tcm ivf support

TCM IVF Support

TCM IVF acupuncture is increasingly sought by couples undergoing in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) who want to improve implantation rates, regulate stress hormones, and optimise reproductive outcomes naturally.
At EMW TCM, we provide evidence-informed TCM IVF acupuncture to support patients before, during, and after IVF, safely and professionally.

IVF is not just a reproductive procedure. It is a whole-body process.
Hormonal stimulation, repeated injections, emotional stress, and sleep disruption can all affect uterine receptivity and embryo implantation. TCM IVF acupuncture works by supporting the body’s internal balance so that IVF can work more effectively.

How can TCM help in IVF Support?

TCM IVF acupuncture is a specialised form of acupuncture designed to support assisted reproductive treatments such as IVF and IUI.
It is grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnostics and modern reproductive physiology.

From a TCM perspective, successful IVF requires:

  • Adequate Kidney Essence (精) to support egg quality

  • Smooth Liver Qi flow to regulate hormones and reduce stress

  • Strong Blood circulation to the uterus for implantation

  • A calm, regulated nervous system for optimal hormonal signalling

TCM IVF acupuncture addresses these factors simultaneously, rather than focusing on the uterus alone.

How TCM IVF Acupuncture Supports IVF Outcomes

Clinical research and real-world IVF practice suggest that TCM IVF acupuncture may improve outcomes by influencing multiple biological pathways, including:

1. Improving Uterine Blood Flow

Acupuncture has been shown to increase blood circulation to the uterus and ovaries, supporting endometrial thickness and receptivity.

2. Regulating the Nervous System and Stress Hormones

IVF is physically and emotionally demanding. TCM IVF acupuncture helps regulate cortisol, calm the nervous system, and reduce sympathetic overdrive, which may otherwise interfere with implantation.

3. Supporting Hormonal Balance

By influencing the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, TCM IVF acupuncture may help modulate FSH, LH, estrogen, and progesterone responses during IVF cycles.

4. Supporting Implantation and Luteal Phase Stability

Post-transfer acupuncture focuses on Blood nourishment, uterine warmth, and emotional regulation, which are critical during the implantation window.

When Should You Start TCM IVF Acupuncture?

For best results, TCM IVF acupuncture is recommended to begin 8–12 weeks before IVF stimulation.
This timeframe aligns with:

  • Egg maturation cycles

  • Endometrial preparation

  • Nervous system regulation

However, TCM IVF acupuncture can still be beneficial even if started during an active IVF cycle, particularly for:

  • Stress regulation

  • Blood flow optimisation

  • Post-embryo transfer support

Who Is TCM IVF Acupuncture Suitable For?

TCM IVF acupuncture is suitable for:

  • Women preparing for IVF or ICSI

  • Patients with previous failed IVF cycles

  • Women with thin endometrium or poor uterine blood flow

  • High-stress IVF patients

  • Couples seeking integrative IVF support

Our TCM IVF Acupuncture Approach at EMW TCM

At EMW TCM, IVF acupuncture is physician-led, individualised, and coordinated with your fertility treatment plan.

Our approach includes:

  • Cycle-specific acupuncture protocols

  • Pre-IVF, stimulation, retrieval, and transfer-phase adjustments

  • Gentle techniques appropriate for IVF patients

  • Clear safety boundaries during embryo transfer periods

No one-size-fits-all protocols.
Every TCM IVF acupuncture plan is adjusted according to:

  • Your IVF timeline

  • Hormonal response

  • Age and reproductive history

  • Stress levels and sleep quality

Is TCM IVF Acupuncture Safe?

Yes, when performed by trained and registered practitioners.
At EMW TCM:

  • All treatments are administered by licensed TCM physicians

  • Sterile, single-use needles are used

  • Points are carefully selected to avoid uterine overstimulation during sensitive phases

We do not prescribe herbal medicine during active IVF stimulation or embryo transfer unless medically appropriate and coordinated with your fertility specialist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – TCM IVF Acupuncture

Does TCM IVF acupuncture really improve IVF success rates?

Studies suggest that acupuncture performed before and after embryo transfer may improve implantation and pregnancy rates. Results vary based on individual health, timing, and treatment quality.


When is the best time to do acupuncture during IVF?

