Fertility, Pregnancy, Postpartum & Acupuncture

A Brief Introductory Guide

Acupuncture for Fertility, Pregnancy & Postpartum.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive system of medicine that has been used for over 2,000 years to promote health and treat various conditions. One of its key areas of focus is women’s health, particularly fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum care. TCM is also beneficial for men’s fertility health. TCM views the body as a dynamic system of interconnected parts and emphasizes the importance of balance, harmony, and the free flow of Qi (vital energy) and Blood for overall well-being. Its holistic approach includes the use of acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and lifestyle recommendations to support women’s health through each stage of conception, pregnancy, and postpartum recovery.

The Wellspring Integrative Approach

Women’s Health during all stages of conception, pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery is our specialty here at Wellspring Health.

It takes a village to raise a child, but before that, it takes a team to make a baby. You can’t do it alone and we at Wellspring Health are privileged to be a member of your team. Wellspring Health uses Traditional Chinese Medicine (Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine) and Conventional medicine in an integrative approach. This combination can enhance treatment outcomes, manage the side effects of conventional treatments (like chemotherapy), and provide additional support for chronic or complex conditions. We love science and we love working with conventional medical Doctors. This approach combines the strengths of both systems, offering a broader range of treatment options and emphasizing the prevention of disease as well as the treatment of existing conditions.

Reproductive Endocrinologists & Gynecologist Support During Fertility & Pregnancy: We enjoy collaborating with physicians and have extensive experience working with a large network of specialists in Manhattan. We can provide recommendations and referrals for every stage of the fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum journey.

Doula Support: We frequently work with doulas throughout all stages of pregnancy and delivery, providing integrated care and support to enhance the birthing experience.

Below is a comprehensive introductory guide to how Wellspring & TCM can support you throughout every stage of your journey. Feel free to jump to any specific section that best suits your needs.

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TCM & Fertility Support:

Fertility issues are increasingly common in modern society due to factors such as stress, environmental toxins, and lifestyle choices. TCM offers a holistic approach to fertility by addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of reproductive health. According to TCM theory, fertility is influenced by the health and balance of the Kidney, Liver, and Spleen organ systems, as well as the harmonious flow of Qi and Blood.

  • Acupuncture for Fertility: Acupuncture is one of the primary tools used in TCM to enhance fertility. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, acupuncture can regulate hormones, promote blood flow to the reproductive organs, and reduce stress, all of which can improve the chances of conception. Studies have shown that acupuncture can be particularly effective in supporting women undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) by increasing the success rate and reducing the side effects of fertility medications.

  • Herbal Medicine for Fertility: Chinese herbal medicine is tailored to each individual’s unique pattern of imbalance. Herbal formulas are used to nourish the Blood, tonify the Kidneys, regulate the menstrual cycle, and enhance overall reproductive health. Commonly used herbs in fertility formulas include Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis), Bai Shao (White Peony), and Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia). These herbs work synergistically to create a more receptive environment for conception.

  • Balancing Yin and Yang: In TCM, fertility is often seen as a balance between Yin (nourishing, cooling) and Yang (warming, activating) energies. For conception to occur, these energies must be in harmony. For example, sufficient Yin is needed to produce healthy eggs and maintain a thick uterine lining, while adequate Yang is necessary for ovulation and to provide warmth for the implantation of the fertilized egg. TCM treatments are designed to restore this balance, promoting optimal reproductive health.

From Our Fertility Clients

"I worked with Kirsten over the course of a couple of years and found her to be incredibly talented, knowledgeable and kind.  Her office space has the same feeling of warmth and serenity that Kirsten herself embodies.  She has a lot of experience working with women through various stages of their fertility journeys, and I think my time with her contributed to a successful IVF cycle and pregnancy."

-Emily H.

"Thanks to Kirsten's care, my fertility treatment was stress-free and went successful. The office is very conveniently located right off Union Square, but the setting is very tranquil and clean. Scheduling was easy and the office was quick to respond to my calls. Overall, highly recommend!"

-Tomo O.

“My Wife and I came here for fertility-related treatments. It was a 5 star experience! The clinic was spotless and the Kirsten is knowledgeable. We were delighted with the results and we would definitely recommend this clinic to others.”

-Travis W.

“I have been a patient of Kirsten's for four years and have nothing but wonderful things to say, and attribute to her and her practice. Not only has Kirsten helped combat the occasional headache or cold, but she has also helped me bring two healthy beautiful children into this world via fertility treatments, and labor preparation. Kirsten is attentive, calming, kind, and knowledgeable. She has also given many tips for my children when they've had colds, car sickness, etc. that we swear by! I have recommended Kirsten to countless friends + family members. This is the place to go for acupuncture treatments.”

- Raffkin B.

