Acupuncture is the insertion of thin needles into defined locations on the body to affect bodily function. The general theory of acupuncture is based on the premise that there are patterns of energy flow (Qi) through the body, which are essential for health. Disruption of this flow is believed to be responsible for disease. Acupuncture can correct imbalances of flow.

Some studies have shown that acupuncture has an effect on brain chemicals called endorphins. Endorphins can affect the levels of the pituitary hormones which control the function of the ovaries. Acupuncture therefore may be able to influence ovulation and fertility. Acupuncture may also help improve blood flow to the uterus (womb).

Acupuncture may be used with IVF treatments before embryo transfer to relax the uterus. Contractions of the uterus at the time of embryo transfer may result in expulsion of the embryos. If contractions can be reduced with acupuncture, there may be an improved chance of pregnancy.

Integrative Medical Care, Dr. Mary B. Laney CRNA, NMD, L.Ac,

Dr. Laney is a graduate of Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona, and is licensed in Arizona as a Naturopathic Medical Doctor. She completed a Masters Degree in acupuncture at the Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture and is also a Licensed Acupuncturist. She has been granted Diplomat status by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

Acupuncture and Infertility at Integrative Medical Care: Chinese medicine is an ancient system of healing that has been practiced for over 4000 years. This system of medicine includes acupuncture, herbal therapy, dietary recommendations, massage and lifestyle counseling. Acupuncture is the most commonly known modality in this country.

Acupuncture treatment for infertility involves placing sterile needles into the patients' bodies at very specific points, to influence and encourage smooth flow of 'Qi' or 'vital energy' along well defined pathways or meridians. These pathways run throughout the body and are connected to internal organs as well as to the exterior body. Since the aim of traditional Chinese healing is to "normalize," "harmonize," and "to bring into balance," acupuncture is a means of influencing this 'vital energy' to induce a desired physiological effect on the problems associated with male and female infertility.

While the physiologic mechanisms by which acupuncture may affect the uterus and reproductive system, as well as sperm quality have not been fully identified by conventional medical means, researchers are finding that as a practical matter, at least among their small study populations, the technique is working. For example, results from a recent study in Germany indicate that adding acupuncture to the treatment protocol of IVF patients greatly enhances their chances of becoming pregnant. The study found that using acupuncture with IVF achieved a 42% clinical pregnancy rate compared to only 26% in the control group that did not receive acupuncture.

Learn more about acupuncture and infertility and how to coordinate acupuncture treatments with your assisted reproductive technology procedures by contacting Dr. Laney at Integrative Medical Care, 480-948-1946 or go to www.integrativemedicalcare.com

AcuHealth, Robert Koagedal, BA, MSOM, L.Ac.

Robert Koagedal, L.Ac., is a board certified in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. He has trained with the best practitioners in the world both in the U.S. and The Peoples Republic of China. His professional credentials include: licensed acupuncturist in Arizona; Nationally Board Certified in Chinese Medicine (NCCAOM); Masters of Science degree from Southwest Acupuncture College; National Clean Needle Technique Certification in Acupuncture; and Honors graduate from San Francisco State University BA East/Asian Philosophy. His professional experience includes: founder and director of AcuHealth Integrative Wellness Center in Scottsdale, Arizona; advanced clinical training at China's renowned International Academy of Chinese Medicine in Beijing, China; Clinical intern for three years at the S.W.A.C. clinic in Santa Fe treating community members and focusing on post stroke pain management and motor rehabilitation; NADA training for addiction and recovery at Lincoln Hospital Bronx in New York; and chief acupuncturist at Integrative Health Services focusing on pain management and recovery from sports injuries in New York City.

Acupuncture and Infertility at AcuHealth: Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine are a complete system of health care. At AcuHealth, you will receive care from licensed, board certified health care practitioners. The staff maintains the highest credentials available to Acupuncturists. Robert Koagedal has the ability and experience to treat complex medical complaints. From severe back pain to insomnia, Chinese medicine has resolved these conditions for thousands of years. A large part of his current practice focuses on OB/GYN concerns including infertility, PMS, irregular menstruation, fibroids, ovarian cysts, menopausal symptoms, breech presentation, post partum fatigue and depression.

At AcuHealth you will have access to a variety of choices for treatment, including acupuncture, custom-formulated herbal medicines, massage therapy, nutritional counseling, therapeutic exercises, tai ji, meditation therapies, or a needle free treatment program. Our personal guarantee assures you that if you are unsatisfied with a particular treatment or service, given on that day, you will never be required to pay for that appointment.

Learn more about acupuncture and infertility at AcuHealth and how to coordinate acupuncture treatments with your assisted reproductive technology procedures by contacting Robert Koagedal at AcuHealth, 480-477-7722 or go to www.acuhealthaz.com.