Be supported
Explore options to support female fertility and IVF with acupuncture
Female Fertility • IVF Acupuncture
Support Your Path to Pregnancy
Support Your Path to Pregnancy
Have a team around you to help carry the load
Have a team around you
to help carry the load
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine aim to address various factors that may impact fertility, including stress, hormonal imbalances, and digestive issues. These treatments seek to support menstrual cycle regulation without relying on synthetic drugs
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for fertility addresses many factors such as stress, hormonal imbalances and digestive issues. It can also support the regulation of your menstrual cycle without the use of synthetic drugs.
We take you seriously, with a focus on you as a whole
We collaborate with you and your Western doctors to address various aspects of life,
aiming to enhance your chances of conceiving
We work with you and your Western doctors to balance all aspects of life,
giving you the best chance of conceiving
Sustain Health Fertility Program
Our Fertility Program is designed to be flexible and personalised, aiming to assist you in achieving your goals
Our Fertility Program is flexible and tailored to you to help achieve your goals
Explore the timeline below to find out how Western and Eastern medicine can work together, and what the phases of your program can include. You can discuss your options via our 15 min Complementary
Consultation held online, or book in right away.
Preparation Support
Exploring your options and preparing your body.
The Importance of Preparation

STEP 1
GP Consult
To start your journey, we highly recommend that you discuss your options with your General Practitioner, who may refer you to a Fertility Specialist to assess your options. You may then be recommended various prescriptions and tests.
However, you do not need a GP referral to visit us.

STEP 2
First Visit
For your first appointment, your practitioner spends 60 minutes with you to understand you and your lifestyle.
We explore your medical history and diagnose by feeling your pulse, viewing your tongue, and palpating points on your body.
We also include education regarding acupuncture, herbs, lifestyle and fertility in all our sessions.

STEP 3
Herbal Medicine Prescription

STEP 4
Acupuncture Treatments
2x treatments per week for first month
1x treatment per week for remaining months
-
May help support energy and blood flow
-
Can support natural production of milk supply
-
Could relieve stress & mood imbalances
-
May assist in supporting your sleep
- Can address additional symptoms

STEP 4
Acupuncture Treatments
2x treatments per week for first month
1x treatment per week for remaining months
- Regulate your cycle and support pains or issues
- Thicken the uterine lining & improve egg quality
- Strengthen your kidney, spleen, liver and flow of qi
- Prime all parts of your body to support pregnancy
- Relieve stress & support your sleep
- Reduce the chances of a miscarriage
- Treat other symptoms

Conception Support
Select your journey type

STEP 1
Acupuncture Treatments
2x treatments per week for first month
1x treatment per week for remaining months
- Acupuncture may help regulate menstrual cycles and manage pain or discomfort.
- Aim to improve uterine lining and egg quality.
- Aim to support kidney, spleen, and liver function, as well as the flow of qi.
- Aim to prepare the body to be more conducive for pregnancy.
- May help in stress relief and sleep support.
- Aim to reduce risk factors that could lead to miscarriage.
- Can also be considered for managing other symptoms

STEP 2
Pregnancy Test
Timing

STEP 1
Ovarian Stimulation Drugs

STEP 2
Acupuncture Treatments
- Acupuncture may assist in regulating menstrual cycles and managing pain or discomfort.
- May aim to enhance the quality of the uterine lining and eggs.
- Targets supporting the function of the kidneys, spleen, and liver, as well as optimising the flow of qi.
- Aims to condition the body to be more favourable for pregnancy.
- Could offer support for stress relief and improved sleep.
- Targets minimising risk factors potentially leading to miscarriage.
- May also be an option for managing other unlisted symptoms.

STEP 3
Egg Retrieval

STEP 4
Acupuncture Treatments
2x treatments per week
Recommended day after Egg Retrieval and day prior to Embryo Transfer
- May assist in reducing inflammation following egg collection.
- Could help address Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) and support recovery.
- Aims to aid in restoring normal bowel movements.
- May offer support for energy levels and sleep quality.
- Targets preparing the body for embryo transfer.
- Could offer support in stress relief.
- May also be an option for managing other unlisted symptoms

STEP 5
Embryo Transfer

STEP 6
Acupuncture Treatments
2x treatments per week
Recommended day after Embryo Transfer
- May help calm the nervous system.
- Aims to encourage blood flow to the uterus.
- Could assist in stress reduction and sleep support.
- Targets supporting the implantation of the embryo.
- May also be an option for managing other unlisted symptoms.

STEP 7
Pregnancy Test
Timing

STEP 1
IUI Insemination

STEP 2
Acupuncture Treatments
2x treatments per week
Recommended day of Insemination
- May help alleviate side effects from medications.
- Aims to support digestion throughout the reproductive cycle.
- Could improve blood flow to the uterus.
- May assist in stress relief and sleep support.
- Targets supporting the implantation of the embryo.
- Aims to prepare the body to be more conducive for pregnancy.
- May also be an option for managing other unlisted symptoms.

