Effect of acupuncture on the outcome of in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection

Conclusion: Luteal-phase acupuncture has a positive effect on the outcome of IVF/ICSI.

Dieterle S et al, Fertil Steril 2006 Vol 85, pg 1347-1351 Fertility and Sterility 

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of luteal-phase acupuncture on the outcome of IVF / intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

DESIGN: Randomized, prospective, controlled clinical study.

SETTING: University IVF center.

PATIENT(S): Two hundred twenty-five infertile patients undergoing IVF/ICSI.

INTERVENTION(S): In group I, 116 patients received
luteal-phase acupuncture according to the principles of traditional
Chinese medicine. In group II, 109 patients received placebo
acupuncture.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Clinical and ongoing pregnancy rates.

RESULT(S): In group I, the clinical pregnancy rate and
ongoing pregnancy rate (33.6% and 28.4%, respectively) were
significantly higher than in group II (15.6% and 13.8%).