Roughly 10 to 20 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage. This figure increases with age, with women over 40 experiencing miscarriages at a rate of upwards 35 to 50%.
Miscarriages can be devastating, especially for those who have struggled to become pregnant. Luckily, acupuncture can help lower the risk of a miscarriage by targeting several of the top risk factors including:
Balancing hormones
Improving egg/sperm quality
Lessening the effects of underlying health conditions
Balancing Hormones
Hormones play a crucial role in maintaining pregnancy by supporting the development and function of the placenta, which nourishes the fetus. Hormones like progesterone help relax the uterine muscles and prevent early contractions, while human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) signals the body to maintain the pregnancy and prevent miscarriage by sustaining the production of other essential hormones.
Acupuncture is remarkedly good at restoring balance in the body, especially when it comes to hormones. Acupuncture helps regulate hormones by stimulating specific points that promote blood flow and balance the endocrine system, which can support the body's ability to produce the homones necessary for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. This can improve uterine function and support hormonal balance, reducing the risk of miscarriage.
Improving Egg/Sperm Quality
Poor egg or sperm quality can lead to chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo, which increases the risk of implantation failure or miscarriage. These genetic issues can prevent the embryo from developing properly, resulting in early pregnancy loss.
Acupuncture can improve egg and sperm quality by enhancing blood flow to the reproductive organs, promoting hormonal balance, and reducing stress, all of which contribute to healthier egg and sperm production. By optimizing overall reproductive health, acupuncture may increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Lessening the Effects of Underlying Health Conditions
Underlying health conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, PCOS, diabetes or thyroid conditions can reduce the chances of a healthy pregnancy. For example, endometriosis or fibroids can result in unwanted cellular growth which can deprive the growing fetus of essential nutrients.
To maintain a healthy pregnancy, it is critical to keep these underlying health conditions in check. Regular acupuncture treatments throughout your pregnancy can help reduce the symptoms and isolate their impact of the developing fetus.
Final Thoughts
Miscarriages can quickly turn joy into sorrow. While the risk of a miscarriage can't be eliminated, acupuncture can lower its likelihood by addressing the underlying risk factors such as hormonal imbalances, poor egg/sperm quality and the effects of underlying health conditions.
If you are looking for support on your fertility or pregnancy journey, I am here to help. Book your appointment online to get started today.