Top Complementary Treatments to Support IVF (And Which Ones Actually Help?)
- Jul 7
- 11 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Beginning In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) can be both exciting and emotionally challenging. While IVF has helped millions of people build families worldwide, many individuals and couples look for additional ways to support the process. This has led to growing interest in complementary therapies such as acupuncture, nutrition, mindfulness, yoga and supplements.
The question many patients ask is simple:
Do any complementary treatments actually improve IVF outcomes?
The answer is nuanced. Some complementary therapies have encouraging scientific evidence, while others primarily offer benefits for wellbeing rather than directly improving pregnancy rates. A few have little or no convincing evidence and may even interfere with fertility treatment if not used appropriately.
At The Centre of Clinical Acupuncture in Sandton, Johannesburg, we believe complementary therapies should work alongside evidence-based fertility care, not replace it. Our approach is grounded in current research, clinical experience and close collaboration with fertility specialists to help patients make informed decisions.
Whether you are preparing for your first IVF cycle or have experienced previous unsuccessful attempts, understanding what the evidence says can help you focus your time, energy and resources on therapies that are most likely to benefit your overall fertility journey.
What Are Complementary Therapies for IVF?
Short answer: Complementary therapies are treatments used alongside conventional IVF to support physical health, emotional wellbeing and overall reproductive care. They are not intended to replace fertility treatments provided by a reproductive specialist.
Complementary therapies encompass a wide range of practices, including:
Acupuncture
Nutritional counselling
Physical activity and exercise
Mindfulness and meditation
Yoga
Selected dietary supplements
Chinese herbal medicine
Massage therapy
Reflexology
Some therapies aim to improve overall health before conception, while others focus on reducing stress, improving sleep or supporting patients throughout the IVF process.
Importantly, complementary treatments should always be discussed with your fertility specialist. Certain supplements or herbal medicines may interact with fertility medications or be inappropriate during parts of an IVF cycle.
Why Do People Use Complementary Treatments During IVF?
Short answer: Most patients seek complementary therapies to improve their chances of a successful IVF cycle.
IVF involves far more than medical procedures. Hormonal medications, frequent appointments and the uncertainty of treatment outcomes can create significant emotional and physical strain.
Patients commonly seek complementary therapies to:
Reduce stress and anxiety
Improve sleep quality
Support healthy lifestyle habits
Manage treatment-related discomfort
Improve overall wellbeing
Feel more in control during fertility treatment
Optimise general health before pregnancy
While these goals are important in themselves, many patients are also interested in whether complementary therapies can increase the chances of pregnancy. This is where scientific evidence becomes especially important.
Which Complementary Treatments Have the Strongest Evidence?
Short answer: Acupuncture has the most extensively studied evidence based among complementary therapies used during IVF. Lifestyle interventions such as healthy nutrition, maintaining a healthy body weight and regular physical activity also have strong support for overall reproductive health.
The current evidence can be broadly summarised as follows:
Therapy | Evidence for IVF Support | Overall Recommendation |
Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine | Moderate evidence; results vary between studies | Often recommended as supportive care |
Healthy diet | Strong evidence for general reproductive health | Recommended |
Exercise | Strong evidence when moderate | Recommended |
Mindfulness & meditation | Good evidence for reducing stress | Recommended |
Yoga | Moderate evidence for wellbeing | Recommended |
Selected supplements | Varies considerably | Individual assessment required |
Massage | Helpful for relaxation | Supportive only |
Reflexology | Limited evidence | Primarily wellbeing benefits |
Homeopathy | Limited evidence for IVF outcomes | Not recommended specifically for improving IVF success |
No complementary therapy can guarantee pregnancy or replace a high-quality fertility treatment. Instead, the strongest evidence supports using these therapies to complement medical care while improving overall health and patient wellbeing.
Can Acupuncture be used during IVF?
Short answer: Acupuncture is one of the most researched complementary therapies used alongside IVF. Current evidence suggests it may improve patient wellbeing and may benefit some fertility outcomes.
Acupuncture involves inserting very fine sterile needles into carefully selected points on the body. In fertility care, treatment plans are individualised according to each patient's medical history, reproductive health and stage of treatment.
Research has investigated acupuncture before IVF, during ovarian stimulation, around embryo transfer and throughout fertility treatment.
