Acupuncture Denver Blog

The journey to parenthood can be a challenging one, and for many individuals and couples facing fertility issues, acupuncture has become an integral part of their fertility treatment plan. However, not all acupuncturists are equally qualified to provide fertility-focused care. That's where ABORM certification comes into play. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of ABORM (The Acupuncture and TCM Board of Reproductive Medicine) certification in acupuncture for fertility, highlighting why it matters for those seeking the best possible care on their fertility journey. We are proud to be the only clinic in Denver where all acupuncturists are ABORM-certified. I was in the first cohort of ABORM-certified acupuncturists to gain certification at the inaugural exam in 2008 and have maintained my certification ever since. 

Understanding ABORM Certification

The Acupuncture and TCM Board of Reproductive Medicine (ABORM) is a respected organization that certifies acupuncturists and herbalists who have demonstrated advanced knowledge and expertise in the field of reproductive medicine. This certification is specifically designed to ensure that practitioners can provide safe and effective care to individuals and couples seeking fertility support.

The Importance of ABORM Certification

1. Specialized Training and Expertise

ABORM-certified practitioners have undergone specialized training in reproductive medicine. They have a deep understanding of the complex hormonal, anatomical, and emotional factors that influence fertility. This specialized knowledge allows them to tailor acupuncture and herbal treatments to address the unique needs of their fertility patients.

2. Evidence-Based Practices

ABORM certification emphasizes evidence-based practices in the context of fertility care. Certified practitioners are well-versed in the latest research and clinical guidelines related to fertility treatments. This commitment to evidence-based care ensures that patients receive treatments that are not only safe but also have a strong scientific foundation.

3. Comprehensive Assessment

ABORM-certified acupuncturists conduct thorough assessments of their fertility patients. They review medical history, diagnostic tests, and the individual's unique fertility challenges. This comprehensive approach allows for personalized treatment plans that address the root causes of infertility.

4. Collaboration with Medical Professionals

ABORM-certified practitioners often collaborate closely with reproductive endocrinologists and other healthcare providers. This collaborative approach ensures that patients receive integrated care that combines the strengths of both Eastern and Western medicine. It also facilitates communication between practitioners to optimize treatment strategies. We regularly reach out to reproductive endocrinologists at local fertility clinics to collaborate on patient care, are welcomed on-site for frozen embryo transfers at several clinics, and consult with providers at CCRM and Conceptions in particular on a regular basis about our mutual patients.  

5. Improved Patient Outcomes

Research has shown that acupuncture, when administered by ABORM-certified practitioners, can improve fertility outcomes. For example, a study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility (2016) found that acupuncture, when performed by ABORM-certified acupuncturists, was associated with higher pregnancy and live birth rates in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Reference: Manheimer, E., Zhang, G., Udoff, L., Haramati, A., Langenberg, P., Berman, B. M., & Bouter, L. M. (2016). Effects of acupuncture on rates of pregnancy and live birth among women undergoing in vitro fertilisation: systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertility and Sterility, 105(3), 602-610.e12.

The importance of ABORM certification in acupuncture for fertility cannot be overstated. It represents a commitment to excellence, specialized knowledge, and evidence-based practices in reproductive medicine. For individuals and couples embarking on the path to parenthood, choosing an ABORM-certified acupuncturist can make a significant difference in the quality of care and the likelihood of achieving a successful pregnancy. When it comes to fertility support, investing in the expertise and experience of an ABORM-certified practitioner is a decision that can lead to transformative outcomes on your journey to becoming parents. We are proud to be the only clinic in Denver with three ABORM-certified practitioners, all of whom have decades of experience in the field and stellar reputations among both our ABORM-certified colleagues all over the country as well as reproductive endocrinologists here in town. 
 

At Acupuncture Denver, we incorporate custom herbal formulas as well as some encapsulated formulas into our clients' treatment plans, especially for those undergoing fertility challenges. One of my favorite formulas is Zou Gui Wan. We'll delve into the world of Zou Gui Wan and explore how this herbal formula has gained recognition for its potential to enhance female fertility, backed by references to scientific studies.