TCM During Pregnancy:

During pregnancy, TCM aims to support the mother’s health, nurture the growing fetus, and address any discomforts that may arise. Each trimester is seen as a unique stage that requires different approaches to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby.

  • First Trimester: Supporting a Healthy Start: The first trimester is a delicate period when the body is adapting to the changes of pregnancy. TCM focuses on stabilizing the pregnancy and preventing miscarriage by tonifying the Kidneys and strengthening the Qi. Acupuncture and herbal medicine can help alleviate morning sickness, reduce fatigue, and support the overall health of the mother.

  • Second Trimester: Nurturing the Fetus: In the second trimester, the focus shifts to nourishing the Blood and promoting the healthy growth of the fetus. TCM can address issues such as heartburn, back pain, and constipation, which are common during this stage. Herbal formulas and dietary recommendations may be used to nourish the mother’s Blood and prevent anemia, ensuring that both mother and baby receive adequate nutrients.

  • Third Trimester: Preparing for Birth: The third trimester is a time to prepare the body for labor and delivery. TCM treatments focus on softening the cervix, relaxing the muscles, and ensuring an optimal position for the baby. Acupuncture is often used to relieve common discomforts such as swelling, insomnia, and anxiety, and to prepare the body for a smooth labor.

From Our Pregnancy Clients

“Kirsten is truly a master of her craft. I started working with her in my third trimester of pregnancy, right after discovering that my baby was breach. Kirsten’s work caused the baby to flip back into place in one session, right on the table. I quickly learned through seeing her regularly that it wasn’t magic that did it. It’s her vast breadth of knowledge, extensive experience, and commitment to making a difference in every person’s unique wellness journey. She is a healer, a nurturer, and a perceptive expert with a warm presence and calm demeanor. I have to commute to her office from uptown, but it’s worth the effort every single time. I saw her multiple times a week for two months before giving birth and I truly believe it helped me with both labor and recovery. She was invested in my process every step of the way and went above and beyond to make sure I was ready. She is kind with her time and a generous listener who has a plethora of expertise to share. I still continue to see her postpartum and recommend her to everyone - especially pregnant and postpartum women!”

-Liz T.

“Kirsten has been great supporting me through my pregnancy. I had never experienced acupuncture before and am so pleased a friend recommended her. She is such an accomplished professional, a wealth of helpful information, and a calming and uplifting presence.”

-Cynthia P.

“Kirsten was a lifesaver during my pregnancy! I came to her at 30 weeks when my baby was breech. Within 2 weeks, he had flipped! I continued seeing her to help with my pregnancy aches and pains from there on out. I cannot recommend her enough for anyone looking for an acupuncturist in NYC!”

- Renny L.

“I started with Kirsten over 3 years ago to treat autoimmune disease.  She has helped me with every other ailment that popped up along the way.  I am most grateful for her treatment while trying to conceive our son and her support throughout my entire pregnancy.  She has the most calming bedside manner and is such a healing soul! My body and mind were prepped for labor and delivery because of her.  I would highly recommend her practice!!!”

-Alex L.

“I came to see Kirsten during my second pregnancy, specifically to prepare for labor and delivery.  My first labor was over 2.5 days long and so this time I wanted to prevent that.  Kirsten was incredible and helped me prepare for birth during our sessions.  After our last session, my water broke and my labor was only 5 hours and SO much easier this time! I have Kirsten to thank and would recommend anyone that wants to have smooth labor and delivery, to come see her!”

-Kate M.

“Kirsten is the best! She's such a warm and conforming energy in addition to her thoughtful practice. I saw her in my first pregnancy for help with a swelling ankle. She was also able to successfully flip my baby at 37 weeks with more of her sessions. She is a true healer - highly recommend.”

-Liz S.

“Kirsten is wonderful.  I felt very cared for by her during my pregnancy.  The acupuncture really helped with my sciatica.”

- Rebekah B.

“Kirsten is a true professional. I worked with her through both of my pregnancies. With my first pregnancy in 2020/21I started working with her when my son was breech. While I wound up with an ECV it was successful and I do think the work with Kirsten helped prime that. She also paid a house visit during my first stalled labor and successfully kick-started my active labor (after 40 long hours stalled). I came back to Kirsten in 2022 when we were starting to think about getting pregnant again. My cycles were very short and my AMH levels were extremely low.  Kirsten was an absolute professional and tempered my expectations but those expectations were exceeded when my cycle returned to normal in a matter of months and my AMH levels increased which honestly doesn't even seem possible as those indicate egg reserves- but it happened. I continued to work with her through my pregnancy in my first and third trimesters and had a smooth delivery for my second. Aside from being extremely technically skilled, Kirsten has the perfect energy for what she does. She creates a calm and open environment and it was truly a safe space for me emotionally through it all. I was able to really settle into the space which I truly think helped my body accept the benefits of the treatment. So, needless to say, I couldn't recommend her more.”

