Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine for Egg Retrieval (Egg Freezing + IVF)

When you’re going through an IVF cycle, every step feels significant. The egg retrieval phase is particularly crucial, and many women are discovering that acupuncture can be a powerful ally during this fertility journey.

Traditional Chinese Medicine has long recognized acupuncture as gentle support for your body’s natural processes. Here’s what it can do:

Improved Blood Flow to Ovaries

Acupuncture boosts circulation to your reproductive organs. More blood flow often means better ovarian response and healthier eggs.

Natural Hormone Balance Support

Your menstrual cycle relies on delicate hormone balancing. Acupuncture can help fine-tune these hormones, creating better conditions for successful egg retrieval.

Stress Reduction During Fertility Treatment

Let’s be honest: fertility treatments are emotionally taxing. Acupuncture’s calming effects can reduce stress and help you feel more centered throughout the process.

A study in Fertility and Sterility looked at women receiving acupuncture before egg collection. The results were encouraging: those who had acupuncture treatments showed significantly better outcomes in both egg quantity and quality compared to women who didn’t receive acupuncture. This improved egg viability can positively impact pregnancy rate. Beyond just the physical benefits, participants also reported feeling less anxious about their treatments.

Here’s a practical approach to timing your acupuncture sessions:

Pre-Cycle Preparation Phase

Start with weekly sessions 2-3 months before your IVF cycle to prepare your body. Your acupuncturist will tailor the treatment to your specific needs.

During Ovarian Stimulation

Increase to twice weekly when you begin gonadotropin injections during your IVF stimulation cycle.

Egg Collection Day Protocol

Some women find acupuncture helpful for managing pain and nausea on the day itself.

This page contains affiliate links. If you click and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my work and allows me to continue creating content. Thank you for your support!

CoQ10 for Egg Quality

600 mg daily (research suggests it may improve egg quality)

Melatonin During IVF Stimulation

3 mg at bedtime once stimulation begins (studies show potential fertility benefits)

*Studies suggest melatonin and CoQ10 can improve egg quality and fertility outcomes.

Managing IVF Injections and Stimulation:

For patients undergoing IVF who decide to try acupuncture, many find the following combination of approaches helpful for overall well-being. Work closely with both your fertility center and your acupuncturist to coordinate care throughout your treatment.

• Ice pack to numb skin before injections.
• Shot blocker or Dandi IVF Care Kit to help with injection pain.
• Eat sufficient amounts of protein and healthy fats like avocado to support egg growth.
• Sip on bone broth daily, which can be consumed in the morning or as a snack.
• Stay sufficiently hydrated to keep your urine clear.

Post-Collection Recovery Protocol: 

• Ask your nurse or care team for a prescription for pain medication (if needed).
• Consume electrolytes like Harmless Harvest Coconut Water or LMNT electrolytes.
• Heating pad for pain and cramping.
• Calm magnesium to help with constipation (start with 300mg at night).
• Stock up on salty snacks like potato chips.
• Increase consumption of cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts to help metabolize excess estrogens.

This journey can consume your thoughts, but try to make room for joy. Keep a gratitude journal. Watch movies that make you laugh. Meditate if that’s your thing. Spend time with people who lift you up.

Your mental state matters just as much as your physical preparation.

If you’re considering acupuncture as part of your fertility treatment in the Bay Area, City Pulse Acupuncture in Oakland, CA specializes in supporting women through their IVF cycles. Our experienced practitioners understand the unique needs of fertility patients and work collaboratively with your reproductive medicine team to optimize your care.

Ready to explore how acupuncture can support your fertility journey? Contact City Pulse Acupuncture to schedule a consultation and learn more about our specialized fertility treatments.

Smith, C. A., Coyle, M., & O’Connor, S. (2012). “Acupuncture to improve the outcome of in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” Fertility and Sterility, 98(5), 1166-1173. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.07.112