Naturopathy and Acupuncture During IVF Treatment
By Fertility Expert Randa Majrouh
No matter where you are on your IVF journey, deciding which direction to take next can feel overwhelming.
The emotional rollercoaster and stress often associated with fertility challenges and IVF treatment can take a significant toll. This is one of the first areas I support couples with when they are trying to conceive, because stress can directly impact your overall health and your fertility outcomes.
If you are considering IVF, or are already undergoing treatment, you likely want to feel confident that you are doing everything possible to improve your chances of success.
Whether your IVF cycle is approaching in one month or six, there are several key steps we can take to support your body before, during and after treatment.
How Can Naturopathy Support IVF?
While procedures like IUI and IVF assist with fertilisation by helping the sperm and egg meet, they do not address underlying factors such as:
Egg quality
Sperm quality
Endometrial lining health
Nutritional deficiencies
Hormonal balance and menstrual cycle regulation
These are all essential for successful fertilisation, implantation and carrying a pregnancy to term.
Naturopathy works alongside IVF by supporting the body at a deeper level, helping to optimise these key factors and improve your chances of a successful pregnancy.
Understanding “Unexplained Infertility”
Many couples are told they have “unexplained infertility”. In my experience, there is almost always an underlying reason, it simply hasn’t been fully explored.
During your consultation, I take a detailed case history to understand your:
Menstrual cycle patterns
Energy levels and sleep
Digestion and gut health
Stress levels and emotional wellbeing
Skin and hormonal indicators
We also review any existing pathology and may recommend further functional testing where needed.
This thorough “detective work” allows us to identify root causes and create a personalised treatment plan to address imbalances and deficiencies that may be impacting fertility.
Lifestyle Support During IVF Treatment
The hormones used during IVF can amplify existing stress and symptoms, which is why supporting your body during this time is essential.
Whether you are currently in a cycle or preparing for one, these areas are key:
Stress Management
Chronic stress can negatively impact hormone balance and fertility. Where possible, reduce external stressors, and develop supportive practices such as relaxation techniques, self-care, and acupuncture to regulate your nervous system.
Reducing Inflammation
Lowering inflammation through diet and environmental awareness can support hormone balance and reproductive health.
Gut Health
Optimising the gut microbiome has a flow-on effect on the immune system, nutrient absorption, hormone regulation and even mood, all of which are important during IVF.
Anxiety Support
Anxiety is not always obvious. Many people become highly functional while still experiencing underlying tension.
Signs of “hidden” anxiety may include:
Overthinking or perfectionism
Muscle tension
Headaches or migraines
Procrastination
Rigid routines
Addressing anxiety with natural therapies can reduce its impact on your body during IVF and support you into pregnancy and motherhood.
Exercise
Regular movement supports circulation, hormone balance, stress reduction and overall wellbeing. Choose something you enjoy and can maintain consistently.
How Acupuncture Can Support IVF Success
Acupuncture is increasingly recognised as a valuable complementary therapy during IVF treatment.
Research suggests that acupuncture performed before and after embryo transfer may improve pregnancy rates. One well-known study reported an increase in success rates from 26% to 43% (Paulus et al., 2002).
Beyond clinical outcomes, many women report that acupuncture helps them feel calmer and more regulated throughout the IVF process.
Acupuncture may support:
Reduced stress and anxiety
Improved blood flow to the uterus
Endometrial lining thickness
Hormonal regulation
Easier embryo transfer experience
It is particularly beneficial if you:
Feel anxious about IVF
Are under significant work or family pressure
Have PCOS, endometriosis or irregular cycles
Experience PMS or hormonal imbalance
Supporting You Through Your IVF Journey
Both naturopathy and acupuncture can play an important role in supporting IVF at every stage, from preparation through to implantation and early pregnancy.
If you are looking for personalised, evidence-informed and natural support to improve your fertility outcomes, I have helped many couples navigate this journey and would be honoured to support you too.
With over 15 years of experience, Randa Majrouh is known for her professionalism, dedication and compassionate approach. She integrates Acupuncture, Western Herbal Medicine and Naturopathy to support couples in achieving optimal fertility and pregnancy outcomes.
Book an appointment online or call our team on 08 9328 9233 to book in.