- Nina E.

Labor, Delivery & Induction:

Acupuncture can be a powerful tool to support women through labor and delivery. It helps manage pain, reduce anxiety, and encourage a smoother birthing process. Here’s how:

  1. Labor Support: Acupuncture helps manage pain, reduce tension, and promote relaxation, making it easier for mothers to stay calm and focused throughout labor.

  2. Natural Delivery: Acupuncture supports natural delivery by encouraging optimal baby positioning, softening the cervix, and preparing the body for a smoother birthing experience.

  3. Labor Preparation: Acupuncture can gently stimulate uterine contractions, and relax the pelvis-making it a safe, natural option for preparing for and starting labor when the body is ready to give birth.

  4. C-Section Support: Acupuncture can reduce pre-surgery anxiety, alleviate pain, and promote faster post-surgical healing, helping mothers recover more quickly and comfortably after a C-section.

From Our Labor & Delivery Clients

“I went into labor and hour and a half after seeing Kirsten. She is a miracle worker!”

- Greer T.

“I worked with Kirsten while I was pregnant and postpartum. Acupuncture was my sanctuary and Kirsten made me feel so comfortable. I had tons of aches and pains in my back/legs and after my sessions I felt such relief! Kirsten was with me right before I went into labor and was communicating with me throughout. She truly cares!”

-Danielle G.

“Dr. Kirsten and her whole team was an integral part of my prenatal care team, and I would HIGHLY recommend them to anyone seeking acupuncture treatment. They supported me in successfully flipping my breech baby (from about 32 to 35 weeks pregnant) and then also in labor preparation. My baby flipped and I ended up having a very fast and successful vaginal birth without an induction or pain meds. In addition to these successful outcomes, they made me feel calm and relaxed throughout my third trimester. My back pain and exhaustion nearly disappeared after I started working with them. I look forward to continuing to work with Dr. Kirsten and her team in my postpartum recovery and beyond!”

-Tatiana P.

“Kirsten and her team are extremely professional and supportive. The environment is very calming and adds to the positive experience. I went to Kirsten at 40 weeks pregnant and ended up going into labor the very same day after the second session. Will definitely be going back for general care in the future!”

-Kristin H.

""40 weeks pregnant. Kirsten is doing labor prep acupuncture. Serious energy surfing! She stimulated acupoints that caused energy to swirl across my lower abdomen & cascade down my belly, like water spilling over the side of an infinity pool. I swear I could feel my baby slowly moving down into my pelvis like it was on a slide. Such an amazing, beautifully intense experience! Thank you!!!"

- E. M.

“Kirsten is absolutely awesome. She is knowledgeable and cares a lot about her patients. She has helped me during my pregnancy and labor prep and I can really feel the difference in my body. The facilities are great. I highly recommend her.“

- Veronica U

“I received labor prep acupuncture sessions here with Kirsten the weeks leading up to having my first child and it was such a great experience. I had an incredibly easy and wonderful labor and delivery, and have absolutely no doubt that the labor prep acupuncture helped me to have such a tremendously positive birth experience. Thank you infinitely!!”

-Hanna M.

“Kirsten was amazing and helped me turn the baby the day after acupuncture - in week 37 of pregnancy. Highly recommend!!!”

- Maria K.

TCM for Postpartum Recovery:

The postpartum period, known as the “Fourth Trimester,” is a critical time for healing and restoration. TCM emphasizes the importance of nourishing the mother’s Qi and Blood to support recovery, promote lactation, and prevent postpartum depression or anxiety.

  1. Promoting Postpartum Recovery: After childbirth, the body is often depleted of Qi and Blood, which can lead to fatigue, low milk supply, and emotional imbalances. TCM treatments focus on replenishing these vital substances through herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and acupuncture. Herbal formulas such as Sheng Hua Tang are commonly used to promote the flow of Blood, remove any stagnation, and speed up recovery.

  2. Supporting Emotional Health: The emotional changes that accompany the postpartum period can be profound. TCM addresses these changes by harmonizing the Shen (spirit) and calming the mind. Acupuncture and herbal medicine can help alleviate anxiety, mood swings, and postpartum depression, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

  3. Improving Lactation: We can help with clogged ducts and mastitis issues with in-clinic treatment. TCM can also support lactation by strengthening the Spleen and Stomach, which are responsible for the production of milk. Herbs like Mai Men Dong (Ophiopogon) and Huang Qi (Astragalus) are often used to increase milk supply and improve its quality.

From Our PostPartum & Recovery Clients

“I started going to Kirsten the week before I had my daughter and continued using her post partum and I can't rave enough how helpful she was on my prenatal and postnatal journey.  She knows exactly how to target your specific needs and bring your body into alignment.  I would absolutely recommend her to anybody looking to heal a part of their body or even just for maintenance!”

