Mental Health Podcasts

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Mental Health Podcasts can help people feel less alone with whatever they’re dealing with. While they shouldn’t be viewed as medical experts and should never replace psychiatric care, they can offer validation and expert-backed advice for living with everything from anxiety to bipolar disorder.

Podcasts

Personal stories based on courage and vulnerability are often a draw for listeners, while podcasts that incorporate humor and levity may also resonate.

The best mental health podcasts educate their listeners while remaining accessible through the use of plain language, humor or insightful interviews. For example, the podcast SentiMental features interviews with comedians, internet personalities and musicians who live with a variety of mental health conditions including depression, OCD, bipolar disorder and more. The podcast Closer to Fine is a candid conversation about mental health between two friends who are able to broach topics most people would shy away from at the dinner table with self-deprecating humor and love.

Several studies have found that listening to podcasts about mental health is associated with psychological benefits such as developing mental health literacy (Mumbauer & Kelchner, 2017; Miles et al., 2020). In one study, participants rated podcasts about mental health as higher than private counseling or GP/MD visits for their ability to help them understand their own emotions and the emotional challenges of others.

Many of these podcasts feature personal individuals who have experienced a mental health challenge, often for the first time. Listening to someone who has walked through the same struggles can be an empowering and validating experience for those who have struggled themselves. This type of psychoeducation can also help to break down stigma around a particular condition and inspire others to seek treatment.

A common feature of many mental health podcasts is the discussion of sensitive and sometimes controversial topics, such as body image, addiction and recovery, and domestic violence. If you are not comfortable listening to these kinds of discussions, it may be a good idea to choose another podcast.

Some of the most popular podcasts are based on relationships between celebrity or public figures, such as The Read, hosted by Crissle and her co-host Glennon Doyle, who are a married duo who share their own experiences with a variety of difficult topics. The show has received critical acclaim and is frequently listed as the number one podcast in a variety of media outlets. In addition to their regular conversations, the hosts regularly feature guests who discuss a range of important issues facing women of color. This includes topics like the intersectionality of race, class and sexuality in society as well as the impact of toxic friendships, toxic relationships and the impact of trauma on a person’s mental health.

Brene Brown’s Dare to Lead

Brene Brown is a professor and research leader with more than two decades of experience studying courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy. She has authored several books, including Daring Greatly, Rising Strong, and The Gifts of Imperfection. She also hosts the Unlocking Us podcast and a series of podcasts on Spotify called Dare to Lead. She has a no-BS approach that millions of people have come to love and respect.

This podcast is designed to help people become braver leaders and build courageous cultures. It features many empowering conversations with change-catalysts and culture-shifters who are doing their best to create a more compassionate world. The episodes focus on topics like a leader’s authenticity and how to have difficult conversations with team members.

In her Dare to Lead podcast, Brown encourages people to become courageous enough to speak their truth even if it hurts others. She also stresses the importance of having courageous heart-centered relationships at work. She uses stories and research to illustrate her point that being vulnerable is a requirement for effective leadership. The book is full of practical advice and useful tools that will help readers develop a more courageous mindset.

Having a courageous heart and building trust are essential to being a good leader, but they can be challenging to achieve. The Dare to Lead podcast teaches listeners how to be courageous and take risks in their daily lives. The podcast also offers tips on how to develop courageous relationships and overcome challenges.

The podcast also discusses how to create a healthy culture in an organization. It explains that a healthy culture is based on the idea of a “shared value.” The podcast also provides helpful tools and resources for improving the workplace. Its content is relevant to many professions, especially social work.

The Dare to Lead podcast is a must-listen for anyone who wants to be a better leader. It covers the six pillars of courageous leadership: authenticity, humility, courage, compassion, and generosity. In addition, the podcast covers how to overcome obstacles and develop a more compassionate mindset. It is also helpful for people who are new to leadership roles.

The Mood Podcast

If you’re looking to be uplifted, this podcast is for you. It focuses on positive stories and experiences, as well as giving listeners tips they can use in their daily lives. Each episode aims to inspire, uplift and encourage you.

