Books
Clinical Handbook of Internal Medicine
Source, Eastland Press (2019)
The second edition of a series of 3 texts by Will Maclean and Jane Lyttleton, are now all updated and in one cover. Some call this the Bible or the Merck Manual of internal Chinese medicine.
Gynecology in Chinese Medicine
Source: PMPH. You Jiao Ling, Jane Lyttleton 2015
People’s Medical Publishing House is China’s preeminent publisher of texts in Science and Medicine. Recently they have released a series of texts for Chinese medicine students and doctors, written by experts in the field. This text is written by Dr You, a renowned gynaecologist, in collaboration with Jane Lyttleton.
Jade Formulas Chapter 1
Source: Golden Mirror Publishing, USA
Jane Lyttleton
2013
The chapters in this manual describe the various Jade formulas (sold in the States); the first chapter presents in detail the herbs traditionally used in clinics in China for helping women who are having difficulty conceiving. It was written for TCM doctors in North America who use Kan formulas. These formulas are prescribed to follow closely the different stages of the menstrual cycle. While it is common to use Chinese herbal treatment in China, in the West we await further trials before any claims of efficacy can be made for fertility treatment with herbal medicine.
If you are a TCM practitioner and would like to see a PDF version of this chapter or the entire manual please contact ChinaBooks.
Jade Formulas Chapter 2
Source: Golden Mirror Publishing, USA
Jane Lyttleton
2013
Some conditions such as endometriosis and polycystic ovarian disease can impact general and reproductive health significantly. And while dysmenorrhoea and premenstrual syndrome are not considered to be conditions that might prevent conception, they will always be addressed by the TCM doctor, since they indicate internal and hormonal imbalances. This chapter describes formulas that have been used to treat these conditions, based on traditional and modern usage of Chinese herbs. Until more research is done in the west on the impact of Chinese herbs on these conditions we can make no claims as to their efficacy.
If you are a TCM practitioner and would like to see a PDF version of this chapter please contact ChinaBooks.
Jade Formulas Chapter 3
Source: Golden Mirror Publishing, USA
Jane Lyttleton 2013
Chapter 3; male reproductive health, whether it be related to sperm count, motility or morphology has for many hundreds of years been treated with herbal medicine in China, such formulas being based on the individual’s constitution. In the West we await further trials before claiming efficacy with herbal medicine for this condition.
If you are a TCM practitioner and would like to see a PDF version of this chapter please contact ChinaBooks.
Clean and Lean Pregnancy Guide
When author James and his wife Christiane had difficulty conceiving one of the things they decided to try was Chinese medicine. Once they succeeded in becoming pregnant it was an impetus to develop their programme of Clean and Lean diet books to Pregnancy.
It includes a section by Jane Lyttleton Click to download article
Chinese Medicine Text
Source: Elsevier Science, Jane Lyttleton, May 2013
This text, written in plain english, for doctors of Chinese medicine and other health professionals or patients interested in knowing more about treatment options, provides an accessible and thorough description of a Chinese medicine approach of female and male reproductive health. Read More →
Jade Woman Jade Man Herbals
A series of formulations (distributed in the States) based on classical Chinese herbal scripts for couples trying to conceive and other gyneacological concerns, modified to incorporate modern research findings.
If you are a TCM practitioner you can request chapters of this book here
How to Improve Your ART Success Rates: An Evidence-Based Review of Adjuncts
Infertility and Assisted Reproduction
Source: Cambridge University Press, Botros Rizk et al Ed, Nov 2008
This text on assisted reproduction technology includes a chapter on the benefits of acupuncture as an integral part of the IVF cycle.
Fertility and Sleep – what you need to know
Fertility and Sleep – what you need to know with Fertility Acupuncturist Louise Jeffrey
Are you getting enough sleep for your fertility?
According to the National Sleep Foundation, around 70% of people in developed countries don’t get adequate sleep. And when you’re trying to conceive, preparing for IVF, or supporting your hormones, that matters more than most people realise.
Sleep is not just about feeling rested.
It plays a vital role in regulating reproductive hormones. The quality and quantity of your sleep can influence ovulation, sperm production, immune function, weight regulation, mood, stress resilience, stamina and long-term health.
When sleep is disrupted, the hormonal signals that guide your cycle can also be affected.