- Christine E.

“I had issues with clogged breast due to breast feeding and Kirsten worked her magic and solved the problems! I would recommend anyone who has similar issue to give it a try.”

-Jing Y.

“Kirsten and her team are incredible and a critical part of my pregnancy. I've continued to see Kirsten post-partum and have recommended her to my family and friends who have also had positive experiences with her practice. Highly recommend Wellspring without reservation.”

-Mara M.

“Wellspring Health made a huge difference in the health of my pregnancy and my postpartum recovery! Highly recommend.”

- Victoria R.

Fertility, Pregnancy & Postpartum We Treat With TCM

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a holistic and individualized approach to supporting women’s health through all stages of fertility, pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum recovery. By addressing imbalances in the body and promoting harmony between the physical and emotional aspects of health, TCM can enhance reproductive health, support a healthy pregnancy, and aid in postpartum healing. With its long history and integrative methods, TCM continues to be a valuable option for women seeking a natural and comprehensive approach to wellness and maternal care.

  • Female Infertility: Improving ovarian function and egg quality, balancing hormones, supporting Uterine Health, blood flow, nervous system, emotional support, and stress management.

  • Stress Management, Nervous System Supports & Pregnancy: Regulate stress response, stimulate endorphins, balance cortisol, sleep, muscle tension, pain relief, emotional support, a place to relax, let go and get some care.

  • IVF/IUI: Support pre- and post-embryo transfer, reducing IVF-related stress and anxiety, and managing hormonal fluctuations during IUI/IVF.

  • Egg Freezing: Optimizing ovarian reserve, preparing the body for egg retrieval, managing side effects of hormonal stimulation, and post-egg retrieval recovery.

  • Pain & Pregnancy: Relieving back pain, pelvic pain, sciatic and joint pain.

  • Labor Prep, Delivery & Induction: Promote cervical ripening and softening, supporting natural and assisted labor induction, pain relief, and breech babies.

  • Prenatal & Trimester Support: Nausea and fatigue, fetal development support, breech presentation and positioning, insomnia and stress.

  • Post Partaum: Emotional supports balancing hormones, stress response, lactation support, activating parasympathetic nervous system to encourage relaxation.

  • Lactation: Enhancing milk supply and flow, addressing blocked milk ducts and mastitis, balancing hormones, reducing stress, and improving milk quality.

  • Recurrent Miscarriage: Strengthening uterine health, immunological factors, managing stress and anxiety.

  • Male Infertility: Improving sperm quality and motility, varicocele, hormone, and libido imbalance.

Benefits of TCM for Fertility, Pregnancy & Postpartum:

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a holistic and individualized approach to supporting women’s health through all stages of fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum recovery. By addressing imbalances in the body and promoting harmony between the physical and emotional aspects of health, TCM can enhance reproductive health, support a healthy pregnancy, and aid in postpartum healing. With its long history and integrative methods, TCM continues to be a valuable option for women seeking a natural and comprehensive approach to wellness and maternal care.

Resources & Links to Learn More

Acupuncture has been studied for its potential benefits in fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum care. Here are five clinical studies highlighting its positive effects:

  1. Effects of Acupuncture on Pregnancy Rates in Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated multiple clinical trials to determine whether acupuncture improves IVF pregnancy rates. The analysis suggested that acupuncture performed around the time of embryo transfer may increase the chances of achieving pregnancy in women undergoing IVF.  Fertstert

  2. Acupuncture Performed Around the Time of Embryo Transfer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: This study examined the efficacy and safety of acupuncture as an adjunct to embryo transfer in IVF treatments. The findings indicated that acupuncture performed around the time of embryo transfer was associated with increased clinical pregnancy rates.  RBMO Journal

  3. Effects of Acupuncture on Rates of Pregnancy and Live Birth Among Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilisation: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: This comprehensive review assessed whether acupuncture improves pregnancy and live birth rates when used as an adjunct treatment to embryo transfer in IVF. The study concluded that acupuncture was associated with significant and clinically relevant improvements in clinical pregnancy and live birth rates.  BMJ

  4. The Effects of Acupuncture on Pregnancy Outcomes of In Vitro Fertilization: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: This analysis explored the impact of acupuncture on IVF outcomes. The results suggested that acupuncture could improve clinical pregnancy rates and live birth rates in women undergoing IVF.  BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies

  5. Effects of Acupuncture on Pregnancy Outcomes in Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: This updated review evaluated the effects of acupuncture on IVF outcomes. The study found that acupuncture significantly improved clinical pregnancy rates and live birth rates, supporting its use as an adjunctive treatment in IVF.  SpringerLink

These studies suggest that acupuncture may offer benefits in enhancing fertility outcomes, particularly in conjunction with IVF treatments.