Discover a healthier you
Patient Resources
When it comes to health, it is important to know that each person is the arbiter of his or her own care. Researching various treatment options is a way for patients to educate themselves on their conditions. Taking the time to learn the pros and cons for any treatment modality is an empowering process that is the first step towards better health. Here are some resources that can help on that path.
FERTILITY
Good clinical research has demonstrated the effectiveness of acupuncture used in conjunction with IVF demonstrating around a 50% increase in success rate with acupuncture vs. without. Acupuncture works to increase success rates of these interventions by increasing blood flow to the ovaries during the stimulation phase of IVF and by improving the effectiveness of the drugs given. It also relaxes the uterus and addresses uterine spasm after embryo transfer. Acupuncture also reduces stress, calms anxiety, and offsets side effects of the fertility drugs. Here is some more information on the aforementioned study.
In 2008 research published in the British Medical Journal showed that women doing IVF who underwent acupuncture were 65% more likely to have a successful embryo transfer compared with those who underwent a “sham” version of the treatment, or no extra treatment at all.
More recently, studies have shown the positive effect of Whole Systems TCM on fertility rates, versus acupuncture alone. Whole Systems TCM is what we utilize here at Joyce Wellness: comprehensive fertility care that includes Acupuncture, herbal medicine, supplements, nutrition and lifestyle counseling. The results were especially pronounced amongst women over the age of 38.
AMENORRHEA
This study looked at the effect of acupuncture on women who were not ovulating and found that acupuncture seems to adjust FSH, LH, and E2 in two directions and raises progesterone levels. The study also looked at animal experiments which confirmed the results found in women.
Prolactin is a hormone released by the pituitary gland, and women with amenorrhea often have higher levels of prolactin. Acupuncture has also been shown to lower prolactin levels.
PCOS
A study at Goteborg University in Sweden showed that electro-acupuncture may help some women with PCOS to ovulate. Electro-acupuncture was developed in China as an alternative to manipulating acupuncture needles by hand. It involves the application of a pulsating electrical current to acupuncture needles as a means of stimulating the acupuncture points.
During the study, one group of women with polycystic ovary syndrome received acupuncture regularly for four months. A second group of women were provided with heart rate monitors and instructed to exercise at least three times a week. A control group was informed about the importance of exercise and a healthy diet, but was given no other specific instructions.
MALE FACTOR INFERTILITY
Numerous studies have shown acupuncture to be of benefit in the treatment of male infertility. Whether you are trying to conceive naturally, or using assisted reproductive techniquesacupuncture has been shown to increase sperm count and quality as well as concentration.
SPERM QUALITY
Several credible studies have shown that regular acupuncture treatment can have an impact on semen quality.
Here at The Yinova Center we find that Chinese herbs are very helpful in improving all aspects of sperm quality. Our experience is born out in studies such as this one. We prescribe our herbs in individual formulas which contain about 15 herbs. Each formula is prescribed individually and tailored to your specific needs.
PREGNANCY
Breech Babies
At around 34 to 37 weeks gestation, a fetus becomes positioned for birth with its head down. When not positioned this way, it is considered a breech presentation. By using moxibustion (the warming a specific acupuncture point with an herbal incense), babies turn into the correct position 69-85% of the time. You can read more studies about this here, here, and here.
WELLNESS
A 1998 study at the University of Arizona looked at using acupuncture to treat major depression (1), using a double-blind, randomized, control trial. When measured against a control group who received a placebo treatment, the acupuncture group did remarkably well. In fact at the end of the study, 64% of the participants were judged to be in full remission of their symptoms.
(1) Allen J.J.B., Schuyer R.N., and Hitt S.K. (1998), The efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of women with major depression. Psychological Science 9 (5): 397—401.
special thanks to the Yinova center for sharing their compilation of research.
New Patient Forms
In an effort to be environmentally responsible we have gone paperless! When you book your first appointment, you will receive a link to fill out new patient paperwork electronically. This information will be automatically added to your patient file so that our practitioners have all the pertinent information to provide exceptional care. Please call (310)803-5459 or email info@joycewellness.com to book for appointment.
Please feel free to bring results of any previous testing that may be pertinent to your health goals here at Joyce Wellness. If additional time is needed to review labs and images outside of your appointment time, there may be an additional lab analysis fee.
Patient Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient treatment method that has been used for over 3,000 years to improve health and help fight disease. It involves the insertion of tiny, sterile and disposable needles into specific points of the body to activate the body’s natural healing energy, called qi (pronounced “chee”). The smooth flow of energy throughout the body helps maintain proper functioning of all the body’s systems: including the digestive, respiratory, endocrine, immune, reproductive, musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Acupuncture is a safe and effective way to treat both chronic and acute disorders, as well as a powerful means for preventing disease before it begins.
How much does it cost?
Initial consultation and treatment last 1.5- 2 hours and costs $250. Return visits last 1 hour and cost $125 per visit. The treatment modalities used during sessions will be customized for your individual needs.
Do you accept insurance?
Unfortunately we no longer bill insurance for patient visits. We are happy to provide superbills that you can submit to your PPO insurance for direct reimbursement. Please note that your insurance company will only reimburse for your visits if you have out of network acupuncture benefits. We do apologize that we are unable to confirm your benefits for you.
Does Acupuncture hurt?
Although most people experience sensation during an acupuncture treatment, this sensation is very rarely painful. Sometime you may feel pressure, tingling, or a dull ache near the acupoint, but these sensations are usually mild and quite comfortable. Most people report a greater sense of relaxation and rejuvenation during and after an acupuncture session.
Is Acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, that yields no side effects except feelings of relaxation. Because only sterile and disposable needles are used, there is very little risk of infection.
What should I expect during my first session?
You should expect to spend 1.5 to 2 hours at the office during your first session. You will need to fill out paperwork regarding your present medical condition as well as past medical history. Megan Joyce will discuss different aspects of physical and emotional health, will do diet and lifestyle consulting, as well as perform any necessary physical exams. After a thorough health evaluation is completed, you will receive an acupuncture session that lasts about 25- 30 minutes.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Once the initial evaluation has been completed, Megan will be able to make a recommendation for number of sessions necessary for you to reach your specific healthcare goals. Some people will experience immediate relief from one session, whereas others will require months of treatment before achieving health goals such as a desired pregnancy. Acupuncture is synergistic, meaning that the treatments will build on one another to produce greater results over time. Like diet and exercise, acupuncture is most effective when done regularly as part of a health and wellness plan.