When you’re going through IVF, every step of the process can feel high-stakes. It’s natural to want to do everything in your power to increase your chances of success. One supportive and research-backed approach that continues to grow in popularity is acupuncture—especially before and after embryo transfer.
As a licensed acupuncturist specializing in fertility and IVF support here in Evanston, I’ve seen firsthand how acupuncture helps women feel more grounded, resilient, and physically prepared for the journey ahead.
Here’s why timing matters—and how you can incorporate acupuncture as part of your IVF success plan.
Acupuncture Before IVF: Laying the Groundwork
The months leading up to your IVF cycle are a powerful window to prepare your body for what's ahead.
Regular acupuncture before IVF has been shown to:
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Improve ovarian response to stimulation medications
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Regulate estrogen and FSH levels
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Enhance uterine blood flow and endometrial lining thickness
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Reduce anxiety and stress-related inflammation
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this phase is about building qi and blood, supporting kidney and liver function, and harmonizing the menstrual cycle so that egg quality and receptivity are optimized.
When to start: Ideally, begin acupuncture 8–12 weeks before your stimulation meds. But even a few weeks of treatment can be beneficial.
Acupuncture During IVF Stimulation
As you begin hormone injections, your body is working hard. Acupuncture during this stage supports:
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Follicle growth and maturation
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Regulation of side effects (bloating, headaches, mood swings)
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Supporting liver qi to help metabolize medications
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Emotional balance during frequent monitoring
At my clinic, I use point protocols tailored to each phase of your cycle, always with gentle care and trauma-informed touch.
Acupuncture After Embryo Transfer: Supporting Implantation
This is perhaps the most important—and emotionally charged—moment of your IVF journey. You’ve come so far, and now your body needs to be still, warm, and receptive.
Acupuncture after embryo transfer can:
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Reduce uterine contractions that may interfere with implantation
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Calm the autonomic nervous system, reducing cortisol and increasing blood flow
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Support progesterone levels to maintain the uterine lining
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Provide emotional grounding during the two-week wait
In fact, multiple studies show that women who receive acupuncture both before and after embryo transfer have higher implantation and pregnancy rates.
Why It Works (Western + Eastern Perspectives)
From a biomedical lens:
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Acupuncture stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, allowing the body to shift into a “rest and digest” state, ideal for implantation.
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It improves blood circulation, especially to the uterus and ovaries.
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It promotes the release of beta-endorphins and reduces cortisol—helping you stay calm during a stressful time.
From a TCM perspective:
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It harmonizes the flow of qi and blood to the uterus
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Warms the womb, tonifies kidney jing, and calms the shen (spirit)
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Strengthens the connection between the Heart and Uterus—the emotional and reproductive centers
My Approach: Gentle, Rooted, and Personalized
At Lisa Meyerson Acupuncture, I take a patient-centered, collaborative approach to IVF support. Every protocol is tailored to your cycle, constitution, and emotional needs. I often coordinate with local fertility clinics and endocrinologists to ensure seamless, integrated care.
Many patients say that acupuncture is the first time in their IVF process they feel seen and relaxed.
Book Your IVF Support Sessions
Acupuncture before and after IVF isn't just about needles—it's about creating the conditions for hope, healing, and possibility.
Located in Evanston and serving the North Shore
Call or text 773-517-7187
Book online at www.lisameyerson.com
Let’s support your IVF journey with wisdom, compassion, and evidence-based care.
Read next: After Embryo Transfer Care: a TCM Inspired Guide
Lisa Meyerson
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