Acupuncture for Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR)

Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) refers to a lower-than-expected quantity and/or quality of eggs in the ovaries for a woman’s age. It’s one of the more common challenges women face on the fertility journey, especially for those trying to conceive in their mid-30s and beyond. Current estimates suggest that 20–25% of women seeking fertility treatment are diagnosed with some degree of DOR.

Women with DOR may notice changes in their menstrual cycles, such as shorter cycles, pre-period spotting, or irregular cycles, along with symptoms of shifting hormones like night sweats or reduced cervical fluid. For many, the emotional impact is just as significant as the physical changes. The combination of uncertainty, time pressure, and the complexity of treatment decisions can feel overwhelming.

DOR can influence daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. As a result, many women look for supportive therapies that may help promote ovarian function, optimize reproductive health, and improve their chance of a successful pregnancy, whether naturally or while undergoing fertility treatments such as IUI or IVF.

How Acupuncture May Help Support Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Many women in Campbell, San Jose, and across the South Bay are turning to acupuncture as part of an integrative, evidence-informed approach to fertility care. While acupuncture is not a cure for DOR, research shows it may positively influence several key factors involved in reproductive health.

Studies suggest acupuncture can help:

• Improve blood flow to the ovaries and uterus

• Regulate menstrual cycles

• Reduce stress hormones that can negatively affect ovulation, reproductive function, and implantation

• Support and increase ovarian responsiveness during fertility treatment

• Improve egg quality

• Improve overall endocrine and hormonal balance
  

For many patients, acupuncture serves as a supportive therapy that can complement medical fertility treatments or provide a natural, low-intervention option for those trying to conceive without assisted reproductive technologies.

What Research Says About Acupuncture and DOR

While acupuncture cannot reverse diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), a growing body of Western medical research shows that it may positively influence several physiological factors important for reproductive health. These findings help explain why many fertility specialists now consider acupuncture an important complementary therapy for women seeking support.

Improved Ovarian and Uterine Blood Flow: Studies published in Human Reproduction have shown that acupuncture can increase blood flow to the ovaries and uterus by modulating the sympathetic nervous system. Improved circulation may help support follicle development and endometrial receptivity during the menstrual cycle and fertility treatment.

Reduced Stress Hormones: Research in Fertility & Sterility shows that acupuncture can lower cortisol and other stress-related hormones. Because elevated cortisol can interfere with ovulation and hormone signaling, reducing stress physiology may create a more supportive environment for conception.

Support for Hormonal Regulation: Several studies show that acupuncture can influence the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian (HPO) axis (the hormone network that controls ovulation). This may help regulate menstrual cycles and support more balanced hormone patterns in women with DOR.

Potential Improvements in Ovarian Reserve Markers: Early pilot studies, including research published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research, have found that acupuncture may affect markers such as AMH, FSH, and antral follicle count.

Reduced Inflammation: Acupuncture has been shown to reduce inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-alpha. Since inflammation can impair ovarian and reproductive function, lowering it may support a healthier reproductive environment.

Enhanced Support During IVF: One of the most widely referenced studies in Fertility & Sterility found higher pregnancy rates among IVF patients who received acupuncture at key points during their treatment cycle.

Is Acupuncture Right for You?

Acupuncture can be a helpful option for many women navigating diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), whether they’re trying to conceive naturally or combining acupuncture with fertility treatments such as IUI or IVF. While it cannot reverse DOR, research shows that acupuncture may improve several factors involved in reproductive health, including blood flow, stress physiology, hormonal balance, and overall cycle regulation.

You may benefit from acupuncture if you:

• Have been diagnosed with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR)

• Are experiencing changes in your menstrual cycle, such as shorter cycles or spotting

• Want to support your reproductive health while trying to conceive naturally

• Are preparing for or undergoing fertility treatments (IUI or IVF)

• Are looking for a non-pharmaceutical approach to support cycle quality, stress reduction, and overall well-being

• Prefer a holistic, integrative approach alongside your medical care

• Want help managing the emotional and physical stress of fertility challenges
  

Acupuncture is gentle, low-risk, and can be tailored to your unique cycle, symptoms, and treatment plan. Many women also find it grounding and calming during a time that can feel overwhelming or pressured.

