Study Highlights the Role of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine in Supporting IVF and FET Outcomes

A June 2025 published peer-reviewed study offers insight into how acupuncture and Whole Systems Traditional Chinese Medicine (WS-TCM) can support individuals undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Led by Christine Kaiser, DACM, LAc, at University Hospitals Connor Whole Health and Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, the study explores how WS-TCM—when integrated into IVF fertility care—can reduce pain, stress, and anxiety around the time of embryo transfer.

This study documents real-world implementation of WS-TCM within an academic fertility clinic and its immediate impact on patient well-being.

Key Findings:

• 1,896 treatments were delivered during 202 embryo transfers for 146 IVF patients

• 88.6% of embryo transfers included acupuncture on the day of transfer

• Among patients reporting symptoms prior to treatment:
 → Anxiety decreased by an average of 2.22 points
→ Stress by 2.11 points
→ Pain by 1.38 points
(on a 10-point scale, immediately following treatment)

More than one in four participants had a documented mental health diagnosis—most commonly anxiety—underscoring the emotional complexity of fertility care and the potential benefits of integrative support.

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“Acupuncture and whole-systems TCM may serve as a helpful tool to reduce discomfort and psychological strain during IVF,” said Christine Kaiser, DACM, LAc, the study’s lead author. “This approach can support a more comprehensive care model.”

What is Whole Systems Traditional Chinese Medicine (WS-TCM)?

• WS-TCM includes:

• Acupuncture

• Herbal medicine

• Nutrition and lifestyle counselling

• Modalities such as electro-acupuncture and auricular therapy

Unlike standardized protocols, WS-TCM considers the individual’s constitution and presentation to guide treatment. This approach is a core part of our fertility care at Acubalance Wellness Centre in Vancouver, British Columbia.

IVF, FET, and Acupuncture at Acubalance

At Acubalance, acupuncture and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) have been integrated with IVF and FET cycles for over 20 years. Our clinic also provides onsite acupuncture and laser therapy at Olive Fertility Centre immediately before and after embryo transfers.

A two-year chart review audit conducted by Olive Fertility Clinic in Vancouver BC  examined outcomes for patients transferring PGT-A tested euploid (chromosomally normal) embryos. The comparison between patients who received Acubalance’s onsite IVF acupuncture care versus those who did not showed:

• Higher pregnancy rates and lower miscarriage rates among those who had acupuncture onsite at Olive on transfer day

• Even stronger outcomes among those who also received acupuncture and laser treatments in the weeks leading up to their FET as well the on site IVF acupuncture on site on the day of transfer.

These findings suggest that an integrated approach to IVF support—including acupuncture, diet, supplements, Chinese herbs and LLLT—may contribute to more favourable outcomes.

Supporting the IVF Experience

IVF can be physically and emotionally demanding. Research has consistently shown that psychological stress can affect both treatment adherence and outcomes. Acupuncture and related modalities may offer tools for managing that stress, supporting both the physiological and emotional aspects of care.

This recent study contributes to the growing body of literature supporting integrative approaches within fertility treatment. It also reflects what many patients and providers have experienced in clinical practice: individualized support can make a difference in how patients feel during treatment.

Learn More or Get Support

If you’re preparing for an IVF cycle or a frozen embryo transfer in Vancouver or the Lower Mainland, Acubalance offers integrative fertility care that includes:

• IVF acupuncture

• Low-level laser therapy (LLLT)

• Chinese herbal medicine

• Stress and emotional support tools

• Onsite IVF acupuncture support at Olive Fertility Centre

References:

Full Study:

Clinical Delivery of Whole Systems Traditional Chinese Medicine and Impacts Upon Patient Reported Outcomes During IVF (June 4, 20025)
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/27536130251349116


University Hospitals Press Release:
Acupuncture Reduces Stress, Pain, and Anxiety for IVF Patients