At least half of my patients have decided to use acupuncture as an adjunctive therapy to assist their chances of success with IVF

This means I need to be effective in providing support for those patients. I also, through long experience, am very aware of the emotional and financial difficulties, the mood swings and relationship stresses and the anxieties of each part of the treatment and the wait for the result.

I take into account each individual couple's case history - the reasons for choosing assisted reproductive techniques, the struggles you have already been through and the implications for your lifestyles, family and jobs.

IVF is a choice and it is usually a positive choice.  It is important to remember this and to go into it optimistically.  I know from experience that acupuncture and the relaxation techniques I teach very much help the experience of IVF and make it less of an emotional drain.

I recommend that a couple comes to see me 3 months before starting IVF.  This gives me, and you, a chance to address issues, especially those linked to diet and stress.  The earlier you come, the more chance there is of improving sperm and egg quality for your IVF cycle.

Acupuncture is also essential during the IVF cycle.  Usually weekly sessions are given during the down-regulating phase, weekly or bi-weekly during the stimulating phase; then once pre, and once post embryo-transfer.  I also suggest you come once around 'implantation' (approximately day 5-6 post fertilisation) and during the wait for results as acupuncture is very effective in helping you to keep calm and anxiety levels low.

I always recommend regular treatment through to the end of the first trimester once pregnancy is confirmed.