The role of Acupuncture in the treatment of infertility dates back 3000 years in China.  Since the later 1990’s, IVF programs have noted increasing requests to incorporate Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) techniques into their high tech treatment protocols.   Understandably, most western physicians expect scientific rigor in the types of research that supports the use of TCM in IVF. 

1. Recognize the venerable history of Acupuncture’s role in the treatment of infertility.

2. Educate REI's about the education and certification of Chinese medicine practitioners.

3. Explain the theory behind herbal remedies prescribed for infertility.

4. Introduce physicians to the concept of a collaborative approach between acupuncturists and REI’s.5. Show physicians how they can help their patients building patient trust, increasing satisfaction with fertility treatment, and improving success rates.

5. Discuss best practices for integrated care.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

      This workshop reviews the world’s research and clinical trials regarding the combination of Acupuncture with IVF.  These data (based on Randomized Controlled Clinical trials as well as prospective Cohort studies) demonstrate that Acupuncture improves reproductive outcomes such as reductions in miscarriage rates, elimination of ectopic pregnancies, enhancement of clinical pregnancies, reductions in multiple pregnancies, and most importantly an improvement in Take Home Babies on average of 15%. 

      A detailed critical pathway illustrating the research that has been done is presented to provide RE&I’s with the information to make informed decisions regarding TCM.