Pregnancy acupuncture is a natural medicine treatment that involves the placement of ultra-thin, sterilized needles into specific points on the body that lie on energy pathways or meridians. These pathways are found both inside and outside of the body, and when the acupuncture points are needled, certain body functions may be regulated. Acupuncture has been shown to help treat a variety of conditions, including infertility. Acupuncture has been used to help with fertility issues. It is thought that a combination of acupuncture and herbs may help to correct irregular levels of FSH (String Exciting Hormonal), recurrent miscarriages, idiopathic sterility, hyperprolactinemia that is not caused by prolactinoma, polycystic ovarian problem (PCOS), male factor sterility such as DNA fragmentation in sperm cells, and luteal stage problems.
There is some evidence that acupuncture may improve fertility by enhancing follicular and ovarian function and increasing blood flow to the endometrium (the lining of the uterus). According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), there are pathways in the body where “chi” (energy) flows. These pathways can become blocked, which may result in pain in particular areas of the body. Acupuncturists believe that this pain is a warning sign that chi is not flowing properly in those areas. In order to cure sterility with acupuncture, the needles must hit specific pressure points that acupuncturists refer to as the “ren mai” meridian, or the “perception boat.” There are a total of 24 pressure points along this meridian, which goes from the rectum (RN1 or CN1) up to the chest and then to the chin area (RN24 or CN24). However, sometimes acupuncturists will focus on pressure points in other areas of the body due to the complicated interconnections within the system.
As soon as you find out you are pregnant, you should quit taking homeopathic remedies. The womb, when triggered during pregnancy, may contract, causing premature labor and even miscarriage. The acupuncturist should especially avoid putting needles in the abdomino-pelvic area. The six homeopathic remedies to be avoided are Kidney 60, Kidney 67, Gall bladder 21, Large Intestine 4, Stomach 12, and Spleen 6. Pregnancy acupuncture can be costly, depending on the infertility center and length of treatment. Because acupuncture is not typically covered by insurance, you may have to pay for it out of pocket. Some insurance providers offer coverage for related medications, so it is best to check with your provider to see if they offer this coverage. If not, it may be worth shopping around for another organization that does.
Summary: Acupuncturists say that pain in particular places is actually a sign that chi programs in those places are blocked. The acupuncture points needed to treat infertility are found in the perception boat or, as acupuncturists call it, the “ren mai” meridian. There are 24 points in the “ren mai” route.