Scientists believe acupuncture may influence several physiological processes relevant to fertility, including:
Blood flow to the uterus and ovaries
Stress hormone regulation
Nervous system activity
Pain perception
Sleep quality
Emotional wellbeing
Many fertility specialists now recognise acupuncture as a reasonable complementary therapy, particularly because it has a favourable safety profile when performed by a properly trained practitioner.
However, it is important to have realistic expectations. Acupuncture should not be viewed as a guarantee of pregnancy or as a replacement for fertility treatment. Rather, it is one component of a comprehensive, evidence-informed approach to reproductive care.
At The Centre of Clinical Acupuncture, treatment plans are designed to complement your IVF protocol while maintaining communication with your fertility specialist whenever appropriate. For more details see the following articles:
Nutrition and Diet
Short answer: A balanced, nutrient-rich diet supports overall reproductive health and may improve the body's readiness for pregnancy, although no specific "fertility diet" guarantees IVF success.
Nutrition plays an important role in general health, hormone production and pregnancy preparation.
Current evidence supports eating patterns that include:
Plenty of vegetables and fruit
Whole grains
Lean sources of protein
Healthy fats, particularly from fish, nuts and olive oil
Adequate hydration
Limited intake of highly processed foods
For patients who are overweight or underweight, gradual improvements in body weight before IVF may improve treatment outcomes in some cases. Certain nutritional deficiencies, such as low vitamin D, iron deficiency or inadequate folate intake may require correction before pregnancy.
Patients should avoid relying on internet "fertility diets" that promise dramatic improvements. Many lack scientific support and may unnecessarily restrict important nutrients.
Exercise and Physical Activity
Short answer: Regular moderate exercise is beneficial before and during fertility treatment, while excessive high-intensity exercise is not recommended during this process.
Exercise supports cardiovascular health, metabolic function, mental wellbeing and a healthy body weight, all of which contribute to overall reproductive health.
Activities commonly recommended include:
Walking
Swimming
Cycling
Pilates
Light resistance training
Yoga
During certain stages of IVF, particularly after egg collection or when the ovaries are enlarged, your fertility specialist may recommend temporarily modifying physical activity. Individual advice is always preferable to following generic exercise programmes found online.
Stress Management, Mindfulness and Yoga
Short answer: Stress does not directly cause infertility, but managing stress may improve quality of life and help patients cope better with the demands of IVF.
The emotional burden of fertility treatment is well recognised.
Mindfulness, meditation and yoga have been shown to:
Reduce anxiety
Improve sleep
Lower perceived stress
Improve emotional resilience
Enhance overall quality of life during fertility treatment
Although these therapies have not consistently been shown to increase pregnancy rates directly, improving mental wellbeing is an important outcome in itself.
Many patients report feeling calmer, more optimistic and better able to manage the uncertainty of IVF when stress-management techniques become part of their routine.
Supplements: What Does the Evidence Say?
Short answer: Some supplements may be appropriate for certain individuals, but evidence varies considerably. More is not always better.
The supplement industry often markets products with claims of improving fertility, egg quality or implantation. However, the quality of evidence differs greatly between products.
Generally accepted supplements include:
Folic acid before conception
Vitamin D when deficient
Iron where indicated (if levels are low)
Omega-3 fatty acids in selected patients
Other supplements, including Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), melatonin, DHEA and antioxidants, have shown promising results in some studies but remain areas of ongoing research.
Importantly, supplements should never be started solely based on online recommendations. Excessive doses or inappropriate combinations may interfere with medications or cause unwanted side effects.
Patients should discuss any supplements with both their fertility specialist and any complementary healthcare practitioner involved in their care.
Chinese Herbal Medicine: Benefits and Precautions
Short answer: Chinese herbal medicine has a long history within Traditional Chinese Medicine, but its use alongside IVF requires careful consideration and close communication with fertility specialists.
Chinese herbal medicine is commonly used to address patterns of imbalance identified during a Traditional Chinese Medicine consultation. Some preliminary research suggests potential benefits for reproductive health in certain situations. For patients actively undergoing IVF, caution is essential. Certain herbs may interact with fertility medications or may not be appropriate during ovarian stimulation or early pregnancy.
For this reason, herbal medicine should only be prescribed by a qualified practitioner experienced in reproductive health who is willing to work collaboratively with your fertility specialist. At The Centre of Clinical Acupuncture, patient safety always comes first. Herbal medicine is only considered after a thorough assessment and in the context of each individual's medical treatment plan.