In this video, Fertility Acupuncturist Louise Jeffrey explains:
• How sleep impacts ovulation and sperm health
• Why stress and cortisol patterns matter
• Practical ways to improve sleep quality
• How acupuncture may assist with nervous system regulation
If you’re navigating fertility challenges, small changes in sleep can make a meaningful difference over time.
Want more support?
You may also find these helpful:
• Acupuncture for Fertility
• IVF Acupuncture
• Preconception Care
Our team provides personalised, evidence-informed care across all stages of reproductive health.
📍 Alexandria
📍 Sydney CBD
📍 Westmead
📍 Central Coast (Gosford)
📍 East Melbourne
📍 Mornington
If sleep has been inconsistent or you’re feeling wired but tired, we’re here to support you.
Book a consultation via the link below to create a personalised plan aligned with your fertility goals.
We offer:
- IVF Acupuncture
Chinese medicine and herbal consultations
How to Prepare for an Embryo Transfer
How to prepare for an Embryo Transfer with Fertility Acupuncturist Louise
Jeffrey
If you’re going through IVF, or are about to start, you may have some questions about what you can do to support your body leading up to the embryo transfer.
So many of our fertility warriors share with us that they have invested so much into the creation of that little embryo, that they want to be sure that they have done everything they can to ensure a successful
outcome.
This session will outline how to prepare for an embryo transfer, and what you can do to give yourself the best possible chance of success.
How We Support You
At The Acupuncture Pregnancy Clinic, we work closely with patients who are trying to conceive naturally or preparing for IVF. We use a combination of:
Fertility acupuncture to support ovulation, cycle regulation and implantation
Chinese medicine diagnosis to tailor your care
Collaborative care across our team of practitioners
Integrative guidance on charting, stress, nutrition and hormone health
Whether you’re just starting to chart your cycle or feeling overwhelmed by data, you’re not alone.
Available Across Our Clinic Network
You can book fertility acupuncture consultations any of our locations:
Four Things to Know About Your Cycle When You’re Trying to Conceive Naturally
Four Things to Know About Your Cycle When You’re Trying to Conceive Naturally
With Fertility Acupuncturist Louise Jeffrey
Understanding your menstrual cycle can be one of the most empowering tools when you’re trying to conceive.
If you’ve ever felt unsure about when to try, how to track ovulation, or what your body needs at different points in your cycle you’re not alone. Many of our patients share that they didn’t learn these things until they started their fertility journey.
The truth is, when you know what’s happening in each phase of your cycle, you can support your body in more intentional ways. This doesn’t just help with timing it can improve hormone balance, energy, and emotional wellbeing too.
Let’s walk through four simple things to know about your cycle when trying to conceive, as shared by Fertility Acupuncturist Louise Jeffrey.
Trying to conceive is a shared journey. Understanding the cycle can help your partner feel more involved, reduce pressure around timing, and offer the right support when you need it.
Watch the Workshop:
Need More Personalised Support?
We work with individuals and couples trying to conceive naturally using acupuncture, Chinese medicine, and evidence-informed guidance tailored to your cycle.
Clinics in Alexandria, Sydney CBD, Westmead, Central Coast, East Melbourne and Mornington.
Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Tracking for Fertility
Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Tracking for Fertility
If you’re trying to conceive naturally, you’ve probably heard about tracking ovulation. But did you know your basal body temperature (BBT) can give insight into your hormones and the best time to conceive?
In this short video, fertility acupuncturist Louise Jeffrey explains how daily BBT charting can help you understand:
Whether and when you’re ovulating
If your hormones are shifting as expected mid-cycle
Whether your body temperature is high enough to support implantation
You’ll also learn how we use this information in clinic to guide your fertility acupuncture treatment plan especially when working with low progesterone, irregular cycles, or luteal phase support.
How We Support You
At The Acupuncture Pregnancy Clinic, we work closely with patients who are trying to conceive naturally or preparing for IVF. We use a combination of:
Fertility acupuncture to support ovulation, cycle regulation and implantation
Chinese medicine diagnosis to tailor your care
Collaborative care across our team of practitioners
Integrative guidance on charting, stress, nutrition and hormone health
Whether you’re just starting to chart your cycle or feeling overwhelmed by data, you’re not alone.
Available Across Our Clinic Network
You can book fertility acupuncture consultations to support BBT charting at any of our locations:
Tongue and Pulse Diagnosis: What it tells us about Fertility
Tongue & Pulse diagnosis: What it tells us about our fertility
If you’ve visited us at the clinic, or seen a Chinese medicine practitioner elsewhere, you would have been asked to show your tongue and had your pulse taken. We appreciate that it can feel a little unusual at first and you might be wondering why we do it!
