Fertility Support

Acupuncture and Fertility Treatment: What the Research Says

A look at the evidence around acupuncture during IVF and assisted reproduction

Many people going through fertility treatment wonder whether acupuncture might play a supportive role alongside their conventional care. This page summarises some of the research in this area to help you make an informed decision in discussion with your fertility clinic.

What the studies have found

A 2018 systematic review and meta-analysis by Smith et al. examined 12 randomised controlled trials involving over 3,000 women undergoing IVF or ICSI. The review found that acupuncture was associated with higher live birth rates compared with usual care alone. The study was published in Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research (2018; 44: 2155–2166).

Another review by Qian et al. (2019) looked at acupuncture in the context of embryo transfer. The authors noted that when acupuncture was given around the time of embryo transfer, clinical pregnancy rates appeared better, though they graded the overall quality of evidence as low — meaning the true effect may differ from what the studies suggest. The researchers recommended that future studies focus on acupuncture during ovarian stimulation rather than only around embryo transfer. Published in Frontiers in Endocrinology (2019; 10: 771).

Important context

The evidence base for acupuncture in fertility treatment is still developing. Existing studies vary in quality, and some findings are described by researchers themselves as low-certainty. Acupuncture is not a replacement for conventional fertility care, and any questions about whether it is appropriate for your situation should be directed to your fertility clinic.

Fertility FAQs

Some people choose acupuncture as part of broader fertility support, whether they are trying to conceive naturally or are undergoing medically guided treatment. At Acugio, care is tailored to the individual and intended to sit alongside appropriate medical advice rather than replace it.

The best timing depends on your circumstances, including your cycle, how long you have been trying to conceive, and whether IVF or other treatment is planned. In many cases, starting earlier allows more time for a considered treatment approach, but it is still worth getting in touch even if you are on a tighter timeline.

Yes, many patients seek acupuncture alongside IVF as part of their wider support plan. Treatment should be coordinated carefully around your schedule and medical care, with appropriate caution and clear communication at each stage.

Frequency varies depending on where you are in your fertility journey and whether treatment is linked to a natural cycle or assisted conception. Recommendations are usually made on an individual basis and reviewed as things progress, rather than following a one-size-fits-all pattern.

Your first appointment includes a detailed conversation about your health history, cycle, treatment background if relevant, and current concerns. This helps shape a personalised approach and gives you space to ask practical questions before treatment begins.

Fertility journeys are not always straightforward, and support may be relevant in different ways depending on the individual or couple. If you are unsure whether acupuncture may be appropriate in your situation, Acugio can discuss this sensitively at an initial appointment.

References

Smith CA et al. (2018) The effect of acupuncture on outcomes in in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Obstet Gynaecol Res. 44(12): 2155–2166.

Qian Y et al. (2019) Acupuncture for infertility in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: An overview of systematic reviews. Front Endocrinol. 10: 771.