Acupuncture is generally a safe and well tolerated intervention, but it is not free of risk. When trying to conceive, either with timed intercourse or with assisted reproduction, there are several scenarios where an acupuncturist could unknowingly cause harm. In this course, we will first define fertility acupuncture, review the safety considerations of acupuncture in general and as pertains to fertility support. We will also look at the current literature and clinical examples of miscarriage, IVF birth outcomes, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, and present ways to ensure harm reduction. This course, when approved, will fulfill the NCCAOM Safety PDA requirement.