The most critical periods are:

  • 8–12 weeks before IVF

  • During ovarian stimulation

  • Immediately before and after embryo transfer (if coordinated safely)


Is acupuncture safe on embryo transfer day?

Yes, TCM IVF acupuncture is safe on transfer day when performed correctly. Techniques are gentle and focused on relaxation and blood flow, not stimulation.


Can I do TCM IVF acupuncture if I’m already on hormonal injections?

Yes. TCM IVF acupuncture works alongside IVF medications and does not interfere with injections or hormonal protocols.


Do you prescribe Chinese herbs during IVF?

No. Chinese herbal medicine is usually paused during active IVF cycles unless specifically indicated and coordinated with your fertility doctor.

Why Choose EMW TCM for IVF Acupuncture in Singapore

  • Physician-led, evidence-informed care
  • Extensive experience supporting IVF patients
  • Safe, conservative, and integrative protocols
  • Clear communication with fertility timelines

If you are undergoing IVF and want structured, professional TCM IVF acupuncture support, EMW TCM is here to guide you.

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When to Seek Professional TCM Fertility Help

Fertility is not just a matter of age or hormones. It is a reflection of the body’s internal harmony. Traditional Chinese Medicine provides an integrative and natural way to restore this balance, supporting both physical and emotional readiness for conception.

At EMW TCM Singapore, our team of experienced physicians brings together centuries-old wisdom and modern evidence to guide your fertility journey. Whether you are trying naturally or preparing for IVF, we are here to help you create the best internal environment for new life to begin.

If you have been trying to conceive for more than six to twelve months, experience irregular menses, painful periods, or have been diagnosed with PCOS, endometriosis, or low sperm count, consider a consultation. Professional TCM fertility care aims to correct the underlying imbalance rather than simply forcing ovulation or hormone production.

Check out our links below to book your fertility consultation and begin your holistic journey toward conception.

EMW TCM Clinics

Scotts Medical Centre Branch

9 Scotts Road #10-04, Scotts Medical Centre @ Pacific Plaza,
Singapore 228210
Book Your Appointment With Us Here: +65 89585869

International Building Branch

360 Orchard Road, International Building #02-05/06
Singapore 238869
Book Your Appointment With Us Here: +65 89585869

Our Physicians

Principal TCM Physician

  • M.Med(TCM Gynaecology)
  • B.Sc(Hons) Biomedical Sciences
  • Dip. Naturopath
  • Ayurvedic Therapist(500hrs)
  • Registered TCM Physician (Singapore MOH)

Senior TCM Physician

  • M.Med(TCM Acupuncture & Moxibustion)
  • B.Sc(Hons) Biomedical Sciences
  • Certified Aromatherapist
  • Registered TCM Physician (Singapore MOH)

TCM Physician

  • M.Med(TCM Gynaecology)
  • B.Sc(Hons) Biomedical Sciences
  • Registered TCM Physician (Singapore MOH)

TCM Physician

  • B.Med(TCM)
  • B.Sc(Hons) Biomedical Sciences
  • International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
  • Registered TCM Physician (Singapore MOH)

References

Kusuma, A. C., Oktari, N., Mihardja, H., Srilestari, A., Simadibrata, C. L., Hestiantoro, A., … Muna, N. (2019).   Medical Acupuncture, 31(5), 289–297. doi:10.1089/acu.2019.1368

Wolfgang E Paulus, Mingmin Zhang, M.D.b, Erwin Strehler, M.D.a, Imam El-Danasouri, Ph.D.a, Karl Sterzik, M.D.a. Influence of acupuncture on the pregnancy rate in patients who undergo assisted reproduction therapy. Fertility and Sterility April 2002 Volume 77, Issue 4, Pages 721–724

Rubin, L. E., Opsahl, M. S., Wiemer, K. E., Mist, S. D., & Caughey, A. B. (2015). Impact of whole systems traditional Chinese medicine on in-vitro fertilization outcomes. Reproductive BioMedicine Online, 30(6), 602-612. doi:10.1016/j.rbmo.2015.02.005

Isoyama , Cordts EB, de Souza van Niewegen AM. Effect of acupuncture on symptoms of anxiety in women undergoing in vitro fertilisation: a prospective randomised controlled study Acupunct Med. 2012 Jun;30(2):85-8. doi: 10.1136/acupmed-2011-010064. Epub 2012 Apr 12.