Electroacupuncture for fertility

The differences between Electroacupuncture on needles and Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture Stimulation

Electroacupuncture stimulation of needles and Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture Stimulation (TEAS) are similar in that they provide gentle electrical stimulation to acupuncture points that support fertility outcomes. The primary difference is the method of delivery. Needle electroacupuncture is where a machine and wire with a small clip are connected to an acupuncture needle inserted into an acupuncture point. Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture Stimulation uses a similar machine with the same settings. Still, the electrical pulse is emitted through a gel patch, also known as an electrode, placed on the skin.

In both types, at least two locations are stimulated from the same wire. Some machines can be connected to as many as 16 locations on the body. Dr. Lee usually connects to no more than 8 locations.

The sensation of Electroacupuncture

A mild stimulation is emitted from the clip and can feel like tapping or pulsing around the needle. Patients have described it as feeling like someone is tapping their skin with a pencil eraser head. It should not feel like pinching, sharp, burning, or zappy.

How to use Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture Stimulation (TEAS) for fertility

For the best results, start TEAS treatment three cycles before trying at home or any ART. However, you can start the treatment at any time. TEAS has been found in research studies to increase the chance of having a baby, improve AMH and antral follicle count in people with Diminished Ovarian Reserve, help the uterine lining become more fully developed and receptive to implantation. TEAS has also been found to reduce the anxiety associated with trying to conceive.

The frequency of treatments each week will be determined based on individual needs and goals. You will meet with Dr. Lee for an initial telehealth visit and one follow-up visit after you get your machine. Dr. Lee can help you learn how to use it alongside regular acupuncture sessions, laser, and LED therapies at Rosefinch Health in Portland, Oregon. If you don’t live in Portland, she may be able to see you via telehealth. Dr. Lee can meet you over telehealth for an assessment and treatment plan. You will order the machine and meet with her again so she can help you set up the device and help you learn how to use it. 

How do Electroacupuncture and Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture Stimulation work?

Much in the same way that electroacupuncture has been found to promote fertility, TEAS generates specific effects to:

 -calm the central sympathetic nervous system, allowing the blood vessels to dilate and improving localized and whole-body blood flow.

-induce the release of neurotransmitters that help support communication between the hypothalamus-pituitary ovarian axis, which then can regulate menstrual cycles, promote ovulation, and ultimately improve fertility

-mitigate the stress response that is highly prevalent when trying to conceive by triggering the release of the body’s own painkillers, endogenous opioids.

-support glucose metabolism by increasing skeletal muscle glucose absorption. When circulating blood sugar is elevated for extended periods, it can disrupt menstrual regularity.

-help the body be more sensitive to insulin, as insulin insensitivity is a feature of polycystic ovarian syndrome and is suspected to be a critical metabolic dysfunction that reinforces increases in androgens, suppresses ovulation, and makes the period irregular.

How often Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture Stimulation is used each week is an important variable of effectiveness. Some folks only need to use Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture Stimulation once or twice weekly to boost fertility; others may need to use it more. Dr. Lee will help you find the right frequency of treatment for your needs and adjust as necessary.

Is Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture Stimulation the same as TENS?

Yes and no. TENS is the acronym for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and uses stimulation with a short pulse and high intensity to mitigate pain. TENS can be effective for some types of chronic and acute pain. Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture Stimulation, aka TEAS, is like TENS, using the same technology: a TENS unit with electrodes.

Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture Stimulation differs from TENS because it uses different settings: a long pulse, and low intensity. Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture Stimulation induces significant physiological changes within the body to support reproduction. Another difference is that TEAS is applied to acupuncture points, usually found in the junctions between muscles and other muscles or bones. TENS electrodes are often placed on segmental nerve pathways or large muscle groups.