The path to parenthood does not follow a straightforward route for everyone. When a natural pregnancy does not occur and you enter a medical fertility journey, it can feel like an emotional rollercoaster.

In both of my practices in Amsterdam, I support women throughout their fertility journey. In this blog, I explain the differences between the most common treatments and how acupuncture can support you both physically and mentally.

Acupuncture is not a replacement for medical care, but a valuable addition. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and modern fertility treatments can complement each other beautifully.

IUI, IVF or ICSI: What’s the difference?

In a hospital setting, many terms are used. Here are the key differences:

• IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
  Prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus around ovulation.
  Often used in cases of mildly reduced sperm quality, cycle irregularities, or unexplained infertility. It is usually one of the first steps when difficulties arise.
• IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation)
  Fertilisation takes place in a laboratory, where eggs and sperm are combined.
  For example, in cases of blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, or when IUI has not been successful.
• ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
  A single selected sperm cell is injected directly into the egg.
  Used in cases of significantly reduced sperm quality or after unsuccessful IVF attempts.
  
  

The role of acupuncture: what does science say?

Research on acupuncture and fertility shows mixed results. Some studies suggest improved pregnancy rates, while others do not find a significant difference.

What is clear, however, is that acupuncture can influence processes that are important during a fertility journey:

• Blood flow
  There are indications that acupuncture may improve blood flow to the uterus, which is important for building a healthy endometrial lining.
• Hormonal regulation
  Acupuncture may support the regulation of the menstrual cycle.
• Stress reduction
  It helps calm the nervous system, which is essential during an intensive and often stressful process.

Acupuncture does not guarantee pregnancy, but it can help create the most optimal conditions possible.

The TCM perspective: the “garden”

Within TCM, the body is often compared to a garden. For growth to occur, the soil needs to be fertile, well-nourished, and properly irrigated.

In treatments, I focus on:

• Strengthening the foundation (Kidney energy)
• Improving flow (for example Liver Qi)
• Nourishing blood and energy

In this way, we create the best possible conditions for the body to support a pregnancy.

Your place of rest within a medical journey

A fertility journey can sometimes make your body feel like a “project” — appointments, hormones, protocols. It can create distance from yourself. This can also affect your partner, who may feel on the sidelines of the medical process.

In my treatments, there is space to reconnect with your body — not as a patient, but as a woman.
Where the hospital focuses on the medical side, I offer a place for rest, attention, and support for both body and mind.

You are not doing anything wrong

Many women carry unspoken feelings of guilt: “Why isn’t my body cooperating?”

It’s important to understand that fertility depends on many factors. There are indications that stress, nutrition, and environmental influences may play a role — but this does not mean you are doing something wrong.

You are navigating something complex, and you are doing the best you can.

How I support you in practice

I work in alignment with your cycle and your medical treatment.

As a foundation:

• Treatment once every two weeks
  → in the week after your period
  → and in the week before your period

If needed (for example during a fertility treatment):

• Increased to once per week, especially during stimulation phases
  
  

Around IVF/ICSI transfer:

• Treatment on the day of embryo transfer (before the procedure)
• A second treatment within 24 hours after transfer

This timing is aimed at supporting relaxation, blood flow and recovery.

After the transfer, I usually see you 1–2 more times to support the potential pregnancy. Beyond that, further treatment is tailored to your individual needs and preferences.

When can acupuncture be especially helpful?

Acupuncture may be particularly supportive for:

• Stress and tension during the process
• Irregular cycles
• PMS symptoms
• Recovery after hormonal stimulation
• Support alongside IVF/ICSI

Would you like to know what acupuncture can do for you?

I would be happy to think along with you and support you where needed during your journey. Feel free to reach out for an introduction.

In addition to acupuncture treatments, what you do at home plays an important role. Small, consistent adjustments can support your body during a fertility journey such as IVF, IUI or ICSI.

Warmth is essential
Within TCM, warmth supports the flow of energy and blood — and therefore fertility.

• Keep your lower back and abdomen warm (for example with a hot water bottle or extra layers)
• Wear warm socks regularly — cold feet may affect circulation to the pelvic area
• Avoid exposure to cold, especially around your cycle and after treatment
  
  

Nutrition to support your cycle
During a fertility journey, I often recommend foods that are nourishing and easy to digest:

• Choose warm, cooked meals (soups, stews, warm breakfasts)
• Limit cold and raw foods such as salads, smoothies and iced drinks
• Eat regularly and sufficiently to provide your body with energy and nutrients
  
  

Caffeine and alcohol
There is no need for strict rules, but mindful choices can be helpful:

• Limit caffeine (such as coffee) to a maximum of one cup per day, preferably not on an empty stomach
• Avoid alcohol during intensive phases of your treatment
  
  

Movement and balance
Movement is important, but intensity matters:

• Choose moderate, regular exercise such as walking, yoga or gentle workouts
• Avoid overexertion, especially during stimulation or after embryo transfer
  
  

Rest and recovery
Your body needs rest to function optimally:

• Create intentional moments of rest
• Ensure sufficient sleep
• Allow space for mental recovery
  
  

Important to remember
It is not about perfection. Small, consistent adjustments can already make a difference. See it as a way to support your body — not something you can do “right” or “wrong.”