FET/Frozen Embryo Transfer
After the period, 3 acupuncture sessions are typically sufficient to ensure the uterine lining is adequate for transfer. Lining thickness is monitored through ultrasound. Unless the lining has reached a minimumof 9mm, additional acupuncture treatments are recommended.
ON the day OF transfer, before and after transfer, acupuncture is also recommended.
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-Patients who had frozen embryos from a previous IVF cycle.
-Patients who have had issues at a previous transfer such as thin uterine lining.
-Pre-genetically tested frozen embryo transfer.
-Donor embryo.Patients who are requesting supportive care towards having a frozen transfer are encouraged to start preparatory treatment at minimum in the cycle before transfer
The month before transfer is the ideal time to recheck many of the basic vitamin levels which correspond to healthy pregnancy, in addition to other hormonal aspects that exert a profound impact on the probability of successful implantation, such as TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone).
The quality and integrity of the uterine lining is also a critical factor of successful implantation. In scientific studies like those below, treatment is started three cycles before transfer. In my clinical experience, I rarely see patients begin treatment with a three cycle lead time.
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Electrostimulation on acupuncture points leading to the IVF transfer improves the quality and receptivity of the uterine lining.
A study published in the latest issue of peer-reviewed British Medical Journal (Acupuncture in Medicine) found the rates of embryo implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth rates were higher in patients who received acupuncture leading to the transfer.
They also found significant measurable changes in the endometrium (uterine lining):
• Acupuncture improved the chances of triple-line pattern endometrial lining. It has been shown in studies that triple-line pattern is associated with good IVF outcome.
• Endometrial perfusion (blood supply to the uterine lining) is an important factor in the process of implantation. The study found greater endometrial and subendometrial vascularisation following a series of acupuncture treatments leading to embryo transfer.
• Acupuncture improved HOXA10 expression. Higher HOXA10 is associated with greater endometrial receptivity and good pregnancy outcomes. HOXA10 expression is lower in the uteri of women with hydrosalpinx, PCOS, and endometriosis. -
Acupunct Med doi:10.1136/acupmed-2014-010572 Original paper
Zhenhong Shuai1, Fang Lian2, Pengfei Li3, Wenxiu Yang2 + Author Affiliations
1Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
2Integrative Medicine Research Centre of Reproduction and Heredity, the Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
3Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
Correspondence to Professor Fang Lian, Integrative Medicine Research Centre of Reproduction and Heredity, the Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No 42 Wen Hua Xi Road, Jinan 250011, China; 562599739@qq.com
Received 1 April 2014
Revised 12 September 2014
Accepted 20 September 2014
Published Online First 10 October 2014 -
Objective: To evaluate the effect of Electrical Stimulation with Acupuncture on endometrial HOXA10 protein expression and three-dimensional (3D) power Doppler ultrasound parameters as markers of endometrial receptivity in women undergoing frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET).
Methods: A total of 68 women undergoing FET were randomised to receive Electrical Stimulation with Acupuncture or acupuncture points CV3, CV4 and SP6 and Zigong bilaterally. Both groups had six sessions per cycle for three menstrual cycles prior to the scheduled FET. Each session lasted 30 mins and was repeated every other day. 3D power Doppler ultrasound parameters, HOXA10 protein expression and rates of embryo implantation, clinical pregnancy and live birth were compared.
Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups in endometrial thickness or endometrial volume. The ultrasonographic endometrial triple-line pattern was present more often in theranscutaneous electrical acupuncture point stimulation group (p=0.002). The Electrical Stimulation with Acupuncture group had a greater endometrial and subendometrial vascularisation index (VI) than the mock Electrical Stimulation with Acupuncture group (p=0.001 and p
Trial registration number ChiCTR-TRC-14004448.
Acupuncture has significant effect on chances of success with Frozen Embryo TransferIVF patients.
