Author: Grace Yu (Yu Hsin Tzu)
In an era of rapid advancement in modern medicine, the treatment methods for infertility have become increasingly diverse. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one option for couples facing infertility. However, with the success rates of IVF/IUI often falling short of expectations—ranging from 30% to 50%—many patients begin to seek supplementary methods to enhance their chances of success. The success rate of IVF is influenced by various factors, including the woman's age, ovarian function, fertilization techniques, and embryo quality.
Factors Affecting the Success Rate of Assisted Reproductive Technology
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Age
Research shows that women under 35 have higher success rates, which gradually decline with age. After 35, both the quality and quantity of eggs significantly decrease, leading to at least a 26% reduction in pregnancy rates, primarily due to declining ovarian function. -
Quality and Quantity of Eggs and Sperm
The number and quality of both eggs and sperm directly affect embryo quality and IVF success rates. Women can assess their egg quantity and quality through tests for AMH and FSH, while men can evaluate sperm quality and quantity through sperm analysis. -
Uterine Environment
The uterine lining typically allows for embryo implantation around 6-9 days post-ovulation or days 19-21 of a normal menstrual cycle. Conditions such as uterine fibroids, polyps, and adenomyosis can adversely affect implantation and pregnancy maintenance. Additionally, luteal phase defects can lead to abnormal uterine lining thickness, while immune factors may cause recurrent miscarriages.
How TCM Enhances the Success Rate of Assisted Reproductive Technology
Improving Physical Condition for Fertility Preparation Acupuncture and herbal treatments can effectively improve the conditions of the uterus and ovaries. Scientifically validated herbal medicines ensure no heavy metal residues and are prescribed by qualified practitioners to effectively support fertility. The choice of herbal treatments and acupuncture points is tailored to individual differences, fundamentally improving physical conditions and laying a solid foundation for IVF success.Common Patterns of Infertility
- Kidney Qi Deficiency Weak Kidney Qi leads to fatigue, low energy, and weakness in the lower back and knees, resulting in insufficient support for the reproductive system.
- Kidney Yang Deficiency Symptoms include cold hands and feet, fear of cold, and pale complexion. This condition can result in irregular menstruation or amenorrhea, affecting overall metabolic activity and reproductive capacity.
- Kidney Yin Deficiency Symptoms include night sweats, hot hands and feet, dry throat, and dizziness. This condition reflects insufficient Yin fluids, affecting the nourishment of reproductive organs.
- Liver Qi Stagnation Emotional distress, chest tightness, and menstrual irregularities characterize this pattern, which highlights the negative impact of emotional stress on reproductive health.
- Phlegm-Dampness Symptoms include a heavy, sluggish feeling, chest tightness, and thick tongue coating. This pattern can obstruct the smooth flow of Qi and blood, affecting reproductive organ function.
- Blood Stasis Common symptoms include blood clots in menstrual flow and abdominal pain. Blood stasis hinders normal circulation, affecting the supply of Qi and blood to reproductive organs, thereby impacting the chances of conception.
Advantages of TCM in Supporting IVF
- Improving Ovarian Function Acupuncture and herbal medicine enhance blood circulation to the ovaries, improve egg quality, and increase ovarian responsiveness to IVF medication, significantly impacting the success rate.
- Enhancing Uterine Lining Receptivity By promoting Qi and blood circulation, acupuncture and herbal treatments improve the thickness and quality of the uterine lining, creating a better environment for embryo implantation.
- Reducing IVF-related Side Effects Hormonal medications used during IVF can cause side effects like mood swings and abdominal pain. Acupuncture and herbal treatments can help alleviate these symptoms, enhancing overall comfort.
- Regulating the Endocrine System Acupuncture and herbal treatments help balance hormonal levels, promoting normal endocrine function and improving reproductive capacity.
- Reducing Stress and Improving Emotional Well-being Psychological stress during IVF can negatively affect treatment outcomes. Acupuncture and herbal treatments can mitigate stress and enhance emotional stability.
- Increasing Blood Flow and Improving Uterine Environment Acupuncture and herbal treatments enhance pelvic blood flow, increasing the blood supply to the uterus and ovaries, which aids embryo implantation and stability, thereby improving pregnancy rates.
