Is Acupuncture for Infertility a Scam?
Acupuncture and Infertility – Tracing Its Roots
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing practice dating back over a thousand years. Some medical practitioners in the West accept this treatment as a valid way of addressing several types of ailments. It can address problems with muscle tension, the skin and even help one quit smoking, among others. Recent research findings show that acupuncture is beneficial to couples experiencing infertility.
The Western View
Despite its popularity, a lot of Westerners still doubt the effectiveness of acupuncture. No scientific evidence is available to support acupuncture and, as a result, many healthcare professionals are reluctant to recommend it. A lot of studies are already being conducted on the matter, the National Institutes of Health in the US says.
Hazards To Health
Acupuncture performed by a trained professional is generally painless. Very few patients experience adverse effects. Some of the usual risks linked with acupuncture include minimal bleeding, organ puncturing, broken or forgotten needles, and the spread of infection. These can be done away with by having an experienced practitioner perform therapy. However, acupuncture must not be performed on people who have bleeding disorders and those who use blood thinning agents.
A Single or Complementary Process
Acupuncture taken by itself is a great aid to fertility procedures. It may also be seen as a procedure that can enhance the effects of modern fertility therapies. Used as a single method, acupuncture brings positive results to people who have functional reproductive problems, like intermittent ovulation. Taken alone, it may not work as well in addressing structural issues, like a blockage in the sperm duct.
Some acupuncture practitioners recommend that Chinese herbs be used alongside acupuncture procedures and treatments. If you are under medication, check your doctor before taking herbs. There are certain herbs that may inhibit the action of fertility procedures and drugs.
Acupuncture and Fertility - Is It Truly Effective?
How acupuncture works as a cure for infertility is still debatable. However, many practicing acupuncturists assert that this ancient treatment normalizes the body’s system. It boosts the flow of blood into reproductive organs and helps stabilize hormonal functions. Ovarian function is boosted and sperm production is enhanced, as a result.
Acupuncture benefits women positively, particularly those who are undergoing fertility boosting therapies. Some say that the stress that comes with fertility procedures can also be lessened with acupuncture. Studies show that acupuncture helps raise a woman’s chance of conception when acupuncture is applied with in vitro fertilization.
Choosing the Right Practitioner
Doctors in the field of medicine who wish to practice acupuncture have to take nearly 300 hours of training before becoming certified. Professionals in other fields who would like to specialize solely in acupuncture have to train for 2,000 to 3,000 hours and complete board examinations to qualify as acupuncturists.
A lot of people are into acupuncture nowadays, and this number is rising by the day. To ensure that potential patients land in the hands of good practitioners, a few things must be considered. People who are thinking of undergoing acupuncture must do a background check on a potential acupuncturist. A practitioner should have the training and certification required by the state or other government authority where he or she conducts practice.One can find good recommendations from family and friends who have tried acupuncture services of certain providers.
Before jumping into the procedure, patients should always ask about the possible total costs to be prepared. It is good to know that certain insurance plans include acupuncture expenses in their roster.
Know What to Expect
Several acupuncture treatments have to be undergone before one gets the best results. Frequent visits, usually lasting a few weeks to a few months, must be done to maximize its benefits. A visit to the acupuncturist normally goes on for an hour or so, as this time will be used to discuss your present health condition and entertain any question about the entire procedure.
