Separate the outcomes
Fertility is not one outcome. Feeling less distressed during treatment, changing a laboratory measure, becoming pregnant and having a live birth answer different questions. NCCIH summarizes a review of acupuncture versus sham acupuncture during IVF that found no difference in pregnancy or live birth. Ask exactly which outcome a claim refers to, and avoid treating a personal testimonial as evidence of a general success rate.
Keep diagnosis central
Infertility may involve ovulation, sperm, anatomy or several factors. ASRM recommends systematic and timely evaluation tailored to the person's age, history and circumstances. An acupuncture visit cannot identify every cause or substitute for an indicated fertility workup. If you are considering complementary visits, tell the fertility clinician so timing and products can be reviewed together.
Evaluate a supportive role
Some people value time for symptom or stress discussion while pursuing medical care, but that preference should be distinguished from proven improvement in conception. Ask what a proposed course would cost, how its benefit would be judged and whether herbs are being suggested. Do not let a course postpone tests or treatment your reproductive clinician recommends.
Questions and answers
Can a clinic's IVF success claim be used as proof?
No. Ask for the specific outcome, comparison group and study quality; current guideline evidence does not show improved live birth from acupuncture around embryo transfer.