Observing the tongue and pulse are important diagnostic methods that help practitioners to better understand the condition of your body and take note of changes over time. In this way, we use it to guide our treatment protocol so we can maximise your chances the conceiving.
Spoiler alert: It’s not random.
It helps us understand what’s going on inside your body—even things that may not yet show up in bloodwork.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this session:
✔️ What tongue colour, shape, and coating can indicate about digestion, stress, and period & cycle health
✔️ How your pulse can help us assess hormone balance and blood flow
✔️ Why these tools help individualise your care across your menstrual cycles
✔️ What changes in tongue or pulse might tell us during IVF or preconception
support when we can seem your fertility and reproductive health flourishing!
✔️ How this shapes our recommendations on acupuncture, herbs, and lifestyle
Need one-on-one guidance?
Our team of acupuncturists and Chinese medicine practitioners can work with you to support hormonal balance, ovulation, and fertility.
We provide personalised care across all our locations:
Sydney CBD | Alexandria | Westmead |Central Coast | East Melbourne | Mornington Peninsula
Top Tips for Managing PCOS
Top Tips in Managing PCOS
If you have been diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) or Polycystic Ovaries (PCO), then you may have experienced some or all of the following symptoms: irregular or heavy periods, difficulty confirming ovulation time, weight gain, acne, and irregular hair growth or hair loss. You may also have been told you have small cysts on your ovaries on ultrasound.
PCOS is a hormone imbalance that affects up to 1 in 10 women in Australia. Women with PCOS generally have higher insulin levels, which can lead to a rise in the levels of androgens. This can upset the delicate balance of the female reproductive cycle. We don’t know what causes PCOS and unfortunately, it can be a rather tricky condition to work with. Having said that, there are ways to treat — and manage — the symptoms of PCOS and that’s what is shared in this workshop.
How to Navigate the Two Week Wait
This weeks Making it on Monday is all about how you can support your own mental health through the two-week wait. We have tips around mindset, meditation and things you can do to make the two-week wait not only bearable, but for some, even enjoyable and joyful. Sounds impossible right? Want to give it a try? Tune in with Amy Forth and find out our tips and see if these are a game-changer for you over the two-week wait.
Fertility Workshops, “Making it on Monday” sessions are our monthly workshop for Mums and Dads in the making. We discuss relevant topics such as lifestyle, nutrition, supplements, mindset, supportive therapies, relevant research and anything fertility-related. You can watch them through the following links:
What your PERIOD is telling your Traditional Chinese medicine practitioner about your FERTILITY!
Wondered why your Chinese Medicine practitioner is SOO interested in your period? Why do they ask: What does it look like? If there are clots or pain? This video explains all about why period health reflects reproductive health from a Chinese Medicine Perspective and as well as gives you some period health tips!
Unlock the secrets to optimising your fertility and hormonal health through Chinese medicine. Join Amy Forth and discover how your menstrual cycle indicates your reproductive well-being and explore practical tips to enhance overall health, including dietary advice, lifestyle changes, and acupuncture. Tune in to empower your fertility journey today.
Fertility Workshops, “Making it on Monday” sessions are our monthly workshop for Mums and Dads in the making. We discuss relevant topics such as lifestyle, nutrition, supplements, mindset, supportive therapies, relevant research and anything fertility-related. You can watch them through the following links:
The YIN and YANG of Fertility
Are you more YIN OR YANG type person?
How does YIN OR YANG impact your fertility and are there are things you can do to impact your yin/yang balance?
Get ready for all of these questions to be answered and more! In this session, Amy Forth takes you through key signs and symptoms of Yin and Yang imbalances, how these may reflect as in your body, and in your fertility PLUS key diet and lifestyle tips to help rebalance!
The concept of Yin and Yang is a key philosophy that underpins Traditional Chinese Medicine. While Yin is the more cooling, nourishing and fluid aspect of the body, the yang is the warming, drying, dynamic and energetic aspect.
If you’d like to learn what YIN and YANG have to do with fertility, then please We are an Integrative Traditional Chinese Medicine clinic dedicated to the care of those who are trying to conceive, undergoing IVF, or are pregnant.