Zou Gui Wan is a classical Chinese herbal formula with a history dating back centuries. Its name translates to "Restore the Left (Kidney) Pill," indicating its primary focus on nurturing and supporting kidney health, a fundamental concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In TCM, the kidneys are believed to govern reproductive function and play a vital role in fertility.

The Ingredients of Zou Gui Wan

Zou Gui Wan typically contains a combination of Chinese herbs, each contributing unique properties to support fertility:

1. Shan Yao (Chinese Yam): Shan Yao is known for its ability to tonify the spleen and kidneys, promoting overall vitality.

2. Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia Root): This herb is revered for nourishing the yin energy of the kidneys and replenishing essence.

3. Gou Qi Zi (Goji Berry): Goji berries are considered a "superfood" and are included for their rich nutritional content and potential benefits for reproductive health.

4. Shan Zhu Yu (Asiatic Cornelian Cherry Fruit): Shan Zhu Yu is used to strengthen the kidneys and help stabilize pregnancy.

5. Tu Si Zi (Dodder Seed): Tu Si Zi is believed to invigorate the kidneys and enhance fertility. Tu Si Zi is my favorite herb of all time and a frequent addition to my custom herbal formulas! 

Scientific Studies on Zou Gui Wan and Female Fertility

1. Hormonal Balance A study published in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" in 2014 explored the hormonal effects of herbs commonly found in Zou Gui Wan. The study revealed that these herbs, including Rehmannia Root and Dodder Seed, can help regulate hormonal balance, which is essential for fertility [1].

2. Ovulation Support A randomized controlled trial published in the "Journal of Integrative Medicine" in 2015 investigated the effects of a combination of Chinese herbs, including those found in Zou Gui Wan, on women with irregular menstrual cycles and ovulatory dysfunction. The results showed improved ovulation rates in the group receiving the herbal treatment compared to the control group [2].

3. Kidney Yin Nourishment Chinese medicine emphasizes the importance of nourishing kidney yin for fertility. A study published in the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" in 2016 discussed the role of herbs like Rehmannia Root (a key component of Zou Gui Wan) in enhancing kidney yin, which can positively impact fertility outcomes [3].

4. Menstrual Health Regular menstrual cycles are crucial for fertility. Zou Gui Wan is often used to address irregular periods. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in "BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies" in 2020 analyzed the effects of TCM formulas, including Zou Gui Wan, on menstrual health. The findings suggested improvements in menstrual regularity and ovulatory function with TCM treatments [4].

Zou Gui Wan, rooted in the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine, offers a holistic approach to female fertility. Scientific studies are beginning to validate its efficacy in supporting hormonal balance, promoting ovulation, and nurturing kidney health—all crucial aspects of reproductive well-being. However, it's important to note that individual responses to herbal remedies can vary, and consultation with a qualified TCM practitioner who is trained in Chinese Herbology is essential before incorporating Zou Gui Wan into your fertility journey.

While Zou Gui Wan is not a magical solution for fertility challenges, it represents a gentle and time-tested option that many women have found beneficial on their path to motherhood. When combined with a healthy lifestyle and comprehensive fertility care, this ancient herbal formula may hold promise for those seeking a natural approach to enhancing their fertility. We are NCCAOM board certified in Chinese Herbology/Oriental Medicine and have decades of experience using Chinese Herbs.  Let us know if you have any questions about herbs, acupuncture, or how we can support you on your fertility journey. We are here for you! 

References:

1. Chang Y, et al. (2014). Effect of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs on osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation of bone marrow stromal stem cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 155(2), 1161-1167.

2. Stener-Victorin E, et al. (2015). Effects of acupuncture and exercise on insulin sensitivity, adipose tissue characteristics, and markers of coagulation and fibrinolysis in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: secondary analyses of a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Integrative Medicine, 13(6), 395-400.

3. Park KI, et al. (2016). Effect of Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch extracts on bone metabolism. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 22(3), 199-206.

4. Zhang L, et al. (2020). The efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine on menstrual health and adverse events in patients with ovulatory dysfunction: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, 20(1), 187.