STEP 3
Pregnancy Test

STEP 1
Ovarian Stimulation Drugs

STEP 2
Acupuncture Treatments
- May help alleviate side effects from IVF medications.
- Aims to improve circulation and nutrition to ovarian follicles.
- Could support digestion throughout the reproductive cycle.
- Targets improving blood flow to the uterus.
- May assist in stress relief and sleep support.
- Aims to prepare the body to be more conducive for pregnancy.
- May also be an option for managing other unlisted symptoms.

STEP 3
Egg Retrieval
Pregnancy Support
Growing a healthy baby and easing your symptoms.

STEP 1
Acupuncture Treatments
2x treatments per week for 6-12 weeks
1x treatment per week for remaining months
- Aim to reduce risk factors that could lead to miscarriage.
- May help alleviate symptoms of morning sickness.
- Targets strengthening the back for better support.
- Could offer a boost in energy and relieve fatigue.
- Aims to ensure optimal nutrition is reaching the baby.
- May support deep, restful sleep.
- Could assist with managing swelling and water retention.
- May help address various bodily discomforts.
- Aims to correct birthing position in preparation for labour.
- May support the onset of labour through acupuncture induction.
- Targets stress relief and emotional well-being.
- May also be an option for managing other unlisted symptoms.

STEP 2
Birth
Postpartum Support
Helping you recover and get back on your feet.

STEP 5
Acupuncture Treatments
- May assist in supporting energy levels and addressing blood-loss concerns.
- Aim to support natural milk supply.
- May offer support for stress and emotional well-being postpartum.
- Could aid in improving sleep quality.
- May also be an option for managing other symptoms.

Personalised Care Plans
For new patients, we provide a unique Care Plan to establish treatment expectations and reflect on outcomes.
Find out what to expect
FAQs
How it works
Acupuncture uses extremely fine needles that stimulate specific points to redirect blood flow, as well as neural, chemical and hormonal signals. The redirection of energy known as qi (pronounced chi) also restores optimal functions of the body. It operates both from a biological and spiritual view, and creates an environment that allows your body to naturally heal itself, without synthetic drugs or surgery.
Impact on fertility
- The Endocrine System
- The Meridian System

Example of treatment
The Endocrine System
The endocrine system consists of a complex network of glands and organs. It utilises hormones to regulate various bodily functions such as metabolism, energy levels, reproduction, growth and development, as well as your response to injury, stress, and mood changes. It may have a connection to your fertility.

May reduce stress
Stress may lead to the release of cortisol, potentially affecting the hormonal balance crucial for the reproductive cycle

Balance hormones
Acupuncture aims to have a stabilising influence on various bodily systems, including reproductive hormones

Nervous system regulation
Acupuncture may assist in facilitating normal communication between the pituitary gland and ovaries.

Example of treatment
The Endocrine System

Reduce stress
Stress releases cortisol, which changes the hormonal balance that is key to the reproductive cycle

Balance hormones

Regulates nervous system

Example of treatment
The Meridian System
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a meridian, also known as Jing Lou, serves as a conduit for the flow of qi and energy. These pathways have various names, including acupuncture meridians, acupoints, and energy vessels. While meridians are conceptually akin to the circulatory system, they are not visible to the naked eye.

Can restore balance
Acupuncture aims to redistribute energy by directing the flow of qi throughout the body

May increase blood flow
May enhance blood circulation to the uterus and ovaries

May assist in removing obstructions
Acupuncture aims to enhance body function by targeting areas perceived as blocked or stagnant in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Example of treatment
The Meridian System

