Often for women who have obstructive issues such as blocked fallopian tubes due to a prior appendix rupture or pelvic adhesions or males with no sperm production at all, an Integrative Approach is the only alternative for them or their best option. So for them utilizing an Assisted Reproductive Technique such as Artificial Insemination(IUI) or In-Vitro Fertilization(IVF) with ICSI along with Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs is often their best choice or only choice.
When it involves Male Factor issues of Azoospermia(commonly referred to as "no sperm") often a Testicular Biopsy is required but the acupuncture will help facilitate this procedure and increase the number of sperm that may be there. This is useful in the case of non-obstructive azoospermia.
In both women and men however with obstructive issues, age related issues such as Premature Ovarian Failure or who have several failed Assited Techniques like IVF, it is best to come for acupuncture at least 6 to 9 months prior to beginning another IVF or an initial IVF procedure to enable the best possible outcome. In that time period, as Chinese Medicine Practitioners we often are able to balance out their hormones, regulate their cycles, reduce their stress from the failed outcomes and in general, improve their blood and qi supply to the pelvic region, coach them on lifestyle and diet changes that can positively or adversely effect their ability to conceive. This is especially true if they are able to receive treatments biweekly and even more so if they have had several failed attempts in a row, then we know the whole process along with the hormomal drugs have taken their toll on their bodies emotionally and physically. In some cases of Premature Ovarian Failure if we are fortunate enough to be able to nourish the ovaries enough that natural conception occurs then IVF may not be necessary.
