Acupuncture has a long history of being used to help to bring on labour naturally before 42 weeks of gestation. It may also assist with a more efficient labour and birth. The aim of pre-birth acupuncture is to encourage Qi (our basic life force), along with baby, to descend. It also aims to prepare the cervix and pelvis for labour by helping the cervix to soften and dilate.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbs are safe therapies during pregnancy and they don’t have any side effects. They help to support every stage of pregnancy. Traditional Chinese Medicine has been practiced for thousands of years to support pregnant women. We recommend seeing a qualified practitioner who is aware of particular points and herbs to avoid during pregnancy.

There is increasing awareness and concern about the global decline in sperm quality. A whole gamut of reproductive problems in men is increasing. This includes declining sperm counts, decreasing testosterone levels, increasing rates of erectile dysfunction and testicular cancer. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can offer much to combat this worrying trend.

Chinese herbs play an important role in supporting fertility. Perhaps the most underestimated component of the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chinese herbal medicine is a powerful way of restoring balance and harmony in the body. The vast majority of Chinese herbs are made from plants, with a few animal and mineral derived ones.

We recommend a particular number of acupuncture treatments while you’re undergoing an IVF treatment protocol, and this is mostly based on research. This number also depends on the number of IVF cycles you may have already had, and the type of IVF treatment protocol you’ll be undertaking. If possible, it’s best to start regular acupuncture treatments before you start an IVF cycle.

Many women and couples choose acupuncture and Chinese herbs as an adjunct therapy while undergoing fertility treatments. Research shows that acupuncture is effective for increasing clinical pregnancy rates (also known as live births), ongoing pregnancy rate (pregnancy beyond 12 weeks) and live birth rates. Traditional Chinese Medicine has existed for thousands of years, with a long history of supporting gynaecological health and fertility.

It can be hard to feel sure about what exactly you should eat and do when trying to conceive. Traditional Chinese Medicine is thousands of years old and has much to offer in this space. Healthy Qi (our basic life force) and Blood is important when we are trying to conceive. Diet, exercise and emotional wellbeing are important factors when we are preparing to conceive.

Acupuncture is not the same as dry needling. While similar needles are used, there is a world of difference between the two practices. These differences relate to how points on the body are selected for needling and the level of training required. Acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years and is safe, effective and authentic.