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{Acupuncture for Infertility} – Tracing Its Roots

Acupuncture, which originated in China, is over a thousand years old.  Some medical practitioners in the West accept this treatment as a valid way of addressing several types of ailments.  It can address problems with muscle tension, the skin and even help one quit smoking, among others.  Reports from latest studies reveal that acupuncture is highly beneficial to couples with infertility issues.

The West’s Point Of View

There remain some Westerners who doubt acupuncture’s effectiveness, despite its popularity.  Very little scientific evidence is available to support acupuncture. As a result, many people shy away from using it.  But many researchers are already investigating the issue, according to the National Institutes of Health in the United States.

Health Hazards

The procedure is painless when performed by a trained practitioner.  Adverse effects have been observed in only very few people.  Some of the usual risks linked with acupuncture include minimal bleeding, organ puncturing, broken or forgotten needles, and the spread of infection.  These can be done away with by having an experienced practitioner perform therapy.  However, acupuncture is not recommended for individuals who use blood thinners or having bleeding disorders.

A Single or Complementary Process

Acupuncture may be used as an alternative to fertility issues, especially when used as a single treatment.  It is also viewed as greatly complementary to modern fertility procedures.  Used as a single method, acupuncture brings positive results to people who have functional reproductive problems, like intermittent ovulation.  When applied alone, it might not be as effective to treat structural problems, like a sperm duct blockage.

Some acupuncture practitioners say that acupuncture treatments are best complemented by the use of Chinese herbs.  If you are under medication, check your doctor before taking herbs.  Some herbal medications prevent the proper functioning of some fertility drugs and processes.  

{Acupuncture and Fertility} - Does It Truly Work?

How acupuncture works as a {cure of infertility} is still debatable.  Many practicing experts say that this ancient therapeutic procedure can help regulate the body’s system.  It improves the flow of blood to reproductive organs and steadies hormone levels.  The general outcome is enhanced ovarian function in females and a higher sperm count in males.

Acupuncture has been found to benefit women who are using it in conjunction with therapies that aim to increase fertility.   There are people who believe that acupuncture relaxes women when they undergo stressful fertility procedures.  Studies show that acupuncture helps raise a woman’s chance of conception when acupuncture is applied with in vitro fertilization.

The Selection Process

Doctors looking to enter the field of acupuncture will need to complete around 300 training hours to receive a certification.  Professionals looking to branch out to acupuncture need to pass the board exam first and complete between 2000 and 3000 hours of training to be licensed in this field.

A lot of people are into acupuncture nowadays, and this number is rising by the day.  To make sure patients land in good hands, here are some things that must be taken into account.  A background check on the selected acupuncture expert must be done prior to agreeing to any procedure.  A practitioner should have the training and certification required by the state or other government authority where he or she conducts practice.  Good friends and relatives are excellent recommendation and feedback sources regarding potential acupuncturists.

Would-be patients should first inquire about ballpark total expenses just to be prepared with the costs early on.  Many individuals are relieved that some insurance plans cover charges for acupuncture treatments.

Know What to Expect

Several acupuncture treatments have to be undergone before one gets the best results.  To get the best out of acupuncture, regular visits must me made to the chosen practitioner, which can run between a few weeks to a few months.  Patients should expect each visit to their acupuncturist to be at least an hour long, with time for discussion of lifestyle and present health condition, as well as thoughts and queries about the process.