BEFORE AN IVF CYCLE

We suggest patients begin weekly acupuncture sessions three months prior to starting an IVF cycle. Our focus during this process is on overall health and wellbeing, enhancing a woman's energy reserves, and optimizing circulation.

PRIMING PHASE

Throughout the priming phase, we will maintain a weekly acupuncture schedule.
For patients who are just getting started with acupuncture, we recommend sessions twice per week.

STIMULATION PHASE

While using medications to stimulate ovarian egg production, ensure regular acupuncture sessions, either weekly or twice a week.

1-2 DAYS PRIOR TO RETRIEVAL

Once the ovarian follicles are at the right stage and size, you'll be provided with a trigger to complete egg maturation prior to retrieval.
Acupuncture shortly before retrieval can promote the final maturation of eggs.

BETWEEN RETRIEVAL AND EMBRYO TRANSFER

You may experience cramping and discomfort after the eggs are retrieved. During this time, acupuncture aims to relax the uterus, improve circulation, and ready the body for embryo transfer. We'll plan an acupuncture session within the 3-5 day window between egg retrieval and embryo transfer.

AFTER EMBRYO TRANSFER

Acupuncture just before or after an embryo transfer will increase the odds of a successful pregnancy. Since transfer procedures are usually in the early morning, we will try to schedule acupuncture later on the same day or the next day, and a second session 3-4 days after that. We will continue weekly acupuncture sessions from embryo transfer until the end of the 1st trimester to promote a healthy pregnancy.