The traditional Chinese method of healing known as acupuncture has been used successfully to enhance fertility and reduce painful and irregular menstruation. Offering an effective, time-tested approach, it is used alongside conventional reproductive medical care.

Dr Heinz-Peter Becker, head of the Pain Clinic, says studies conducted and repeated internationally have demonstrated the effectiveness of acupuncture for women taking fertility drugs or using reproductive technology techniques.

“Acupuncture has been shown to regulate hormonal activity by improving follicular development and ovarian function, and support healthy menstruation and pregnancy,” Becker said.

Acupuncture has also been known to treat a number of fertility disorders such as fibroids, reduce nausea and morning sickness, lower miscarriage risk, and reduce the duration of labour by up to 18 per cent.

In men, acupuncture improves sperm motility, quality, morphology as well as increases libido.

“Clinical observations from the Berkley Center for Reproductive Wellness suggests that the most effective fertility treatments involve a combination of acupuncture and herbal medicines used alongside traditional medical interventions,” he said.

Becker’s complementary and alternative medicine offers a range of skills gleaned over a lifetime of passionate interest in health and harmony of mind, body and spirit. Acupuncture is particularly helpful with women who have failed cycles or who are 35 years and older. It has been reliably shown to safely and effectively improve success rates across all patient demographics.

Acupuncture can also help to reduce endometriosis naturally. Endometrial cells growing outside of the uterus affect between six and 10 per cent of women between the ages of 25 and 45. Becker’s Aphrodite’s Elixir contains herbs that have an impact on excessive levels of estrogen that is believed to be the contributing factor of endometriosis and have been proven to relieve endometriosis and symptomatic pain.

According to Becker, acupuncture also has a success rate of 85 to 90 per cent for helping people quit smoking. Recommended by the World Health Organization, acupuncture is the most holistic method used to stop smoking. “Stopping smoking is simple and effective with acupuncture, which is free from toxins and side effects. More smokers are turning to this method than any other,” he said.

Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into the body at acupuncture points. It can be associated with the application of heat, pressure, or laser light to these same points.

Acupuncture is commonly used for pain relief, though it is also used for a wide range of conditions. Clinical practice varies depending on the country and it is rarely used alone, but rather, as an adjunct to other forms of treatment.