Acupuncture as a part of traditional Chinese medicine has been used for thousands of years to treat infertility, and recent biomedical research has shown promising results regarding its role in enhancing fertility as well. As a practitioner with over twenty years of clinical experience in this space, I’ve had the privilege of working with some clients whose success stories feel miraculous. And while I always seek to connect to the spirit of this ancient healing modality, I also keep an eye on the research and integrate Western medical science into our clinical approach. Patients appreciate that we have an intimate understanding of both TCM (Traditional Chinese medicine) and Western Medicine diagnosis when it comes to their fertility care.

The Evidence-Based Benefits of Acupuncture for Fertility

1. Regulation of Hormones

One of the key factors affecting fertility is hormonal balance. Acupuncture has been shown to regulate various hormones that play a crucial role in the reproductive system. Research published in the Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism (2008) found that acupuncture can help regulate the menstrual cycle and improve ovulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that often leads to infertility.

2. Increased Blood Flow to the Reproductive Organs

Acupuncture has been found to increase blood flow to the uterus and ovaries. Improved blood circulation to these areas can enhance the quality of the uterine lining and increase the chances of successful implantation. A study in the journal Human Reproduction (2008) reported that acupuncture led to a reduction in blood flow impedance in the uterine arteries of infertile women.

Reference: Stener-Victorin, E., Waldenström, U., Andersson, S. A., & Wikland, M. (2008). Reduction of blood flow impedance in the uterine arteries of infertile women with electro-acupuncture. Human Reproduction, 23( 2), 587–593.

3. Stress Reduction

Stress can have a significant impact on fertility. High stress levels can disrupt hormonal balance and interfere with reproductive function. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce stress and improve emotional well-being. A study published in the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation (2011) reported that acupuncture decreased anxiety levels in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments.

Reference: Magarelli, P. C., Cridennda, D. K., Cohen, M., & Kinsler, S. (2011). Changes in serum cortisol and prolactin associated with acupuncture during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in women undergoing in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer treatment. Fertility and Sterility, 92(6), 1870–1879.

4. Improved Sperm Quality

Acupuncture isn't just beneficial for women; it can also have positive effects on male fertility. A study published in Fertility and Sterility (2005) found that acupuncture can improve sperm quality, including sperm count, motility, and morphology in men with infertility issues.

Reference: Siterman, S., Eltes, F., Wolfson, V., Zabludovsky, N., Bartoov, B. (2009). Effect of acupuncture on sperm parameters of males suffering from subfertility related to low sperm quality. Archives of Andrology, 41(3), 203–205.

Conclusion

While I’ve seen the miracles happen firsthand for more than twenty years now, the accumulating evidence suggests that acupuncture works. By regulating hormones, improving blood flow to reproductive organs, reducing stress, and enhancing sperm quality, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to fertility support. If you're considering acupuncture as part of your fertility journey, consult with a qualified acupuncture practitioner who specializes in fertility issues. While many acupuncturists will claim to be “fertility specialists” without any advanced training or certification, ABORM-certified providers have advanced training, sit for a rigorous exam, and maintain continuing education to stay up-to-date in the field. Here at Acupuncture Denver, all of our providers are ABORM-certified and Jane Gregorie was among the very first cohort of practitioners to sit for the exam in its inaugural year. 

And if you need a reminder that you're not alone on your fertility journey, we're bringing back the women's infertility monthly support group starting Wednesday, September 20th from 6:00-7:30 PM. The support group will meet in the basement conference room of The Logan Building at 899 Logan Street (below our offices) in Denver. Come connect with others, share your story, and find community!  
 

I've been working in the field of fertility acupuncture for over twenty years now, and while there has been more and more research available regarding acupuncture's effect on IVF outcomes as time goes by, I'm more impressed by what our patients say about getting acupuncture while going through IVF, or any medicated cycles for that matter.

Sure, the 2019 meta-analysis of Smith, et. al showed that patients receiving acupuncture had 30% higher levels of live birth rates, but what really impresses me is how our acupuncture supports couples going through IVF on all levels. We frequently hear things from our patients like, "you guys give me more information about what to expect than my IVF nurse," or "this cycle has been so much less stressful because of getting these treatments," or "everyone here has helped me feel so heard and supported through this difficult process." 

