Light Acupuncture for Fertility
Most people think about red light panels when they hear about red light therapy but there’s a new kid on the block - photopuncture - and if you don’t like needles - you’re going to love this!
If you’re on a fertility journey, you know it can be such a head melt! For many, in vitro fertilization (IVF) offers some hope. But there’s an emerging ally in the quest to improve IVF success rates - laser acupuncture, also known as photobiomodulation. This innovative approach is gaining traction, and today, we’ll look at the research on this simple treatment that you can do at home. So, grab a cup of tea, get comfy, and let’s explore this exciting development together.
Note:
(If you’re already familiar with PBM for fertility the general consensus is not to use red light devices during the 2WW but most women don’t know that they can safely use photopuncture on specific health and wellness points during that time to support implantation).
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Light/Laser acupuncture is painless and effective.
What is Laser/LED Acupuncture?
First things first, let’s break down what laser acupuncture, or photobiomodulation, actually is. Traditional acupuncture uses fine needles to stimulate specific points on the body, promoting healing and balance. Laser acupuncture takes this a step further by using low-level lasers to activate these points, offering a non-invasive alternative that’s just as effective. The laser light penetrates the skin, travels along the meridians stimulating cellular activity and enhancing the body’s natural healing processes. Pretty cool, right?
The Science Behind Laser Acupuncture and IVF
Now, you might be wondering, how does shining a light on your skin help with fertility? Let’s dive into the science:
Improved Blood Flow: Laser acupuncture enhances microcirculation, increasing blood flow to the ovaries and uterus. This boost in blood flow can improve the health of your reproductive organs, creating a more favorable environment for implantation.
Reduced Inflammation: By reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, laser acupuncture helps create a less hostile environment in the uterus. This reduction in inflammation can improve the chances of embryo implantation and development.
Hormonal Balance: Laser acupuncture can help regulate the endocrine system, balancing hormones that are crucial for ovulation and maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Balanced hormones mean better ovulation and improved chances of conception.
Stress Reduction: The process of IVF can be incredibly stressful, and we all know that stress isn’t great for fertility. Laser acupuncture promotes relaxation and reduces stress, helping to create a calmer, more supportive environment for conception. (A study on using light acupuncture on specific acupoints for depression demonstrated blood flow changes within the brain in the areas in brain scans).
Recent Studies
While laser acupuncture is still relatively new, research is promising. Here are a few key studies that highlight its potential:
Study One: A large study of 1000 women was published in Fertility and Sterility and found that women who received light acupuncture alongside their IVF treatment had higher implantation and pregnancy rates compared to those who did not receive the treatment. It was more effective than needle acupuncture (yay if you don’t like needles). They reported a 33% implantation rate - 42% of those women gave birth.
Study Two: In this 2018 RCT on Laser Acupuncture for PCOS concludes that “based on the present analysis, laser acupoints stand for an efficient and safe form of acupuncture for the treatment of PCOS women and could be considered as a viable alternative or complement to pharmacological induction of ovulation.”
How to Incorporate Laser Acupuncture into Your IVF Journey
If you’re ready to give laser acupuncture a try, here are some steps to get started:
Consult with Your IVF Specialist: Discuss the potential benefits of laser acupuncture with your fertility specialist. They can guide you on how to integrate it into your existing treatment plan.
Find a Qualified Practitioner: Look for a Certified Light Therapist (yours truly) to provide information and support using your own tools at home or ask your acupuncturist if you attend one.
Commit to a Treatment Schedule: Consistency is key. Work with your practitioner to develop a treatment schedule that aligns with your IVF cycle. Regular sessions can help maximize the benefits of laser acupuncture.
Practice Self-Care: Remember, this journey is about more than just treatments. Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your routine, eat a balanced diet, and get plenty of rest. Your body and mind will thank you!
This is the torch I use and recommend. This way you continue to activate specific, safe acupuncture health points during the 2WW.
The journey to parenthood can be challenging, but innovations like laser acupuncture offer new hope and possibilities. By improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, balancing hormones, and lowering stress, laser acupuncture can give you a better shot at IVF success. As always, it’s essential to explore all your options and find what works best for you. Here’s to taking control of your fertility journey and embracing the possibilities!
Stay hopeful!
Tracy
Don’t forget to download your free Fertility & Red Light Resources
