Acupuncture ‘boosts success rate of IVF’

Acupuncture is based on a theory that inserting needles can stimulate nerves to change blood flow and release painkilling chemicals
Acupuncture is based on a theory that inserting needles can stimulate nerves to change blood flow and release painkilling chemicals
JOHN LI/THE TIMES

Acupuncture more than doubles women’s chances of having a baby through IVF, according to early results from a British trial.

Researchers urged the NHS to offer the treatment routinely to all fertility clinic patients. One reproductive medicine expert said he had been sceptical but the results “made a convert” of him. However, others said the improved pregnancy rates might be the result of a placebo effect.

Acupuncture is based on a theory that inserting needles can stimulate nerves to change blood flow and release painkilling chemicals. The government’s healthcare watchdog has endorsed the treatment for chronic lower back pain and recurring headaches but says the evidence for other applications is currently too flimsy.

The trial at Homerton University Hospital in Hackney, east London, involved 140