The Role of Complementary and Integrative Medicine on Assisted Reproductive Technologies Outcomes: A Comprehensive Review of Preclinical and Clinical Evidence Publisher



Shaaban Z ; Taghipour Z ; Tansaz M ; Rahimi R ; Ayati M H ; Jazani A M
Source: Traditional and Integrative Medicine Published:2026

Abstract

Many infertile couples seek complementary and integrative medicines (CIMs) as adjunctive therapies to enhance the effectiveness of assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Repeated unsuccessful in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles have prompted patients to explore CIM modalities in hopes of improving their chances of successful conception. This review aims to evaluate the impact of various CIM approaches on IVF outcomes and to summarize the potential mechanisms underlying their effects. A systematic search was conducted across four major scientific databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar resulting in the identification of 141 relevant studies. These included 87 studies on acupuncture, 35 on traditional herbal medicine, 5 on phytochemicals, 3 on yoga, 2 on massage therapy, 1 on Ayurveda, and 8 studies evaluating the combined use of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. Among the CIM interventions analyzed, acupuncture alone and its combination with Chinese herbal medicine demonstrated the most consistent positive effects on IVF outcomes. Herbal medicines were found to exert beneficial effects through multiple physiological pathways, including the regulation of ovulation, stimulation of follicular development, improvement of menstrual flow, modulation of hormonal balance, and enhancement of endometrial thickness. Massage therapy has been associated with improved IVF success rates, potentially due to its capacity to reduce psychological stress, decrease uterine contractions, and promote abdominal blood circulation. Although yoga has shown promise in alleviating stress and anxiety among women undergoing fertility treatments, current evidence remains limited regarding its direct impact on clinical IVF outcomes such as clinical pregnancy rate. Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine, may offer a holistic approach for managing unexplained infertility; however, further high-quality research is needed to establish its efficacy in this context. Despite the diversity and volume of existing studies, there is growing evidence supporting the safety, affordability, and potential effectiveness of CIM interventions as adjuncts to ART. These modalities may provide valuable, non-invasive options for enhancing fertility and improving treatment outcomes in infertile couples. © 2026 Tehran University of Medical Sciences.