Fertility Workshops, “Making it on Monday” sessions are our monthly workshop for Mums and Dads in the making. We discuss relevant topics such as lifestyle, nutrition, supplements, mindset, supportive therapies, relevant research and anything fertility-related. You can watch them through the following links:
My Journey from Endometriosis to Pregnancy
Join Acupuncturist Amy Forth as she interviews Kelly. Embark on an intimate and inspiring fertility journey, as she overcomes endometriosis and multiple miscarriages. Join this heartfelt conversation on how she navigated through physical and emotional challenges, explored alternative treatments like acupuncture, and ultimately triumphed with a successful pregnancy. Discover invaluable insights from her personal experiences and empower yourself with newfound perspectives on reproductive health and support.
Q & A with Dr Gavin Sacks
Unravel the intricate world of IVF in this enlightening discussion with Dr. Gavin Sacks, Director of Clinical Research at IVF Australia. Explore topics ranging from autoimmune conditions, embryo biopsies, natural killer testing, to the implications of genetic testing. If you’re contemplating or undergoing IVF, don’t miss this video where science meets empathy in providing answers to critical IVF questions.
Fertility Workshops, “Making it on Monday” sessions are our monthly workshop for Mums and Dads in the making. We discuss relevant topics such as lifestyle, nutrition, supplements, mindset, supportive therapies, relevant research and anything fertility-related. You can watch them through the following links:
Top 10 Acupressure Points For Fertility
Discover the power of acupressure and help boost your fertility. Acupuncturist, Louise Jeffrey. Will discuss the ancient technique’s impact on hormone regulation, fertility, and menstrual cycles. Start your journey towards a balanced lifestyle today
Fertility Workshops, “Making it on Monday” sessions are our monthly workshop for Mums and Dads in the making. We discuss relevant topics such as lifestyle, nutrition, supplements, mindset, supportive therapies, relevant research and anything fertility-related. You can watch them through the following links:
Do’s And Dont’s During An IVF Cycle
Explore “IVF Do’s and Don’ts: A Comprehensive Guide presented by Louise Jeffrey“, a short yet insightful video for anyone navigating the IVF journey. Renowned acupuncturist and mindset coach, Louise Jeffrey, shares practical advice on exercise, diet, and lifestyle tailored to your IVF cycle.
Fertility Workshops, “Making it on Monday” sessions are our monthly workshop for Mums and Dads in the making. We discuss relevant topics such as lifestyle, nutrition, supplements, mindset, supportive therapies, relevant research and anything fertility-related. You can watch them through the following links:
The Integrative Fertility Model and How It Helps Patients
Louise Jeffrey speaks to The Acupuncture Pregnancy Clinic Founder, Jane Lyttleton, about The Integrative Fertility Model – how the clinic originated, what her vision was, and how this model benefits you, the patient.
Fertility Workshops, “Making it on Monday” sessions are our monthly workshop for Mums and Dads in the making. We discuss relevant topics such as lifestyle, nutrition, supplements, mindset, supportive therapies, relevant research and anything fertility-related. You can watch them through the following links:
The First Consultation
There is a lot to discuss when women come to the clinic requesting support for IVF or fertility treatments. One of the most useful insights gleaned by the TCM doctor is information revealed by the pulse and the tongue.
Preparing for embyro transfer
Preparing for Embryo Transfer
Our patient has all her questions about acupuncture and embryo transfer answered by Louise.
They cover all the points on this information sheet. Embryo Transfer Flyer
The Acupuncture Pregnancy Clinic offers personalised care using acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine to support fertility, IVF, pregnancy, and women’s health.
Our clinics are located in Westmead, Sydney CBD, Alexandria, Gosford, Melbourne, and Mornington.
The pre-embryo transfer treatment
Pre-Embryo Tranfser
Watching this treatment you will see Amy chooses acupuncture points based on research protocols and those indicated by the patients own constitution and circumstances. The points are on meridians that encourage good circulation of Qi and Blood through the pelvic area and calm the mind.
At The Acupuncture Pregnancy Clinic, our integrated approach combines Traditional Chinese Medicine, including acupuncture and herbal support, with tailored lifestyle guidance. Our clinics are in Westmead, Sydney CBD, Alexandria, Gosford, Melbourne, and Mornington.
The post embryo transfer treatment
Acupuncture points we use in the treatment you can watch here, after the embryo transfer are different to those used before. No abdomen points are used now, only those that will soothe the body and mind, reduce any cramping and encourage a relaxed and receptive state.
