Five Element
Acupuncture for Fertility Support for Natural Conception & IVF
Acupuncture for Fertility Support: An Overview
Fertility is never just a physical process — it is deeply connected to how we live, feel and move through the world. For many individuals and couples, the path to conception involves uncertainty, hope, and moments of emotional intensity. Whether you are trying to conceive naturally, preparing for IVF, or recovering from a previous cycle, many people seek acupuncture as a supportive part of their fertility journey.
The reproductive system is linked to many aspects of overall wellbeing, including stress levels, sleep, emotional balance, and general health. When these areas feel under pressure — from long-term stress, demanding work, emotional strain or hormonal change — fertility can sometimes be affected in ways that feel confusing or overwhelming.
Five-Element acupuncture takes a whole-person view. Rather than focusing solely on reproductive function, it explores the wider patterns that may influence how the body feels and responds during the fertility process. Some people find this approach offers a grounding and stabilising experience at a time that can feel complex or emotionally charged.
Many individuals report feeling calmer, more supported and more connected to their bodies through treatment. Acupuncture is a complementary therapy and can sit alongside medical fertility care, including IVF or other assisted conception pathways. Responses vary from person to person, and the aim is to create a supportive environment that nurtures overall wellbeing during this significant time.
Acupuncture for Fertility Support and IVF FAQs
Q1: How does acupuncture support fertility?
In Five-Element acupuncture, fertility is viewed within the wider context of a person’s overall balance — how the Elements relate to one another, how life experiences shape the system, and how the body, mind and emotions interact. Each Element is associated with different qualities: the deep reserves and will of Water, the smooth flow and vision of Wood, the nourishment of Earth, the warmth and connection of Fire, and the rhythm and inspiration of Metal.
When one Element feels strained or depleted, it can influence the others, creating patterns that may leave someone feeling out of sync with themselves. Five-Element acupuncture explores these patterns to understand where support may be needed. The intention is not to “treat infertility,” but to help the system feel more integrated, grounded and resilient. Many people find that as they feel calmer and more connected to themselves, the fertility journey becomes easier to navigate.
Q2: When should I start acupuncture if I’m trying to conceive or preparing for IVF?
People begin acupuncture at many different stages. Some choose to start several months before trying to conceive or beginning IVF because it offers time to settle the system and build a supportive rhythm. Others begin closer to treatment and still find value in the sense of steadiness, relaxation and emotional support that sessions can bring. There is no fixed rule — the right timing depends on your circumstances, preferences and what feels manageable alongside medical care.
Q3: Can acupuncture support egg freezing or embryo transfer?
Many individuals choose to incorporate acupuncture during egg freezing or IVF cycles as a way of feeling more centred during stimulation, collection and transfer. While acupuncture does not improve success rates or influence medical outcomes directly, people often describe the sessions as a grounding pause in an otherwise intense process. They may find it helps them manage stress, connect more deeply with their bodies or create a calmer internal environment during key moments in their treatment.
Q4: How often should I come for fertility acupuncture?
Frequency varies from person to person. Many people find weekly sessions helpful, especially during emotionally or physically demanding phases of the fertility process. During quieter periods, sessions may become fortnightly or monthly, depending on how someone is feeling and what they need. Treatment is tailored to the individual, with pace and frequency adjusted as the journey evolves.
Q5: Can acupuncture help with unexplained infertility?
Five-Element acupuncture approaches unexplained infertility by looking at the broader emotional and constitutional landscape rather than focusing solely on medical findings. Instead of seeking a single cause, it explores how different Elements may be interacting, where stress or depletion may show up, and how someone’s overall sense of balance is being experienced. While acupuncture cannot diagnose or treat infertility, many people appreciate this deeper, more holistic exploration and find that it offers emotional clarity, steadiness and support during what can be an uncertain path.
Fertility Support for Natural Conception & IVF from a Western Perspective
In Western medicine, fertility challenges are usually understood through measurable factors such as ovulation patterns, sperm parameters, ovarian reserve (for example, AMH levels), endometrial development and tubal function. Treatment may involve assisted reproductive techniques like IUI, IVF or ICSI, depending on the individual’s clinical picture.
These approaches can be incredibly valuable, yet the process can also feel demanding — physically, emotionally and logistically. Much of the medical focus naturally centres on procedures, timing and outcomes, which can leave limited space for the broader emotional or psychological experience of the person going through treatment.
