The use of dilatational waves, low-frequency currents and 30-minute session durations can improve clinical pregnancy rates for in vitro fertilisation and embryo transfer patients.
The researchers conducted a meta-analysis using data extracted from eight databases up to the date of 27 August 2024. The focus was on randomised controlled trials that evaluated the use of electroacupuncture and transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation to improve in vitro fertilisation and embryo transfer outcomes. Primary and secondary outcomes included clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate respectively, along with various electroacupuncture and transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation parameters such as waveform type, frequency and treatment duration. Furthermore, seven subgroup variables involving specifics of treatment and participant details were studied for potential influences on the pregnancy outcomes.
The meta-analysis covered 27 randomised controlled trials, which comprised a total of 3786 participants, with the overall quality of evidence varying between moderate and very low. Findings showed that the use of dilatational waves, low-frequency currents and a treatment duration of 30 minutes per session noticeably improved clinical pregnancy rates when compared to control groups. Subgroup analysis additionally indicated these outcomes can significantly vary depending on the therapeutic dose administered, particularly showing stronger associations for patients receiving higher therapeutic doses.