Restore balance

Increase blood flow

Removes blockages
Acupuncture can unblock stagnations in the body that leads to poor functioning of organ systems
fertility?
How it works
Impact on fertility
Formulas mixed on site
The prevalence of PCOS is as high as 15% and accounts for 70-90% of ovulatory disorders.
Hormonal dysfunction is a hallmark feature of PCOS that results in irregular or no periods, absent or intermittent ovulation and infertility.
There are also cysts present which produce androgens which can also prevent ovulation.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Regulating hormonal imbalances
- Regulating the hypothalamic‐pituitary ovarian axis, which in turn affects the menstruation cycle
- Regulating the endocrine system
- Improving ovulation rates
“Ovulation rates were significantly improved by acupuncture only when it was compared with no treatment”
- Medicine (Baltimore) Journal
1. Jo, J., Lee, Y. and Lee, H., 2017. Acupuncture for polycystic ovarian syndrome. Medicine, 96(23), p.e7066.
2. Ma, Q. and Tan, Y., 2017. Effectiveness of co-treatment with traditional Chinese medicine and letrozole for polycystic ovary syndrome: a meta-analysis. Journal of Integrative Medicine, 15(2), pp.95-101.
3. Yin, Y., Zhang, Y., Zhang, H., Jiang, D. and Guo, G., 2018. Clinical therapeutic effects of acupuncture combined with Chinese herbal
4. medicine on infertility of polycystic ovary syndrome in the patients with ovulation induction with letrozole. Chinese Acupuncture & Moxibustion Journal,.
5. Li, J., Ng, E., Stener-Victorin, E., Hu, Z., Wu, W., Lai, M., Wu, T. and Ma, H., 2016. Comparison of acupuncture pretreatment followed by letrozole versus letrozole alone on live birth in anovulatory infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open, 6(10), p.e010955.
Ovarian cysts are an abnormal collection of fluid on an ovary. Most cysts are non problematic and go away by themselves.
In some cases they can cause pain in the pelvic area and interfere with your fertility.
They can occur naturally or secondarily from hormonal problems and as a side effect to some fertility treatments.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Regulating the hypothalamic‐pituitary ovarian axis, which in turn affects the menstruation cycle
- Regulating hormonal imbalances
- Reducing associated pain
“The pooled results showed acupuncture produced a significant improvement in LH/FSH ratio and testosterone levels”
- Medicine (Baltimore) Journal
1. Jo, J., Lee, Y. and Lee, H., 2017. Acupuncture for polycystic ovarian syndrome. Medicine, 96(23), p.e7066.
Elevated FSH may indicate a loss of ovarian function, menopause or PCOS.
This negatively affects fertility chances as it is a reflection of how few eggs are going through the maturation process in the ovaries.
Prompt treatment in these cases are necessary to prevent further ovarian failure.
Chinese Medicine can assist by:
- Regulating the hypothalamus, pituitary and ovaries to correct reproductive dysfunction
- Improving blood flow and structure of ovarian tissue
- Improving menstruation conditions
“Clinical observations suggested that acupuncture can be potentially used to increase the efficient/response rate of clinical treatment of POI, improve menstrual conditions, reduce serum FSH and LH levels, and increase serum estradiol levels”
- Medicine (Baltimore) Journal
1. Shen, X., Du, Y., Yan, L., Xia, Y., Yan, H., Han, G., Guo, Y. and Shi, X., 2005. Acupuncture for treatment of climacteric syndrome--a report of 35 cases. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine,.
2. Shi, Y., Li, L., Zhou, J., Sun, J., Chen, L., Zhao, J., Wu, L., Cui, Y., Wu, L. and Wu, H., 2019. Efficacy of electroacupuncture in regulating the imbalance of AMH and FSH to improve follicle development and hyperandrogenism in PCOS rats. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 113, p.108687.
3. Huang, L., Chen, Y., Luo, M., Tang, Y. and Wei, S., 2019. Acupuncture for patients with premature ovarian insufficiency. Medicine, 98(18), p.e15444.
Immune related conditions can cause barriers to fertility.
Particularly in autoimmune conditions where the immune system attacks your own tissues causing inflammation and damage.
Autoimmune diseases can affect the thyroid, joints and even the ovaries.
When these systems are affected it can disrupt the synchronised interactions of reproduction.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Regulating the neuroendocrine system
- Reducing inflammation
- Restoring the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis
- Activating natural killer cells to regulate cell growth
- Reducing uterine receptivity
“Acupuncture was effective in restoring the normal endocrine and metabolic function”
- Complementary Therapies in Medicine Journal
1. Cao, Y., Chen, H., Zhao, D., Zhang, L., Yu, X., Zhou, X. and Liu, Z., 2019. The efficacy of Tung’s acupuncture for sex hormones in polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 44, pp.182-188.
2. Johnston, M., Ortiz Sánchez, E., Vujanovic, N. and Li, W., 2011. Acupuncture May Stimulate Anticancer Immunity via Activation of Natural Killer Cells. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011, pp.1-14.
3. Saraswati, W., Dahlan, E., Saputra, K. and Sutrisno, T., 2019. Effect of Electroacupuncture on Natural-Killer Cells and Tumor Size in Patients with Cervical Squamous-Cell Carcinoma: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Medical Acupuncture, 31(1), pp.29-36.
4. Zhong, Y., Zeng, F., Liu, W., Ma, J., Guan, Y. and Song, Y., 2019. Acupuncture in improving endometrial receptivity: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 19(1).
Decreased Ovarian Reserve is where the ovaries reproductive function is lost leading to infertility.
This is a common universal process in women as they age. However for some it is more pronounced during their supposedly fertile years.
Which can lead to complications in getting pregnant and sustaining a pregnancy.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Improving ovarian function
- Regulating reproductive hormones
- Preventing further decline of the ovary
“After treatments with BCR (a type of Chinese Herbal Medicine), ovarian morphology, ovarian index, estrous cycle, growing follicles and corpus luteum from ovulation were significantly improved”
- Frontiers In Pharmacology