This is often where people choose to bring acupuncture into their journey: not as an alternative to medical care, but as a complementary source of support. Many individuals appreciate the sense of calm, steadiness and connection that acupuncture can offer alongside fertility treatment. Some report that it helps them navigate stress, sleep more easily, or feel more emotionally grounded as they move through cycles, procedures or waiting periods.
A number of my patients are under the care of fertility specialists at The Evewell, and working collaboratively ensures that any acupuncture support aligns respectfully with their medical treatment plan. This integrated approach allows space for both the clinical and emotional aspects of the fertility journey to be acknowledged.
A Five-Element Perspective on Natural Conception & IVF
In Five-Element acupuncture, fertility is understood as part of a wider picture — a reflection of how a person’s physical, emotional and energetic landscape interacts. Rather than focusing solely on achieving pregnancy, this approach looks at the broader patterns that influence a person’s sense of balance, resilience and readiness as they move through the conception journey.
Everyone’s experience is different. For some, long-term stress or emotional strain may leave them feeling depleted or disconnected from themselves. For others, life transitions, overwork, or changes in nourishment and routine may contribute to feeling out of sync. These experiences can be seen through the lens of the Elements, each of which relates to different aspects of physical vitality, emotional expression and internal harmony.
Treatment is always tailored to the individual. Sessions explore how various factors — physical, lifestyle-related, emotional or constitutional — may be shaping a person’s fertility journey. Many people value this holistic perspective, finding that it offers space to feel more grounded, supported and connected to themselves as they navigate natural conception or assisted pathways such as IVF.
What Patients Say
I had the privilege of receiving treatment from Johnny Childs for several years, and he truly is one of the most beautiful souls I’ve ever encountered. His expert acupuncture care helped me navigate two challenging rounds of IVF and supported me through two successful frozen embryo transfers - I genuinely believe his treatment played a significant role in my success. Beyond his clinical expertise, Johnny is a calming force whose gentle presence and healing touch made each session a restorative experience for both body and spirit. - Casey Ojdana
Johnny is the most empathetic practitioner. He brings in all elements together to bring a sense of calm which is integral to healing. I first had my treatment with Johnny several years ago when I was trying to have a baby; I had been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, spondylitis, endometriosis and adenomyosis. None of which turned out to be correct diagnosis. Johnny kept me grounded and thinking rationally which helped immensely to keep my anxiety in check and to keep going and get through all my medical appointments. I am in good health, also have a healthy baby boy and I cannot recommend Johnny enough - As Go
Johnny is such a great practitioner, who immediately makes you feel at ease, takes the time to understand how you are feeling in body, mind and spirit, and then tailors the treatment, talking you through what he is doing, and what it's working on. I always felt so calm going there, during IVF treatment, which was so challenging. The treatment was so powerful and timed for during the most crucial points of the treatment and then throughout the pregnancy itself, which presented other challenges. It really helped with morning sickness, and the ongoing anxiety of having gone through infertility. I'll forever be grateful to Johnny for his expertise in Five Elements in helping me become pregnant. - Clare Edmondson
I honestly cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience with Johnny. I was quite sceptical about having acupuncture but I was desperate to regulate my cycle. From the first appointment, I felt completely seen, supported, and his approach is both compassionate and incredibly knowledgeable. I know its not the same for everyone but I noticed a change instantly and am very happy to say its been extremely successful in regards to my fertility goals. It's such a joy going to each appointment and I couldn't recommend Johnny enough!! - Layla Bolton
I met Johnny at a time when I’m was struggling to conceive. I was just starting my IVF journey and I was so nervous about what my body was going through and the ultimate outcome. From the start Johnny used a phrase with me - “cautiously optimistic”! He gave me strength at every treatment that I could do this! Not to mention the wonders his method of treatment did to my body and how I reacted to the treatment. I ended up conceiving on my first transfer itself and while I’m extremely conscious I was lucky, I believe that Johnny was the additional supplement that helped! My baby girl came out hale & hearty this Sunday and Johnny will always have my gratitude for this! - Aishwarya Ravi
What Patients Say...
