Acupuncture for Fertility

The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona Team • May 16, 2023

Increase your chance of conception without side effects. Learn how acupuncture for fertility may be the solution and tool for you and your growing family.

Making the decision to grow your family is exciting and should be filled with love and joy. However, for some people it's not that easy and outside help is needed. The overwhelming anguish and sense of loss experienced by women struggling with infertility issues is an unwelcome motivator, driving them to seek other treatment options to overcoming infertility. From home remedies, fertility drugs, and even surgery, to in vitro fertilization (IVF) and donor eggs and embryos, modern healthcare has vastly expanded the array of options available for couples struggling to conceive.

But not all can afford the financial costs of infertility which can range from hundreds of dollars spent on drugs to tens of thousands spent on advanced procedures such as Intrauterine insemination (IUI) and IVF. In the search for affordable and effective health care, alternative and holistic treatments are gaining wider appeal among the general public.

Traditional Chinese medicine, for example, has been practiced for thousands of years and includes techniques and practices such as tai chi, moxibustion, tui na, Chinese cupping, and acupuncture. Acupuncture in particular has rapidly grown in acceptance by the general public and practice among therapists today. Not only is acupuncture valued for stress-relieving and relaxing benefits, but also as a component of fertility treatments.
A recent study from Tel Aviv University reports, “When combining IUI with TCM treatments, 65.5 percent of the test group were able to conceive, compared with 39.4 percent of the control group, who received no herbal or acupuncture therapy.” For the 4.5 million couples experiencing infertility each year, acupuncture may be just what the doctor ordered.

HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE HELP FERTILITY?

Acupuncture can increase fertility by reducing stress, increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs and balancing the endocrine system, according to several studies and medical research. A recent study found that acupuncture, when used in conjunction with Western fertility treatments, increases conception rates by 26%.

THE EVOLUTION AND HISTORY OF ACUPUNCTURE

With a recorded history of about 3,000 years, the foundations of acupuncture are believed to date back to the Stone Age when sharp edged tools were used to puncture the skin and drain blood and abscesses.

The Chinese document titled Lingshu (translated as “Miraculous Pivot”) listed nine classical acupuncture needles: Filiform, Shear, Round-Pointed, Spoon, Lance, Round-Sharp, Stiletto, Long, and Big. These classical needles were originally made from bronze, gold, or silver, but modern acupuncture uses only stainless steel filiform needles.

In the U.S., physicians have been practicing acupuncture since the early 1800s. When the New York Times published the documentation of James Reston’s visit to China in 1971, acupuncture piqued public interest. In 1997, the National Institutes of Health Consensus Statement advocated for acupuncture’s potential to manage postoperative pain, vomiting, and nausea. Ten years later, according to a report published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), a “. . . survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics, almost 40% of adults used complementary and alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, in the prior year.”

The rise in popularity of acupuncture has compelled researchers to take a closer, scientific look at the full potential of acupuncture. From aiding in weight loss efforts, to reducing stress and relieving pain, the benefits of acupuncture have raised interest in its potential to increase the chances of conception.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND INFERTILITY

Because of the delicate balance between the hypothalamus, pituitary, and reproductive glands, stress is capable of preventing a woman from ovulating entirely. This can contribute to the cause of female infertility. Stress can also create spasms in both the fallopian tubes and the uterus, which can interfere with movement and implantation of a fertilized egg. In men, stress can alter sperm counts, motility, and cause impotence. Acupuncture infertility treatment counters the effects of stress and cortisol by releasing endorphins in the brain. An herbal impotence cure is also an option for men and can reduce stress.

Hormonal balance does not have to be disrupted by cortisol to cause infertility. The most common cause of female infertility is an ovulation disorder, in which the release of a mature egg from the ovary is prevented, usually because of a hormonal imbalance. Without enough progesterone, for example, the fetus is unable to attach to the uterus. High levels of prolactin, the hormone that stimulates the production of breast milk, can also prevent ovulation.