The podcast was created by a former anxiety sufferer to help other people learn how to cope with their own mental health issues. It is a practical, expert-backed guide to the world of anxiety and how to thrive, regardless of your struggles. Episodes include interviews with people who have overcome their own anxieties, as well as Carrie Bradshaw-like personal essays. Chloe also explains why certain things make you anxious and how to cope with them.

Pod Save the People, an upbeat podcast that explores the human condition, is a must-listen for anyone who wants to feel connected to other people and find a sense of purpose in life. It features interviews with celebrities, social media influencers and thought leaders. It covers topics from relationships to politics, from parenting to the latest in technology, from dating to running a business.

This award-winning show tackles controversial subjects and is always entertaining. The hosts of the show are experts in their fields and bring an honest and humorous perspective to their discussions.

It combines comedy, music and storytelling to create a unique and uplifting podcast. The podcast consists of short, weekly episodes that each have a different theme. Each episode ends with a song performed by a popular musical artist or comedian.

While the episodes may seem random, they are arranged in a way that tells a story about humanity and our connections to each other. Episodes cover a range of topics from addiction to self-care. This podcast has something for everyone.

The only downside to this podcast is that it can be too short in some episodes. However, it is a must-listen for anyone who enjoys hearing the opinions of others and has a curiosity about the world around them.

If you want to know how many listeners Mood Sewciety has, upgrade your account with Rephonic. This podcast analytics service can give you a comprehensive report of how much your podcast is loved and how it’s performing in the iTunes store and Spotify.

Better Than Yesterday

Since 2013, Better Than Yesterday has set out to improve life for the people around you. Hosted by Osher Gunsberg—best-selling author, podcaster, TV host, husband, dad, stepdad, electric mobility enthusiast and part-time climate worrier—this weekly conversation hopes to help you feel less alone, build better habits and discover some solution-based approaches for when things get tricky.

This week, Osher interviews Mark Boles—an Australian-born, US-based author, best-selling Survivor winner and geopolitical strategist who has written books on sleep, mental health, parenting and the military. This week’s episode also features an update from Osher on how he’s dealt with some of his recent challenges, including depression and anxiety.

You can listen to this episode for free on iTunes, Google Play and Spotify. If you’d like to support the show, consider donating via Patreon.

In addition to the audio, the Better Than Yesterday podcast has a website where you can find additional resources and subscribe to the newsletter. There’s also a Better Than Yesterday community on Facebook where you can share your experiences and ask questions.

If you’re a business owner or marketer, you can work with the team at Better Than Yesterday on advertising opportunities. They offer a range of formats, including sponsored content, custom episodes and video sponsorships. They can also provide in-person workshops and coaching to support you with your marketing efforts.

You can see how many listeners Better Than Yesterday has by upgrading to Rephonic’s premium analytics tools. These give you access to a full set of podcast data for three million shows, and can help you decide whether this is the right podcast for your brand or audience.

Rephonic uses open data from podcast hosts and listening apps to track how many people are tuning in to this episode. We use it along with the information you supply to create a 3D graph that visualises the connections between different shows. For example, you can see how often this podcast is downloaded, and what other podcasts are being listened to by those who download Better Than Yesterday.

Five Questions to Ask Your Eye Doctor

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Choosing the right eye doctor is an important decision that can significantly impact your health. Ask for personal referrals from friends and family, or search online reviews.

Look for an experienced and credentialed doctor. Also, choose a doctor who participates in your insurance plan to minimize out-of-pocket costs. Contact My Eye Doctor Towson now!

Choosing a new doctor requires a bit of research and exploration. Asking for recommendations from friends, family and coworkers is a great way to start. Most people will have an eye care professional they recommend and like. In addition, you can also check online reviews for ophthalmologists or optometrists to see what past and current patients have to say.

When you meet with a potential doctor, take note of how they communicate with you and how they handle an eye exam. During an eye exam, the doctor will ask you questions about your overall health and any medications you are taking. They will then perform tests to measure your ability to focus at a distance and up close, the clarity of your vision, your peripheral (side) vision, color perception and the light sensitivity of your eyes.

