Acupuncture-assisted embryo transfer techniques: Research frontiers and future directions.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Integrative Oncology
• Traditional Chinese Medicine

Background:

• Acupuncture is increasingly utilized in assisted reproductive technology.
• It is believed to enhance embryo transfer success by improving blood flow and endometrial receptivity.
• Potential mechanisms include neuroendocrine regulation during implantation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in acupuncture's role in embryo transfer.
• To clarify the specific mechanisms through which acupuncture affects embryo transfer outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A systematic search of PubMed and Cochrane Library was conducted up to September 2024.
• Included randomized controlled trials comparing acupuncture (intervention) with no acupuncture or sham acupuncture (control).
• Primary outcome was clinical pregnancy rate (CPR); secondary outcomes included live birth rate (LBR) and biochemical pregnancy rate (BPR).

Main Results:

• Analysis of 145 trials (27,748 participants) showed a significant increase in CPR with acupuncture (RR: 1.21, P=0.01).
• Acupuncture improved biochemical pregnancy rates (RR: 1.51, P=0.03) and endometrial morphology (RR: 1.41, P=0.01) in frozen-thawed embryo transfers.
• IVF outcomes were superior when acupuncture was used during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (RR: 1.71, P=0.03).

Conclusions:

• Acupuncture positively influences pregnancy rates for women undergoing IVF.
• Current research indicates a need for larger, rigorous studies due to methodological limitations.
• Established guidelines for optimal acupuncture protocols are lacking.