Infertility is a relatively common condition in the United States, seen in nearly 10 percent of men and women of reproductive age [source: EMedicineHealth]. Doctors can diagnose it after a couple is unable to become pregnant after a full year of unprotected sex. The plethora of treatments for infertile couples includes in vitro fertilization, fertility drugs, hormone therapy, behavioral changes (losing weight or quitting smoking) and surgical repair of fallopian tubes or sperm ducts.

acupuncture
© istockphoto/Zilli
Acupuncture isn't considered "standard care" --
but can it cure infertility?

The term complementary and alternative medicine, or CAM, describes any medical practice or product that is not included in the Western world's definition of standard care. Standard care is medicine practiced by doctors, nurses, physical therapists and physician assistants -- it includes the use of modern surgical procedures and prescription drugs.

"Alternative medicine" refers to medical treatments used in place of standard care. "Complementary medicine" is nonstandard treatment that's used along with standard care.

I­n this article, we'll discuss two popular CAM therapies -- acupuncture and hypnosis -- and their uses in infertility treatment.

Video Gallery: Fertility
A growing number of women are having their first babies well into their 30s and 40s -- many are able to do so because they have their eggs frozen and then taken to term later in life through artificial insemination. A company called ViaCell is testing a new technique that is designed to protect the egg during freezing. 

Watch this video to see why women are flocking to Naples, Italy, and the birthplace of Saint Mary Frances of the Five Wounds of Jesus. The nuns at the shrine say it isn't the armchair or religious relics, but rather faith that is causing many hopeful mothers to conceive.