Need Advice

[jandc33]

My husband and I are planning on going for our 2nd IVF cycle at the beginning of October after the 1st one failed in July. I'm experiencing alot of emotions-excitement at getting started again but also alot of fears because if this one doesn't work, we will need to take a break for awhile to save up again. And the bottom line being that we really want to have a baby and having to face a BFN is heartbreaking to think about.

The thing that is weighing on my mind right now is whether to do acupuncture for a couple of months and then start or whether to go with out original plan which was to start at the beginning of October. What are others experiences/recommendations with acupuncture?

Ghost-do you have any opinion one way or the other about acupuncture?

Wishing everyone loads of luck and I thank you for your daily support!

[MzTia]

jandc- I am a supporter of AP. Ghost has sited many studies which support that Ap has no added benefit to IVF. I am skeptical as to whether it works myself. However, I have felt that AP has provided me with a sense of calm and the feeling that I have done everything possible that I could to help with success. Supposedly the AP helps to increase bloodflow to the uterus which would be great benefit during implantation time. Many women truly believe taht months of AP prior to IVF has helped to improve thier egg quality, now many of those women have taking chinese herbs in conjuction with the AP. I have found some studies while doing research that does say that AP just prior to ET does provide a benefit. My opinion is that if you can afford it and it causes you no added stress go for it, it certainly can't hurt and if anything it will help. Make sure you find an AP that knows what they are doing ie .. IVF support. or you could try some nice massages.

Good luck with your second cycle, I am in my 2ww on my second cycle. This cycle being much more successful..was it the AP or was it the meds?...meds I am sure but hey the AP didn't hurt.

[loopie]

Dear Jandc,

like MzTia, I am a fan of AP.
I did not do it weekly or anything, just every now and again, and we scheduled a few in close to ER/ET per her recommendation ( we got our BFP the 1st go). The woman I go to sort of specializes in AP for fertility, though I started going to her for my back and leg pain issues.
I did find that for me, the 5 elements variety of Acupuncture (there are several types) worked well for me to become focused and receptive to the possibilities, and prior to each session of needles, we would talk for perhaps a half hour so she could best treat my overall needs - so sort of mental therapy along with the pins.
Perhaps give it a try, see if there is someone your clinic or a friend might recommend. Ask specifically about fertility issues as some APists have more experience with it than others

best of luck in fulfilling your dreams

take care

loopie