Treatments with Limited or No Evidence
Short answer: Not every complementary therapy marketed for fertility has convincing scientific support.
Patients frequently encounter claims online about therapies that promise to improve implantation, increase egg quality or dramatically raise pregnancy rates.
Current evidence remains limited for therapies such as:
Reflexology
Homeopathy
Fertility crystals
Energy healing techniques
Detox programmes
Extreme dietary protocols
Some of these approaches may help individuals feel relaxed or supported emotionally, but there is little high-quality evidence that they improve IVF outcomes. Patients should be cautious of practitioners making guarantees or encouraging them to stop conventional fertility treatment.
Are Complementary Therapies Safe During IVF?
Short answer: Many complementary therapies are safe when provided by appropriately qualified practitioners and coordinated with your fertility specialist.
Safety should always be the first priority.
Before starting any complementary treatment, consider the following:
Inform your fertility specialist about all therapies you are using.
Tell your complementary practitioner about your IVF medications.
Only consult registered, appropriately qualified healthcare professionals (registered with AHPCSA)
Avoid herbal medicines or supplements without professional guidance.
Be cautious of treatments making unrealistic claims.
Stop any therapy that causes concerning symptoms and seek medical advice.
Acupuncture performed by a qualified practitioner using sterile, single-use needles has an excellent safety profile. Similarly, mindfulness, moderate exercise and evidence-based nutritional advice are generally considered low-risk and may offer meaningful benefits for overall wellbeing during IVF.
Ultimately, complementary therapies are most effective when they form part of an integrated approach to care, supporting, rather than replacing, the expertise of your fertility team.
How to Choose an Evidence-Informed Complementary Practitioner
Short answer: Choose a qualified healthcare professional registered with the AHPCSA who practises within their scope of expertise, follows current scientific evidence, and works collaboratively with your fertility specialist.
The popularity of complementary medicine has grown significantly in recent years, but not all practitioners have the same level of training or approach to evidence-based care.
When selecting a practitioner to support you during IVF, consider asking the following questions:
Are you registered with the AHPCSA?
Do you have experience treating patients undergoing IVF?
Do they make realistic rather than guaranteed claims about treatment outcomes?
Do they individualise treatment plans rather than using the same protocol for every patient?
A trustworthy practitioner should be transparent about both the potential benefits and the limitations of complementary therapies. Be cautious of anyone who promises guaranteed pregnancy, advises stopping prescribed fertility medications, or recommends expensive treatments without explaining the supporting evidence.
The best care is collaborative. Complementary therapies should enhance the treatment provided by your reproductive specialist, not compete with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can acupuncture improve my chances of IVF success?
Current research suggests acupuncture may improve pregnancy outcomes for some patients, but there is no guarantee of success. The strongest evidence supports its role as a safe complementary therapy that may reduce stress, improve wellbeing and support patients throughout their IVF journey.
When should I start acupuncture before IVF?
Many patients begin treatment two to three months before starting IVF, allowing time to support overall health before ovarian stimulation begins. However, it is never "too late" to start. Treatment can often be beneficial even if your IVF cycle has already commenced.
How often should I have acupuncture during IVF?
Treatment frequency depends on your individual circumstances, but many patients attend weekly before IVF and at key stages during their treatment cycle. Your practitioner will recommend a personalised treatment plan.
Is acupuncture painful?
Most people are surprised by how comfortable acupuncture is. The needles are extremely fine, and many patients experience little more than a brief sensation as they are inserted. Many report feeling deeply relaxed during treatment.
Can acupuncture interfere with IVF medications?
No. Acupuncture itself does not interfere with fertility medications when performed appropriately. It should always complement, not replace your prescribed IVF protocol.
Should I take fertility supplements?
Some supplements, such as folic acid, are widely recommended before pregnancy. Others may be appropriate depending on your medical history and nutritional status. Because evidence varies considerably, supplements should always be discussed with your fertility specialist.
Is Chinese herbal medicine safe during IVF?
Chinese herbal medicine may be appropriate in some situations, but it requires careful individual assessment. Some herbs may interact with fertility medications or may not be suitable during certain stages of IVF, making professional guidance essential.
Does stress reduce my chances of getting pregnant?
Stress effects the hormonal balance in the body which can effect ovulation and sperm production. IVF is also emotionally demanding, and reducing stress may improve sleep, emotional wellbeing and quality of life throughout treatment.