If the doctor finds any issues with your vision or health, they will discuss the results and develop a treatment plan. This may include a referral to another doctor of optometry, an ophthalmologist or even your primary care physician for consultation or to treat a medical issue.

The type of support you need from an eye doctor will determine which doctor to choose. Optometrists are trained to provide routine eye care, while ophthalmologists are equipped to handle more serious and complex conditions. If you find a doctor that fits the support you need, make sure they accept your vision insurance and schedule a visit.

During the meeting, look for any certificates or diplomas hanging on the wall. This is a good indicator of the level of education and training the doctor has. It’s also a good time to ask any questions you have and see how they answer them. Be sure to note how attentive they are and whether or not they respect your decision-making process. This can be a good indicator of how they will treat you as a patient.

Check Credentials and Experience

There are many things to keep in mind when choosing a doctor. Some of the most important factors are certifications, qualifications and experience. While these aren’t always easy to evaluate, they can help you narrow down your options and find the right eye care provider for your needs.

Whether you need to see an optometrist or ophthalmologist, it is vital that the person you choose has the proper credentials and experience to take care of your specific vision problems. A good place to start is by asking for recommendations from family and friends. Then, do a little bit of additional research. Look for reviews, check the doctor’s website for information, and make sure they accept your insurance.

It is also a good idea to consider how long the eye care professional has been practicing. The more experienced they are, the better chance that they have seen and treated a wide variety of issues. This means that they may be more adept at diagnosing a problem quickly and accurately.

In addition to the years of experience, you should also consider the type of eye care they have specialized in. For example, if you have children, it is important to ensure that the eye doctor has extensive experience in pediatric vision care. It is also a good idea to ask the doctor what types of procedures they are trained in, and whether they have any specialty areas of practice such as LASIK or cataract surgery.

Another thing to consider is how well the doctor communicates with patients. This is important not only for making appointments, but also to determine if they are a good fit. You want someone who listens to your concerns, is patient and respectful, and takes the time to explain what they recommend.

Lastly, you should also pay attention to how much the doctor charges for an exam and any additional testing. You should be able to find this information online or by calling the office and asking to speak with a billing specialist. This will give you a good idea of how expensive the services will be and what to expect from your insurance company.

Research In-Network Doctors

Finding a trusted eye care professional to help you keep your eyes healthy is an important investment in your long-term vision. Taking the time to prioritize your selection criteria for your new doctor—including experience, reputation, range of services available, facilities and affordability—will help ensure you receive high-quality care that addresses all your unique needs.

Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, and other health care professionals. Then, browse online directories dedicated to eye care professionals or search for providers in your area. Look for reviews from other patients to get an idea of a doctor’s bedside manner, office environment and overall patient satisfaction.

If you have insurance, be sure to choose a provider who’s “in network” with your health plan to minimize out-of-pocket costs. You can usually find this information on the doctor’s website or by calling your insurance provider to request a list of in-network doctors.

Choosing a doctor who has access to advanced diagnostic tools, including optical coherence tomography and corneal topography, can provide more accurate, targeted treatment for many eye conditions. Moreover, these tools can detect and monitor the progression of eye disease and other signs of deterioration with greater speed and precision than traditional methods.

Keratoconus: This progressive eye disorder causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape, leading to distorted vision. Optometrists and ophthalmologists can diagnose keratoconus and recommend treatments like corrective lenses, corneal cross-linking, or surgery, depending on the severity of your case.

Refractive Errors: Nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism are common refractive errors that cause blurry vision. Optometrists and some ophthalmologists can correct these conditions with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Ocular Allergies: These conditions, which cause itching, redness, and tearing of the eye, can be managed with antihistamine eye drops or ocular steroids. Both optometrists and ophthalmologists typically treat ocular allergies.

If you have Medicare, it’s important to know whether a particular eye care professional is in-network with your coverage before scheduling an appointment. Using the “find provider” feature on your Medicare online portal can help you locate in-network providers, including optometrists and ophthalmologists, and avoid out-of-pocket expenses.

