Laser Acupuncture for Fertility: What It Is
How low-level laser is used on acupuncture points for fertility support, why some prefer it to needles, what research shows, and what sessions feel like.
Written byFlourish TCM ClinicTraditional Chinese Medicine & skin care · Yaletown, Vancouver
Reviewed byTabasom (Tabi) Mirshahi, R.Ac., R.TCM.P.
Laser Acupuncture for Fertility: What It Is
Laser acupuncture for fertility uses low-level laser, gentle light that doesn't heat or cut, on the acupuncture points a practitioner would otherwise needle. It's needle-free and usually sensation-free, which some people prefer during a stressful fertility journey. Research on laser acupuncture for fertility is limited, so it's offered as supportive care.
What is it?
Instead of inserting needles, the practitioner holds a small low-level laser probe on each chosen point for a short time. The points are chosen using the same TCM assessment as needle acupuncture. At Flourish, Fertility Acupuncture uses this laser approach in 30-minute sessions.
Why laser instead of needles?
- No needles: helpful if you're anxious about needles, or tired of injections during IVF.
- Usually no sensation: many people feel nothing, or mild warmth.
- Shorter sessions: laser time per point is brief.
Protective eyewear is worn during treatment.
What does research show?
Research on laser acupuncture specifically for fertility is limited, with small studies and mixed findings. The broader research on acupuncture alongside IVF is also mixed for pregnancy outcomes. We offer laser fertility acupuncture as supportive care, for rest and wellbeing alongside your medical treatment, not as a fertility treatment with promised results.
What do sessions feel like?
- A conversation about your cycle, your fertility plan and your clinic's timeline.
- You rest comfortably, with eyewear on.
- The laser probe is held on selected points in turn.
- Most people feel nothing, or slight warmth, and simply rest.
- Quiet rest to finish.
Who shouldn't have it?
Your eyes are always covered, and the laser is never pointed at them. It isn't used directly over a tumour or cancer, on the abdomen or lower back during pregnancy, or over an infected area, a blood clot or bleeding. Tell your practitioner if you become pregnant, and about all medications and treatments.
How often?
Many people book weekly over a few cycles, or plan sessions around their IVF calendar. A series of 10 is available at a reduced price; see the treatment page.
Learn more
Where to book
Fertility Acupuncture is performed by a registered acupuncturist and is currently on the waitlist. Our clinic is in Yaletown, a short trip from West Vancouver and North Vancouver, and the team speaks English and Farsi.
Frequently asked questions
Is laser acupuncture safe while trying to conceive?
It's considered low-risk, with eyewear. Tell your practitioner about pregnancy.
Does it hurt?
Most people feel nothing.
Is it as effective as needle acupuncture?
Evidence is limited for both in fertility; laser isn't a direct substitute.
Can I combine it with IVF?
Yes, planned around your clinic's calendar.
Can I book now?
It's on a waitlist.
Sources
- Taguchi R, et al. Acupuncture and Laser Acupuncture as Treatments for Emotional Distress in Infertile Women in Japan. Med Acupunct. 2019. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
- Cheong YC, et al. Acupuncture and assisted reproductive technology. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
- Chow RT, et al. Efficacy of low-level laser therapy in the management of neck pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised placebo or active-treatment controlled trials. Lancet. 2009. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Information on this site is general and isn't a substitute for advice from your physician.
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