Natural & Assisted FertilityChinese Medicine offers clear models to describe and resolve patterns such as depletion, stagnation, Heat, invasion of Cold, or accumulation of Dampness. These conditions can cause blockages and affect hormonal processes. In many cases there may be an emotional component which may have preceded or even have resulted from the fertility journey; certainly in Chinese Medicine the Pituitary, ruler of the endocrine system, is considered to be ruled by the Heart. Treatment begins by regulating the menstrual cycle in this way. Conception is enabled by addressing these issues and restoring a good state of menstrual and overall health, which is an all round better starting point for pregnancy - and for parenthood.
The culture of acupuncture for fertility is well developed, and integrates well with mainstream medical practices. Whatever your fertility plan, we advise you to come to acupuncture soon - there is much we can do if you will give us the time. If you are contemplating assisted fertility treatment, try if you can to plan for three menstrual cycles of acupuncture treatment before you go ahead.
Assisted FertilityIf assisted fertility is the route you need to take, you can enlist an acupuncturist to support you by:
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When I started acupuncture we had been trying for over two years and had just approached our GP for fertility referral because I was not ovulating. I didn't want to wait at all, but then my first round of tests were messed up and I had to do them again in the second cycle, and then fell pregnant in the third! The GP did prescribe Clomid, but I didn't need it. I always felt good after acupuncture, I think it helped me in a lot of ways. The Bristol Acupuncture Conception to Childbirth Team (ACCT Bristol), is a group of acupuncturists working together in the Bristol area, with links to a national network of similar groups of acupuncturists across the UK. We work together and actively share experience and good practice, continually renewing our expertise through ongoing training in fertility and obstetrics. Our focus is on the use of acupuncture and related techniques to facilitate conception and healthy pregnancy. Some of our members also use acupuncture to support women and couples through the process of childbirth.
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