Ask About Availability

If you’re new to the world of eye care, it’s important to be well-informed before your appointment. By asking the right questions, you can feel confident in your decision and build a positive partnership with your eye doctor. This list of five questions is a great place to start; it can help ease anxiety, teach you more about eye health and eye conditions, and ensure that you leave the appointment with all of your concerns addressed.

It’s also important to ask about treatment options, especially if your eye doctor diagnoses you with an eye disease or condition. This can range from noninvasive options such as contact lenses and glasses to surgery, such as cataract removal or corneal transplant. By being informed, you can make an educated choice for your treatment and prevent the condition from worsening over time.

Another important question to ask is if your eye doctor can recommend other specialists for specific treatment options. This may include ophthalmologists and retinal specialists who have specialized degrees in the field and are qualified to help you with complex or specialized treatments. This is especially helpful if you’re dealing with eye diseases or conditions that require a higher level of skill and expertise to manage, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration.

It’s recommended that you see your eye doctor every one to two years, depending on age and other health factors. This helps your eyes stay healthy and allows your eye doctor to catch any issues that can be easily treated in their early stages, such as signs of glaucoma or macular degeneration. Getting regular checkups can also ensure that you’re receiving the correct prescription for your vision and can keep up with your current needs as your eyes change over time.

If you’re in need of an eye exam, we’re here to help! Request an appointment online or give us a call to schedule your eye exam with our team. We look forward to seeing you soon! Yuna Rapoport, MD, is a board-certified ophthalmologist and experienced cataract and refractive surgeon. She has a unique combination of training, including the Accelerated Honors Program at Harvard Medical School and extra fellowship training in refractive, corneal, and cataract surgery. She is committed to educating patients and providing the best quality of care possible.

Acupuncture For Fertility

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Acupuncture is a 3,000 year old practice of inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to promote health and balance. It is an excellent addition to fertility treatment.

Acupuncture

Studies have shown that acupuncture increases blood flow to the ovaries. This is important as stress has been found to disrupt a critical axis that affects reproductive health.

Acupuncture involves stimulating certain points of the body to balance the energy, or Qi, within the body and promote wellness. These points are found throughout the body but are most commonly placed on the head, ears, hands, lower legs and feet, and abdomen. During a fertility treatment, acupuncture points are specifically stimulated on the stomach and reproductive organs. Acupuncturists believe that these points help regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle, enhances blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, and improves the quality of eggs and uterine lining. Acupuncture can also reduce stress and help optimize sperm health, making it easier to conceive a healthy baby.

During the initial consultation, your acupuncturist will take your pulse and inspect your tongue to identify any imbalances that may be impeding your fertility goals. The color, texture, creases and coating of your tongue tell the acupuncturist what parts of your body are out of balance and which acupuncture points need to be treated.

After your first appointment, your acupuncturist will create a personalized treatment plan that addresses any underlying issues that may be contributing to your fertility challenges. In addition to acupuncture, your acupuncturist may also recommend Chinese herbal medicine. Herbal medicine is composed of herbs that work synergistically together to treat specific symptoms and conditions. These herbs can be taken in the form of pills, granules, or tea.

In a recent study, researchers compared the results of actual acupuncture with sham acupuncture on women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). They found that real acupuncture increased live birth rates by 18.3 percent, while sham acupuncture did not. This shows the effectiveness of acupuncture in promoting a successful pregnancy, even in cases where a woman’s medical history is complex or she is undergoing IVF.

Acupuncture during a fertility treatment is safe and effective regardless of your medical history, but it is important to only receive treatments from an experienced fertility acupuncturist. If incorrect acupuncture points are used during a treatment, it can increase the risk of miscarriage. To ensure safety, Houston Fertility Center only recommends acupuncturists who are trained to address fertility issues.

Pre-Transfer Treatment

Acupuncture stimulates the body to produce more of its own hormones. These can increase blood flow, thicken the endometrial lining and increase the likelihood of implantation. Acupuncture is also able to balance the nervous system and reduce stress. This is very important because the more stressed a woman is, the less likely she is to conceive.

Studies have shown that fertility acupuncture significantly increases conception rates. However, there is a lot of variability in the results of different acupuncturists and in the methodologies used by researchers. For this reason, it is important to find an acupuncturist that specializes in fertility issues.

