10/07/2025
Do you know the benefits of acupuncture for fertility concerns and acupuncture during pregnancy to help with morning sickness and other symptoms?
At ObGyn Care Orlando, we believe in supporting you across all stages: trying to conceive, pregnancy, and beyond. One complementary tool many explore is acupuncture — here’s a balanced look at when it can help, what it may (or may not) do, and what to watch out for.
Acupuncture & Fertility — What the Research Suggests
• Some studies suggest acupuncture can modestly boost clinical pregnancy rates when used alongside fertility treatments (e.g., IVF) compared to no acupuncture.
• But strong trials often don’t show a clear benefit for live birth rates over placebo/sham.
• Possible mechanisms include: improving uterine blood flow, balancing hormonal regulation, reducing stress, and modulating the neuroendocrine axis.
• Because the evidence is mixed, we treat acupuncture as adjunctive support, not a stand-alone fertility therapy.
Acupuncture During Pregnancy — Uses & Benefits
Pregnancy brings joys — and discomfort. Acupuncture may help with:
• Morning sickness / nausea
• Back, pelvic, or joint discomfort
• Headaches, insomnia, stress & anxiety
• Preparing for labor (especially in later weeks)
• Some practitioners also explore it to help turn breech presentations
It’s generally safe when done by a provider trained in prenatal acupuncture, with careful point selection.
Safety & Precautions
• Avoid certain “forbidden points” (like SP6, LI4, GB21, lower abdomen / sacral region) before ~37 weeks, unless the practitioner is very experienced.
• Always discuss with your OB (especially if your pregnancy is considered higher risk).
• Mild side effects (insertion site tenderness, minor bleeding) are more common than major events.
• Don’t replace your standard fertility or obstetric care — think of acupuncture as a complement, not competition.
If you’re curious whether acupuncture might fit your fertility or pregnancy plan, let us help you find a qualified practitioner and navigate what’s safe and beneficial!