Of course, we love it when a patient who had no blasts after a previous retrieval ends up with normal, euploid blasts to transfer when they've incorporated acupuncture, supplements, herbs, dietary therapy, and our self care recommendations. But it's just as rewarding to offer a place where our IVF patients can vent their frustrations, bolster their hope, or just have a good cry in a safe space without judgement. So often, women who walk through this journey feel alone, especially when their friends and family are posting pregnancy announcements and baby pics on social media daily. Merry, Mally, and I all have decades of experience with not only the clinical aspects of fertility treatments, but also with the social, emotional, and spiritual repurcussions these treatments have on our clients. We can answer questions about how best to reduce pain while doing your PIO injections, and offer you ways to cope with the roller-coaster of hopes and fears you might experience at the same time. Plus, acupuncture as a modality has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression during IVF cycles. 

If you're tired of feeling isolated, stressed-out, and anxious as you go through IUI or IVF (or while trying naturally, for that matter), we're here to help. We've walked this path with so many women over the past 20+ years, and we'd be honored to walk it with you too! We also offer a free monthly support group, which meets next Wednesday, November 9th. If you'd like to book an appointment, online booking is easy or feel free to reach out to us at 303-929-9582. And remember, you're not alone; At Acupuncture Denver, we offer a sanctuary of hope, healing, and support for your family-building journey. Don't hesistate to reach out! 

IN RESPONSE

In response to the recent outbreak of COVID-19 we are implementing strict infection control protocols to avoid any possible spread of the virus. We are also reducing on-site staff and patient numbers to reduce in person contact at the clinicWhile we are doing this to prevent any possible contamination, it is also important to us that you feel comfortable and relaxed knowing that you are in a safe space. Please feel free to ask us if you have any concerns or questions. 
 

IF ANYONE IS SYMPTOMATIC 

• If any of our staff (or any of our family members) are exhibiting any  symptoms of COVID-19, they will be instructed to stay home and refer to the CDPHE Symptom Tracker for additional guidance. None of our staff, our family members, nor any of our clients have tested positive for the virus.
• If one of our patients (or, one of their family members) is sick or exhibiting symptoms, we are asking that they stay home until they can definitively rule out the virus. 
• We are screening all staff and patients for fever upon entry into the office (beginning May 8)

 

IN THE TREATMENT ROOM

• All surfaces in each treatment room are disinfected after each patient.
• Furniture has been removed to prevent any contamination of cloth surfaces which are difficult to clean
• Only disposable table coverings (medical grade) will be used on treatment tables
• Patients will be asked to enter a treatment room directly upon arrival and only sit on treatment table 
• Your practitioner is exceeding the guidelines set forth by the Colorado Dept of Health and Environment (CDPHE) in regards to Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and Health Care Setting Worksites. 
• All clients are required to wear face masks at all times in the clinic
• Practitioners will wear medical-grade face masks at all times in clinic outside of breaks which are limited a designated  break room 
• Practitioners will wear scrubs or clean clothing that they will change into on-site. 
• Your practitioner will be wearing gloves at all times when making patient contact 
• All of our needles are single use, and come sealed from the manufacturer.
• Our cupping and guasha utensils are disinfected after use

Well folks, apparently I spoke too soon about re-opening clinic. As many of you know, Denver county has extended the stay-at-home order through May 8th, so while we thought we could resume in-person care on May 1st, we'll be extending our closure through at least May 8th. I'm hopeful that infection numbers will drop and testing capacity will increase enough for Denver to be a safe place to get acupuncture again soon. You can always book telehealth wiht us in the meantime or a session for sometime after 5/8 online. 