Preparing for the next IVF cycle
We see patients before and during their IVF cycle – offering many different applications of traditional Chinese medicine wisdom alongside new clinical findings. Watch some of what we do.
Amy Forth discusses the research examining the effect of Acupuncture on IVF outcomes.
You can watch this fascinating discussion on latest findings relating to acupuncture treatment of IVF patients
Amy Forth talks about JIng, an important concept in TCM fertility
Jing is an important aspect of longevity and reproductive health, listen to Amy explaining the part it plays in fertility.
Amy Forth talks about how IVF acupuncture works
Amy explains what the term IVF acupuncture means here
Amy (Acupuncture Pregnancy practitioner) talks about the concept of Jing.
Jing is a unique and fascinating concept in Chinese medicine – with particular importance to reproduction.
In this Podcast, Amy discusses what it is and how we can nurture it.
Why you should think about having acupuncture before and during your IVF cycle
Why you should think about having acupuncture before and during your IVF cycle There are several good reasons why you should think about having acupuncture before and during your IVF cycle……..or maybe why you shouldn’t ! Spoiler alert ….. If you are young, and healthy and doing IVF only because of male factors or blocked […]
Acupuncture and IVF – Advice to Patients
Acupuncture and IVF – Advice to Patients IVF Acupuncture research can be a little confusing, as much of the research has focused on the treatment applied only at the time of embryo transfer. There has been quite a journey with IVF acupuncture research and while the initial studies looked at embryo transfer acupuncture, more recent […]
Acupuncture relieves back and pelvic pain during pregnancy, study suggests
/in Articles, Education /by Acupuncture Pregnancy ClinicAnalysis shows significant benefits with no major side-effects for mother or baby but more trials needed ‘to confirm results’.
Acupuncture can significantly relieve the lower back or pelvic pain frequently experienced by pregnant women, according to a new global data analysis of the available evidence.
Read the article >
Acupuncture and Period Pain
/in Articles, Education /by Acupuncture Pregnancy ClinicSource; SBS News, AAP. 18th July 2017
SBS reports on the findings of a pilot study by our colleagues at Western Sydney Uni. While it is early days, and further research needs to follow, these findings indicate the possibility that acupuncture may be a method useful for helping period pain. When period pain improves, not only does quality of life look up, but Chinese medicine has the view that removing the stasis causing the pain, can also be seen as a marker of improved reproductive health in general.
See the full SBS news report here
Tiny needles, big impact
/in Articles, Education /by Acupuncture Pregnancy ClinicSource: Sydney Morning Herald, The Age Paula Goodyer 8th June 2013
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is finding its way into the press often these days. This is because it is occurring more and more frequently especially among young women. It is one of the main causes of infertility in younger women…
Read More →
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Part One
/in Articles, Education /by Acupuncture Pregnancy Clinic> Click to download PDF
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a label being given to more and more young women. Gynecologists are not yet sure what the cause of this disorder is, but its increasing prevalence is making us wonder if its something we are doing in our modern lifestyles.
Part one of this article looks at all the things that contribute to or influence PCOS. Part Two (following) looks at all the treatment options.
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Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Part Two
/in Articles, Education /by Acupuncture Pregnancy ClinicSource: Health Naturally Magazine, Jane Lyttleton, 1st June 2013
Treatment for PCOS is limited but researchers are actively seeking mechanisms whereby Chinese medicine can contribute.
> Click to download PDF
IVF Alternatives
/in Articles, Education /by Acupuncture Pregnancy ClinicSource: Sun Herald and Sydney Morning Herald, Paula Goodyer, December 20, 2009
Acupuncture and IVF might come from opposite sides of the medical fence, but there’s growing interest in combining them. Some studies show an improvement in pregnancy rates if acupuncture is used during an IVF cycle, says Jane Lyttleton, a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner who works in partnership with IVF clinics. “We need more research to understand how it works,” she says.
Adds fertility specialist Dr Gavin Sacks of IVF Australia: “On balance, the research shows there may be a benefit. Some IVF clinics have taken it up, and I think it’s worth exploring. I don’t tell women they should have acupuncture – but if they ask what they can do to improve their chances, I encourage them to try it.”
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Human egg makes accidental debut on camera
/in Articles, Education /by Acupuncture Pregnancy ClinicRead More →