If you’re unsure whether acupuncture is a good fit for your situation, Dr. Cindi can review your history, lab results, and goals to help you understand your options and what type of support may be most helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture and Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR)

Can acupuncture improve ovarian reserve? Acupuncture can’t change the number of eggs a woman has, but that does not mean there is no opportunity for improvement. What truly matters for conception is egg quality, and that can be improved. Research shows that acupuncture supports several key factors involved in egg development, such as blood flow to the ovaries, hormone regulation, inflammation levels, and stress physiology. Improving egg quality is one of the most meaningful ways to optimize fertility with diminished ovarian reserve.

How many acupuncture sessions will I need? Most women begin with weekly treatments for at least 1-3 full menstrual cycles. For those undergoing IUI or IVF, treatments are often coordinated with the stimulation phase and key points in the fertility timeline. Dr. Cindi will create a personalized plan based on your age, cycle characteristics, goals, and treatment stage.

Can acupuncture help if I’m doing IVF or IUI? Yes. Research published in Fertility & Sterility and other journals shows that acupuncture may benefit certain IVF patients by improving blood flow, reducing stress hormones, and supporting overall cycle regulation. It is commonly used as a complementary therapy during fertility treatments.

Does acupuncture hurt? Acupuncture needles are extremely thin and much finer than injection needles. Most patients feel little to no discomfort. Many describe the treatments as deeply relaxing and often fall asleep during their session.

Is acupuncture safe if I become pregnant? Yes. Acupuncture is considered safe during pregnancy when performed by a qualified practitioner, such as Dr. Cindi. Treatment techniques and point selection are adjusted after a positive pregnancy test to support early pregnancy and promote overall well-being.

How soon could I see changes in my cycle? Some women notice changes in sleep, stress levels, cervical fluid, or cycle regularity within 1–3 months. Because DOR is a complex condition, results vary, but consistent treatment is important for supporting physiological changes over time.

Should I combine acupuncture with supplements or herbs? Dr. Cindi may recommend specific herbal formulas or nutrients based on your symptoms, labs, and goals. These recommendations are individualized and designed to work alongside your medical care and fertility treatments.

Can acupuncture help even if my AMH is low? Yes. Low AMH indicates reduced egg quantity, but many reproductive factors—blood flow, hormone balance, inflammation, stress physiology—are still modifiable. Acupuncture focuses on supporting these areas, which may contribute to better cycle quality and overall reproductive health.

Compassionate, Personalized Care for Women With DOR

At the practice of Dr. Cindi Ignatovsky, DACM, L.Ac., patients receive compassionate, individualized care grounded in more than 20 years of clinical experience. Dr. Cindi is known in Campbell, San Jose, and throughout the South Bay for her thorough assessments and her commitment to helping women feel informed, supported, and empowered throughout their fertility journey.

She takes the time to understand each patient’s unique circumstances—lab results, menstrual history, symptoms, lifestyle, and goals—so she can create treatment plans that support ovarian function, hormone regulation, and overall reproductive health.

Why Women Trust Dr. Cindi for Fertility & DOR Support: A Strong Reputation for Care and Results

Women across the South Bay consistently share positive experiences, including improvements in menstrual cycles, hormone patterns, energy levels, stress, and in many cases, successful pregnancies after long periods of difficulty. Patients appreciate Dr. Cindi’s clear explanations of complex fertility issues and her ability to create a supportive, encouraging environment. Many say they finally feel truly heard.

A Supportive Path Forward | A diagnosis of diminished ovarian reserve can feel overwhelming, but it does not define your future. With the right support, many women experience meaningful improvements in cycle quality, hormone balance, and overall reproductive health. Dr. Cindi helps patients move forward with clarity, confidence, and renewed hope.

Take the Next Step | If you're ready to take a proactive, holistic approach to supporting your ovarian reserve and reproductive health, contact Dr. Cindi Ignatovsky, DACM, L.Ac today to schedule your consultation or appointment. Her experience, care, and evidence-informed approach can help guide you toward the next steps in your fertility journey.