Undergoing fertility treatment or struggling to conceive can be an emotional and physical experience. We are here to support you as much as we possibly can and help to reduce any stress you may have during this time.
Many patients find acupuncture a beneficial form of complementary therapy to manage stress and relax throughout their treatment.
We sat down with Sharnie, a highly qualified Acupuncturist specialising in helping those trying to conceive or going through fertility treatment. Sharnie explains how she uses this holistic approach; what patients can expect during an acupuncture session and why she loves being a specialised acupuncturist.
How long have you been in acupuncture / how long have you had your practice?
I have been practising acupuncture since 2019 and established my own fully licenced clinic in 2020, which is based in Cheadle.
Where did you train and qualifications?
I hold the Professional Licentiate in Acupuncture, a three-year degree accredited by the British Acupuncture Accreditation Board, which was awarded to me by The Acupuncture Academy in Leamington Spa. My training was extensive, covering all aspects of Chinese medicine and acupuncture theory focusing on the five-element approach.
I also hold a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree. I feel it enhances all aspects of my treatment, enabling me to use my knowledge and love of science and Chinese medicine to provide a specifically tailored and holistic approach for all my patients. I am also a member of the British Acupuncture Council.
What made you want to become an acupuncturist?
Like many of my patients, I used this ancient form of medicine whilst trying to conceive.
I became fascinated and intrigued by the changes I was experiencing physically and mentally, too, and needed to find out more.
How did you make the transition into acupuncture for fertility?
I knew this was the area where I felt most passionate and wanted to help other couples on their TTC journey.
How does acupuncture for fertility work?
Acupuncture is a tailored, individualised, and holistic form of healing developed over thousands of years. Very fine needles are inserted at specific points on the body to balance an individual’s energy, known as Qi. The location of the points is very much dependent on the patient’s traditional diagnosis, which is determined during their initial visit.
What should patients expect at their first visit?
The initial visit will take up to an hour and a half. During this time, you will have a personal and medical consultation covering your family history, lifestyle, and systems functions (e.g., sleep, appetite) and discussing full details of any current health issues and any tests or investigations that you have had. You will also have the opportunity to discuss, in complete confidence, any concerns or troubles you may currently be dealing with.
After your consultation, I will carry out several short, non-invasive physical diagnostic tests, including blood pressure, temperature distribution and pulse taking. In most cases, aside from the most complex, this is then followed by your first treatment. Subsequent appointments take up to one hour and include discussing your progress and your treatment to date.
How many visits would a patient generally have?
The number of visits is very much dependent on the patient and their diagnosis. Still, it is suggested that acupuncture treatments should start three months before IVF, scheduled weekly throughout the cycle up to the time of egg retrieval.
Studies show that acupuncture is an effective treatment for anxiety, calming the body, which is vital immediately before and after embryo transfer.
If you are interested in including acupuncture as part of your fertility journey, contact Sharnie Morrison to book an initial appointment.
Alternatively, if you have any questions about our complementary therapies or other treatments, feel free to contact our Patient Team who are here to help on 0161 300 2737
Last updated: 22nd April 2022
