Exploring how acupuncture can complement fertility treatments and support patients throughout their IVF journey.
At Johnston Family Acupuncture, 2026 has been our year of research! One area we're especially passionate about is the growing body of evidence exploring how acupuncture can complement in vitro fertilization (IVF).
While acupuncture isn't a replacement for reproductive medicine, recent research offers promising insights into its potential role in supporting fertility treatment.
What Does the Research Say?
1. Potential Improvements in Pregnancy and Implantation Rates
A 2026 meta-analysis of 42 clinical trials involving 9,390 women found that acupuncture was associated with higher clinical pregnancy and embryo implantation rates. However, the certainty of evidence was low, and more research is needed.
2. Supporting Ovarian Reserve
An exciting 2026 randomized controlled trial published in the International Journal of Women's Health examined acupuncture in 120 women with diminished ovarian reserve.
Researchers found that women receiving acupuncture three times weekly for 12 weeks experienced a significantly greater improvement in antral follicle count (AFC)—the number of small follicles visible on ultrasound—compared with those receiving sham acupuncture.
While differences in AMH and FSH levels between groups were not statistically significant, these findings suggest a potential role for acupuncture in supporting ovarian function. Larger studies are needed to determine whether these changes translate into improved IVF outcomes.
3. Timing May Matter
A 2025 systematic review of 96 clinical trials involving more than 14,000 participants explored how acupuncture timing may influence IVF outcomes. Findings suggested that treatment during the weeks or months leading up to egg retrieval offers greater potential benefits than acupuncture limited to embryo transfer day.
4. Supporting Emotional Well-Being
Fertility treatment can be physically and emotionally demanding. Acupuncture offers an opportunity to slow down, manage stress, and prioritize well-being throughout the process. Even as research into reproductive outcomes continues, supporting patients' emotional health remains an important part of comprehensive fertility care.
Bringing Research Into Practice at Terra Fertility
Our partnership with Terra Fertility allows us to bring this integrative approach directly into the fertility clinic, offering patients convenient access to acupuncture alongside their reproductive care.
Whether preparing for an egg retrieval, navigating ovarian stimulation, or approaching embryo transfer day, our goal is to provide thoughtful, individualized support that complements each patient's medical treatment.
The takeaway? Research into acupuncture and IVF continues to evolve, with encouraging findings that warrant further investigation. At JFA, we're committed to staying informed by the latest science while providing compassionate, personalized care throughout each patient's fertility journey.
Interested in incorporating acupuncture into your fertility journey? Contact our team to learn more about treatment at JFA or Terra Fertility.
Research & Sources
Wei et al. (2026). Timing and dose of acupuncture as adjuncts to assisted reproduction: a meta-analysis and model-based network meta-analysis. Frontiers in Endocrinology. Read the study.
Wang et al. (2026). Effect of Acupuncture for Diminished Ovarian Reserve: A Randomized Sham-Controlled Trial. International Journal of Women's Health. Read the study.
2025 Network Meta-Analysis. Effects of acupuncture-related therapies on pregnancy outcomes among women undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer: a Bayesian network meta-analysis. Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics. Read the study.
American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Performing the Embryo Transfer: A Guideline. Read the guideline.