1. Sun, Y., Chen, S. and Tan, Y., 2018. Influence of nourishing yin and tonifying yang sequential therapy combined with Western medicine on TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway in anovulatory infertility rats with diminished ovarian reserve. Journal of Central South University (Medical Sciences).
2. ZHANG, C. and XU, X., 2016. Advancement in the treatment of diminished ovarian reserve by traditional Chinese and Western medicine. Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, 11(4), pp.1173-1176.
3. Jiang, M., Wang, W., Zhang, J., Wang, C., Bi, Y., Li, P., Yang, S., Li, J., Xu, Y. and Wang, T., 2020. Protective Effects and Possible Mechanisms of Actions of Bushen Cuyun Recipe on Diminished Ovarian Reserve Induced by Cyclophosphamide in Rats. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 11.
After a year of unprotected sex and inability to fall pregnant is deemed unexplained infertility.
It is a difficult diagnosis to receive after many rounds of medical testing proving no irregularities to be found.
Chinese Medicine is able to look outside of the test results to assess the body’s environment to identify subtle nuances that could be affecting fertility.
Amenorrhoea is the absence of menstruation where women have not bled for 3 cycles or more.
If you don’t menstruate and go through ovulation you can’t become pregnant.
It is usually a sign of another health problem rather than a stand alone condition. Underlying causes include thyroid disorders, hormone imbalances, medications and lifestyle factors such as stress.
Chinese Medicine can assist by:
- Regulating the endocrine system
- Regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary axis (HPOA) which controls the female reproductive functions
- Restoring balance to the body
“The present study highlights effects of alternative interventions for the management of hyperandrogenism and amenorrhea”
- American Journal of Physiology
1. Jedel, E., Labrie, F., Odén, A., Holm, G., Nilsson, L., Janson, P., Lind, A., Ohlsson, C. and Stener-Victorin, E., 2011. Impact of electro-acupuncture and physical exercise on hyperandrogenism and oligo/amenorrhea in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism, 300(1), pp.E37-E45.
2. Chen, B., 1997. ACUPUNCTURE NORMALIZES DYSFUNCTION OF HYPOTHALAMIC-PITUITARY-OVARIAN AXIS. Acupuncture & Electro-Therapeutics Research, 22(2), pp.97-108.
3. Zhao, H., Tian, Z. and Chen, B., 2005. Electroacupuncture stimulates hypothalamic aromatization. Brain Research, 1037(1-2), pp.164-170
Hormones dictate a great deal of our bodily processes, especially menstruation and fertility.
As well as having an impact on other processes such as sleep, weight, appetite, mood, stress and body temperature.
So when hormone levels are affected it can have an impact on many aspects of our body which can affect our reproductive environment.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Regulating the endocrine system
- Supporting the natural rhythm of hormones
- Reducing side effects of adjunct hormonal therapies
“Acupuncture was effective in restoring the normal endocrine and metabolic function”
- Complementary Therapies in Medicine Journal
1. Cao, Y., Chen, H., Zhao, D., Zhang, L., Yu, X., Zhou, X. and Liu, Z., 2019. The efficacy of Tung’s acupuncture for sex hormones in polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 44, pp.182-188.
Having an irregular cycle, including a long or short cycle, light or heavy bleed and missing a period can contribute to infertility.
As this can mean that a woman may not be regularly ovulating.
Abnormal periods can be caused by so many factors such as stress, weight, birth control pills, fibroids, endometriosis, PCOS or hormonal imbalance.
The main recommendation by Western Medicine for irregular menses is to take birth control medication to regulate it.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Regulating hormone levels
- Regulating the nervous system
- Reducing symptoms associated with menstruation
“A systematic review revealed that there was an improvement in the menstrual frequency of PCOS patients after acupuncture treatment”
- Medicine (Baltimore) Journal
1. Zhou, J., Yang, L., Yu, J., Wang, Y. and Liu, Z., 2017. Efficacy of acupuncture on menstrual frequency in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Medicine, 96(47), p.e8828.
A luteal phase should be 14 days which allows a fertilised egg enough time to implant and to signal to the body that it has implanted.
Luteal phase defect (LPD) is when this phase lasts less than 12 days and becomes too short for the endometrium to develop to support a fertilised egg.
This leads to women having trouble conceiving and sustaining a pregnancy in the early stages.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Increasing the uterus lining in preparation for implantation
- Regulating hormone production
- Targeting underlying conditions contributing to LPD such as PCOS and hypothyroidism
1. Cochrane, S., Smith, C., Possamai-Inesedy, A. and Bensoussan, A., 2014. Acupuncture and women’s health: an overview of the role of acupuncture and its clinical management in women’s reproductive health. International Journal of Women's Health,.
Uterine fibroids are a common benign growth that is characterised by abdominal pain and irregular bleeding. It may also affect fertility.
Some women don’t present with any symptoms.
The main treatment for uterine fibroids is surgery and drug treatment.
However they may not be suitable for all women particularly those in their fertile years.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Regulating female sex hormones
- Improving blood circulation in the pelvic cavity
- Adjusting the metabolism of connective tissue to regulate growth
“Acupuncture as a treatment for UF is well-founded and may have long-term effects”
- Medicine (Baltimore) Journal
1. Zheng, M., Weng, C., Hu, W., Shen, C., Tao, Y. and Pan, Z., 2020. Efficacy assessment of acupuncture in improving symptoms of uterine fibroids. Medicine, 99(18), p.e20016.
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Discover the Connection Between TCM and Fertility
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
Ovarian Cysts
Recurrent Miscarriages
Elevated FSH
Immunological Factors
Decreased Ovarian Reserve
Unexplained Infertility
Amenorrhoea
Hormone Imbalances
Irregular Menses
Luteal Phase Defect (LPD)
Uterine Fibroids
Don't see your condition?
Find out what to expect