An imbalance in reproductive hormones can also negatively affect male reproductive function, such as sperm motility and production. However, the fertility drugs that stimulate ovulation in women by regulating the hypothalamus and pituitary, the glands that control reproductive hormones, don’t perform nearly as well for men (success rates are about a third of those for women), nor have they been approved for men by the FDA. Male infertility treatment must take another track. An herbal impotence cure — if impotence is a factor in a couple’s infertility — causes no side effects and has a reported success rate when taken in conjunction with male infertility treatment.

While the fertility drugs commonly prescribed for women can produce a 20 to 60 percent pregnancy rate, they also commonly include such side effects as abdominal tenderness, bloating, fluid retention, weight gain, and nausea. Some studies show that they may also cause breast cancer.

THE POTENTIAL OF ACUPUNCTURE TO INCREASE CHANCE OF CONCEPTION

The goal of an infertility treatment from a Chinese medicine perspective is not just to get pregnant, but to stay pregnant and to have a healthy baby. Among many other benefits, acupuncture can provide better blood flow to the ovaries and uterus, creating a stronger chance for an egg to be nourished and carried to term.

Modern acupuncture consists of the gentle insertion and stimulation of thin, disposable sterile needles at strategic points near the surface of the body. Over 2,000 acupuncture points on the human body connect with 14 major pathways, called meridians. Chinese medicine practitioners believe that these meridians conduct qi, or energy, between the surface of the body and internal organs. It is qi that regulates spiritual, emotional, mental and physical balance. When the flow of qi is disrupted through poor health habits or other circumstances, pain and/or disease can result. Acupuncture helps to keep the normal flow of this energy unblocked, thereby increasing a couple’s chances of conceiving.

Acupuncture infertility treatment can improve almost every cause of this obstacle. While 40 percent of infertility is caused by problems in the female, another 40 percent is caused by problems in the male, such as low sperm count or motility. The cause of female infertility stems from problems such as anovulation and endometriosis. The remaining 20 percent is caused by unknown factors.

One of the ways acupuncture infertility treatment increases fertility is by reducing stress, which is often a key factor in the fertility of both men and women. When people are under stress, the hormone cortisol is released in the brain. This alters the brain’s neurochemical balance, thus changing hormone levels and disrupting the pituitary balance that is key to the reproductive cycle.

If the thyroid is over- or under-functioning, acupuncture can help address the effects on fertility. Acupuncture can also, ..."be used to treat any type of fertility disorder including spasmed tubes. Spasmed tubes are often de-spasmed with acupuncture, though blocked tubes will not respond to acupuncture,” according to the American Pregnancy Association.

However, acupuncture cannot address issues with tubal adhesions. Acupuncture is also contraindicated for the abdomino-pelvic area, which includes the following points: Gallbladder 21, Large Intestine 4, Bladder 60, Stomach 12, Spleen 6, and Bladder 67, as well as any other points on the lower abdomen.

Chinese medicine can help support a woman through this important time in her life—whether that is emotionally or physically, acupuncture can help with much more than just conception. It can help with morning sickness, nausea, aches and pains (low back pain, for example), anxiety preparation for birth, and insomnia, among many others.



ACUPUNCTURE’S SIDE EFFECTS

Acupuncture for infertility treatment, by contrast, produces few or no side effects while performing the same function as the drugs do: stimulating the hypothalamus to effectively balance the endocrine system and its hormones and to get to the root cause of female infertility as well as male infertility.

The natural, time-tested alternative treatment used by eastern cultures just might be worth a try.

Contact Dr. Diana today and schedule an appointment by TEXTING or calling our Arizona Wellness Clinic at 1 (602) 524-0222.

