If you’ve been told you have poor ovarian reserve and have struggled with low egg numbers in IVF cycles, you’re not alone. It’s one of the biggest hurdles for women over 37 trying to conceive. But what if there was something that could support your ovarian function and improve egg quality? A 2021 randomised controlled trial (RCT) has shown that acupuncture can do just that! Let’s dive into the details of this study and what it means for you.
The Study: Acupuncture and Egg Quality in Women Over 37
This 2021 RCT investigated the effects of acupuncture on women who had poor ovarian response and were undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF). The researchers focused a number of outcomes in this article, however, the one that really stood out is the response from the women aged 37 and older who had experienced previous low ovarian response in IVF cycles. The goal in this piece of research was to see if acupuncture could improve ovarian reserve and lead to better reproductive outcomes.
The participants in the study were divided into two groups:
- Acupuncture Group: These women received regular acupuncture treatments alongside their IVF cycle.
- Control Group: These women underwent IVF without acupuncture.
The Acupuncture Treatment Protocol
The women in the acupuncture group received 12 sessions of acupuncture over a period of four weeks before starting their IVF cycle. The treatment focused on specific acupuncture points known to enhance blood flow to the ovaries, regulate hormone balance, and improve overall reproductive function.
The key acupuncture points used included:
- ST36 (Zusanli) – Known for boosting overall energy and circulation.
- SP6 (Sanyinjiao) – Regulates the reproductive system and enhances ovarian function.
- CV4 (Guanyuan) – Strengthens kidney essence, crucial for fertility.
- DU20 (Baihui) – Supports hormonal balance and emotional well-being.
- Zigong (Uterus Point) – Directly stimulates ovarian function and uterine health.
The Results: Improved Ovarian Reserve & IVF Outcomes
After the four-week acupuncture treatment and subsequent IVF cycle, the study found significant improvements in the acupuncture group compared to the control group:
✅ Increased Number of Mature Eggs – Women who had acupuncture retrieved more mature oocytes compared to those who did not.
✅ Higher Fertilisation Rate – The eggs collected in the acupuncture group had a significantly better fertilisation rate.
✅ Improved Ovarian Response – Women in the acupuncture group showed higher AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) levels, indicating better ovarian reserve.
✅ Increased Clinical Pregnancy Rate – More women in the acupuncture group achieved a successful pregnancy compared to the control group.
Potential for Even Greater Results with a Longer Acupuncture Protocol
One of the most exciting aspects of this research is what the researchers suggested for future studies. They proposed investigating the effects of a three-month acupuncture protocol prior to IVF, as they suspect the benefits would be even more significant. Since egg development takes approximately 90 days, a longer treatment period could allow for deeper improvements in ovarian function, follicular quality, and overall reproductive health. This aligns with Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, which emphasize long-term preparation to enhance fertility outcomes.
What This Means for You
If you’ve had a poor response to ovarian stimulation in past IVF cycles or have been diagnosed with poor ovarian reserve, this study offers real hope. Acupuncture isn’t just an ‘alternative’ therapy—it’s an evidence-based approach that can significantly improve your IVF outcomes by:
- Enhancing blood flow to the ovaries, improving egg quality.
- Supporting hormonal balance for better follicular development.
- Reducing stress and inflammation, both of which impact fertility.
- Increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Ready to Give Your Egg Quality a Boost?
At Spring Acupuncture, Fertility & Pregnancy Clinic, I’ve seen firsthand how acupuncture transforms fertility journeys. If you’re struggling with poor ovarian reserve, low AMH, or unsuccessful IVF cycles, acupuncture could be the missing piece in your fertility plan.
👉 Book an appointment with me, Dr Leigh Moir (Acu), Brisbane’s leading fertility acupuncturist, and let’s optimise your IVF success.
🔗 Book Your Fertility Acupuncture Session Today
Further Reading:
- How Acupuncture Supports IVF Success
- Male Fertility Acupuncture: Boosting Sperm Health
- Does Acupuncture Really Work for Fertility?
Final Thoughts
If IVF hasn’t been working for you due to poor ovarian response, this research shows acupuncture can make a difference. Science is catching up to what we’ve known in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries—acupuncture is a potent fertility medicine!
Don’t leave your egg quality to chance. Take action today and see how acupuncture can change your fertility journey.
