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Understanding the IVF Process

In vitro fertilization (IVF) involves distinct phases, each with different physiological demands. The stimulation and egg retrieval phase focuses on follicular development and ovarian response, while the Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) phase emphasizes endometrial receptivity, hormonal stability, and implantation support.

Acupuncture and Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) offer complementary, non-pharmaceutical support across both phases by regulating the nervous system, improving circulation, supporting cellular health, and reducing stress-related physiologic interference.

How Acupuncture Supports IVF & Egg Retrieval

1. Supports Ovarian Response & Follicular Development

During ovarian stimulation, the ovaries require increased blood flow and balanced neuroendocrine signaling.

Research suggests acupuncture may:

  • Improve ovarian blood flow

  • Support follicular development

  • Modulate the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian (HPO) axis

  • Reduce ovarian stress and inflammation

These effects may support a healthier ovarian response during stimulation.

2. Reduces Stress & Nervous System Overactivation

IVF stimulation can activate the stress response, potentially affecting hormone signaling.

Acupuncture:

  • Regulates sympathetic and parasympathetic balance

  • Reduces cortisol

  • Improves emotional steadiness during treatment

Lower stress may support ovarian function and overall treatment tolerance.

3. Supports Recovery After Egg Retrieval

Following egg retrieval, the body shifts toward healing and recalibration.

Acupuncture may:

  • Reduce pelvic discomfort

  • Support circulation and tissue recovery

  • Calm the nervous system

  • Improve overall recovery experience

How Acupuncture Supports FET

4. Enhances Uterine Blood Flow & Endometrial Receptivity

Successful implantation depends on uterine circulation and endometrial quality.

Acupuncture has been shown to:

  • Improve uterine artery blood flow

  • Support endometrial development

  • Reduce uterine tension via nervous system regulation

These physiologic changes help create a receptive uterine environment.

5. Supports Hormonal Stability

FET cycles rely on precise hormonal signaling to prepare the uterine lining.

Acupuncture may:

  • Support estrogen and progesterone balance

  • Regulate neuroendocrine signaling

  • Improve cycle stability during medicated or natural FET protocols

6. Supports Immune Balance & Inflammation Regulation

Implantation requires a finely tuned immune response.

Evidence suggests acupuncture can:

  • Modulate cytokine activity

  • Reduce inflammatory signaling

  • Support immune tolerance during implantation

Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) as Adjunctive Support

LLLT (photobiomodulation) uses red and near-infrared wavelengths to improve cellular function and mitochondrial energy production.

Across IVF and FET phases, LLLT may:

  • Improve ovarian and uterine blood flow

  • Enhance mitochondrial activity in oocytes and endometrial tissue

  • Reduce oxidative stress

  • Support tissue recovery and regeneration

  • Improve cellular resilience during treatment

LLLT complements acupuncture by acting directly at the cellular level while acupuncture regulates systemic function.

Emotional & Nervous System Support Across IVF

The emotional demands of IVF and FET can be significant.

Acupuncture sessions provide:

  • A calming, supportive environment

  • Regulation of the stress response

  • Improved emotional resilience and grounding

  • Support before and after procedures

Summary

Acupuncture and LLLT support IVF, egg retrieval, and FET by improving ovarian and uterine blood flow, regulating hormonal and nervous system function, supporting immune balance, enhancing cellular health, and reducing stress-related interference.
Together, they offer integrative support across all phases of assisted reproduction.

References

Balk, J., Catov, J., & Horn, B. (2010). Acupuncture and assisted reproductive technology. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics, 111(3), 216–219.

Buckley, S., et al. (2018). Acupuncture for endometrial receptivity: A systematic review. Reproductive BioMedicine Online, 37(3), 330–341.

de Araujo, J. E., et al. (2019). Photobiomodulation (low-level laser therapy) in fertility treatment: A systematic review. Lasers in Medical Science, 34(6), 1203–1211.

Johansson, M., & Staropoli, P. (2016). Photobiomodulation and reproductive outcomes: Cellular mechanisms and clinical findings. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 34(10), 500–508.

Magarelli, P., Cridennda, D., & Cohen, M. (2009). Changes in stress and vascular markers with acupuncture in IVF patients. Fertility and Sterility, 92(6), S67–S68.

Paulus, W. E., et al. (2002). Influence of acupuncture on pregnancy rates in IVF patients. Fertility and Sterility, 77(4), 721–724.

Smith, C. A., et al. (2019). Acupuncture to improve implantation and pregnancy rates: A meta-analysis. Reproductive Biomedicine Online, 38(3), 364–379.

Yu, X., et al. (2018). Effect of acupuncture on uterine perfusion and implantation markers. Medicine, 97(52), e13776.