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2228 Sixth Street,
Berkeley, California 94710
510.540.6267
Serving Berkeley,
Oakland & the East Bay Area
Acupuncture Combined With In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Since 1987, Dr. Rakela has helped couples undergoing IVF, Donor egg IVF, IUI's, and taking Clomid to improve the outcome of their assisted reproductive procedures. She was one of the first acupuncturists to work with IVF patients of a local Berkeley reproductive endocrinologist to help his patients with side effects of fertility medication. Most of these patients got pregnant.
For over twenty years, she has accumulated knowledge of the latest infertility procedures and medications and has expertise in integrating Chinese medicine with Western assisted reproductive technology.
IVF Acupuncture Protocols
Dr. Rakela uses an electro-acupuncture protocol based on a Swedish study to increase the uterine artery blood flow. This can have an effect on increasing the uterine lining and can enhance possibilities of implantation during an IVF procedure.
This protocol recommends eight acupuncture treatments two times per week to increase blood flow to the uterus. The timing of these treatments is important. They should start at the beginning of the fertility cycle and continue until the embryo transfer date or until the endometrial thickness is 10-12mm.
Another IVF acupuncture protocol that Dr. Rakela recommends is to have acupuncture before and after the embryo transfer. Research shows that IVF success rates are higher for women who have acupuncture while undergoing IVF.
Other Ways Acupuncture Can Help
Acupuncture can also help reduce some the side effects of the hormone medications that must be taking for an IVF procedure. Some women have auto immune issues or high natural killer cells that affect implantation during an IVF cycle. Acupuncture can help these patients too.
After the embryo transfer, acupuncture should continue once per week for the first trimester to help prevent miscarriage.
If you are planning an IVF cycle or donor egg IVF cycle, please call us at 510.540.6267 to schedule a consultation regarding the most effective acupuncture fertility treatment plan for you.