Effects of acupuncture on clinical pregnancy rate in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF): a narrative review
- Obstetrics & Gynecology International Journal
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Raisa Arruda de Oliveira
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Abstract
Infertility is recognized as a significant global public health issue, affecting approximately one in six individuals during their reproductive lifetime. Despite advances in assisted reproductive technologies, the success rates of in vitro fertilization (IVF) remain limited, which has stimulated the search for adjunctive therapies capable of improving reproductive outcomes. In this context, acupuncture has been increasingly investigated as a complementary intervention that may positively influence female reproductive physiology. The aim of the present study was to critically analyze scientific evidence published between 2020 and 2026 regarding the effects of acupuncture on clinical pregnancy rates in women undergoing IVF. This study consists of a narrative literature review conducted through searches in the PubMed/MEDLINE and LILACS databases using descriptors related to acupuncture, in vitro fertilization, and clinical pregnancy. After applying eligibility criteria, nine studies were included in the analysis, including randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. Overall, the findings suggest that acupuncture, particularly when applied during the peri-embryo transfer period or as part of pre-treatment protocols, may be associated with increased clinical pregnancy rates in IVF cycles. Proposed mechanisms include neuroendocrine modulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis, improvement of uterine blood flow, hormonal regulation, and enhanced endometrial receptivity. However, methodological heterogeneity among studies limits the comparability of results. In conclusion, acupuncture appears to have potential as an adjunctive therapy in assisted reproduction, although further well-designed randomized controlled trials are necessary to confirm its effects on reproductive outcomes.
Keywords
acupuncture, in vitro fertilization, assisted reproduction, clinical pregnancy rate, reproductive medicine


