Treating Infertility With Needles: 3 Acupuncture Spots To Keep In Mind
Posted on: 24 May 2016
Infertility is a huge problem for many women. A study conducted by the CDC found that 6% of married women are infertile. Fortunately, if you happen to be amongst this statistic, there are plenty of infertility treatments available. Acupuncture can help increase the effectiveness of these treatments and also strengthen your body and immune system. There are certain acupuncture points that are highly recommended for treating infertility. Here's a look at 3 of them.
Reduce Buildup of Harmful Fluids with REN-12
REN-12 is perhaps one of the most highly recommended acupuncture spots for treating infertility. This spot is approximately 4 inches above the belly button – or approximately halfway between the sternum and the belly button. Stimulation at this spot is thought to help reduce the buildup of harmful fluids in the uterus, fallopian tubes and the bladder.
Buildup of fluid at the fallopian tubes results in a condition known as hydrosalpinx. Women who suffer from this condition do not generally experience any symptoms other than fertility problems.
Reduce Oxytocin Response with LI-4
Unwanted uterine contractions induced by oxytocin can also be a cause of infertility in some women. The response to oxytocin may result in a difficult pregnancy. Many doctors have previously recommended administrating oxytocin antagonists to improve the efficacy of fertility treatments.
To reduce your body's natural response to oxytocin, you don't necessarily have to take medications. Instead, you'd be surprised to learn that acupuncture can have a significant effect. The acupuncture point LI-4, which is located on the dorsum of the hand between the first and second metacarpal bones, is highly recommended for counteracting the effects of oxytocin. This acupuncture point has been found to be highly effective in suppressing uterine contractions in pregnant rat, and has been recommended as an alternative medical treatment for women in pre-term labor.
Improve Energy and Blood Circulation to Uterus with SP-6
SP-6 is an important acupuncture point known to have profound effects in strengthening the liver, kidney and spleen. This acupuncture point can improve blood flow to the uterus; thus, improving overall uterine health. Stimulation of this acupuncture point has also been shown to prevent egg implantation failure and improve clinical outcomes of embryo transfer.
This acupuncture point has been tested numerous times, with studies showing that incorporation of this acupuncture point improving the efficacy of infertility treatments.
If you are interested in combining acupuncture with other infertility treatments, you should speak to a licensed acupuncturist regarding which acupuncture spots may be best for your situation. Depending on your health and the causes behind the infertility, different spots may be more beneficial in treating infertility than others. Most acupuncturists will generally recommend a combination of several acupuncture points for your treatment.
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