The aim of this paper was to provide reliable evidence by performing a
systematic review and meta-analysis for evaluating the role of
acupuncture in assisted reproductive technology. All randomized
controlled trials that evaluated the effects of acupuncture, including
manual, electrical, and laser acupuncture (LA) techniques, on the
clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rate (LBR) of in vitro
fertilization (IVF) or artificial insemination were included. The
controlled groups consisted of no acupuncture and sham acupuncture
groups. The sham acupuncture included sham acupuncture at acupoints,
sham acupuncture at non- or inappropriate points, sham LA, and adhesive
tapes. Twenty-three trials (a total of 5598 participants) were included
in this paper. The pooled CPR from all acupuncture groups was
significantly higher than that from all controlled groups, whereas the
LBR was not significantly different between the two groups. However, the
results were quite distinct when the type of control and/or different
acupuncture times were examined in a sensitivity analysis. The results
mainly indicate that acupuncture, especially around the time of the
controlled ovarian hyperstimulation, improves pregnancy outcomes in
women undergoing IVF. More positive effects from acupuncture in IVF can
be expected if a more individualized acupuncture programs are used.
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