Acupuncture is one of the most widely researched complementary therapies. At MRA, our practitioners use acupuncture to support general health, fertility, IVF, pregnancy, menstrual health, pelvic pain, bladder pain hormonal health, menopause, PMS and PMDD drawing on both classical Chinese medicine principles and contemporary evidence.

Acupuncture 针灸

THERAPIES

ABOUT ACUPUNCTURE

What it is and how it works

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body. It has been practiced as part of Chinese medicine for thousands of years and is now one of the most extensively studied complementary therapies in reproductive medicine.

At MRA, acupuncture is prescribed and delivered by AHPRA registered Chinese Medicine Practitioners Kim, Jo and Meg. Every treatment is tailored to your specific needs and Chinese medicine pattern diagnosis

Sessions typically last 60 minutes. Needles are retained for 20–30 minutes while you rest. Most patients find the experience deeply relaxing.

Commonly used to support

Fertility — trying to conceive naturally and cycle regulation
IVF — ovarian stimulation, egg quality, transfer support
Pregnancy — nausea, fatigue, breech presentation
Period pain — dysmenorrhoea, endometriosis
Menstrual irregularity— PMOS, absent or long cycles
Perimenopause & Menopause — hot flushes, sleep, mood
Stress & nervous system — calm, sleep, wellbeing

HOW ACUPUNCTURE WORKS

The traditional view
& the modern science

Chinese Medicine holds that health depends on the smooth and balanced flow of qi through pathways in the body known as meridians. When this flow is disrupted by stress, illness, poor diet or emotional strain symptoms arise.

Acupuncture needles inserted at specific points along these meridians are believed to stimulate the flow of qi, resolve blockages and restore balance. In reproductive health, this translates to supporting the free flow of blood to the uterus and ovaries, regulating hormonal cycles, and calming the nervous system.

The Traditional View

Research suggests acupuncture works through several physiological mechanisms. Needling triggers localised tissue responses and sends signals through the nervous system that influence how the brain and body regulate function.

Studies have shown acupuncture can modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis the hormonal control system central to reproductive function. This may explain its effects on cycle regulation, ovulation and endometrial receptivity.

Acupuncture has also been shown to increase blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, reduce cortisol and sympathetic nervous system activity, and stimulate the release of endorphins and anti-inflammatory substances all of which are relevant to fertility and reproductive health outcomes.

The Modern Science

Endorphin Release

Acupuncture stimulates the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals, reducing period pain, lowering stress hormones and improving mood and sleep.

Increase Blood Flow

Improved circulation to the uterus and ovaries supports follicle development, endometrial lining thickness and overall reproductive organ function.

Anti-inflammatory Effect

Acupuncture may influence inflammatory and immune signalling pathways, which may be relevant to inflammatory conditions such as endometriosis and PCOS. Research is also exploring its potential role in the inflammatory processes associated with fertility and implantation.

Hormonal Regulation

Acupuncture influences the HPO axis, which controls the hormonal cascade governing the menstrual cycle, ovulation and implantation.

IVF SUPPORT

Acupuncture to support your IVF cycle

We commonly see patients receiving acupuncture alongside or in preparation for IVF. Our practitioners many years experience in this area and some of the MRA team have been involved in clinical research examining acupuncture's role in IVF outcomes.

Our recommended protocol is structured around your clinic's timeline. The goal is to have your body as well-prepared as possible before stimulation begins, and then to support each phase of your cycle
through to post-transfer.

We plan and adjust our treatment plan based on your IVF protocol.

2-3 MONTHS PRIOR TO YOUR IVF CYCLE

Weekly sessions focused on regulating your menstrual cycle, balancing hormones and improving pelvic blood flow. This lays the foundation for a healthy reproductive system ahead of stimulation.

EMBRYO TRANSFER

Acupuncture on the morning of or the evening before transfer to enhance uterine receptivity and promote relaxation. A further session 3–5 days post-transfer supports implantation and calms the nervous system.

DURING OVULATION STIMULATION

Weekly to twice-weekly sessions to optimise blood flow to the ovaries and support follicle development. Treatment is adjusted based on your cycle phase and medication response.

EARLY PREGNANCY

Weekly sessions in early pregnancy to support implantation, reduce anxiety and manage early pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and fatigue.

NATURAL CONCEPTION

Acupuncture while trying to conceive

Acupuncture is commonly used to support couples trying to conceive naturally. Research suggests it can improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, support ovulation, enhance egg quality and improve endometrial lining thickness. Acupuncture is also well-established in its ability to reduce stress which is a significant factor in fertility for many people.

At MRA, we use a cycle-phased approach, meaning where possible, we time acupuncture to the specific phases of your menstrual cycle to target different aspects of reproductive function. Your treatment plan is adjusted at each visit based on where you are in your cycle and how you're responding.

Menstrual Bleed

To support pelvic blood flow and set the foundation for healthy follicular growth in the coming cycle.

Follicular Phase

Weekly sessions targeting follicle development, hormone regulation and endometrial preparation.

Ovulation & Fertile Window

Supporting ovulatory function and ensuring optimal conditions for fertilisation.

Luteal Phase

Supporting implantation, calming the nervous system and managing the two-week wait.

Ready to Get Started with Acupuncture?

Book an initial consultation and we’ll develop a personalised treatment plan for your goals.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Common questions about acupuncture

Most people find acupuncture to be very comfortable. The needles are extremely fine, much thinner than those used for injections or blood tests. You may feel a brief sensation as the needle is inserted, followed by feelings of warmth, heaviness, tingling or relaxation. Many patients even fall asleep during treatment.
If you are nervous, we recommend letting your practitioner know and they will do everything they can to make you feel comfortable and relaxed.
If it’s your first time we usually recommend eating a light meal or snack before your appointment and staying well hydrated. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, and arrive a few minutes early so you can relax before your treatment. If you have any relevant test results or reports, feel free to bring them with you.
Yes, if your private health insurance includes extras cover for acupuncture or Chinese Medicine, you may be eligible for a rebate. We recommend checking directly with your health fund regarding your level of cover.
Your first appointment begins with a detailed discussion about your health history, menstrual or reproductive history, current treatment and goals.
Your practitioner will then explain how acupuncture may fit into your care and develop an individualised treatment plan.
Please refer to our What to Expect Page for more information.
Absolutely. We offer acupuncture to support male reproductive health and fertility, including hormonal and reproductive health concerns.
Treatment is individualised and may be used alongside investigations and treatment provided by your GP, fertility specialist or urologist.