- Preparing for IVF/ IUI, Primary Infertility
A Journey of Hope: How TCM Supported One Woman’s IVF Success at 40 Years Old
“I’ve done everything. Is there still hope for me?”
This was the journey of Mrs. L, a 40-year-old woman who had been trying to conceive for 8 years. In 2024, after two IVF cycles that resulted in four embryos, her first embryo transfer (of two Day-3 embryos) ended in heartbreak. The emotional toll left her feeling deeply anxious and uncertain about the future.
When Mrs. L first visited Xi Fertility & Women’s Health TCM Centre, she carried not just her medical reports—but also the invisible weight of disappointment. Ms Lau took time to understand her body, emotions, and history, before tailoring a personalized treatment plan focused on:
(a) Supporting advanced maternal age
Age-related fertility challenges often involve declining ovarian reserve, reduced egg quality, and slower physiological recovery. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this is viewed as a gradual weakening of Kidney Essence, a vital substance that governs reproductive health.
(b) Emotional regulation and stress relief
Fertility journeys are often accompanied by intense emotional stress, particularly after failed IVF attempts. In TCM, emotional disturbances — especially worry, frustration, and grief — are closely linked to imbalances in the Liver and Heart systems.
(c) Enhancing ovarian and uterine health
While embryo quality is crucial, the internal environment where the embryo implants is just as important. In L’s case, TCM focused on creating a fertile ground by:
Stimulating ovarian blood flow to support follicle development and potentially improve egg quality with specific acupuncture points.
Nourishing the uterine lining with herbs that promote Blood circulation and warm the Uterus, encouraging a receptive endometrium for embryo attachment.
Regulating cycle phases (follicular, ovulatory, luteal) through phase-based herbal adjustments, ensuring hormonal support aligns with each stage of her assisted reproduction.
Even though the two embryos transferred in her final attempt were lower-grade, the strength and receptivity of her internal environment allowed implantation to succeed — showing the power of holistic preparation.
Today, she is approaching full term, and the joy is indescribable. Congratulations!
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