The acupuncturist will ask you about your health history and your current treatment plan, including any fertility medications or treatments that you are taking. They will then check your pulse and do a thorough inspection of your tongue. Acupuncturists use the appearance of the tongue as a map for areas of imbalance in the body. Acupuncturists can identify a problem by looking at the color, texture and coating of the tongue and the way that it creases or is lined up.

During your acupuncture sessions, the acupuncturist will insert needles in various places depending on your unique situation. They may place needles below the knees, below the elbows, in the abdominal region, on top of the head and between the eyebrows. Acupuncture is relatively painless. In contrast, many IVF patients are required to inject themselves with Gonal-F or other fertility drugs, which have large needles that are fairly painful to receive.

Acupuncture before and after embryo transfer improves IVF pregnancy rates. One study compared 80 IVF patients who received fertility acupuncture with 80 IVF patients who did not. There was a 42.5 percent clinical pregnancy rate in the group that received fertility acupuncture prior to and after their ET. The researchers attributed the improvement in pregnancy rates to a number of factors, including the ability of acupuncture to help patients relax, which can increase their chances of success. Acupuncture can also improve the quality of the uterine lining, support follicular development and improve egg implantation outcomes.

Post-Transfer Treatment

Embryo implantation is dependent upon an optimal supply of blood to the uterus. Acupuncture can successfully increase blood flow to the uterus, improve endometrium lining quality, decrease uterine contractions and regulate the immune system in preparation for embryo implantation. Acupuncture also addresses male factor components improving semen count, sperm morphology and motility.

Studies show that acupuncture reduces stress levels during IVF treatment. It has also been shown to decrease cortisol levels, the body’s major stress hormone. The reduction of stress and anxiety in patients increases their chances for success during IVF treatment.

Another way that acupuncture can improve IVF treatment is through its regulating effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, impacting ovulation and fertility hormone production. Acupuncture has been shown to affect ovulation by stimulating the production of prolactin and increasing gonadotropin secretion. It also has a central stimulating effect, increasing the production of b-endorphins, influencing ovulation through a three-way interaction with the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and ovaries (5).

Acupuncture treatments before and after IVF treatment have been shown to significantly increase clinical pregnancy rates compared to those who don’t receive acupuncture. Using the Paulus Protocol, a set of acupuncture points that is specific for IVF, a study found that patients who received acupuncture about a half hour before embryo transfer and a half hour after experienced a 42.5 percent clinical pregnancy rate, compared to 26.3 percent in those who didn’t receive acupuncture (6).

The acupoints used in the Paulus protocol include those that stimulate blood flow to the ovaries and uterus. Other acupoints are known to relax the muscles in the abdominal region, helping to reduce uterine cramping and bloating during IVF treatments. In addition, acupoints known as the immune modulator points (LI-4, SP-6 and ST-36) have been shown to trigger release of certain types of cytokines that can help prevent the immune system from blocking successful implantation (7). Acupuncture can be arranged at most fertility clinics, and many have acupuncturists on staff who are experienced in treating IVF patients. Alternatively, you can find an acupuncturist who is skilled in this type of treatment on your own.

Consultation

Acupuncture is used to help balance hormone levels, improve ovulation and increase the chances of conception. It is also used to treat problems such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, uterine fibroids and an over-active or under-active thyroid.

A key part of fertility acupuncture is to focus on the underlying cause of the problem rather than just treating the symptoms. Acupuncturists will often recommend dietary or lifestyle changes and herbal medicine to support the treatment plan. They will use a variety of techniques to promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can contribute to infertility.

Many patients experience a range of emotions during their fertility journey, including anxiety and depression. Acupuncture can be a great way to address these issues and reduce the overall level of stress, as well as alleviate some of the other common side effects of fertility treatments such as morning sickness and back pain.

During fertility acupuncture sessions, the acupoints selected are chosen based on your specific health concerns and imbalances. The most commonly used points are on the Ren and Du meridians, which run along the front and back midline of the body respectively. They are known to regulate the flow of Qi, as well as increase blood supply to the ovaries and uterus, which in turn can boost ovulation rates and enhance implantation rates.