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Acupuncture
Acupuncture for fertility, Acupuncture for Infertility, Acupuncture for IVF Support, Acupuncture for Pregnancy Care, Acupuncture for symptoms of PCOS, Acupuncture for symptoms of Endometriosis, Acupuncture for symptoms of Adenomyosis, Acupuncture for symptoms of Period Pain, Acupuncture for symptoms of Menstrual Cycle Regulation, Acupuncture for symptoms of Dysmenorrhea, Acupuncture for symptoms of Age-related decline in fertility, Acupuncture for for symptoms of Ovulation disorders, Acupuncture for symptoms of hypothalamic dysfunction, Acupuncture for symptoms of POI, Acupuncture for symptoms of Uterine abnormalities, Acupuncture for symptoms of cervical abnormalities, Acupuncture for symptoms of Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), Acupuncture for symptoms of Uterine fibroids, Acupuncture for symptoms of Blocked fallopian tubes, Acupuncture for Symptoms of Hormonal imbalances, Acupuncture for symptoms of Thyroid disorders, Acupuncture for symptoms of Autoimmune disorders, Acupuncture for symptoms of Anovulation, Acupuncture for symptoms of Weight-related issues, Acupuncture for symptoms of Chronic illnesses, Acupuncture for symptoms of Stress, Acupuncture for Symptoms of Cancer and its treatments, Acupuncture for symptoms of adverse reactions to Medications, Acupuncture for symptoms of recurring Miscarriage, Acupuncture for symptoms of Gestational diabetes, Acupuncture for symptoms of Preeclampsia, Acupuncture for symptoms of Ectopic pregnancy, Acupuncture for symptoms of Placenta previa, Acupuncture for symptoms of Miscarriage (spontaneous abortion), Acupuncture for symptoms of Preterm labor, Acupuncture for symptoms of Gestational hypertension, Acupuncture for symptoms of Rh incompatibility, Acupuncture for symptoms of Multiple gestations (twins, triplets, etc.), Acupuncture for symptoms of Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), Acupuncture for symptoms of Cervical insufficiency (incompetent cervix), Acupuncture for symptoms of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infection, Acupuncture for symptoms of Hyperemesis gravidarum (severe morning sickness), Acupuncture for symptoms of Cholestasis of pregnancy, Acupuncture for symptoms of Amniotic fluid abnormalities (polyhydramnios, oligohydramnios), Acupuncture for symptoms of Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), Acupuncture for symptoms of Erectile dysfunction (impotence), Acupuncture for symptoms of Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum), Acupuncture for symptoms of Low sperm count (oligospermia), Acupuncture for symptoms of Azoospermia (absence of sperm in semen), Acupuncture for symptoms of Hormonal imbalances, Acupuncture for symptoms of low testosterone, Acupuncture for symptoms of Retrograde ejaculation (semen flows backward into the bladder), Acupuncture for symptoms of Infections (e.g., sexually transmitted infections, prostatitis), Acupuncture for symptoms of Ejaculatory duct obstruction, Acupuncture for symptoms of Erectile dysfunction, Acupuncture for symptoms of Genetic disorders affecting fertility, Acupuncture for symptoms of Testicular torsion (twisted testicle), Acupuncture for symptoms of Medication side effects, Acupuncture for symptoms of Exposure to environmental toxins or radiation, Acupuncture for symptoms of Hypogonadism (underactive testes), Acupuncture for symptoms of Celiac disease (may impact fertility in some cases), Acupuncture for symptoms of Age-related decline in fertility (advanced paternal age), Acupuncture for symptoms of Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Acupuncture for symptoms of Hypothalamic amenorrhea, Acupuncture for symptoms of Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), Acupuncture for symptoms of premature ovarian failure (POF), Acupuncture for symptoms of Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), Acupuncture for symptoms of Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), Acupuncture for symptoms of Hyperprolactinemia (high levels of prolactin hormone), Acupuncture for symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome (excess cortisol production), Acupuncture for symptoms of Adrenal insufficiency (underactive adrenal glands), Acupuncture for symptoms of Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (genetic disorder affecting adrenal glands), Acupuncture for symptoms of Ovarian cysts (abnormal fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries), Acupuncture for symptoms of Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), Acupuncture for symptoms of Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), Acupuncture for symptoms of Menopause and perimenopause, Acupuncture for symptoms of Turner syndrome (genetic disorder affecting sex chromosomes), Acupuncture for symptoms of Androgen excess disorders (e.g., hirsutism, acne), Acupuncture for symptoms of Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) (can occur with fertility treatments), Acupuncture for symptoms of Anxiety disorders, Acupuncture for symptoms of Depression, Acupuncture for symptoms ofHypertension (high blood pressure), Acupuncture for symptoms of Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), Acupuncture for symptoms of Diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2), Acupuncture for symptoms of Obesity, Acupuncture for symptoms of Asthma, Acupuncture for symptoms of Allergies, Acupuncture for symptoms of Migraines, Acupuncture for symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Acupuncture for symptoms of Autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus), Acupuncture for symptoms of Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Acupuncture for symptoms of Chronic back pain, Acupuncture for symptoms of Chronic headaches and migraines, Acupuncture for symptoms of Sleep disorders (e.g., insomnia, sleep apnea), Acupuncture for symptoms of Substance abuse disorders (inc. smoking), Acupuncture for symptoms of Repetitive strain injuries (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome),Acupuncture for symptoms of Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), Acupuncture for symptoms of Cardiovascular diseases (heart disease, stroke), Acupuncture for symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis, Acupuncture for symptoms of Chronic kidney disease, Acupuncture for symptoms of Gout, Acupuncture for symptoms of Fibromyalgia, Acupuncture for Symptoms of Stress.
