acupuncture and IUI

trigirl79

I'm considering acupuncture in conjunction with round 2. I've never done it before but I figure it wouldn't hurt to try. Does anyone have any experience? I'm not sure what to look for in terms of a therapist/practitioner or how it works scheduling wise?

Thanks!

Mnerani

I did it with my successful IUI. She wanted to see me once a week, starting as soon as possible. In other words, there wasn't a specific point in my cycle that she wanted to start. I went once a week at the beginning of the cycle, and for the whole first tri. Also, we had extra sessions a few days before and then one day after my IUI. 

Anyway, if you get someone experienced with fertility issues, they'll instruct you on the days that they want to see you.

Overall, it was a good experience. Make sure it's a relaxing thing for you, and not just "one more thing" you are squeezing in to a hectic schedule, or a strain on your budget. I always thought that would probably defeat the purpose.

kmc84

I did acupuncture with both BFP IVF cycles and I have started going again for my June IVF.

Ask your RE if there is anyone they recommend. Finding someone who is familiar with IF treatments schedules is important.

Be aware that (in my experience!) the acupuncturist will want to see you several weeks before your cycle starts to give you the greatest advantage. I go (generally) very two weeks before stims, weekly or twice weekly during stims, day before ER, just before and just after ET.

Ruthie04

I did it for 6 mos before the boys' BFP (both IUI and multiple IVF cycles). It was wonderfully relaxing and I think it really helped with my cramps. I even continued it into pregnancy.

It's been an early morning, but am I wrong in thinking you are in Nova? I went to a guy in Fairfax who specializes in fertility. He's super nice and knowledgeable about cycles. He has Saturday appts and will schedule you based on your progress throughout the cycle. He will, however, want you to wait to cycle so you can get the optimal benefit. He is especially big into waiting 3 mos between triggers to ensure better egg quality (he said there's new research to support this philosophy). Also, if you end up going to shady grove in Rockville for procedures, they have an onsite place that I used for my successful ET. It's like a spa there- SO peaceful!

blueberries8

The cycles that I did acu I think I went something like 2x during stimming and then once before transfer and once right after transfer. For IUI, I imagine it would be something similar, with the before & after sessions scheduled around the IUI itself. I'd look for someone with particular specialization in fertility if possible. My first acupuncturist was super nice but didn't have so much specific knowledge about fertility, while the 2nd acupuncturist based her whole practice around fertility and I felt like she was possibly more helpful. Good luck!!

mdiblasi10

I did acupuncture with several of my IUI cycles and I'm doing it with this IVF too. I really enjoy it. If nothing else, it's a nice time to myself to relax. I have been to both a fertility only acupuncturist with needles in, lay there and leave, and now a healing center where she focuses on overall body health as well as fertility, and even massage. If you go, I hope you enjoy it

trigirl79

I can't afford a lot of ongoing treatment either, @bellalou32. AF showed yesterday so I go for CD 3 testing tomorrow. I've found a couple people close by and with Sat hours - so I am hoping even just a few treatments will at least put me in a better more relaxed mindset, which can't hurt! 

@Ruthie04, I am in NOVA and may end up with needing to go to Rockville on Sunday - thanks for the info

Mayzie15

I didn't do Accupuncture my first IVF cycle and it was a bfn. My second I did it and it was BFP. I'm mid cycle and doing Accupuncture again and hoping it will help again. I agree with others it's expensive and MH and I both go it's probably 2k a cycle. Expensive but less than another cycle since we are completely OOP. I really believe it makes a difference. If it helps I've heard if finances are tight the most important appt to keep is right after transfer.

wishiwaspreggo

I just started seeing a reproductive acupuncturist for IUI myself recently.  He had me come in midway through my stimulation phase (CD 6) and then he's having me come in as close to my IUI as possible, and then once more a week after IUI.  He works directly with my RE so they all know what's going on with me.  I asked him about success rates with acupuncture and he says based on his tracking a woman has a 15% increased chance of getting pregnant with acupuncture than without.  It costs $98 per session which is pricey but considering the cost of my Follistim was the cost of 3 sessions I figure it must be worth it.

Anyway, I'd try to seek someone out who specializes in IF.  It's worth the drive for me to see my acupuncturist since he's connected to my RE's office.

Like others said, it is relaxing.  Especially the needles on my back - those actually feel really good.  I fell asleep at my last session The ones in the belly are uncomfortable for me but I notice when I get to my car afterwards that I have mild cramps.  Nothing terrible, just kind of a heaviness and dull ache.  I take it as a tangible sign that it's working.  Anyway, I'm hoping it will help.  I'll find out more on Friday at my next ultrasound!