In addition to these traditional acupressure points, researchers have found that acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins in the brain, which are natural feel-good chemicals that can have a positive impact on hormonal regulation and fertility. Moreover, research has shown that acupuncture influences the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis, which plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle.

Acupuncture is a safe and effective fertility treatment that can be utilized in conjunction with conventional therapies such as IVF. When performed by a licensed acupuncturist, fertility acupuncture can help balance hormones, regulate the menstrual cycle, decrease stress, improve ovulation and implantation rates, and increase oocyte quality. However, it is important to seek out a practitioner who specializes in fertility acupuncture to ensure the best outcomes. UH Connor Whole Health’s board-certified fertility acupuncturist works side by side with fertility specialists to provide the most comprehensive care possible.

Acupuncture is a 3,000 year old practice of inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to promote health and balance. It is an excellent addition to fertility treatment.

Studies have shown that acupuncture increases blood flow to the ovaries. This is important as stress has been found to disrupt a critical axis that affects reproductive health.

Acupuncture involves stimulating certain points of the body to balance the energy, or Qi, within the body and promote wellness. These points are found throughout the body but are most commonly placed on the head, ears, hands, lower legs and feet, and abdomen. During a fertility treatment, acupuncture points are specifically stimulated on the stomach and reproductive organs. Acupuncturists believe that these points help regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle, enhances blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, and improves the quality of eggs and uterine lining. Acupuncture can also reduce stress and help optimize sperm health, making it easier to conceive a healthy baby.

During the initial consultation, your acupuncturist will take your pulse and inspect your tongue to identify any imbalances that may be impeding your fertility goals. The color, texture, creases and coating of your tongue tell the acupuncturist what parts of your body are out of balance and which acupuncture points need to be treated.

After your first appointment, your acupuncturist will create a personalized treatment plan that addresses any underlying issues that may be contributing to your fertility challenges. In addition to acupuncture, your acupuncturist may also recommend Chinese herbal medicine. Herbal medicine is composed of herbs that work synergistically together to treat specific symptoms and conditions. These herbs can be taken in the form of pills, granules, or tea.

In a recent study, researchers compared the results of actual acupuncture with sham acupuncture on women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). They found that real acupuncture increased live birth rates by 18.3 percent, while sham acupuncture did not. This shows the effectiveness of acupuncture in promoting a successful pregnancy, even in cases where a woman’s medical history is complex or she is undergoing IVF.

Acupuncture during a fertility treatment is safe and effective regardless of your medical history, but it is important to only receive treatments from an experienced fertility acupuncturist. If incorrect acupuncture points are used during a treatment, it can increase the risk of miscarriage. To ensure safety, Houston Fertility Center only recommends acupuncturists who are trained to address fertility issues.

Pre-Transfer Treatment

Acupuncture stimulates the body to produce more of its own hormones. These can increase blood flow, thicken the endometrial lining and increase the likelihood of implantation. Acupuncture is also able to balance the nervous system and reduce stress. This is very important because the more stressed a woman is, the less likely she is to conceive.

Studies have shown that fertility acupuncture significantly increases conception rates. However, there is a lot of variability in the results of different acupuncturists and in the methodologies used by researchers. For this reason, it is important to find an acupuncturist that specializes in fertility issues.

The acupuncturist will ask you about your health history and your current treatment plan, including any fertility medications or treatments that you are taking. They will then check your pulse and do a thorough inspection of your tongue. Acupuncturists use the appearance of the tongue as a map for areas of imbalance in the body. Acupuncturists can identify a problem by looking at the color, texture and coating of the tongue and the way that it creases or is lined up.

During your acupuncture sessions, the acupuncturist will insert needles in various places depending on your unique situation. They may place needles below the knees, below the elbows, in the abdominal region, on top of the head and between the eyebrows. Acupuncture is relatively painless. In contrast, many IVF patients are required to inject themselves with Gonal-F or other fertility drugs, which have large needles that are fairly painful to receive.

