IVF Support Plan

Fertility isn’t just about follicles and charts. It’s about how your whole system is functioning—and how safe your body feels to conceive naturally or through IVF.

That’s what acupuncture supports.

Before you go all in on in vitro fertilisation, take a moment to explore what’s possible when you bring your body back into balance with the help of acupuncture.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start acupuncture if I’m planning IVF?

Ideally, 3 months before your IVF cycle begins. But even starting a few weeks before embryo transfer can offer a significant benefit.

Can acupuncture help during egg collection or transfer?

Yes. Pre- and post-transfer acupuncture sessions are often recommended for their calming and circulatory benefits. Many IVF patients report reduced anxiety levels and improved experiences.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Not at all. Most people find it deeply relaxing. Some even fall asleep during treatment.

Let Acupuncture Be Part of Your IVF Support Plan

Fertility is about more than follicles and charts. It’s about creating the right environment, emotionally, hormonally, and energetically — to conceive.

Before going all-in on IVF, explore how acupuncture could be the missing piece in your fertility journey.

✨ Download your free guide: Unlock Your Fertility: A Holistic Guide to Enhancing Conception Naturally Or book your consultation today.

You're not broken. You're not out of options. You're not alone.

Let’s work together to bring your body back into harmony with the support of medical acupuncture and natural fertility medicine. Together, we can support natural fertility holistically and give you the care you truly deserve.

About the Author

Deanna Thomas is a degree-trained Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncturist and women’s health specialist with advanced training in fertility support. She is a registered member of the British Acupuncture Council and the Acupuncture Fertility Network. Deanna has personally supported hundreds of women and couples through natural conception, IVF, and IUI.

Are You a Fertility Clinic or Practitioner?

If you're a clinic or practitioner looking to offer more holistic support to your IVF patients, I’d love to connect. We welcome collaborative conversations about integrated care and referral partnerships.

References

• Xie, Z., Peng, Z., Lian, F., et al. (2019). The effects of acupuncture on pregnancy outcomes of in vitro fertilization: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 19(1), 131. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-019-2523-7

• Cheong, Y.C., Nardo, L.G., Rutherford, T., et al. (2018). Acupuncture and assisted conception. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (5), CD006920. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD006920.pub3

• Gu, C., Zhou, W., Bi, Y., et al. (2019). Acupuncture and IVF: A review of 31 randomized controlled trials. Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics, 300(3), 555–567. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-019-05232-y

• Coksuer, H., Karaer, A., Akdemir, N., et al. (2019). The impact of acupuncture on IVF success rates in women undergoing embryo transfer. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 238, 33–37. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejogrb.2019.05.032

• Dieterle, S., Ying, G., Hatzmann, W., & Neuer, A. (2006). Effect of acupuncture on the outcome of in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection: a randomized, prospective, controlled clinical study. Fertility and Sterility, 85(5), 1347–1351. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.11.045

• Smith, C.A., de Lacey, S., Chapman, M., et al. (2019). Acupuncture to improve live birth rates for women undergoing IVF: a protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials, 20(1), 2. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-018-3110-0

• Shuai, W., Lin, S., Liang, C., et al. (2019). Acupuncture improves pregnancy outcomes in women with repeated IVF failure: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Integrative Medicine, 17(3), 187–193. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joim.2019.05.002

• Zhao, L., Sun, Y., Qiao, J., et al. (2022). Acupuncture improves endometrial receptivity and pregnancy outcomes in IVF patients with prior implantation failure: A retrospective study. Reproductive Biomedicine Online, 44(4), 785–793. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.01.004

• He, W., Zhang, C., Luo, Y., et al. (2021). Efficacy of acupuncture for idiopathic male infertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Andrologia, 53(10), e14162. https://doi.org/10.1111/and.14162

• Magarelli, P., Cridennda, D., & Cohen, M. (2009). Changes in serum cortisol and prolactin associated with acupuncture during IVF treatment: a pilot study. Fertility and Sterility, 92(6), S169. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.07.1437

• Balk, J., Catov, J., Horn, B., et al. (2010). The relationship between perceived stress and biological stress markers in women undergoing IVF. Fertility and Sterility, 94(4), 1327–1329. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.06.036