SERVICES
Mercier Therapy
Mercier Therapy for Reproductive & Pelvic Health
A Gentle, Hands-On Approach to Supporting Pelvic Health
Mercier Therapy is a specialized form of hands-on abdominal and pelvic manual therapy designed to support mobility, circulation, and healthy function within the pelvic region. Developed by Dr. Jennifer Mercier, the technique uses manual external manipulation of the abdomen and pelvis to address areas of restriction and decreased mobility surrounding the reproductive organs.
At Acupuncture for Balanced Wellness, we offer Mercier Therapy as part of our holistic approach to fertility, reproductive health, and women's wellness. It may be used on its own or alongside acupuncture, fertility treatment, and other conventional or complementary approaches to care.
How Does Mercier Therapy Work?
The tissues and structures within the pelvis are designed to move freely in relation to one another. Surgery, scar tissue, inflammation, injury, pregnancy, childbirth, and other factors may contribute to areas of tension or restricted mobility.
Mercier Therapy uses targeted manual techniques applied externally through the abdomen and pelvic region. The goal is to encourage healthy tissue mobility, support local circulation, and reduce restrictions within the pelvic area.
The treatment is non-invasive and does not involve any internal or vaginal work.
Who May Benefit From Mercier Therapy?
Women seek Mercier Therapy for many different reproductive and pelvic-health concerns. It may be considered as a complementary therapy for:
- Fertility support and preparation for conception
- Support during an IVF or assisted-reproduction journey
- Menstrual discomfort and irregular cycles
- PCOS
- Endometriosis
- Pelvic discomfort or tension
- Abdominal and pelvic scar tissue
- Recovery following C-section or other pelvic surgery
- Support following a difficult or traumatic birth experience
- General reproductive and pelvic wellness
Because every woman's health history and fertility journey is different, Mercier Therapy is individualized to the needs and goals of each patient.
Mercier Therapy for Fertility Support
For women trying to conceive, Mercier Therapy offers a hands-on approach to supporting the physical health of the pelvic region. Treatment focuses on improving mobility of the tissues surrounding the reproductive structures and supporting healthy pelvic circulation.
Mercier Therapy can be incorporated into a broader fertility wellness plan that may also include fertility acupuncture, nutrition and lifestyle support, and conventional fertility care when appropriate. Our goal is not to replace medical fertility treatment, but to provide complementary care that supports the whole person throughout the fertility journey.
Meet Sarah Edwards, L.Ac. — Certified Mercier Therapist
Sarah Edwards is a licensed, board-certified acupuncturist and certified Mercier Therapy practitioner with a special interest in fertility and women's health. Her connection to Mercier Therapy is also deeply personal.
During her own fertility journey, Sarah received Mercier Therapy and believes the treatment was an important part of supporting her path to conception. Inspired by her experience, she chose to train directly with Dr. Jennifer Mercier, the creator of Mercier Therapy, so that she could offer the technique to women navigating their own fertility and reproductive-health journeys.
Sarah brings both professional training and personal understanding to her work. Her approach is compassionate and individualized, combining Mercier Therapy with her background in acupuncture, Chinese medicine, nutrition, and holistic health when appropriate.
What Is a Course of Mercier Therapy Like?
A typical Mercier Therapy course consists of six 60-minute sessions, typically completed over approximately four to six weeks. Treatment is performed externally through the abdomen and pelvic region and does not involve internal or vaginal manipulation.
Your individual treatment plan may vary depending on your health history, symptoms, fertility plans, and goals. Sarah can help determine whether Mercier Therapy is appropriate for you and how it may fit alongside acupuncture or other fertility care.
A Holistic Approach to Fertility & Women's Health
At Acupuncture for Balanced Wellness, we understand that fertility and reproductive health involve much more than a single organ or system. Hormonal health, stress, sleep, nutrition, circulation, and overall well-being can all be part of the bigger picture.
Mercier Therapy is one of several natural and integrative therapies we offer to support women throughout different stages of their reproductive lives. When appropriate, it can be combined with fertility acupuncture and individualized lifestyle support to create a more comprehensive approach to care.
Mercier Therapy in Chicago
If you're interested in learning whether Mercier Therapy may be appropriate for you, schedule an appointment with Sarah Edwards at our Chicago Loop clinic.