IVF & FERTILITY ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), including fertility acupuncture, have been used for centuries to support reproductive health and fertility. At Women’s Health Melbourne, we combine these time-honoured techniques with modern fertility treatments to help optimise natural conception and IVF success. We're fertility specialists and our approach is tailored, holistic, and backed by science, ensuring the best possible outcomes for every individual and couple.

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HOW ACUPUNCTURE SUPPORTS FERTILITY & IVF

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points in the body to improve circulation, regulate hormones and relieve stress-factors that all play a crucial role in reproductive health. Many women choose acupuncture to support ovarian function, increasing blood flow to the ovaries and enhancing both egg quality and quantity. It also helps regulate menstrual cycles by supporting hormonal balance, ensuring ovulation occurs predictably and that the body is optimally prepared for pregnancy.

Beyond improving egg health, acupuncture plays a vital role in preparing the uterus for implantation. By increasing blood flow, it helps thicken the uterine lining, creating the best possible environment for an embryo to implant and develop. Additionally, acupuncture’s calming effect on the nervous system reduces stress hormones that can interfere with conception. Research suggests that when used alongside IVF treatments, acupuncture can enhance success rates, making it an excellent complementary therapy for those undergoing assisted reproduction.

ACUPUNCTURE FOR FERTILITY AND NATURAL CONCEPTION

For those trying to conceive naturally, acupuncture provides a holistic approach to fertility by addressing underlying factors that may be impacting reproductive health. It can help regulate cycles, enhance ovarian function, and improve egg quality, while also playing a role in supporting male fertility by improving sperm motility, count, and morphology.

Stress management is another key benefit of acupuncture. High stress levels can interfere with hormone regulation and disrupt ovulation. Acupuncture helps regulate the nervous system, improving overall well-being, promoting better sleep, and reducing the physiological impact of stress on fertility. It also enhances circulation to the uterus, ensuring that the uterine lining is healthy and receptive for implantation.

For best results, we recommend starting acupuncture two to three months before trying to conceive, allowing time for cycles to regulate and reproductive health to improve. However, even if you’ve already started your journey, it’s never too late to begin treatment. Sessions are typically scheduled once a week, with an emphasis on key phases of the menstrual cycle, including ovulation and implantation.

ACUPUNCTURE FOR IVF: WHEN & HOW IT’S USED

Acupuncture can be beneficial at various points throughout the IVF process. Many patients begin treatment two to three months before their IVF cycle to prepare the body and optimise reproductive health. During ovarian stimulation, acupuncture supports egg development and can help reduce discomfort associated with the process. Around embryo transfer, treatments are focused on promoting blood flow to the uterus, supporting implantation, and reducing the emotional strain of the two-week wait.

MEET OUR FERTILITY ACUPUNCTURIST MANDI AZOULAY

MANDI AZOULAY

Integrative Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Acupuncturist

Mandi Azoulay, Doctor of Chinese Medicine, is passionate about supporting individuals and couples on their fertility journey. She combines Traditional Chinese Medicine with the latest advancements in reproductive science, offering a well-rounded, evidence-based approach to fertility care.

Mandi’s treatment philosophy is holistic and deeply personalised. She integrates acupuncture to improve circulation, reduce stress, and support general well-being. When appropriate, she incorporates Chinese herbal medicine, nutritional guidance, and dietary therapy to optimise fertility. She also explores environmental, occupational, and lifestyle factors that may be impacting reproductive health, helping patients make meaningful adjustments that can support conception.

Mandi’s collaborative approach ensures that she works closely with referring doctors and healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive care. She also believes strongly in the importance of male reproductive health and encourages male partners to book a fertility review, as optimising sperm quality is an essential part of achieving a successful pregnancy.

ACUPUNCTURE FOR OVULATION INDUCTION

Acupuncture can be a powerful tool for supporting ovulation induction by regulating hormonal balance, improving ovarian function, and enhancing the body’s natural reproductive rhythms. By stimulating the hypothalamus, acupuncture helps to regulate hormone production, ensuring the delicate balance between estrogen and progesterone is maintained-both essential for ovulation.

By improving blood circulation to the ovaries, acupuncture enhances the delivery of oxygen and nutrients needed for optimal follicular development. This increased blood flow can support stronger ovulation by promoting the growth and maturation of healthy follicles. Additionally, acupuncture is known to support the regulation of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which play key roles in triggering ovulation. When treatments are timed according to the menstrual cycle, acupuncture can help synchronise hormonal fluctuations and enhance ovulation outcomes.

Stress and anxiety are common factors that can negatively impact ovulation. Acupuncture has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation, which in turn supports a more regular ovulatory cycle. The use of complementary techniques such as moxibustion or an infrared heat lamp can further enhance circulation and libido, supporting overall reproductive health.

Acupuncture can be used in conjunction with fertility medications like Clomid or Letrozole to enhance their effectiveness or as part of an IVF cycle to support ovarian stimulation. Every individual’s fertility journey is unique, and consulting with Mandi Azoulay, a registered acupuncturist, can help determine the best approach to ovulation induction tailored to your specific needs.

