Why Modern IVF Needs Acupuncture

Why Modern IVF Needs Acupuncture

Author: Mike Berkley March 19, 2026 Duration: 23:42

Send us Fan Mail

IVF may benefit from acupuncture because acupuncture creates a healthier physiologic environment for follicular development and ovarian function, which supports egg quality.  From an integrative perspective, improved ovarian and pelvic blood flow enhances the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the developing follicles, while modulation of stress signaling and inflammatory activity may help protect the ovarian microenvironment during IVF stimulation. Acupuncture is reasonably described as an adjunct to IVF that supports ovarian function, follicular health, and overall reproductive readiness in selected patients. American and European literature both suggest supportive roles for acupuncture in IVF.

American reference
ASRM Practice Committee. Performing the embryo transfer: a guideline. Fertility and Sterility. 2017.

European references
Westergaard LG et al. Acupuncture on the day of embryo transfer significantly improves the reproductive outcome in infertile women: a prospective randomized trial. Fertility and Sterility. 2006.
Manheimer E et al. Effects of acupuncture on rates of clinical pregnancy among women undergoing in vitro fertilization: systematic review and meta-analysis. Human Reproduction Update. 2013.

Support the show


Finding a path to parenthood often involves looking beyond conventional medicine. The Holistic Fertility Show exists in that space, offering conversations that consider the whole person-mind, body, and spirit. This podcast delves into the nuanced world of reproductive health through a lens of integrative care. You’ll hear from practitioners and experts who specialize in areas like nutritional therapy, acupuncture, stress management, and lifestyle adjustments that can create a more supportive foundation for conception. Each episode is built on the idea that knowledge is empowering, providing listeners with actionable insights and compassionate perspectives. Rather than offering a single solution, the discussions explore a tapestry of natural approaches, acknowledging that every fertility journey is unique. Tune in for a thoughtful blend of personal stories, expert interviews, and grounded advice that aims to illuminate the many facets of holistic wellness as they relate to building a family.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 148

The Holistic Fertility Show
Podcast Episodes
How Does Cholesterol Affect Your Chances of Having a Baby [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 5:01
Send us Fan MailCholesterol, while essential for hormone production and overall health, can negatively impact fertility when levels are imbalanced. High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often dubbed "…
Vitamin D and fertility. Is there a connection? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:19
Send us Fan MailVitamin D plays a crucial role in reproductive health and fertility for both men and women. Research indicates that vitamin D deficiency is significantly more prevalent among infertile individuals, sugges…
Rethinking PGT-A: Holistic Strategies for Enhancing Egg Quality [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:30
Send us Fan MailWelcome to today’s episode, where we explore the limitations of Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A) and how a more holistic approach can improve egg quality and fertility outcomes. Whil…
Boosting Fertility: A women's guide. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:32
Send us Fan MailThis podcast explores the holistic approach to enhancing fertility wellness through nutrition, exercise, meditation, acupuncture, and herbal medicine. Each episode delves into evidence-based strategies an…
More on acupuncture, herbal medicine and male factor infertility. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:58
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we explore the benefits of acupuncture and herbal medicine in treating male factor infertility. From improving sperm count, motility, and morphology to reducing oxidative stress and infla…
How did Mike Berkley's wife get pregnant? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:29
Send us Fan MailMike and his wife faced a challenging journey with infertility, enduring years of disappointment and uncertainty as they tried to start a family. After exploring various medical options without success, t…
Failed IVF's? Knowledge is Power. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:00
Send us Fan MailWelcome to The Holistic Fertility Show, where we delve into the complex world of fertility and explore innovative approaches to support reproductive health. In today’s episode, we’re addressing the causes…