In a nutshell
This study examined the effects of using Chinese herb treatment during In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
Some background
IVF is the most common form of assisted reproductive technology, and offers the highest chance of pregnancy for most couples. IVF involves harvesting mature eggs from the female, fertilizing the eggs with the male's sperm in a lab dish, and then implanting the fertilized eggs into the uterus (womb) lining three to five days after fertilization. Women often take prescribed drugs during IVF to increase the chances of success. However, some studies indicate that herbal medicines may also be beneficial during IVF.
Methods & findings
This study involved 433 women undergoing IVF treatment. All women received prescribed drugs to help induce ovulation (release of the egg from the ovaries) prior to IVF (e.g. Lupron, Ganerelix, Cetrotide, Ovidrel). 50% of the women also received a mixture of Chinese herbs, and 50% did not. The herbs were chosen for their ovulation-promoting properties and to help prevent miscarriage. They were taken twice a day for 10 days during the ovulation phase and again after implantation of the fertilized eggs.
Women in the Chinese herb group had significantly higher rates of normal fertility (59%) compared to those who did not take Chinese herbs (52%). Women taking Chinese herbs also had a greater rate of high-quality embryos (52%) compared to those who did not take herbs (49%). Pregnancy rate was significantly increased in the herb group (51%) compared to controls (40%). Furthermore, a thicker uterine lining (tissue on the inside of the womb) is linked to better chances of embryo implantation. Uterus thickness was also significantly greater in the herb group compared to controls.
The bottom line
This study provides clinical evidence of the benefits of using Chinese herb treatment during IVF.
The fine print
More than 20 different Chinese herbs were used in this study. It is not clear which herbs may be more beneficial than others.
What’s next?
Talk to you doctor about the potential beneficial effects of natural herbs during IVF treatment.
Published By :
Journal of traditional Chinese medicine = Chung i tsa chih ying wen pan / sponsored by All-China Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Date :
Jun 01, 2014