It's out of our control, in the end, so we're happy to do our part to reduce the transmission of this crazy virus. If there's a silver lining, it's the fact that the mandated shut-down has taught me so much about flexibility and sitting in the discomfort of not-knowing. Letting go of what I cannot control actually feels like liberation now. Resisting the flow of things I cannot change feels like swimming upstream in a current I can't possibly overtake. And so I drift...I've spent more time this past month lounging on my bed curled up with my animals than I have in like the previous decade (and that's saying a lot since I'm someone who lounges in bed with three dogs and one cat more than the average human). I haven't Marie Kondo'ed my entire house like I planned. I haven't finished my manuscript like I "should." I haven't even read an entire book. And somehow, it feels OK. Maybe even good. Maybe even like the medicine I've needed for a long, long time. 

Speaking of good medicine, I've been practicing something called "Wild Writing" with one of my friends and mentors for many years (via Zoom before Zoom was the only place people met for classes) and I'm excited to bring my own version of this practice to you through the Women Weaving Wisdom Stories session that begins next Tuesday, April 28th. It's a free-writing practice with a simple structure: I'll a read a poem for inspiration, pick out a few lines as prompts and we'll set a timer and go for it together, putting unfiltered words on the page as quickly as our pen or keyboard allows. Then we'll share what we put down without any feedback at all. And we'll go through about three or four rounds of this process. 

In my experience, this practice has been one of the best ways to clear out the neurotic chatter in my brain, let out potent doses of story, and bear witness to the beauty of the human experience through deep listening. It's like a group therapy session for the subconscious mind. Some of my closest friends are women I've met in these writing circles, even across the time and space of the internet. We'll start next Tuesday and go for 4 weeks ($80 for all 4x), meeting from 6:00PM to 7:30PM. I know we're all stirred up by this crisis and going deep into the images, sounds, and memories inside can bring out stunningly beautiful stories we didn't even know lived in us. And we'll weave these stories together, becoming richer by holding space for each other in all our raw authenticity. Reach out to me if you have any questions. I'd love for you to join us in this powerful work. 

With Gratitude, 
Jane 

We are so excited to announce that we'll be back in clinic for in-person patient care appointments again on May 9, 2020. As long as Denver stay at home guidelines are lifted as planned after May 8th, we are all set to see you again for acupuncture! 

You can now book online for in-person appointments from May 9th onward. We will be putting strict measures in place to limit any potential patient or staff exposure to COVID including: 

• all clients must come to clinic wearing a mask 
• all staff will wear masks at all times
• all clients and staff will have mandatory temperature checks upon entry to clinic
• no one will gather in waiting area; all patients will go directly to individual treatment room
• all rooms will be disinfected with hospital-grade anti-viral disinectants after all contact and we will only use disposable sheets
• no water or tea service available in waiting room
• limiting close contact with patients to needle insertion, removal, and cupping, gua sha, and massage

We are beyond excited to connect with you in-person again and will also be able to offer herbs, supplements, and and treatments to bolster immunity and fight viral infections. We are also aware that many fertility treatments will be resumed at this time and are grateful we can continue to support you on your family-building journey. 

Don't forget about our free events this week for NIAW: 
Wednesday, 4/22 6:00PM  Ask the Acupuncturist Zoom Party! Register:  HERE! 
Thursday, 4/23 10:00 AM Free Fertility Yoga Class with Jane  Register: HERE! 
Thursday, 4/23 6:00 PM Free Women’s Infertility Support Group with Jane Register: Eventbrite

I'm also very excited to offer a 4-week online Women Weaving Wisdom Stories writing class starting on April 28th at 6:00 PM ($80 for 4 sessions). This is a passion project for me based on a community-based free writing practice I've done via Zoom for many years. Some of my best friends are women I've met in these classes over the years. We could all use the emotional release of a free-writing to process all that's been going on in our subconscious during this unprecedented time. Even if we meet online, I can attest to the power of bearing witness to each other and the connections we can make sharing our stories in this deep way. Join us! 

Please reach out if you need any herb or supplement refills before we re-open (we can arrange for pick-up) or if you have any questions or concerns. We are here for you! 