Discover the Connection Between TCM and Fertility
The prevalence of PCOS is as high as 15% and accounts for 70-90% of ovulatory disorders.
Hormonal dysfunction is a hallmark feature of PCOS that results in irregular or no periods, absent or intermittent ovulation and infertility.
There are also cysts present which produce androgens which can also prevent ovulation.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Regulating hormonal imbalances
- Regulating the hypothalamic‐pituitary ovarian axis, which in turn affects the menstruation cycle
- Regulating the endocrine system
- Improving ovulation rates
“Ovulation rates were significantly improved by acupuncture only when it was compared with no treatment”
- Medicine (Baltimore) Journal
1. Jo, J., Lee, Y. and Lee, H., 2017. Acupuncture for polycystic ovarian syndrome. Medicine, 96(23), p.e7066.
2. Ma, Q. and Tan, Y., 2017. Effectiveness of co-treatment with traditional Chinese medicine and letrozole for polycystic ovary syndrome: a meta-analysis. Journal of Integrative Medicine, 15(2), pp.95-101.
3. Yin, Y., Zhang, Y., Zhang, H., Jiang, D. and Guo, G., 2018. Clinical therapeutic effects of acupuncture combined with Chinese herbal
4. medicine on infertility of polycystic ovary syndrome in the patients with ovulation induction with letrozole. Chinese Acupuncture & Moxibustion Journal,.
5. Li, J., Ng, E., Stener-Victorin, E., Hu, Z., Wu, W., Lai, M., Wu, T. and Ma, H., 2016. Comparison of acupuncture pretreatment followed by letrozole versus letrozole alone on live birth in anovulatory infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open, 6(10), p.e010955.
Ovarian cysts are an abnormal collection of fluid on an ovary. Most cysts are non problematic and go away by themselves.
In some cases they can cause pain in the pelvic area and interfere with your fertility.
They can occur naturally or secondarily from hormonal problems and as a side effect to some fertility treatments.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Regulating the hypothalamic‐pituitary ovarian axis, which in turn affects the menstruation cycle
- Regulating hormonal imbalances
- Reducing associated pain
“The pooled results showed acupuncture produced a significant improvement in LH/FSH ratio and testosterone levels”
- Medicine (Baltimore) Journal
1. Jo, J., Lee, Y. and Lee, H., 2017. Acupuncture for polycystic ovarian syndrome. Medicine, 96(23), p.e7066.
Elevated FSH may indicate a loss of ovarian function, menopause or PCOS.
This negatively affects fertility chances as it is a reflection of how few eggs are going through the maturation process in the ovaries.
Prompt treatment in these cases are necessary to prevent further ovarian failure.
Chinese Medicine can assist by:
- Regulating the hypothalamus, pituitary and ovaries to correct reproductive dysfunction
- Improving blood flow and structure of ovarian tissue
- Improving menstruation conditions
“Clinical observations suggested that acupuncture can be potentially used to increase the efficient/response rate of clinical treatment of POI, improve menstrual conditions, reduce serum FSH and LH levels, and increase serum estradiol levels”
- Medicine (Baltimore) Journal
1. Shen, X., Du, Y., Yan, L., Xia, Y., Yan, H., Han, G., Guo, Y. and Shi, X., 2005. Acupuncture for treatment of climacteric syndrome--a report of 35 cases. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine,.
2. Shi, Y., Li, L., Zhou, J., Sun, J., Chen, L., Zhao, J., Wu, L., Cui, Y., Wu, L. and Wu, H., 2019. Efficacy of electroacupuncture in regulating the imbalance of AMH and FSH to improve follicle development and hyperandrogenism in PCOS rats. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 113, p.108687.
3. Huang, L., Chen, Y., Luo, M., Tang, Y. and Wei, S., 2019. Acupuncture for patients with premature ovarian insufficiency. Medicine, 98(18), p.e15444.
Immune related conditions can cause barriers to fertility.
Particularly in autoimmune conditions where the immune system attacks your own tissues causing inflammation and damage.
Autoimmune diseases can affect the thyroid, joints and even the ovaries.
When these systems are affected it can disrupt the synchronised interactions of reproduction.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Regulating the neuroendocrine system
- Reducing inflammation
- Restoring the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis
- Activating natural killer cells to regulate cell growth
- Reducing uterine receptivity
“Acupuncture was effective in restoring the normal endocrine and metabolic function”
- Complementary Therapies in Medicine Journal
1. Cao, Y., Chen, H., Zhao, D., Zhang, L., Yu, X., Zhou, X. and Liu, Z., 2019. The efficacy of Tung’s acupuncture for sex hormones in polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 44, pp.182-188.
2. Johnston, M., Ortiz Sánchez, E., Vujanovic, N. and Li, W., 2011. Acupuncture May Stimulate Anticancer Immunity via Activation of Natural Killer Cells. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011, pp.1-14.
3. Saraswati, W., Dahlan, E., Saputra, K. and Sutrisno, T., 2019. Effect of Electroacupuncture on Natural-Killer Cells and Tumor Size in Patients with Cervical Squamous-Cell Carcinoma: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Medical Acupuncture, 31(1), pp.29-36.
4. Zhong, Y., Zeng, F., Liu, W., Ma, J., Guan, Y. and Song, Y., 2019. Acupuncture in improving endometrial receptivity: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 19(1).
Decreased Ovarian Reserve is where the ovaries reproductive function is lost leading to infertility.
This is a common universal process in women as they age. However for some it is more pronounced during their supposedly fertile years.
Which can lead to complications in getting pregnant and sustaining a pregnancy.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Improving ovarian function
- Regulating reproductive hormones
- Preventing further decline of the ovary
“After treatments with BCR (a type of Chinese Herbal Medicine), ovarian morphology, ovarian index, estrous cycle, growing follicles and corpus luteum from ovulation were significantly improved”
- Frontiers In Pharmacology
1. Sun, Y., Chen, S. and Tan, Y., 2018. Influence of nourishing yin and tonifying yang sequential therapy combined with Western medicine on TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway in anovulatory infertility rats with diminished ovarian reserve. Journal of Central South University (Medical Sciences).
2. ZHANG, C. and XU, X., 2016. Advancement in the treatment of diminished ovarian reserve by traditional Chinese and Western medicine. Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, 11(4), pp.1173-1176.
3. Jiang, M., Wang, W., Zhang, J., Wang, C., Bi, Y., Li, P., Yang, S., Li, J., Xu, Y. and Wang, T., 2020. Protective Effects and Possible Mechanisms of Actions of Bushen Cuyun Recipe on Diminished Ovarian Reserve Induced by Cyclophosphamide in Rats. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 11.
After a year of unprotected sex and inability to fall pregnant is deemed unexplained infertility.
It is a difficult diagnosis to receive after many rounds of medical testing proving no irregularities to be found.
Chinese Medicine is able to look outside of the test results to assess the body’s environment to identify subtle nuances that could be affecting fertility.
Amenorrhoea is the absence of menstruation where women have not bled for 3 cycles or more.
If you don’t menstruate and go through ovulation you can’t become pregnant.
It is usually a sign of another health problem rather than a stand alone condition. Underlying causes include thyroid disorders, hormone imbalances, medications and lifestyle factors such as stress.
Chinese Medicine can assist by:
- Regulating the endocrine system
- Regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary axis (HPOA) which controls the female reproductive functions
- Restoring balance to the body
“The present study highlights effects of alternative interventions for the management of hyperandrogenism and amenorrhea”
- American Journal of Physiology
1. Jedel, E., Labrie, F., Odén, A., Holm, G., Nilsson, L., Janson, P., Lind, A., Ohlsson, C. and Stener-Victorin, E., 2011. Impact of electro-acupuncture and physical exercise on hyperandrogenism and oligo/amenorrhea in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism, 300(1), pp.E37-E45.
2. Chen, B., 1997. ACUPUNCTURE NORMALIZES DYSFUNCTION OF HYPOTHALAMIC-PITUITARY-OVARIAN AXIS. Acupuncture & Electro-Therapeutics Research, 22(2), pp.97-108.
3. Zhao, H., Tian, Z. and Chen, B., 2005. Electroacupuncture stimulates hypothalamic aromatization. Brain Research, 1037(1-2), pp.164-170
Hormones dictate a great deal of our bodily processes, especially menstruation and fertility.
