Acupuncture

[Bluedestiny]

I am hopefully starting ICSI in a months time subject to bloods, more consents, and drugs being issued in time. My question is, I have read acupuncture should be done for 3 months prior to treatment (I didn’t know it was going to go ahead that’s why I’m late) is it still worthwhile doing now? And if so I am based in the north west (Lancaster) and I am struggling to find an acupuncturist, if it is allowed could anyone recommend someone in my area or private message me if it’s not allowed. I found a lady in Preston but she isn’t taking and new clients. Thank you x

[BECIO]

I think it can still help, I was in the same boat and stopped for a while as I had Covid and got out of the routine. I started back last week snd in sure it all helps and if nothing else good for relaxation. Are you looking for fertility or just general acupuncture? Maybe try general if can’t find fertility specialist, think it’s all the same thing x

[Bluedestiny in reply to BECIO]

Hi BECIO that’s what I was thinking even if it is just the relaxation side of it. Ideally I would like a fertility acupuncturist but I’m struggling to find anyone tbh maybe it isn’t something that is so readily available xx

[Llizzie]

Hello! I start tomorrow and have been giving myself a hard time about exactly this. I was listening to the IVFDad podcast which featured the doctor I was seen by - his advice was that if it helps you relax then fine but there’s no firm evidence that it increases outcomes and not to stress yourself out about running to appointments. This struck a chord with me as things are busy enough most days. There are some that will disagree and find it tremendously helpful, and there are also some small scale trials but I decided to go without and focus instead on staying safe at home and relaxing there. It’s easy to feel like you need to do all the things but there has to be a balance in everything, particularly given the risk of Covid. x

[Bluedestiny in reply to Llizzie]

Thanks Llizzie I think you make a great point. I am worrying I’ve not done all these things people say like drink Pom juice loads of supplements for months acupuncture etc. I’ve not been drinking alcohol for a few weeks and didn’t drink much before that and I have only given up caffeine for a week. But I am healthy so I suppose I shouldn’t stress too much xx

[Ganges]

Hi I’ve found it really helpful. I did manage to start months before my first cycle. Think any will be beneficial if helps you relax and focus. I go to someone in Manchester if that helps? I did ask for recommendations for my cousin in york, she didn’t know anyone but advised to check out on the Acupuncture Fertility Network website. And/or look at the BAcC register for people nearby then go to their websites to check expertise. Good luck x

[Bluedestiny in reply to Ganges]

I could do Manchester it’s about 60 miles from me but I just can’t find anyone, or anyone who is taking on new clients. Thank you xx

[Ganges in reply to Bluedestiny]

I’ve messaged you the details x

[Legallyblonde39]

Hi I have started with my acupuncturist 2.5 months ago and due to start the nasal sprays for ivf in 3 weeks. However my colleague who is at the same hospital got acupuncture on day of collection and transfer for both her babies and swears by it. Her failed transfers were when she didn't do acupuncture. No guarantees it was that, but she believes so. She went to the same acupuncturist as me who has an 85% success rate. There are cards all over his clinic!

[Bluedestiny in reply to Legallyblonde39]

Hi Legallyblonde that’s really interesting thanks. Where are you based? Did your colleague have acupuncture throughout or just on those days. Honestly I just feel like so many people have so many tips I don’t know how people do everything without driving themselves crazy xx

[Legallyblonde39 in reply to Bluedestiny]

Hi I am based in Dundee in Scotland. She only had it on day of egg retrieval and day of transfer. My nhs consultant sort of dismissed my claims about extra supplements and acupuncture, but if you do your own research you'll find these little things appear to help. I think as someone who has suffered so many losses I am willing to do anything to improve my chances Xx

[Bluedestiny in reply to Legallyblonde39]

Completely understand and really sorry to hear about your losses, absolutely heartbreaking. Thank you for the info I really hope you get your miracle xx

[Legallyblonde39 in reply to Bluedestiny]

Thank you! Fingers crossed xx