Infertility
Conception is achieved when a sperm unites and fertilizes a ripened egg. The egg then must pass down the fallopian tube and implant in the uterus. The chance of natural conception increases with time. After one month, 25 percent of couples will achieve a pregnancy.

After three months, 60 percent of couples become pregnant. Within a year, pregnancy is achieved in 90 percent of couples.

Infertility is the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse, or the inability to carry a baby to term. For women over 35, infertility is diagnosed after six months of unprotected intercourse. According to RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, about 2.1 million American couples are infertile or have difficulty conceiving.

In 40 percent of cases, infertility arises from problems with the woman. In another 40 percent of cases, the problem is with the man. In 10 percent of cases, a combination of female and male factors causes infertility. In the remaining couples, the cause is never found.

Assisted Reproduction
Couples who are unable to become pregnant may turn to assisted reproduction to increase their chances of conception. There are many different techniques used, from hormone therapy to sperm donation. Another procedure that's often used is in vitro fertilization. A woman is usually given hormones to stimulate the production of several eggs during the ovulation cycle. The ripened eggs are retrieved through a needle and united with sperm in a laboratory. Several of the fertilized eggs are then placed back into the woman's uterus where, hopefully, they will implant and grow.

Acupuncture for Infertility Some women are looking for alternative ways to improve their chances of becoming pregnant. One of those techniques is acupuncture, an ancient form of Chinese medicine.

According to acupuncture theory, energy (known as Qi) flows through the body in defined, invisible pathways, called meridians. Disruption of the energy flow reduces optimal function of the body and can cause disease and illness. Acupuncture may be used in conjunction with other alternative forms of medicine, such as herbs, diet, massage, and meditation.

According to the World Health Organization, acupuncture is an acceptable alternative or adjunctive (in coordination with mainstream medicine) treatment for many conditions, such as the common cold, tonsillitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, asthma, conjunctivitis, toothache, sore throat, back pain, hiccups, constipation, diarrhea, and headache. In the field of obstetrics, acupuncture is sometimes used to relieve pain during labor and delivery.

Acupuncture theorists believe changes in the flow of Qi can disrupt levels of female hormones that influence fertility. Restoration of the energy flow may increase the chance of conception and a successful pregnancy. Acupuncture may be used to relieve other problems that can contribute to infertility (such as reduction of blood flow to the uterus). It is sometimes used as an adjunct to in vitro fertilization. Research also suggests acupuncture may increase sperm production and improve fertility rates in men.

If you are looking for an acupuncturist, look for someone who is licensed or registered with your state board. The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine maintains a website at www.nccaom.org

Source: www.medstar.com