How this integrative therapy supports your treatment at SCRC.
Navigating fertility treatments can be physically and emotionally demanding. At SCRC, we are committed to a holistic approach that treats the whole person, not just the diagnosis. This includes integrating evidence-based supportive therapies like acupuncture to help optimize your body for success.
Acupuncture is one of the most widely studied holistic treatments for fertility. Research suggests it does more than just relax you—it can trigger specific physiological changes that support IVF and other fertility treatments.
Here is what the clinical research tells us:
1. It Lowers Stress Hormones & Inflammation
Cortisol is the body’s primary “stress hormone,” and high levels can negatively impact reproductive balance. A prospective cohort clinical study published in Fertility and Sterility tracked patients during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. The researchers found that patients who received acupuncture showed beneficial regulation of serum cortisol and prolactin levels. By regulating these hormones, acupuncture helps keep your body in a calmer, less inflamed state during your medication cycle. (Magarelli et al., 2009)
2. It Can Boost Outcomes for “Poor Ovarian Response”
For patients who have previously had difficulty responding to stimulation medications, acupuncture may offer a significant boost. A recent randomized clinical trial (2025) focused on patients with poor ovarian response (POR) found that adding acupuncture to the treatment protocol significantly increased the rate of high-quality embryos and improved the number of available embryos compared to the control group. (Yuan et al., 2025)
3. It Increases Blood Flow to the Ovaries
Healthy circulation is vital for delivering oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to developing follicles. Experimental research has demonstrated that specific acupuncture protocols (particularly low-frequency electro-acupuncture) can elicit significant increases in blood flow to the ovaries. This enhanced circulation is believed to support egg quality and aid in developing a healthy, receptive uterine lining. (Stener-Victorin et al., 2003)
4. It Supports the Embryo Transfer Process
The day of your embryo transfer is a milestone. While protocols vary, the goal of acupuncture before and after transfer is to relax the uterus and reduce patient stress at this pivotal moment. By mitigating the “fight or flight” response and encouraging blood flow, acupuncture creates a calmer physiological environment for the embryo.
Experience Integrated Care at SCRC
You don’t need to look far to add these benefits to your treatment plan. SCRC is proud to offer on-site acupuncture services with Dr. Leah Eradat, DAOM, L.Ac.
Specializing in women’s reproductive health, Dr. Eradat works directly with your medical team to create a personalized protocol that aligns with your specific cycle—whether you are preparing for an egg retrieval or an embryo transfer.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Eradat
