Question 1

Do you offer evening acupuncture appointments?

Accepted Answer

Yes I do! For the foreseeable future, due to my family commitments I am only offering evening appointments. These will be on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings.

This will be reviewed in 2026.

Question 2

How do I book an acupuncture consultation?

Accepted Answer

To schedule your consultation, please complete the 'Book an appointment' section. I will reach out to you shortly to arrange your appointment.

Each consultation is a 90-minute session and includes acupuncture. Fertility consultations include a personalised report.

Question 3

What acupuncture and fertility qualifications do you have?

Accepted Answer

I hold a first-class degree in Traditional Acupuncture, awarded by Oxford Brookes, after three years of full-time study at the College of Traditional Acupuncture in 2009. I have been practising acupuncture full-time for the past 14 years.

During this time, I have completed extensive postgraduate training, including an advanced diploma in fertility acupuncture, widely regarded as the gold standard in the field. This specialised training encompasses Reproductive Immunology, the treatment of complex pregnancy conditions using Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), TCM approaches to PCOS, OHSS, and other hormonal imbalances, as well as the integration of TCM to support Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART).

I am committed to continuous learning and regularly participate in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses in both acupuncture and fertility. This allows me to stay at the forefront of the latest research and advancements, ensuring my patients receive the most informed and up-to-date care. I also supervise third year students at The Acupuncture Academy.

I am a member of the British Acupuncture Council,(https://acupuncture.org.uk) which sets the highest professional standards in the UK. Members are regulated and approved by the Professional Standards Authority for Health & Social Care (PSA).  This offers a quality mark for high standards of training, safe practice and professional conduct.

I am a member of the British Medical Acupuncture Society,(https://www.medical-acupuncture.co.uk) the leading association for medical acupuncture.

I am also a Fertility Support Expert and a member of the Acupuncture Fertility Network.

Question 4

How many acupuncture treatments will I need?

Accepted Answer

I mostly  recommend an initial course of 12 weekly acupuncture sessions for most patients, after this 12 week period, we may space out sessions, continue weekly, discontinue or transfer our treatment to focus on early pregnancy support. It will vary with each individual case.

Question 5

How long is the current wait for a consultation and acupuncture treatment?

Accepted Answer

My waiting list can fluctuate from 1 to 2 months for new patient appointments, occasionally late notice appointments do come available. It's best to request an appointment to be offered a session at the earliest opportunity.

Question 6

I have IVF/ IUI very soon, can you squeeze me in for acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

If you're short on time, I might not be the best fit for you. I believe in a minimum 3-month prep period for IVF, as acupuncture works by enhancing blood flow and addressing hormonal balance. It takes 3 months for an egg to be matured and recruited which is why 3 months of acupuncture is my minimum recommendation.

This timeframe also allows for any recommended testing to optimise IVF outcomes, potentially saving time and money in the long run.

Please note, there's usually a 2-month wait for an appointment but do join the waiting list as occasionally a space will come up.

Question 7

Is acupuncture expensive?

Accepted Answer

The cost of acupuncture can vary depending on the practitioner's experience, qualifications and expertise. While I am not the cheapest option, I take pride in my extensive experience, high level of training, commitment to investing in my ongoing study and achieving the best results for my clients.

I provide a personalised treatment approach, focusing on one client at a time and taking on a limited number of cases. This allows me to dedicate the necessary time and attention to each individual's needs.

Research (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00404-023-07142-1) has shown that acupuncture can enhance IVF outcomes. While further studies are always beneficial, the evidence so far is promising and continues to grow. By improving the chances of success, acupuncture may help reduce the need for repeated IVF cycles, potentially saving you money.

Please find all up to date information in prices (https://www.clairenortonacupuncture.co.uk/prices)

Question 8

Where is the acupuncture clinic?

Accepted Answer

I offer acupuncture in Leicester from my home clinic in  Blaby village.  Additionally, I provide convenient online consultations to cater to your needs from the comfort of your home.

Question 9

Do you only offer acupuncture for fertility?

Accepted Answer

I am currently accepting new clients exclusively for fertility, hormonal and reproductive health treatments. With over a decade of experience as a general acupuncture practitioner, I have decided to focus my interest in fertility and reproductive health, a field I am deeply passionate about.

By focusing my practice, I can offer my fertility clients a higher level of dedicated care and expertise. If you are seeking acupuncture for non-reproductive health issues, I can recommend trusted local colleagues who will be happy to support you.

Or, visit the British Acupuncture Council (https://acupuncture.org.uk)to locate a local licensed Acupuncturist.

FAQ's

Claire Norton Acupuncture

Useful pages