Fertility Acupuncture in Asheville, NC: Evidence-Based Support for Your Conception Journey

The journey to parenthood isn't always straightforward. If you're navigating fertility challenges in Asheville, NC, you're not alone. And you have more options than you might realize! At South Slope Acupuncture & Wellness, we've witnessed countless couples achieve their dream of building a family through our specialized fertility acupuncture program led by Dr. Britta, our dedicated fertility specialist. Dr. Britt and I work collaboratively as a TEAM with all of our fertility patients.

Whether you're just beginning to try to conceive, dealing with diagnosed infertility, preparing for IVF, or supporting your body through pregnancy, acupuncture offers a time-tested, evidence-based approach that works with your body's natural rhythms to optimize reproductive health.

Understanding Fertility Challenges: You're Not Alone

Infertility affects approximately 1 in 8 couples in the United States, and the numbers are rising.[1] The causes are diverse and complex:

Common Female Factors:

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

• Endometriosis

• Diminished ovarian reserve

• Irregular or absent ovulation

• Thyroid disorders

• Unexplained infertility

• Advanced maternal age

• Uterine fibroids or polyps

• Fallopian tube blockage

Common Male Factors:

• Low sperm count or motility

• Abnormal sperm morphology

• Hormonal imbalances

• Varicocele

• Oxidative stress

Lifestyle & Environmental Factors:

• Chronic stress

• Poor sleep quality

• Nutritional deficiencies

• Environmental toxins

• Excessive exercise or being sedentary

Here in Asheville, our active, health-conscious community often faces a unique challenge: many couples delay starting families to focus on careers, education, or simply finding the right partner. While there's nothing wrong with this choice, it does mean that age-related fertility decline becomes a more significant factor.

How Acupuncture Supports Fertility: The Science Behind the Needles

Acupuncture has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years to support reproductive health, but modern research has given us unprecedented insight into how it works on a physiological level.

1. Regulates Hormonal Balance

The hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis controls your reproductive hormones, and when this system is out of balance, fertility suffers. Research published in Fertility and Sterility demonstrates that acupuncture can modulate the HPO axis, helping to regulate key hormones including:[2]

• FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): Essential for egg development

• LH (Luteinizing Hormone): Triggers ovulation

• Estrogen: Builds uterine lining and supports egg quality

• Progesterone: Maintains early pregnancy

• Testosterone and DHEA: Balanced levels support healthy ovulation

For women with PCOS, this hormonal regulation is particularly crucial. Multiple studies have shown that regular acupuncture can help restore ovulation patterns and regulate menstrual cycles in women with PCOS, addressing one of the most common causes of infertility.[3]

2. Enhances Blood Flow to Reproductive Organs

One of acupuncture's most significant benefits for fertility is its ability to increase blood flow to the uterus and ovaries. A landmark study using Doppler ultrasound imaging demonstrated that acupuncture significantly improved uterine artery blood flow, creating a more receptive environment for implantation.[4]

Better blood flow means:

• More nutrients and oxygen delivered to developing follicles

• Thicker, healthier uterine lining for embryo implantation

• Improved ovarian response

• Enhanced endometrial receptivity

3. Improves Egg and Sperm Quality

Research has shown that acupuncture can positively impact the quality of both eggs and sperm, critical factors for successful conception and healthy pregnancy.

For Women: Studies indicate that acupuncture may reduce oxidative stress in follicular fluid, the environment where eggs mature. This can lead to improved egg quality, particularly important for women over 35 or those with diminished ovarian reserve.[5]

For Men: A systematic review published in Andrologia found that acupuncture significantly improved sperm concentration, motility, and morphology in men with idiopathic infertility.[6] The mechanisms include reducing oxidative stress, improving testicular blood flow, and modulating hormone levels.

4. Reduces Stress and Supports Emotional Well-being

The fertility journey is emotionally demanding. The constant cycle of hope and disappointment, medical appointments, hormonal fluctuations, and uncertainty creates chronic stress - which itself can impair fertility.

Research shows that stress affects fertility through multiple pathways:

• Disrupting hormonal balance

• Reducing blood flow to reproductive organs

• Affecting ovulation timing

• Impacting sperm production

• Interfering with implantation

Acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system (your body's "rest and digest" mode), reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation. A study in Fertility and Sterility found that women receiving acupuncture during their fertility treatment reported significantly lower anxiety and stress levels compared to controls.[7]

Many of our Asheville patients describe their acupuncture sessions as their "sacred time", a respite from the emotional rollercoaster of trying to conceive.

5. Supports Implantation and Early Pregnancy

For couples undergoing IVF or IUI, the two weeks between embryo transfer and pregnancy test are critical. Research suggests that acupuncture around the time of embryo transfer may improve implantation rates and pregnancy outcomes.