I had the privilege of receiving treatment from Johnny Childs for several years, and he truly is one of the most beautiful souls I’ve ever encountered. His expert acupuncture care helped me navigate two challenging rounds of IVF and supported me through two successful frozen embryo transfers - I genuinely believe his treatment played a significant role in my success. Beyond his clinical expertise, Johnny is a calming force whose gentle presence and healing touch made each session a restorative experience for both body and spirit. - Casey Ojdana
Johnny is the most empathetic practitioner. He brings in all elements together to bring a sense of calm which is integral to healing. I first had my treatment with Johnny several years ago when I was trying to have a baby; I had been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, spondylitis, endometriosis and adenomyosis. None of which turned out to be correct diagnosis. Johnny kept me grounded and thinking rationally which helped immensely to keep my anxiety in check and to keep going and get through all my medical appointments. I am in good health, also have a healthy baby boy and I cannot recommend Johnny enough - As Go
Johnny is such a great practitioner, who immediately makes you feel at ease, takes the time to understand how you are feeling in body, mind and spirit, and then tailors the treatment, talking you through what he is doing, and what it's working on. I always felt so calm going there, during IVF treatment, which was so challenging. The treatment was so powerful and timed for during the most crucial points of the treatment and then throughout the pregnancy itself, which presented other challenges. It really helped with morning sickness, and the ongoing anxiety of having gone through infertility. I'll forever be grateful to Johnny for his expertise in Five Elements in helping me become pregnant. - Clare Edmondson
I honestly cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience with Johnny. I was quite sceptical about having acupuncture but I was desperate to regulate my cycle. From the first appointment, I felt completely seen, supported, and his approach is both compassionate and incredibly knowledgeable. I know its not the same for everyone but I noticed a change instantly and am very happy to say its been extremely successful in regards to my fertility goals. It's such a joy going to each appointment and I couldn't recommend Johnny enough!! - Layla Bolton
I met Johnny at a time when I’m was struggling to conceive. I was just starting my IVF journey and I was so nervous about what my body was going through and the ultimate outcome. From the start Johnny used a phrase with me - “cautiously optimistic”! He gave me strength at every treatment that I could do this! Not to mention the wonders his method of treatment did to my body and how I reacted to the treatment. I ended up conceiving on my first transfer itself and while I’m extremely conscious I was lucky, I believe that Johnny was the additional supplement that helped! My baby girl came out hale & hearty this Sunday and Johnny will always have my gratitude for this! - Aishwarya Ravi
How Acupuncture Is Used to Support Fertility and IVF
Many people choose to integrate acupuncture into their fertility journey as a way of supporting their overall wellbeing throughout what can often be a demanding and emotional process. While acupuncture is not a treatment for infertility, it can offer a grounding space alongside medical care, helping individuals feel more connected, calmer and better able to navigate each stage — whether trying naturally or undergoing IVF.
Some people find that acupuncture sessions help them feel more settled during the menstrual cycle, more attuned to their body, or more able to cope with the physical and emotional intensity of assisted fertility treatments. Others value the way acupuncture can support relaxation, sleep, emotional steadiness and a sense of internal balance during times that may otherwise feel stressful or uncertain.
During IVF, acupuncture is often used by individuals seeking a supportive rhythm through stimulation, egg collection, transfer and the waiting period. Many describe the treatments as a way to pause, breathe and come back to themselves, especially when undergoing frequent appointments, scans or medications.
Acupuncture can also offer gentle support after a failed cycle or pregnancy loss, providing space for emotional processing and recovery before taking the next steps. While responses vary, people often appreciate the sense of continuity, steadiness and care that regular sessions bring.
Treatment can begin months before an IVF cycle or at any stage of the process. Each session is tailored to the individual, providing a quiet moment of restoration — a chance to recalibrate, reconnect and support overall wellbeing throughout the fertility journey.
Important Note:
Acupuncture is offered here as a holistic and complementary therapy, drawing on Five-Element principles and traditional Chinese medicine theory. Many people find it supportive, although responses vary and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Evidence from observational studies and systematic reviews — including references from organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and, where relevant, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) — suggests that acupuncture may be used to support wellbeing and certain symptoms. However, it should not be considered a replacement for medical diagnosis or treatment.
Each treatment is tailored to the individual, and experiences differ from person to person. If you have a medical condition or are under the care of a GP or specialist, please continue with your prescribed treatment plan. Acupuncture can be used alongside medical care, and it is advisable to discuss any changes with your healthcare provider.
