5 IVF Success Tips You Haven’t Tried Yet (That Can Make a Big Difference)

Acupuncture and lifestyle practices can support IVF success naturally.

Going through IVF can be an overwhelming and emotional process—and when you’re investing so much of your time, money, and hope, it’s natural to want every possible advantage. You may already know about avoiding stress and following your doctor’s instructions, but here are five often-overlooked IVF success tips rooted in holistic care and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that can help optimize your results.

1. Start Acupuncture Before Your IVF Cycle

Most people wait until embryo transfer to seek acupuncture—but studies show that starting acupuncture 1–3 months before your IVF cycle can significantly improve blood flow to the uterus, regulate hormones, and reduce stress-related inflammation. These are all key factors in increasing IVF success rates.

In my Evanston clinic, I recommend patients begin treatment as soon as they know an IVF cycle is planned. Sessions can be customized based on your cycle stage (stimulation, retrieval, transfer, or luteal phase) for maximum benefit.

2. Support Your Luteal Phase with Warmth and Stillness

In TCM, the luteal phase (post-ovulation or post-transfer) is about implantation and quiet nourishment. We treat this time with extra care. Keep your belly and feet warm, avoid cold foods, and minimize high-impact activity. This doesn’t mean bed rest—but gentle movement like walking or stretching is ideal.

Warm, nourishing foods like soups and congee are encouraged, while iced drinks and raw veggies should be limited. Supporting the body’s natural warmth can aid implantation and reduce uterine spasms.

3. Regulate Your Nervous System Daily

IVF isn’t just physical—it’s deeply emotional. Chronic stress affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis and can impact ovulation, hormone balance, and implantation. Acupuncture helps calm the nervous system, especially the vagus nerve, which plays a role in reproductive regulation.

I often teach patients breathwork or recommend apps like Insight Timer. Even 10 minutes a day of mindfulness practice can help your body feel safe and more receptive.

4. Nourish Your Blood and Yin

In Chinese medicine, we talk a lot about building blood and yin—two foundational substances that support the uterus and ovaries. IVF medications can sometimes deplete yin or overstimulate yang.

Foods like black sesame, dark leafy greens, cooked beets, eggs, and bone broth help nourish these key aspects of your fertility. Herbs may also be prescribed based on your constitution, but they should be customized by a licensed practitioner and paused during stimulation unless approved by your doctor.

5. Build a Support Team You Trust

No one should go through IVF alone. Emotional support is just as important as physical preparation. Whether it’s your partner, a friend, a therapist, or your acupuncturist, lean into people who help you feel safe, hopeful, and seen.

At Lisa Meyerson Acupuncture, I work with patients throughout the entire IVF process—from cycle planning through the two-week wait and beyond. I collaborate with your fertility clinic and make space for your emotions, not just your lab results.

‍ Why Holistic IVF Support Matters

These lesser-known IVF success tips come from thousands of years of TCM wisdom and modern clinical experience. They’re simple, non-invasive, and often overlooked—but when practiced consistently, they can offer a profound boost to your fertility journey.