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Elevating Fertility Care

The Importance of ABORM Certification in Acupuncture

By Jane Gregorie - October 9, 2023


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.