Kevin Coughlin MD Blog

1) For couples who want assistance without technology or drugs: I review medical history, GYN history, menstrual cycle history, and ask about sperm counts and openness of the fallopian tubes. Thyroid levels, and history of endometriosis are also important. I do treatments usually twice per month to balance the cycle, help deal with stress, encourage ovulation and encourage implantation and growth of the fertilized egg. We talk about herbs and nutrients as well as diet advice that may be helpful.

2) For couples who are using Clomid and doing IUI (Intra-uterine insemination) I work with all of the factors above and time more specifically around the IUI. I generally do not use herbs if Clomid is being used, but diet and some supplements still apply.

3)For couples who are doing Advanced hormones (see the prior post) and / or doing IVF (invitro fertilization) with a Reproductive Endocriniologist (RE) some of the basics still apply – like dealing with the stress involved – but the acupuncture treatments are more targeted to the Calendar established by the RE and adjusted according to how the eggs are developing and when the IUI or IVF transfer will take place. Typically, there will always be a treatment before and after the IUI or IVF. The goal of Medical Acupuncture is to focus on the Person / Couple and not just Reproduction (although that will get a lot of attention). The first visit involves the most discussion, history and planning of strategy and timing. But, as the process goes along adjustments will be made.Many insurance companies do not cover “Infertility”. Many do not cover Acupuncture per se.  But because I am an MD there can be some coverage for medical diagnoses such as endometriosis or PCOS. Also some treatments are done for Fatigue, Stress, Insomnia and other medical diagnoses. We will be happy to work with you and your policy. In general, you would pay $90 per treatment if you paid all out of pocket. This amount would reduce if insurance did cover. The first consultation / treatment is $125.

There are a number of studies on line regarding the benefits of acupuncture for infertile couples. My personal experience includes 6 positive pregnancies so far during 2009. This is very encouraging. For some couples the issue is PCOS (PolyCystic Ovary Syndrome) for others it is irregular periods, low sperm counts, recurring miscarriage after conception, endometriosis, or inconsistent ovulation. In my practice I provide acupuncture as a single treatment approach or as a complementary approach for couples who are working with Reproductive Endocrinologists for IUI or IVF. These couples are often using fertility drugs such as Clomid, Pergonal, Repronex, Follistim and others. A knowledge of Chinese Medicine, acupuncture, Chinese Herbs AND reproductive physiology allows for specific treatment plans catered to the individual patient and their circumstances. It is a fascinating area of acupuncture practice and one that I hope will benefit many other couples.

Medical acupuncture demand continues to grow.  As of 1/1/08 my practice had become exclusively acupuncture. 60% is pain management for low back, neck, HA, etc. Some practitioners will not treat pregnant patients - I do so with caution and commom sense. Ear points for nausea for instance are very benign - and often effective. But as far as pain - I am treating a patient who is 6 months pregnant with a low back strain - meds are not the best option so she sought out acupuncture. Today she tells me after one treatment she is “75% better”. Great!

The other 40% of my practice is Energy work for irritable bowel, sinus and allergy, fibromyalgia, fatigue, hormone issues including menopause symptoms, and just general maintenance of vitality and balance. Several people have told me that with their regular once per month treatments they no longer have their mid-day slump.

This is very gratifying. Having a positive energy input in a society that tends to drain us is, to me, a significant tool. Stay tuned. Thanks.

My name is Kevin Coughlin. I am an MD in Lincoln, NE, USA.

I began medical life as a Family Physician, then spent 10 years as a boarded ER Physician. Since 2002 when Heart & Health Solutions (H&HS) was founded my direction and focus has become Integrative Medicine and Medical Acupuncture. Conventional medicine has its place, but I believe we need a model in the US that emphasizes Wellness rather than simply disease management. And one that expands ones options for becoming and staying healthy.

I began my search for a new model by reading the works of Andrew Weil, MD. Fast forward 2 years and I am a member of the Associate Fellowship class at the Program for Integrative Medicine (PIM) at the University of Arizona - a program founded by Dr. Weil. During the next two years I learned herbal medicine, Mind Body techniques, targeted nutrition including therapeutic and preventative use of supplements- among other things - and became aware of Chinese Medicine.

My interest in Chinese Medicine then led me to Joe Helms, MD and the Helms Medical Institute at UCLA. I spent an intensive year learning and practicing the principles and techniques of Medical Acupuncture.

PIM and Medical Acupuncture have proven to be significant turning points in my professional life.
In future posts I will expand on this journey and share current information and happenings in the world of H&HS. Welcome!