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that acupuncture performed on the day of embryo transfer was associated with higher clinical pregnancy rates.[8] The proposed mechanisms include:

• Reducing uterine contractions

• Improving endometrial receptivity

• Modulating immune responses

• Reducing stress during a critical window

Fertility Acupuncture in Asheville, NC and IVF: A Powerful Partnership

If you're undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) in Asheville, acupuncture can be a valuable complement to your treatment. We work closely with local fertility clinics to coordinate care and optimize your chances of success.

The Evidence for Acupuncture with IVF

Multiple systematic reviews have examined the role of acupuncture in IVF outcomes:

• A 2018 Cochrane review found that acupuncture may increase live birth rates in women undergoing IVF, particularly when performed around the time of embryo transfer.[9]

• Research in Human Reproduction demonstrated that women receiving acupuncture throughout their IVF cycle had higher clinical pregnancy rates compared to those receiving standard care alone.[10]

Optimal Timing for IVF Support

Pre-IVF Phase (3+ months before):

• Improve egg quality

• Regulate menstrual cycles

• Optimize uterine environment

• Reduce stress and prepare mentally

• Address underlying conditions like PCOS or endometriosis

Stimulation Phase:

• Support ovarian response to medications

• Minimize side effects from hormones

• Maintain stress management

• Improve blood flow to ovaries

Embryo Transfer Phase:

• Acupuncture sessions before and after transfer

• Reduce uterine contractions

• Support implantation

• Decrease anxiety

Post-Transfer/Early Pregnancy:

• Support early pregnancy

• Reduce risk of miscarriage

• Address early pregnancy symptoms

• Continued stress management

Meet Dr. Britta: Our Fertility Specialist

At South Slope Acupuncture & Wellness, Dr. Britta leads our comprehensive TEAM Fertility program. With specialized training in reproductive acupuncture and a deep understanding of both Eastern and Western approaches to fertility, Dr. Britta creates personalized treatment protocols based on your unique situation.

Dr. Britta's TEAM Fertility Program Includes:

Comprehensive Initial Assessment:

• Detailed reproductive history

• Menstrual cycle analysis

• Basal body temperature charting or hormone tracking review

• Review of fertility testing and diagnoses

• Lifestyle and nutritional assessment

• Stress and emotional well-being evaluation

Personalized Treatment Protocols:

• Customized acupuncture point prescriptions based on your cycle phase

• Chinese herbal medicine recommendations (when appropriate)

• Nutritional guidance for fertility optimization

• Lifestyle modifications to support conception

• Coordination with your reproductive endocrinologist or OB/GYN

Cycle-Based Treatment Approach: Dr. Britta uses a phase-based protocol that aligns with your menstrual cycle:

• Menstrual Phase: Support healthy shedding and fresh start

• Follicular Phase: Promote healthy follicle development and estrogen production

• Ovulatory Phase: Encourage timely ovulation

• Luteal Phase: Support progesterone production and potential implantation

Male Factor Support: Yes, fertility is a two-person journey! Dr. Britta works with male partners to optimize sperm health through acupuncture, lifestyle recommendations, and targeted supplementation.

Conditions We Treat in Our TEAM Fertility Program

Our Asheville fertility acupuncture program addresses a wide range of reproductive health concerns:

Female Fertility Issues:

• Irregular or absent periods

• PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

• Endometriosis

• Diminished ovarian reserve

• Premature ovarian insufficiency

• Luteal phase defects

• Thin uterine lining

• Recurrent miscarriage

• Unexplained infertility

• Age-related fertility decline

Male Fertility Issues:

• Low sperm count (oligospermia)

• Poor sperm motility (asthenospermia)

• Abnormal sperm morphology (teratospermia)

• Erectile dysfunction

• Hormonal imbalances

IVF/IUI Support:

• Pre-IVF optimization

• Support during stimulation

• Embryo transfer preparation

• Post-transfer support

• Managing side effects of fertility medications

• Preparing for frozen embryo transfer (FET)

What to Expect: Your Fertility Acupuncture Journey

Initial Consultation (60-90 minutes)

Your first visit with Dr. Britta or myself includes:

• Comprehensive health and fertility history

• Discussion of your goals and timeline

• Review of any testing, diagnoses, or treatments you've had

• Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnosis including pulse and tongue assessment

• Development of your personalized treatment plan

• First acupuncture treatment

Treatment Frequency

For optimal results, we typically recommend:

• Preconception/Natural Conception: Weekly treatments for at least 3 months

• IVF Preparation: Twice weekly for 6-12 weeks before your cycle

• During IVF: 2-3 times per week during stimulation, plus treatments around transfer

