TCM IVF Support

Stage 1: Preparatory Phase (2-3 months before IVF cycle)

Hormonal imbalances in the body due to stressful lifestyle or after a failed IVF/ET treatment can affect the interplay of the body’s own hormones and disrupt the maturation of the ovum and the construction of the endometrium and development of the embryo. Some patients suffer from depression or nervous agitation, which gives rise to or aggravates additional symptoms like exhaustion, insomnia, or changes in appetite and weight. In this case, it is recommended to regulate the imbalances in the body for 2–3 months with TCM and to allow the body to recuperate before the start of another IVF treatment.

These deviations from the ideal state provide the explanation for a continued lack of pregnancy in spite of the fact that the biomedical preconditions, for example, an endometrial thickness of 10 mm, good embryo morphology, and an optimal hormonal state,are fulfilled. TCM always treats the whole person. A healthy appetite and sleep, balanced emotional state, and regular digestion are good and important signs for the patient.

Stage 2: Down-regulation Phase

In this phase, the patient receives high doses of GnRH-a (gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist), often known as a “long protocol”, to inhibit the activityof the reproductive axis and the body’s own hormones. This is called down-regulation and often begins in the luteal phase of the previous cycle. Patients with endometriosis and adenomyosis are treated for 2–3 months to control the endometriosis lesions. Patients with an irregular cycle or FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) levels of more than 15 U/L are often given the “pill,” for example Marvelon, for 1–3 months prior to the start of IVF/ET treatment. This protocol is increasingly ditched in favour of the ‘short protocol’, and is usually done for patients with low follicles extraction.

The purpose of TCM during the “down-regulation phase” serves to replenish and supplement blood and essence without stimulating the reproductive function, which would run counter to the downregulation by GnRH-a. Our purpose of giving TCM is NOT to replace the function of GnRH. In addition, the use of IVF medications, such as Lupron, often results in Yin deficiency with Heat symptoms, which can be usually managed by acupuncture.

Stage 3: Ovulation Induction Phase

This phase corresponds to the length of time that the patient is taking gonadotropin-FSH or hMG (human menopausal gonadotropin) to stimulate the maturation of the oocyte. 

In addition to improving blood circulation to the pelvis, the treatment also helps to regulate the body’s response to the medications, so that any over-stimulation or under-stimulation is rectified. Usually, 3-5 acupuncture sessions are recommended during this phase before embryo retrival.

Stage 4: Egg Retrieval

This phase begins at the point in time when the follicles are almost fully matured and lasts until 1 day before the embryo transfer (ET). During this time span, patients undergo a variety of tests (blood tests, ultrasound, etc.) and surgeries; they are therefore often very tense. Acupuncture plays a big role in calming the patient in this phase.

Stage 5: Embryo Transfer

Research has shown that it is beneficial to perform acupuncture 25 minutes before and after embryo transfer to boost IVF success rate. in EMW Physiotherapy & TCM, we recommend patients to do acupuncture 1 hr before and after their embryo transfer.