Acupuncture before and after embryo transfer improves IVF pregnancy rates. One study compared 80 IVF patients who received fertility acupuncture with 80 IVF patients who did not. There was a 42.5 percent clinical pregnancy rate in the group that received fertility acupuncture prior to and after their ET. The researchers attributed the improvement in pregnancy rates to a number of factors, including the ability of acupuncture to help patients relax, which can increase their chances of success. Acupuncture can also improve the quality of the uterine lining, support follicular development and improve egg implantation outcomes.

Post-Transfer Treatment

Embryo implantation is dependent upon an optimal supply of blood to the uterus. Acupuncture can successfully increase blood flow to the uterus, improve endometrium lining quality, decrease uterine contractions and regulate the immune system in preparation for embryo implantation. Acupuncture also addresses male factor components improving semen count, sperm morphology and motility.

Studies show that acupuncture reduces stress levels during IVF treatment. It has also been shown to decrease cortisol levels, the body’s major stress hormone. The reduction of stress and anxiety in patients increases their chances for success during IVF treatment.

Another way that acupuncture can improve IVF treatment is through its regulating effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, impacting ovulation and fertility hormone production. Acupuncture has been shown to affect ovulation by stimulating the production of prolactin and increasing gonadotropin secretion. It also has a central stimulating effect, increasing the production of b-endorphins, influencing ovulation through a three-way interaction with the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and ovaries (5).

Acupuncture treatments before and after IVF treatment have been shown to significantly increase clinical pregnancy rates compared to those who don’t receive acupuncture. Using the Paulus Protocol, a set of acupuncture points that is specific for IVF, a study found that patients who received acupuncture about a half hour before embryo transfer and a half hour after experienced a 42.5 percent clinical pregnancy rate, compared to 26.3 percent in those who didn’t receive acupuncture (6).

The acupoints used in the Paulus protocol include those that stimulate blood flow to the ovaries and uterus. Other acupoints are known to relax the muscles in the abdominal region, helping to reduce uterine cramping and bloating during IVF treatments. In addition, acupoints known as the immune modulator points (LI-4, SP-6 and ST-36) have been shown to trigger release of certain types of cytokines that can help prevent the immune system from blocking successful implantation (7). Acupuncture can be arranged at most fertility clinics, and many have acupuncturists on staff who are experienced in treating IVF patients. Alternatively, you can find an acupuncturist who is skilled in this type of treatment on your own.

Consultation

Acupuncture is used to help balance hormone levels, improve ovulation and increase the chances of conception. It is also used to treat problems such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, uterine fibroids and an over-active or under-active thyroid.

A key part of fertility acupuncture is to focus on the underlying cause of the problem rather than just treating the symptoms. Acupuncturists will often recommend dietary or lifestyle changes and herbal medicine to support the treatment plan. They will use a variety of techniques to promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can contribute to infertility.

Many patients experience a range of emotions during their fertility journey, including anxiety and depression. Acupuncture can be a great way to address these issues and reduce the overall level of stress, as well as alleviate some of the other common side effects of fertility treatments such as morning sickness and back pain.

During fertility acupuncture sessions, the acupoints selected are chosen based on your specific health concerns and imbalances. The most commonly used points are on the Ren and Du meridians, which run along the front and back midline of the body respectively. They are known to regulate the flow of Qi, as well as increase blood supply to the ovaries and uterus, which in turn can boost ovulation rates and enhance implantation rates.

In addition to these traditional acupressure points, researchers have found that acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins in the brain, which are natural feel-good chemicals that can have a positive impact on hormonal regulation and fertility. Moreover, research has shown that acupuncture influences the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis, which plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle.

Acupuncture is a safe and effective fertility treatment that can be utilized in conjunction with conventional therapies such as IVF. When performed by a licensed acupuncturist, fertility acupuncture can help balance hormones, regulate the menstrual cycle, decrease stress, improve ovulation and implantation rates, and increase oocyte quality. However, it is important to seek out a practitioner who specializes in fertility acupuncture to ensure the best outcomes. UH Connor Whole Health’s board-certified fertility acupuncturist works side by side with fertility specialists to provide the most comprehensive care possible.