As well as having an impact on other processes such as sleep, weight, appetite, mood, stress and body temperature.
So when hormone levels are affected it can have an impact on many aspects of our body which can affect our reproductive environment.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Regulating the endocrine system
- Supporting the natural rhythm of hormones
- Reducing side effects of adjunct hormonal therapies
“Acupuncture was effective in restoring the normal endocrine and metabolic function”
- Complementary Therapies in Medicine Journal
1. Cao, Y., Chen, H., Zhao, D., Zhang, L., Yu, X., Zhou, X. and Liu, Z., 2019. The efficacy of Tung’s acupuncture for sex hormones in polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 44, pp.182-188.
Having an irregular cycle, including a long or short cycle, light or heavy bleed and missing a period can contribute to infertility.
As this can mean that a woman may not be regularly ovulating.
Abnormal periods can be caused by so many factors such as stress, weight, birth control pills, fibroids, endometriosis, PCOS or hormonal imbalance.
The main recommendation by Western Medicine for irregular menses is to take birth control medication to regulate it.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Regulating hormone levels
- Regulating the nervous system
- Reducing symptoms associated with menstruation
“A systematic review revealed that there was an improvement in the menstrual frequency of PCOS patients after acupuncture treatment”
- Medicine (Baltimore) Journal
1. Zhou, J., Yang, L., Yu, J., Wang, Y. and Liu, Z., 2017. Efficacy of acupuncture on menstrual frequency in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Medicine, 96(47), p.e8828.
A luteal phase should be 14 days which allows a fertilised egg enough time to implant and to signal to the body that it has implanted.
Luteal phase defect (LPD) is when this phase lasts less than 12 days and becomes too short for the endometrium to develop to support a fertilised egg.
This leads to women having trouble conceiving and sustaining a pregnancy in the early stages.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Increasing the uterus lining in preparation for implantation
- Regulating hormone production
- Targeting underlying conditions contributing to LPD such as PCOS and hypothyroidism
1. Cochrane, S., Smith, C., Possamai-Inesedy, A. and Bensoussan, A., 2014. Acupuncture and women’s health: an overview of the role of acupuncture and its clinical management in women’s reproductive health. International Journal of Women's Health,.
Uterine fibroids are a common benign growth that is characterised by abdominal pain and irregular bleeding. It may also affect fertility.
Some women don’t present with any symptoms.
The main treatment for uterine fibroids is surgery and drug treatment.
However they may not be suitable for all women particularly those in their fertile years.
Chinese Medicine assists by:
- Regulating female sex hormones
- Improving blood circulation in the pelvic cavity
- Adjusting the metabolism of connective tissue to regulate growth
“Acupuncture as a treatment for UF is well-founded and may have long-term effects”
- Medicine (Baltimore) Journal
1. Zheng, M., Weng, C., Hu, W., Shen, C., Tao, Y. and Pan, Z., 2020. Efficacy assessment of acupuncture in improving symptoms of uterine fibroids. Medicine, 99(18), p.e20016.
Don't see your condition?
Find out what to expect
Does acupuncture really help fertility?
How it works
Acupuncture employs fine needles to target specific points, aiming to regulate blood flow, as well as neural, chemical, and hormonal signals. In the context of Traditional Chinese Medicine, this process is thought to balance the energy, or qi (pronounced ‘chi’), to encourage better bodily function. Acupuncture seeks to create an environment conducive to natural healing, offering an alternative to synthetic drugs or surgical interventions
Fertility and Menstrual Cycle Balance
The balance of your menstrual cycle may have an association with fertility. Herbal medicine, as part of traditional practice, aims to support cycle regulation, which might be beneficial in enhancing fertility conditions. Peony Root (Chi Shao 赤芍) is one ingredient often considered in this context, traditionally used to assist in managing menstrual irregularities.