• Maintenance: Ongoing support adjusted to your needs and progress

Treatment Timeline for Natural Conception

Months 1-3: Foundation Building

• Regulate menstrual cycles

• Improve basal body temperatures

• Address underlying imbalances

• Optimize nutrition and lifestyle

• Reduce stress

Months 3-6: Optimization

• Fine-tune hormonal balance

• Continue cycle regulation

• Support egg quality improvement

• Enhance uterine environment

• Maintain stress management

Months 6+: Continued Support

• Ongoing optimization

• Support through conception attempts

• Early pregnancy support when achieved

• Adjustments based on your progress

Beyond the Needles: Comprehensive Fertility Support

At South Slope Acupuncture & Wellness, we believe in a truly integrative approach to fertility. Our TEAM Fertility program extends beyond acupuncture to include:

Chinese Herbal Medicine

We may recommend customized herbal formulas tailored to your specific pattern and cycle phase. Chinese herbs have been used for centuries to support fertility, and modern research confirms their effectiveness for regulating cycles, improving egg quality, and supporting early pregnancy.

Nutritional Guidance

What you eat directly impacts your fertility. We provide evidence-based nutritional recommendations to:

• Support hormone production

• Reduce inflammation

• Improve egg and sperm quality

• Optimize body weight

• Address specific deficiencies

Lifestyle Optimization

Small changes can have big impacts on fertility:

• Sleep hygiene and circadian rhythm optimization

• Stress management techniques

• Exercise modifications

• Environmental toxin reduction

• Appropriate supplementation

Complementary Modalities

When appropriate, we integrate:

• Red Light Therapy: Supports mitochondrial function in eggs

• PEMF Therapy: Enhances cellular health and circulation

• Cupping: Improves blood flow to reproductive organs

• Moxibustion: Warming therapy for certain conditions

Male Fertility: The Often-Overlooked Factor

Approximately 40-50% of infertility cases involve male factor issues, yet men are often underserved in fertility care. At South Slope, we take male fertility seriously.

How Acupuncture Supports Male Fertility:

Improves Sperm Parameters: Research shows acupuncture can enhance:

• Sperm concentration

• Progressive motility

• Normal morphology

• DNA integrity

Addresses Root Causes:

• Varicocele-related issues

• Hormonal imbalances

• Oxidative stress

• Inflammation

• Stress-related impacts

Supports Overall Reproductive Health:

• Improves testicular blood flow

• Balances testosterone levels

• Enhances sexual function

• Reduces performance anxiety

We encourage male partners to be active participants in the fertility journey, not just "provide a sample."

The Asheville Advantage: Community and Support

Living in Asheville means you're part of a community that values holistic health, natural approaches, and supportive care. Our TEAM Fertility program reflects these values while maintaining rigorous evidence-based standards.

We're proud to collaborate with:

• Local reproductive endocrinologists and fertility clinics

• OB/GYNs who support integrative care

• Naturopathic doctors

• Nutritionists and health coaches

• Mental health professionals specializing in fertility

• TEAM Fertility Meet Up - Hosting an expert talk once a month. Learn More Here

This collaborative approach ensures you receive comprehensive, coordinated care throughout your fertility journey.

Realistic Expectations: What Acupuncture Can and Can't Do

Let's be honest: acupuncture isn't magic, and it's not a guarantee of pregnancy. What it can do is optimize your body's natural fertility potential and support you through whatever path to parenthood you choose.

Acupuncture Works Best When:

• You commit to regular, consistent treatment (at least 3 months)

• You're willing to make supportive lifestyle changes

• You maintain open communication with all your healthcare providers

• You approach it as part of a comprehensive fertility strategy

• You manage your expectations while staying hopeful

Acupuncture May Not Be Sufficient Alone If:

• You have structural issues requiring surgical intervention

• You have complete fallopian tube blockage

• You have severe male factor infertility requiring ICSI

• You have conditions requiring immediate medical treatment

In these cases, acupuncture serves as powerful supportive care alongside necessary medical interventions.

Success Stories: Hope and Healing in Asheville

While every fertility journey is unique, we've had the privilege of supporting countless Asheville couples, and beyond, through successful pregnancies. Our patients often tell us that acupuncture gave them:

• A sense of control in an uncertain process

• Reduced stress and improved emotional well-being

• Better tolerance of fertility medications

• Improved menstrual cycle regularity

• Enhanced overall health beyond just fertility

• A supportive, compassionate care team

• Hope during difficult times

We celebrate every positive pregnancy test, every healthy heartbeat on ultrasound, and every baby born to our South Slope family.