Massage
Womb Hara Massage for fertility, Womb Hara Massage for Infertility, Womb Hara Massage for IVF Support, Womb Hara Massage for Pregnancy Care, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of PCOS, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Endometriosis, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Adenomyosis, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Period Pain, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Menstrual Cycle Regulation, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Dysmenorrhea, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Age-related decline in fertility, Womb Hara Massage for for symptoms of Ovulation disorders, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of hypothalamic dysfunction, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of POI, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Uterine abnormalities, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of cervical abnormalities, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Uterine fibroids, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Blocked fallopian tubes, Womb Hara Massage for Symptoms of Hormonal imbalances, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Thyroid disorders, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Autoimmune disorders, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Anovulation, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of Weight-related issues, Womb Hara Massage for symptoms of recurring Miscarriage, Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Gestational diabetes, Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Preeclampsia, Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Ectopic pregnancy, Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Placenta previa, Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Miscarriage (spontaneous abortion), Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Preterm labor, Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Gestational hypertension, Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Multiple gestations (twins, triplets, etc.), Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Cervical insufficiency (incompetent cervix), Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Hyperemesis gravidarum (severe morning sickness), Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Cholestasis of pregnancy, Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Amniotic fluid abnormalities (polyhydramnios, oligohydramnios), Pregnancy Massage for symptoms of Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), Massage for Stress reduction.
Naturopathy
Naturopathy for fertility, Naturopathy for Infertility, Naturopathy for IVF Support, Naturopathy for Pregnancy Care, Naturopathy for symptoms of PCOS, Naturopathy for symptoms of Endometriosis, Naturopathy for symptoms of Adenomyosis, Naturopathy for symptoms of Period Pain, Naturopathy for symptoms of Menstrual Cycle Regulation, Naturopathy for symptoms of Dysmenorrhea, Naturopathy for symptoms of Age-related decline in fertility, Naturopathy for for symptoms of Ovulation disorders, Naturopathy for symptoms of hypothalamic dysfunction, Naturopathy for symptoms of POI, Naturopathy for symptoms of Uterine abnormalities, Naturopathy for symptoms of cervical abnormalities, Naturopathy for symptoms of Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), Naturopathy for symptoms of Uterine fibroids, Naturopathy for symptoms of Blocked fallopian tubes, Naturopathy for Symptoms of Hormonal imbalances, Naturopathy for symptoms of Thyroid disorders, Naturopathy for symptoms of Autoimmune disorders, Naturopathy for symptoms of Anovulation, Naturopathy for symptoms of Weight-related issues, Naturopathy for symptoms of Chronic illnesses, Naturopathy for symptoms of Stress, Naturopathy for Symptoms of Cancer and its treatments, Naturopathy for symptoms of adverse reactions to Medications, Naturopathy for symptoms of recurring Miscarriage, Naturopathy for symptoms of Gestational diabetes, Naturopathy for symptoms of Preeclampsia, Naturopathy for symptoms of Ectopic pregnancy, Naturopathy for symptoms of Placenta previa, Naturopathy for symptoms of Miscarriage (spontaneous abortion), Naturopathy for symptoms of Preterm labor, Naturopathy for symptoms of Gestational hypertension, Naturopathy for symptoms of Rh incompatibility, Naturopathy for symptoms of Multiple gestations (twins, triplets, etc.), Naturopathy for symptoms of Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), Naturopathy for symptoms of Cervical insufficiency (incompetent cervix), Naturopathy for symptoms of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infection, Naturopathy for symptoms of Hyperemesis gravidarum (severe morning sickness), Naturopathy for symptoms of Cholestasis of pregnancy, Naturopathy for symptoms of Amniotic fluid abnormalities (polyhydramnios, oligohydramnios), Naturopathy for symptoms of Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), Naturopathy for symptoms of Erectile dysfunction (impotence), Naturopathy for symptoms of Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum), Naturopathy for symptoms of Low sperm count (oligospermia), Naturopathy for symptoms of Azoospermia (absence of sperm in semen), Naturopathy for symptoms of Hormonal imbalances, Naturopathy for symptoms of low testosterone, Naturopathy for symptoms of Retrograde ejaculation (semen flows backward into the bladder), Naturopathy for symptoms of