Trying to conceive can be one of the most emotiona journeys a person goes through, and it often comes with more questions than answers. At Root & Stem, fertility support is one of the areas we know best, led by Dr. Jessica Parker, who also serves as Executive Director of the East Bay Integrative Pregnancy Project.
How Acupuncture Supports Fertility
Acupuncture supports fertility by improving blood flow to the reproductive organs, helping balance the hormones involved in ovulation and cycle regularity, and lowering stress, which can itself affect fertility. For many patients, acupuncture becomes part of a broader plan that also includes lifestyle changes, herbal medicine, and coordination with their reproductive doctor.
Patients come to us at every stage of the fertility journey. Some are just starting to try to conceive and want to support their body from the beginning. Others are going through IVF or IUI and want acupuncture to complement their medical treatment. Others have been trying for a while without success and are looking for another piece of the puzzle.
Acupuncture and IVF
Many patients specifically seek out acupuncture around IVF cycles. Acupuncture before and after embryo transfer is a common practice, and some research suggests it may support blood flow to the uterus during this critical window. Dr. Parker works closely with patients going through IVF to time sessions around their clinic's protocol, so acupuncture supports the medical treatment rather than working against it.
Beyond Conception: Pregnancy and Postpartum Support
Fertility support does not end once you conceive. Many patients continue acupuncture through pregnancy for nausea, back pain, and general stress relief, and again after birth to support postpartum recovery. Dr. Parker's work leading the East Bay Integrative Pregnancy Project reflects just how central this full journey is to her practice, from the earliest stages of trying to conceive through the fourth trimester.
What to Expect
Your first visit includes a detailed conversation about your cycle, your health history, and where you are in your fertility journey, including any fertility treatments you are currently pursuing. From there, Dr. Parker builds a plan that usually includes weekly acupuncture sessions, adjusted around your cycle or your treatment schedule if you are working with a fertility clinic.
Many patients also benefit from Chinese herbal medicine as part of their fertility support. Dr. Parker will discuss whether herbs are a good fit for your specific situation.
Why Patients Choose Root & Stem for Fertility Care
Dr. Parker's training includes an advanced internship in gynecology at Zhejiang Medical Hospital in China, and her ongoing leadership of the East Bay Integrative Pregnancy Project keeps her closely connected to the fertility and pregnancy community in the Bay Area. Readers have voted her one of Oakland's best acupuncturists, and fertility support remains one of the most requested reasons patients book with her.
Our clinic is located at 3515 Grand Avenue in Oakland's Grand Lake neighborhood, open Tuesday through Saturday. Call 510.463.4304 to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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There is no wrong time to start. Some patients begin months before trying to conceive, while others start once they are actively trying or already working with a fertility clinic.
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Yes. Many patients use acupuncture alongside IVF, especially around embryo transfer. Dr. Parker coordinates timing with your fertility clinic's protocol.
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Yes, when performed by a licensed acupuncturist familiar with pregnancy safe points. Dr. Parker regularly treats patients throughout pregnancy.
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This depends on your specific situation. Many patients start with weekly sessions, and Dr. Parker will adjust your plan based on your cycle and your goals.
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We are happy to coordinate care with your reproductive endocrinologist or OB so your treatment plans support each other.
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You are not alone, and acupuncture can still be a valuable part of your plan. Dr. Parker will talk through your full history and build a plan around where you are right now.