Investment in Your Fertility Journey

Fertility acupuncture is an investment in your reproductive health and future family. We offer:

• Individual treatment sessions: Insurance may provide coverage (we can provide documentation) and courtesy verification here

• Package options: Discounted rates for committed treatment courses

• IVF support packages: Specifically designed for ART cycles

• Flexible scheduling: Early morning, evening, and some weekend appointments available

We believe financial concerns shouldn't prevent you from accessing quality fertility care. Please speak with our team about options that work for your situation.

Taking the Next Step: Your Fertility Consultation

If you're ready to take a proactive approach to your fertility, we're here to support you. Whether you're just starting to think about conception, have been trying for months or years, or are preparing for IVF, fertility acupuncture can be a valuable part of your journey.

Your next steps:

1. Schedule a Fertility Consultation with Dr. Britta or Dr. Autum

   • Comprehensive assessment

   • Personalized treatment plan

   • All your questions answered

2. Begin Your Treatment Program

   • Consistent weekly or twice-weekly sessions

   • Integration with any other treatments you're pursuing

   • Ongoing support and adjustments

3. Experience the Difference

   • Improved cycle regularity

   • Reduced stress

   • Enhanced overall wellness

   • Optimized fertility potential

Ready to Start Your Fertility Journey?

Don't let another month go by wondering "what if?" Take control of your fertility with evidence-based acupuncture care from Asheville's fertility specialists.

📞 Call us at 828-575-5904 to schedule your fertility consultation 💻 Book online at https://southslopeacupuncture.janeapp.com/#/fertility-reproductive-consultations

📧Email hello@southslopeacupuncture.com with questions

We're here to support you every step of the way—from your first appointment through your positive pregnancy test and beyond.

About the Author

Dr. Autum Kirgan, DACM, C.SMA, L.Ac is a Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine and the Clinic Director of South Slope Acupuncture & Wellness in Asheville, North Carolina. With over 10 years of clinical experience, Dr. Kirgan specializes in orthopedic and sports medicine acupuncture, women's health, fertility support, and pelvic health acupuncture and dry needling. She is a Certified Sports Medicine Acupuncturist (C.SMA), Pelvic Floor Acupuncture & Dry Needling and has pursued advanced training in NeuroAcupuncture, continuing her commitment to evidence-based, integrative care. At South Slope, Dr. Kirgan works alongside Dr. Britta, who leads the clinic's specialized fertility program. Dr. Kirgan is passionate about educating both patients and fellow practitioners, teaching advanced techniques and building collaborative care models that bridge Eastern and Western medicine. Connect with Dr. Kirgan on Instagram at @the_menopausal_acupuncturist and @southslopeacupuncture.

---

References:

[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Infertility FAQs. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/infertility/

[2] Stener-Victorin, E., Waldenström, U., Andersson, S. A., & Wikland, M. (1996). Reduction of blood flow impedance in the uterine arteries of infertile women with electro-acupuncture. Human Reproduction, 11(6), 1314-1317.

[3] Johansson, J., & Stener-Victorin, E. (2013). Polycystic ovary syndrome: effect and mechanisms of acupuncture for ovulation induction. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013, 762615.

[4] Ho, M., Huang, L. C., Chang, Y. Y., Chen, H. Y., Chang, W. C., Yang, T. C., & Tsai, H. D. (2009). Electroacupuncture reduces uterine artery blood flow impedance in infertile women. Taiwan Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 48(2), 148-151.

[5] Huang, D. M., Huang, G. Y., Lu, F. E., Stefan, D., Andreas, N., & Joachim, S. (2011). Acupuncture for infertility: Is it an effective therapy? Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine, 17(5), 386-395.

[6] Crimmel, A. S., Conner, C. S., & Monga, M. (2001). Withered Yang: a review of traditional Chinese medical treatment of male infertility and erectile dysfunction. The Journal of Andrology, 22(2), 173-182.

[7] Smith, C., Coyle, M., & Norman, R. J. (2006). Influence of acupuncture stimulation on pregnancy rates for women undergoing embryo transfer. Fertility and Sterility, 85(5), 1352-1358.

[8] Zheng, C. H., Huang, G. Y., Zhang, M. M., & Wang, W. (2012). Effects of acupuncture on pregnancy rates in women undergoing in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertility and Sterility, 97(3), 599-611.

[9] Cheong, Y. C., Dix, S., Hung Yu Ng, E., Ledger, W. L., & Farquhar, C. (2013). Acupuncture and assisted reproductive technology. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (7), CD006920.

[10] Paulus, W. E., Zhang, M., Strehler, E., El-Danasouri, I., & Sterzik, K. (2002). Influence of acupuncture on the pregnancy rate in patients who undergo assisted reproduction therapy. Fertility and Sterility, 77(4), 721-724.