ACUPUNCTURE & MALE FERTILITY

Fertility is a shared journey, and male reproductive health plays an essential role in conception. Acupuncture can be an effective therapy for improving sperm health by enhancing circulation to the reproductive organs, optimising testosterone levels, and reducing inflammation. It can also help manage oxidative stress, which has been linked to sperm DNA fragmentation and poor sperm morphology.

In addition to improving sperm parameters, acupuncture is beneficial for reducing stress and boosting libido, helping men feel more energised and balanced. We generally recommend beginning acupuncture three to six months before conception to allow time for sperm health to improve. If sperm quality is already optimal, treatments can be focused around the partner’s fertile window for additional support.

FAQS ABOUT FERTILITY ACUPUNCTURE

Alongside acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine can be used to address specific fertility concerns, such as irregular cycles, poor egg quality, or uterine lining issues. Herbal formulas are prescribed based on an individual’s needs and can help regulate hormones, improve circulation, and support reproductive function. While herbal medicine is commonly used in the lead-up to IVF, it is typically discontinued once fertility medications begin unless approved by your fertility specialist.
Acupuncture is a gentle and natural therapy that is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified practitioner. At Women’s Health Melbourne, all acupuncture treatments are conducted by experienced professionals using sterile, single-use needles.
Most people find acupuncture relaxing, but some may experience mild discomfort at the needle site, slight bruising, or temporary dizziness. These effects are minimal and typically resolve quickly. If you have a bleeding disorder or other medical condition, it’s always best to consult your doctor before starting treatment.
During pregnancy, acupuncture can be a valuable tool for supporting well-being, but certain points should be avoided. Choosing an experienced AHPRA-registered practitioner ensures that your treatment is both safe and effective.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FERTILITY ACUPUNCTURE APPOINTMENT

Your first session is an opportunity to discuss your fertility goals, medical history, and current health. We review any medications, supplements, and dietary habits to ensure they align with your fertility journey.
During follow-up appointments, we review test results, refine your treatment plan, and begin your acupuncture sessions. This step ensures that your care remains personalised and aligned with your body’s changing needs.
Each acupuncture session lasts approximately 45 minutes. Your practitioner will check in with you about any changes or developments before administering acupuncture, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing experience.
The number of treatments varies based on individual needs and the timing of your IVF cycle or natural conception journey. Some patients benefit from weekly sessions, while others may have treatments scheduled around key phases of their menstrual cycle or IVF treatment plan.
While acupuncture is not a replacement for conventional fertility treatments, it can be a valuable complementary therapy to support overall reproductive health and improve IVF outcomes.

START YOUR FERTILITY ACUPUNCTURE JOURNEY

Whether you are preparing for IVF, trying to conceive naturally, or looking to enhance your overall reproductive health, acupuncture can be a valuable and supportive addition to your fertility journey.

Book an appointment today with Mandi Azoulay and take the next step toward optimising your fertility with the support of Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture.

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GETTING TO WOMEN'S HEALTH MELBOURNE

Onsite parking at the rear of the building and a short walk from Caulfield Train Station.

Location: 330 and 338 Balaclava Road Caulfield North 3161
Phone: (03) 9041 9082
Fax: (03) 9086 4101
Email: info@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au
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Opening Hours
Monday – Thursday: 9:-00am – 5:00pm
Friday: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Weekends: Closed

WHM is located in Caulfield North, an inner Eastern suburb only about 8km from Melbourne CBD. Close to WHM you'll find Caulfield Park - a large public park featuring a lake, sports facilities, and walking paths and Caulfield Junior College - an educational institution located close to 334 Balaclava Road.

Getting here by car:

From Melbourne CBD, head southeast on St Kilda Road, which transitions into Brighton Road. Turn left onto Balaclava Road; number 334 is on the left.

Complementary Street parking is available on Balaclava Road and surrounding streets. Please observe any parking restrictions indicated by signage. Onsite parking at the rear of the building is also available.

Getting here by public transport:

Tram: Routes 3/3a and 16 travel along Balaclava Road. The nearest stop to 334 Balaclava Road is Stop 51 (Hawthorn Road/Balaclava Road), approximately a 3-minute walk away.
Train: The two closest train stations are Balaclava Station on the Sandringham line. From there, you can take tram route 3/3a or 16 eastbound along Balaclava Road to reach Stop 51. Or Caulfield Station on the Frankston, Pakenham, and Cranbourne lines is also nearby, a short 5 minute walk.
Bus: Bus routes 604, 605, 623, and 624 have stops near Balaclava Road. The nearest bus stop to 334 Balaclava Road is Balaclava Rd/Kooyong Rd, approximately a 12-minute walk away.

AFFILIATED LOCATIONS

Location: 26 Balaclava Rd, St Kilda East VIC 3183
Location: 320 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002
Location: Level 1, 36 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC, 3066. Ph: 1800 111 483