How Traditional Chinese Medicine Supports IVF and Fertility Journeys in Melbourne

By Dr Qing | Dragonfly Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine (Ferntree Gully) & Rebalance TCM Clinic (South Morang)

For many couples in Melbourne, the road to parenthood involves assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as IVF. Alongside conventional fertility treatment, an increasing number of people are turning to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)—including acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine—for pre-conception, prenatal and postnatal support.

Pre-conception: Preparing the body for IVF

In TCM, good health before conception is considered vital for fertility. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are commonly used to:

Regulate menstrual cycles and ovulation patterns
Support stress management, which can influence hormones and IVF readiness
Improve general wellbeing—including sleep, digestion, and energy

A systematic review led by Australian researchers reported that Chinese herbal medicine may improve pregnancy outcomes compared with conventional therapy alone, although the evidence quality was variable.

During IVF and pregnancy

Acupuncture during IVF is one of the most researched areas of TCM.

A large Australian/New Zealand trial found no significant improvement in live birth rates when acupuncture was provided only at stimulation and embryo transfer.
However, secondary analyses showed that women receiving acupuncture reported reduced anxiety at embryo transfer, suggesting a supportive role in emotional wellbeing.

During pregnancy, acupuncture is often used for:

Nausea and morning sickness
Lower back or pelvic pain
Stress and sleep difficulties

Cochrane reviews highlight mixed but promising evidence for acupuncture in some pregnancy-related conditions, with safety generally good when provided by registered practitioners.

Postnatal recovery

The postnatal phase can be both joyful and challenging. In TCM, treatments may help with:

Fatigue and low energy (“postnatal depletion”)
Breastfeeding support (e.g., mastitis or insufficient lactation)
Mental wellbeing, including mild anxiety or sleep disruption

While robust trials are fewer in this area, qualitative studies suggest women often value acupuncture as holistic support during recovery.

Safe and integrated care in Melbourne

If you are considering TCM while undergoing IVF or during pregnancy, it is essential to see an AHPRA-registered practitioner and keep your fertility team informed. In Melbourne, many TCM clinics work collaboratively with IVF specialists, ensuring that care is safe, complementary, and individualised.

👉 Book a consultation today and let’s begin your journey toward lasting relief and support on your fertility path.

Book Ferntree Gully

Book South Morang

Click here to read more about your practitioner Dr Qing

References

Smith CA, et al. JAMA 2018: Acupuncture vs sham during IVF (no live-birth benefit).
Smith CA, et al. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2019: Reduced anxiety during embryo transfer.
Ried K, Stuart K. 2011: Systematic review on CHM for infertility.
Cochrane Review: Acupuncture for pregnancy-related conditions.