Infections (e.g., sexually transmitted infections, prostatitis), Naturopathy for symptoms of Ejaculatory duct obstruction, Naturopathy for symptoms of Erectile dysfunction, Naturopathy for symptoms of Genetic disorders affecting fertility, Naturopathy for symptoms of Testicular torsion (twisted testicle), Naturopathy for symptoms of Medication side effects, Naturopathy for symptoms of Exposure to environmental toxins or radiation, Naturopathy for symptoms of Hypogonadism (underactive testes), Naturopathy for symptoms of Celiac disease, Naturopathy for symptoms of Age-related decline in fertility (advanced paternal age), Naturopathy for symptoms of Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Naturopathy for symptoms of Hypothalamic amenorrhea, Naturopathy for symptoms of Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), Naturopathy for symptoms of premature ovarian failure (POF), Naturopathy for symptoms of Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), Naturopathy for symptoms of Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), Naturopathy for symptoms of Hyperprolactinemia (high levels of prolactin hormone), Naturopathy for symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome (excess cortisol production), Naturopathy for symptoms of Adrenal insufficiency (underactive adrenal glands), Naturopathy for symptoms of Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (genetic disorder affecting adrenal glands), Naturopathy for symptoms of Ovarian cysts (abnormal fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries), Naturopathy for symptoms of Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), Naturopathy for symptoms of Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), Naturopathy for symptoms of Menopause and perimenopause, Naturopathy for symptoms of Turner syndrome (genetic disorder affecting sex chromosomes), Naturopathy for symptoms of Androgen excess disorders (e.g., hirsutism, acne), Naturopathy for symptoms of Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) (can occur with fertility treatments), Naturopathy for symptoms of Anxiety disorders, Naturopathy for symptoms of Depression, Naturopathy for symptoms of Hypertension (high blood pressure), Naturopathy for symptoms of Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), Naturopathy for symptoms of Allergies, Naturopathy for symptoms of Migraines, Naturopathy for symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Naturopathy for symptoms of Autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus), Naturopathy for symptoms of Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Naturopathy for symptoms of Chronic back pain, Naturopathy for symptoms of Chronic headaches and migraines, Naturopathy for symptoms of Repetitive strain injuries (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome), Naturopathy for symptoms of Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), Naturopathy for symptoms of Cardiovascular diseases (heart disease, stroke), Naturopathy for symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis, Naturopathy for symptoms of Chronic kidney disease, Naturopathy for symptoms of Gout, Naturopathy for symptoms of Fibromyalgia, Naturopathy for Symptoms of Stress.
Holographic Kinetics
Holographic Kinetics for Negative thought patterns, Holographic Kinetics for Disordered eating, Holographic Kinetics for Body dysmorphia, Holographic Kinetics for Intrusive thoughts, Holographic Kinetics for Self sabotage, Holographic Kinetics for Low self worth / self confidence, Holographic Kinetics for Childhood trauma / abuse, Holographic Kinetics for Emotional, physical or sexual abuse, Holographic Kinetics for Attempted suicide or self-harm, Holographic Kinetics for Depression and anxiety, Holographic Kinetics for Heavy emotions such as – fear, shame, anger, or guilt, Holographic Kinetics for Clearing stored trauma from the body that has caused imbalances in physical body (this can be everything from headaches to fertility issues to chronic fatigue) , Holographic Kinetics for PTSD, Holographic Kinetics for Drug or alcohol dependency, Holographic Kinetics for Paranormal activity, Holographic Kinetics for Inter-dimensional interference, Holographic Kinetics for House and land clearing, Holographic Kinetics for Past-life healing, Holographic Kinetics for Clearing karmic loops, Holographic Kinetics for Clearing inter-generational trauma
Tarot Reading
Tarot Reading for debunking the underlining karma at play in the current situations you’re facing, Tarot Reading for gaining clarity when life seems overwhelming or you are feeling rudderless, Tarot Reading for being anchored back to your body, innate wisdom and your path, Tarot Reading for having your experience witnessed, Tarot Reading for asking questions to your Spirit and your ancestors for guidance.
Human Design
Human Design reading to Understand the greater astrological cycles influencing your life, Human Design reading to understand your unique self, Human Design reading to learn how to hone in on your intuition and self authority, Human Design reading to harness the unique ways you process food, information and the world around you, Human Design reading to assist you to decondition from family and ancestral programming, Human Design reading to look at the differences and similarities between your chart and your partner/child’s chart. Get to know how each other communicates, processes emotions and how to create a harmonious home environment for you both.