Signs of Nutrient Deficiency You Should Never Ignore

By The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona Team • July 16, 2025
Let's take a deep dive into signs of nutrient deficiency you should never ignore. Cracked Lips - > B2 Deficiency Riboflavin (vitamin B2) deficiency, also known as a riboflavinosis, can cause a variety of symptoms, including skin disorders, mouth sores, and vision problems. It's often associated with other nutritional deficiencies and can be particularly risky during pregnancy. Treatment typically involves riboflavin supplementation and addressing any underlying conditions contributing to the deficiency. Signs and Symptoms Skin: Dermatitis, including red, scaly patches, especially around the mouth, nose, ears, and genitals. Cracks and fissures at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis) and on the lips (cheilosis). Mouth: Soreness, inflammation, and a magenta-colored tongue. Eyes: Itchy, red, and watery eyes, light sensitivity (photophobia), and blurred vision. In severe cases, it can contribute to cataracts. General Fatigue, anemia (especially in severe cases), and possibly depression. Some studies also suggest a link to migraines and peripheral neuropathy. Reproductive: Riboflavin deficiency during pregnancy can potentially lead to fetal birth defects and increase the risk of preeclampsia. Causes Inadequate dietary intake: Especially in populations with limited access to riboflavin-rich foods like dairy, meat, and eggs. Malabsorption: Conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease can impair riboflavin absorption. Increased needs: Pregnancy, lactation, and intense exercise can increase riboflavin requirements. Bleeding Gums - > Vitamin C Deficiency Vitamin C deficiency, if severe and prolonged, can lead to a disease called scurvy. Scurvy is characterized by symptoms like fatigue, anemia, bleeding gums, poor wound healing, and skin problems. While scurvy is rare in the United States, it can affect older adults with poor nutrition. Symptoms Early symptoms: Fatigue, weakness, irritability, weight loss, and vague muscle and joint aches. Scurvy symptoms (develop after months of deficiency): Bleeding under the skin (especially around hair follicles and as bruises), swollen and bleeding gums, loose teeth, dry and brittle hair, dry and rough skin, fluid accumulation in the legs, and anemia. Infants: May exhibit irritability, pain upon movement, loss of appetite, impaired bone growth, and bleeding or anemia. Causes Insufficient dietary intake: Not eating enough fruits and vegetables, which are rich in vitamin C. Increased need: Certain conditions like smoking, drug or alcohol abuse, pregnancy, and breastfeeding can increase the body's need for vitamin C. Absorption issues: Problems with the gastrointestinal tract can hinder vitamin C absorption. Hair Loss - > Zinc Deficiency Zinc deficiency occurs when the body doesn't get enough zinc, a vital mineral. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including impaired immune function, slow wound healing, hair loss, and skin problems. In severe cases, it can also affect growth, sexual development, and cognitive function. Symptoms Impaired Immune Function: Zinc is crucial for a healthy immune system, and deficiency can increase susceptibility to infections. Delayed Wound Healing: Zinc plays a role in cell growth and repair, so a deficiency can slow down the healing of wounds. Skin Problems: Skin rashes, eczema-like lesions, and dry, flaky skin can be signs of zinc deficiency. Hair Loss: Zinc deficiency can contribute to hair loss or thinning. Digestive Issues: Diarrhea, especially in infants, is a common symptom. Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss: Zinc deficiency can reduce appetite and contribute to weight loss. Changes in Taste and Smell: A reduced ability to taste and smell can be a sign of zinc deficiency. Growth Retardation: In children, zinc deficiency can hinder growth and development. Cognitive Impairment: Zinc is important for brain function, and deficiency can affect alertness, memory, and learning. Eye Problems: In severe cases, zinc deficiency can affect vision, including night blindness. Causes Inadequate Dietary Intake: Not eating enough zinc-rich foods can lead to deficiency, particularly in people with restrictive diets or limited access to nutritious food. Malabsorption Issues: Certain medical conditions, such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease, can interfere with zinc absorption. Increased Excretion: Conditions like diarrhea or kidney disease can increase zinc excretion, leading to deficiency. Increased Needs: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and