1. In vitro fertilization (IVF)
In vitro fertilization, or IVF for short, is a process in which fertilization takes place outside of the body by injecting sperm into the egg. The resulting embryo is nurtured in a Petri dish (in vitro) and then implanted into the femaleos uterus to develop as a normal pregnancy. This procedure was first used successfully in the U.S. in 1981 and has become a widely accepted method of treatment for infertile couples.
A number of studies have confirmed the effectiveness of utilizing acupuncture to treat infertility. A widely published German study found that a test group receiving acupuncture in conjunction with IVF achieved a 42% clinical pregnancy rate compared to only 26% in the control group that did not receive acupuncture. When acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are used in conjunction with IVF, clinical experience suggests the pregnancy rate can be raised to at least 60%.
There are various causes of infertility and many can be treated successfully with in vitro fertilization. The following are some of the reasons for utilizing IVF:
1. Fallopian tube obstruction
2. Low sperm count
3. Abnormal cervical factors
4. immunological factors affecting either partner
5. Infertility after tubal surgery
6. Infertility after treatment for endometriosis
7. Unexplained infertility
For best results, Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, Chinese herbs, dietary and lifestyle therapy, should be used before, during and after IVF. Chinese medicine can help prepare both partners before IVF in order to improve the function of the ovaries, strengthen and regulate the immune system, reduce stress, and improve the quantity and quality of sperm and the quality of the seminal fluid. This is accomplished in the female by the treatment of any and all menstrual irregularities and gynecological problems such as amenorrhea, PMS, fibroids, cysts, or heavy bleeding due to a lack of ovulation. This treatment usually lasts 3 - 6 months. Specific Chinese medical treatment also exists for low sperm count, low sperm motility, abnormal sperm, and problems with the viscosity of the seminal fluid.
After successful implantation of the embryo has taken place, Chinese medicine cam also be used to help prevent miscarriage. In general, Chinese medicine is extremely effective for preventing miscarriage when threatened miscarriage is due to hormonal imbalances, such as low progesterone. For this purpose, it may be used either preventatively when the woman has no symptoms or even after symptoms of threatened miscarriage have appeared.