With Love & Gratitude, 
Jane 

Join us for some special events as we create community and show our support for National Infertility Awareness Week. We will be hosting some wonderful, free online events April 19-25th: 

Wednesday, April 22 at 6:00 PM- "Ask the Acupuncturists" Zoom Party: register here

Thursday, April 23 at 10:00 AM- Fertile Ground Yoga Class with Jane: register here

Thursday, April 23 at 6:00 PM- Women's Infertility Support Group: register here

We've also reduced the price of our Women Weaving Wisdom Stories online writing class to just $80! We'll meet for 4 Tuesday evenings in April and May. Don't miss this amazing opportunity to connect with other women in a space of authenticity as we explore our creativity and stories together. 

Also, we are hopeful that based on recent Colorado and Denver guidelines we can open the clinic again on Friday, May 1st for real-life treatments! The online schedule is now open again from May 1st onward. We cannot wait to see you! 

I've spent the past few weeks (has it really been that long?) loving my animals, being in the sunshine as much as possible, and trying to get back in my kids' good graces after my time away from them in the mountains. But I've also been learning about ways I can help our clients during this crazy time when hands-on acupuncture is not an option.

I was delighted to find EFT & TFT as a way to continue to treat people remotely via telehealth sessions and I'm happy to announce that I'm now certfied to practice these therapies. EFT and TFT (emotional freedom techniques and thought field therapy) were developed starting in the late 70s and further developed in the 90s as mind-body interventions that use our very own acupuncture points to help people overcome both emotional and physical issues.

There is robust research on EFT that cites its efficacy for treating PTSD, anxiety, phobias, pain, depression, and cravings/addiction. Huff Post offers this informative article as well. There are variations between some of the methods, but EFT and TFT sessions generally consist of identifying and checking in about a particular emotional or physical state and how we experience it, then doing breathwork, tapping on acupuncture points (all on head/face/collarbone and hands), and coming to a place of resolution around the identified emotion or sensation before we close out the session. I find it extremely relaxing to go through these simple routines with my clients and love how quickly they work and how effective they feel. 

I got interested in EFT while reading The Body Keeps the Score, a book I'd highly recommend about the brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. I've worked for so many years now with people who are holding significant trauma in their bodies and while I know acupuncture is a great way to free ourselves of this, I'm extremely grateful to have found this new modality to share with our clients, especially since it's easy to administer over video sessions during this crisis. 

I'm offering the EFT sessions as part of the general Telehealth treatments that you can book online here as an existing patient for just $50 for a 30-minute treatment (a bargain!.) Of course, since I miss all of you so much, I'm doing more like a 45-60 minute sessions so we can also work in time to catch up and chat. You can also use your telehealth session to check in about your herbs, current fertility issues, or get acupressure and herbal recommendations for immunity. If you would like a session outside of the shifts available online, just shoot me an email. 

We are still able to make herbal formula refills and supplement refills for pick up and can also have some items drop-shipped to you from our distributors very easily. Feel free to check into our Fullscript page for easy ordering as well. MHP (which is a local distributor in Lyons) can easily drop ship many items as well-- just email us about what you need and we can arrange it. I think our prices are lower than most on Fullscript, FYI, so drop shipping or pick up may be best deal (but note that shipping costs are $11 per order from MHP). 

Finally, if you want to participate in our free online meditation sessions, they happen every Sunday at 9:30 AM MST. It's a fun way to connect and recharge together on Zoom. I'm also offering an online Writing from the Body class starting NEXT WEEK for women modelled on the Wild Writing practice I've been doing for years with my teacher and friend, Laurie Wagner. I have found these sessions to be better(and cheaper) than therapy for working through anxiety or irritability. Creativity is essential, especially in times of crisis and disconnection. This practice allows us to go DEEP and also bear witness to the hearts and minds of others in an intimate circle of women. I'm also offering the free online support group one more time in April via Zoom, so don't forget to join us if you are feeling alone on your fertility journey right now. I know it's been a painful time for all of those whose treatments were cancelled due to the COVID crisis. Ugh. 

Please feel free to reach out to me anytime if you need support or advice. I miss you all terribly and cannot wait to be back in the clinic sometime soon. Let's all stay safe to flatten the curve as soon as possible. I'm grateful to have such a wonderful family, community, and network of friends right now. We're all in this together! 

Hugs, 
Jane