Are there any complementary treatments I should avoid?
Be cautious of therapies that claim to guarantee pregnancy, "cleanse" the reproductive system or replace conventional fertility treatment. If a treatment sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
Should I tell my fertility specialist that I am using complementary therapies?
Yes. Always keep your fertility specialist informed about any acupuncture, supplements, herbal medicines or other complementary treatments you are receiving. Good communication helps ensure your care remains safe and coordinated.
Can men benefit from complementary therapies during IVF?
Absolutely. Male fertility plays an important role in IVF success. Healthy lifestyle changes, nutritional optimisation and, in some cases, acupuncture may support overall reproductive health.
Why choose evidence-informed complementary care?
Choosing treatments supported by the best available evidence helps you avoid unnecessary costs, reduces the risk of unsafe interventions and allows you to focus on therapies that may genuinely support your wellbeing during IVF.
Why Choose The Centre of Clinical Acupuncture?
Choosing a healthcare provider during fertility treatment is about more than finding someone who offers acupuncture. It is about finding a practitioner who understands the complexity of IVF, respects scientific evidence and places your wellbeing at the centre of every treatment decision.
At The Centre of Clinical Acupuncture in Sandton, we provide evidence-informed acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine as part of an integrated approach to fertility care.
Our philosophy is simple: complementary medicine should support conventional treatment, not compete with it.
Patients choose our clinic because we offer:
Individualised Treatment Plans
No two fertility journeys are the same. Every treatment plan is tailored to your medical history, IVF timeline, symptoms and personal goals.
Evidence-Informed Practice
Our recommendations are guided by current research, clinical guidelines and many years of practical experience. Where evidence is uncertain, we discuss this openly so you can make informed decisions.
Collaborative Care
We encourage patients to continue working closely with their fertility specialist and other healthcare providers. Integrated care helps ensure treatments remain safe, coordinated and focused on achieving the best possible outcomes.
Experienced Clinical Leadership
Dr Darren Carpenter is a Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, university lecturer and researcher with a special interest in fertility and musculoskeletal medicine. His clinical approach combines traditional Chinese Medicine principles with contemporary scientific evidence to provide balanced, patient-centred care.
A Calm and Supportive Environment
Undergoing IVF can be physically and emotionally demanding. Our clinic aims to provide a welcoming environment where patients feel listened to, supported and empowered throughout their treatment journey.
Whether you are preparing for your first IVF cycle or exploring additional ways to support your reproductive health, we are committed to helping you navigate your options with honesty, compassion and evidence-based care.
If you are considering acupuncture alongside IVF and would like personalised advice, we welcome you to book an initial consultation to discuss your individual circumstances and treatment goals.
Conclusion
Complementary therapies have become an increasingly popular part of fertility care, but not all treatments are supported by the same level of scientific evidence.
Current research suggests that acupuncture is among the most extensively studied complementary therapies used alongside IVF. Acupuncture appears to be a safe option that may improve wellbeing and support some patients throughout treatment.
Other evidence-supported strategies, including healthy nutrition, regular physical activity, stress management and appropriate supplementation, which can also contribute to overall reproductive health and help patients feel more resilient during IVF.
Equally important is recognising the limitations of the evidence. Many therapies promoted online lack convincing scientific support, and no complementary treatment can guarantee pregnancy or replace expert fertility care.
The most effective approach is one that combines high-quality conventional fertility treatment with carefully selected complementary therapies delivered by qualified practitioners working collaboratively with your healthcare team.
At The Centre of Clinical Acupuncture, our goal is to help patients make informed, evidence-based decisions that support both their physical and emotional well-being throughout every stage of their fertility journey.
Considering acupuncture for IVF?
Acupuncture may be one option to consider as part of a personalised approach to managing IVF. Whether it is appropriate for you will depend on your symptoms, medical history and individual circumstances.
The Centre of Clinical Acupuncture is located in Woodmead, Sandton. Our registered practitioners provide personalised, evidence-informed care, with clear explanations and realistic treatment goals.
Book a first consultation to discuss your concerns and whether acupuncture may be suitable for you.
Book online or call us on 063 169 8802.
Not ready to book? Explore our related articles and patient guides.
Written by Dr Darren Carpenter
Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture
AHPCSA Registration No. A11838
Last reviewed: [2026]
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