Is Acupuncture for Infertility a Scam?

Acupuncture & Infertility – Tracing Its Roots

Acupuncture, which originated in China, is over a thousand years old.  Many people in the Western medical practice see it as an effective procedure to address a wide range of health problems.  It can remedy muscle tension, improve skin condition and get rid of smoking, to name a few.  Studies show that acupuncture benefits couple who have fertility problems.

The West’s Point Of View

Despite its popularity, a lot of Westerners still doubt the effectiveness of acupuncture.  Very little scientific evidence is available to support acupuncture. As a result, many people shy away from using it.  Studies are currently being conducted on the matter, says the National Insitutes of Health based in the United States.

Risks To Health

Acupuncture performed by a trained professional is generally painless.  Only a few suffer ill effects.  Puncturing of organs, spreading of infectious diseases, forgotten or broken needles and minimal bleeding are the usual risks infrequently associated with acupuncture.  These are virtually eliminated when an experienced practitioner does the treatment.    However, acupuncture should not be applied to individuals with bleeding disorders and people using blood thinners.

A Solitary or Complementary Process

Acupuncture, when used as a solo treatment, is regarded as an alternative method in treating fertility concerns.  It is also viewed as greatly complementary to modern fertility procedures.  Acupuncture perhaps provides better results for couples experiencing functional problems, particularly when used by itself.  Taken alone, it may not work as well in addressing structural issues, like a blockage in the sperm duct.

Some acupuncturists urge patients to use Chinese herbs in addition to acupuncture treatments and other procedures.  If you are under medication, check your doctor before taking herbs.  Some herbs may prevent fertility drugs and procedures from working properly.  

Acupuncture for Fertility - Effectiveness Factor?

How acupuncture works as a cure for infertility is still debatable.  However, many practicing acupuncturists assert that this ancient treatment normalizes the body’s system.  It helps boost blood flow into reproductive organs and regulates hormone levels.  The general outcome is enhanced ovarian function in females and a higher sperm count in males.

Acupuncture has a positive effect on women who use it in combination with fertility boosting procedures.   Some also say that acupuncture, when incorporated with rather stressful fertility procedures, helps women relax.  Studies show that acupuncture helps raise a woman’s chance of conception when acupuncture is applied with in vitro fertilization.

Selecting The Best Practitioner

Healthcare professionals who want to add acupuncture to their roster of services are required to have around 300 hours of specialized training to be certified.  Anybody who would like to enter the field of acupuncture professionally must first go through 2000 to 3000 hours of training and pass the board examination.

There are many people who practice acupuncture, and the number continues to rise.  There are a few things to consider before seeking the services of practitioners.  Prior to undergoing acupuncture, patients must first check the background of the chosen therapist.  A professional must first acquire the approval of the local government and undergo certain trainings before he or she can practice in a specific area.Great recommendation sources for acupuncturists would be friends and family members who have tried the procedure.

Patients must always ask about the general cost total so they know how much needs to be set aside for the procedure.  It is good to know that certain insurance plans include acupuncture expenses in their roster.

Things You Should Expect

To get the best results, one has to undergo more than one acupuncture treatment.  To maximize the benefits of acupuncture, the entire procedure would take some weeks to several months.  A visit to the acupuncturist normally goes on for an hour or so, as this time will be used to discuss your present health condition and entertain any question about the entire procedure.

 

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