- The Endocrine System
- The Meridian System

Example of treatment
The Endocrine System
The endocrine system consists of a complex network of glands and organs. It utilises hormones to regulate various bodily functions such as metabolism, energy levels, reproduction, growth and development, as well as your response to injury, stress, and mood changes. It may have a connection to your fertility.

May reduce stress
Stress may lead to the release of cortisol, potentially affecting the hormonal balance crucial for the reproductive cycle

Balance hormones
Acupuncture aims to have a stabilising influence on various bodily systems, including reproductive hormones

Nervous system regulation
Acupuncture may assist in facilitating normal communication between the pituitary gland and ovaries.

Example of treatment
The Endocrine System

Reduce stress
Stress releases cortisol, which changes the hormonal balance that is key to the reproductive cycle

Balance hormones

Regulates nervous system

Example of treatment
The Meridian System
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a meridian, also known as Jing Lou, serves as a conduit for the flow of qi and energy. These pathways have various names, including acupuncture meridians, acupoints, and energy vessels. While meridians are conceptually akin to the circulatory system, they are not visible to the naked eye.

Can restore balance
Acupuncture aims to redistribute energy by directing the flow of qi throughout the body

May increase blood flow
May enhance blood circulation to the uterus and ovaries

May assist in removing obstructions
Acupuncture aims to enhance body function by targeting areas perceived as blocked or stagnant in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Example of treatment
The Meridian System

Restore balance

Increase blood flow

Removes blockages
Acupuncture can unblock stagnations in the body that leads to poor functioning of organ systems
Does acupuncture really help fertility?
How it works
Acupuncture uses extremely fine needles that stimulate specific points to redirect blood flow, as well as neural, chemical and hormonal signals. The redirection of energy known as qi (pronounced chi) also restores optimal functions of the body. It works in a physiological way to create an environment that allows your body to naturally heal itself, without synthetic drugs or surgery.
Impact on fertility

- The Endocrine System
- The Meridian System

Example of treatment
The Endocrine System
The endocrine system consists of a complex network of glands and organs. It utilises hormones to regulate various bodily functions such as metabolism, energy levels, reproduction, growth and development, as well as your response to injury, stress, and mood changes. It may have a connection to your fertility.

May reduce stress
Stress may lead to the release of cortisol, potentially affecting the hormonal balance crucial for the reproductive cycle

Balance hormones
Acupuncture aims to have a stabilising influence on various bodily systems, including reproductive hormones

Nervous system regulation
Acupuncture may assist in facilitating normal communication between the pituitary gland and ovaries.

Example of treatment
The Endocrine System

Reduce stress
Stress releases cortisol, which changes the hormonal balance that is key to the reproductive cycle

Balance hormones

Regulates nervous system

Example of treatment
The Meridian System
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a meridian, also known as Jing Lou, serves as a conduit for the flow of qi and energy. These pathways have various names, including acupuncture meridians, acupoints, and energy vessels. While meridians are conceptually akin to the circulatory system, they are not visible to the naked eye.

Can restore balance
Acupuncture aims to redistribute energy by directing the flow of qi throughout the body

May increase blood flow
May enhance blood circulation to the uterus and ovaries

May assist in removing obstructions
Acupuncture aims to enhance body function by targeting areas perceived as blocked or stagnant in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Example of treatment
The Meridian System

Restore balance

Increase blood flow

Removes blockages
Acupuncture can unblock stagnations in the body that leads to poor functioning of organ systems
Can herbal medicine boost fertility?
How it works
Chinese herbal medicine is based on the principle of pattern differentiation, focusing on a comprehensive assessment of an individual’s signs and symptoms from head to toe. Rather than directly treating symptoms or diseases, Chinese herbal medicine aims to address a person’s overall biochemical imbalances using natural plant-based ingredients in powdered form.
Impact on fertility
Your fertility journey and menstrual cycle balance may be interconnected. Herbal medicine, including ingredients like Peony Root (Chì Sháo 赤芍), has been traditionally used to manage menstrual irregularities. It’s important to discuss with a qualified acupuncturist to determine if this could be a complementary option for your individual situation
Formulas mixed on site

Can herbal medicine boost fertility?
How it works
Chinese herbal medicine is derived from pattern differentiation, which involves identifying a person’s head-to-toe collection of signs and symptoms. The herbal medicine doesn’t treat symptoms or diseases, it treats the entire human being’s biochemical imbalances using the properties of natural plants in the form of a powder.
Impact on fertility
Formulas mixed on site


Evidence Based Resources
FAQs
Fertility acupuncture is often considered by IVF centres as a supportive approach alongside fertility treatments, tailored to the unique needs of each patient. At Sustain Health, our focus is on providing fertility acupuncture, a service we have been dedicated to for nearly two decades, assisting couples and individuals. Our practitioners are experienced and have a concentrated practice in this area of acupuncture, with our team being led by Dr Scott Ling. Dr Ling integrates his extensive knowledge from a Master’s of Reproductive Medicine from UNSW into his role as Chief Acupuncturist & Chinese Medicine Practitioner.
FAQs
I went to my final appointment in early labour and had my baby 8 hours later. The acupuncture really kicked it into full swing!...
It was a commitment going regularly through the early and final days but well worth it. Can't recommend enough throughout pregnancy. ”
Our Fertility Team
Payment Support
Upfront Program Fees
It is important to be matched to a practitioner that suits you best.
Their prices differ due to seniority, experience, and clinical focus. Find out who you connect with the most by reading about Our Team or discuss your options via our online 15 minute Complimentary Consultation.
Consultation fees are GST-exempt and can be paid at reception after your treatment via EFTPOS, cash, bank transfer, or credit card (including AMEX).
If you become pregnant during your Fertility Program, the services will change to support your pregnancy as outlined in the timeline, but the cost and duration will remain the same. You can also hold any remaining pre-paid treatments for use in the future.
Once you have completed your Fertility Program you can choose to renew it, depending on your pregnancy outcome.
We are registered with HICAPS and participating Health Funds can be found here. However, the ability to claim the cost of our services is dependent on your coverage. Most Health Funds cover acupuncture, but with varying rates. Bring your Health Fund card to claim rebates upon payment or ask for an invoice. Packages or Programs purchased upfront can be claimed via invoice.
Most of our practitioners are registered with Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and Workspace. Our chiropractors are also registered with Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) or Chronic Disease Management (CDM), which are funded by Medicare. Our services can be claimed with a valid referral.
Please Contact Us for more information.