periods of rapid growth can increase the body's zinc requirements. Alcohol Abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption can impair zinc absorption and increase excretion. Night Blindness - > Vitamin A Deficiency Vitamin A deficiency occurs when the body doesn't get enough vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision, immune function, and cell growth. It's a global health concern, particularly in developing countries, and can lead to vision problems, including night blindness and, in severe cases, blindness. Causes Dietary deficiency: Inadequate intake of vitamin A-rich foods is the primary cause, especially in regions where rice, which lacks vitamin A, is a staple food. Malabsorption: Conditions like cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, or certain pancreatic disorders can hinder the body's ability to absorb vitamin A. Liver disorders: The liver stores vitamin A, so liver issues can impair the body's ability to utilize it. Other conditions: Iron or zinc deficiency can also impact vitamin A uptake. Symptoms Night blindness: Difficulty seeing in low light is often the first noticeable symptom. Xerophthalmia: Dryness of the conjunctiva (white part of the eye) and cornea, potentially leading to corneal ulcers and blindness. Impaired immune function: Vitamin A is crucial for a healthy immune system, and deficiency can increase susceptibility to infections. Growth problems: Vitamin A deficiency can hinder growth and development, especially in children. Muscle Cramps - > Magnesium Deficiency Magnesium deficiency, also known as hypomagnesemia, occurs when the body has low levels of magnesium. Symptoms can range from mild, like fatigue and muscle cramps, to severe, such as seizures or abnormal heart rhythms. It's important to address magnesium deficiency promptly as it can lead to various health complications. Common Symptoms Fatigue and Weakness: Feeling unusually tired or weak. Muscle Problems: Muscle cramps, spasms, and twitching. Loss of Appetite: Reduced desire to eat. Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick to the stomach and throwing up. Numbness and Tingling: Pins and needles sensations, particularly in the limbs. Abnormal Heart Rhythms: Irregular heartbeat. Headaches: Including migraines. Personality Changes: Irritability, anxiety, or confusion. Causes Poor Dietary Intake: Not consuming enough magnesium-rich foods. Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions like Crohn's disease or celiac disease can impair magnesium absorption. Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can interfere with magnesium absorption and increase excretion. Certain Medications: Some medications can deplete magnesium levels. Kidney Problems: Impaired kidney function can affect magnesium levels. Ice Cravings - > Iron Deficiency Iron deficiency, particularly in the form of iron deficiency anemia (IDA), is associated with sleep disturbances like insomnia, shorter sleep duration, and restless sleep. Symptoms Being pale or having yellow "sallow" skin. Unexplained fatigue or lack of energy. Shortness of breath or chest pain, especially with activity. Insomnia and sleep disturbances: Research indicates a link between anemia and insomnia, with some studies showing a higher risk of insomnia in individuals with IDA. Anemia can also lead to other sleep problems, such as restless legs syndrome (RLS). Reduced oxygen flow: Iron deficiency can affect oxygen delivery to the brain, potentially leading to sleep disturbances. Increased heart rate: The body may compensate for reduced oxygen by increasing heart rate, which can make it harder to fall asleep. Anxiety and neurotransmitter imbalances: Low iron levels can contribute to anxiety, which can disrupt sleep. Additionally, iron is involved in the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and melatonin, which play crucial roles in sleep regulation. Restless legs syndrome: Iron deficiency is a known risk factor for RLS, a condition characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. Sleep alterations in infants: Studies have also found that early IDA in infancy is associated with long-lasting alterations in sleep patterns, such as changes in REM sleep duration and timing, even after iron treatment. Fatigue - > B12 Deficiency Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a range of health problems, including anemia, fatigue, nerve damage, and neurological issues. It's crucial to recognize the symptoms and seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms General: Fatigue, weakness, pale or yellow skin, headaches. Neurological: Numbness or tingling in hands and feet, muscle weakness, problems with balance and