acupuncture for infertility

I was told from the OBGYN, that acupuncture is helpful for women suffereing with infertility.  I also had a friend who has a friend (you know the story, lol) that swears by it.  I decided, it was time deal with my fear of needles, and try it.  



I started last Friday Sept. 7th.  I didn't really know what to expect, I didn't do tons for research about the experience, because I am terrified of needles and didn't want to psych myself out.  I called at least 20 places - and came to realize most are not open during the day, didn't have websites, seemed to be pretty much booked up, didn't speak English, or didn't want to treat me for infertility.  I was surprised, because Chicago is a big city - how can this be?

I did finally find a school that teaches Oriental Medicine - and made the appointment on the spot.  I'm so glad I didn't do a lot of reading about the experience before, because I did freak out.... a little.  I just don't do well with needles - and had a mini meltdown.  I was able to compose myself till after I was out of the building.  As with all the things I do - there is the devil & angel on my shoulder.  Since it's a teaching school she is a intern - waiting to be clinically certified.  I felt extremely comfortable with her, and she knew all about PCOS.  She performed an extensive medical history, and they look also at your tongue before the acupuncture.  For the first appt. I was there for about 2 hours - but the following appts. will be much shorter.  Okay, so about my Freak out....

She inserted the needles - and I don't want to scare anyone off, but I felt each and EVERY one of them.  I believe there were 8 total, that were left in the body for 15 mins. Once there were in my body felt electrified, but in a good way.  It was during the time alone I had a break down.  The reappearance of my Angel & Devil on my shoulder.    

The Devil said  "you are wasting your time - these needles hurt- go ahead look at them - this isn't going to work - you hate needles"

The Angel said  "relax - don't look at the needles - give yourself every opportunity - your going to be okay - you are meant to have a baby - everything will work out - have faith - stay calm"

I do suffer panic attacks, so it's not unthinkable I'd panic.... but no less comforting either.  In the middle of the episode, the knock at the door quickly stopped my mind - the intern entered and told be I only has 5 more minutes.... SWEET RELIEF!  A wave of calm came over me.  It wasn't till I was talking about the experience 30mins later that the feelings all came flooding back.  Once I had a time to cry out all my frustrations, I felt better but drained.  My body was soar that day, and I didn't feel quite right... however I was told to expect that.

My husband - who is ALWAYS super supportive listened to everything with an open mind.  He asked if I think it's working? - Clearly to early to tell - however I did "feel" something.  I guess I feel like it's a step in the right direction.  The Intern recommend that  I continue once a week - so I made an appt. for the next (2) following weeks.  I feel good about, and feel MUCH better about the needles used.