coordination, vision problems, memory problems, confusion, depression, and irritability. Gastrointestinal: Digestive issues, loss of appetite, a smooth, sore, and inflamed tongue (glossitis). Causes Dietary: Insufficient intake of B12-rich foods (primarily found in animal products). This is especially relevant for vegetarians and vegans. Absorption Issues: Conditions like pernicious anemia (where the body can't absorb B12), celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or after weight loss surgery can hinder B12 absorption. Dry Skin - > Omega-3 Deficiency Omega-3 deficiency can lead to various health issues, including dry skin, joint pain, mood swings, and fatigue. Insufficient intake of these essential fatty acids, found in foods like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, can be a contributing factor. Addressing this deficiency can involve dietary changes and, in some cases, supplementation. Signs and Symptoms Skin Issues: Dry, rough skin, eczema, and increased sensitivity. Joint Pain: Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties, and deficiency can exacerbate joint pain and stiffness, according to NativePath. Mood Changes: Deficiency can impact mood, potentially leading to depression, anxiety, and irritability, according to Progressive Medical Center. Cognitive Function: Omega-3s are important for brain health. Deficiency can lead to brain fog, poor memory, and difficulty concentrating, says Zooki. Other Symptoms: Dry eyes, fatigue, increased thirst, and potential cardiovascular issues can also be linked to omega-3 deficiency. Hair and Nails: Brittle hair and nails can be a sign of omega-3 deficiency, as these fatty acids contribute to hair and nail health. Depression - > Vitamin D Deficiency Vitamin D deficiency occurs when the body doesn't have enough vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health, calcium absorption, and various other bodily functions. It can lead to a range of health problems, including bone pain, muscle weakness, and increased risk of fractures, especially in children and older adults. Several factors can contribute to deficiency, such as limited sun exposure, dietary inadequacies, and certain health conditions. Causes Insufficient Sun Exposure: Sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D for most people, as the skin produces it when exposed to UVB radiation. Factors like geographic location (especially during winter months), limited time outdoors, and using sunscreen can reduce vitamin D synthesis. Dietary Deficiency: Very few foods naturally contain vitamin D. While some foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified products (like milk and cereal) can help, they may not provide sufficient amounts for everyone. Malabsorption Issues: Certain conditions like Crohn's disease, celiac disease, and cystic fibrosis can hinder the body's ability to absorb vitamin D from food. Certain Medications: Some medications, including certain anticonvulsants and those used to treat HIV/AIDS, can interfere with vitamin D metabolism and absorption. Obesity: Individuals with a BMI over 30 may have lower vitamin D levels due to the vitamin being sequestered in body fat, making it less available for use. Darker Skin Tone: People with darker skin pigmentation produce less vitamin D in response to sunlight than those with lighter skin. Symptoms Bone Pain and Weakness: Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, which is needed for strong bones. Deficiency can lead to bone pain, especially in the back and hips, and can increase the risk of fractures. Muscle Weakness and Pain: Vitamin D receptors are present in muscles, and deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, fatigue, and increased risk of falls. Rickets (in children): In children, vitamin D deficiency can cause rickets, a condition where bones become soft and weak, leading to skeletal deformities, particularly bowed legs. Osteomalacia (in adults): In adults, deficiency can cause osteomalacia, which is a softening of the bones, leading to bone pain, muscle weakness, and increased risk of fractures. Fatigue and Mood Changes: Some individuals with vitamin D deficiency may experience fatigue, depression, and other mood changes. Pale Skin - > Iron or B12 Deficiency Frequent Infections - > Zinc or Vitamin C Deficiency Tingling/Numbness - > B12 Deficiency Bloating after meals - > Low Stomach Acid Brain Fog - > Choline Deficiency Restless Legs - > Iron or Magnesium Deficiency Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana to address your symptoms and get to the root cause of your health issues. Call or Text 1 (602) 524-0222.

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