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Fertility
Acupuncture can help couples achieve a natural pregnancy by enhancing their health as well as treating specific medical problems that reduce fertility.
In research acupuncture has been shown to:
regulate the menstrual cycle
lower raised levels of FSH (follicle stimulating hormone)
relieve symptoms of endometriosis
induce ovulation in women with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)
improve the concentration and motility of sperm
release endorphins;
improve general health.
There are also unexplained reasons for failure to conceive, which can be identified and effectively treated with Chinese medicine. By balancing hormones, improving blood flow to the uterus and pelvic area and reducing stress, having acupuncture treatment can often avoid the need to resort to more invasive medical intervention.
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)
For those couples considering or already undergoing ART such as IUI, IVF or ICSI, acupuncture can play a key role in improving the chances of conception.
If possible we recommend starting acupuncture prior to undergoing ART, in order to regulate and address any imbalances, to prepare the body for the fertility treatment and maximize the success rates.
In addition acupuncture carried out at certain key stages of IVF, particularly before and after embryo transfer has been shown by research to increase the chances of conception by up to 50%.
MALE FERTILITY
We often think of infertility as being a female problem but in 20-40% of couples the problems are directly due to the male partner. The good news is that sperm are constantly being replenished. It takes 60-90 days to develop mature sperm and in this time much can be done to improve their quality with acupuncture, Chinese herbs, lifestyle and dietary changes.
Sperm are sensitive to alcohol, caffeine, chemicals, a poor diet and temperature.
To create healthier, livelier and greater quantities of good quality sperm:
Stop smoking cigarettes. Men who smoke have a lower sperm count and a higher number of abnormally formed sperm. Smokers also respond less well to fertility treatment than non-smokers.
Give up marijuana and any other recreational drugs.
Cut down coffee and other caffeinated drinks.
Reduce alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with a decrease in the percentage of normal sperm.
Avoid pesticides and industrial chemicals such as garden sprays and paint strippers and frequent exposure to paint fumes.
Avoid excessive heat. The optimal temperature for sperm production is a few degrees below body temperature , so avoid wearing tight, restrictive clothing and frequent use of saunas, jacuzzis and hot baths.
Exercise sensibly. Heavy-duty workouts at the gym, marathon training, long distance cycling or extreme mountain biking can have an adverse affect on sperm production.
Wherever possible eat organically grown free-range unsprayed meat, fish, eggs, vegetables and fruit and as little processed “junk” food as possible.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Sperm Tests
It is helpful for men to update their sperm tests every few years. If you have fathered a child in the past, it does not mean your sperm count is still okay. Have it tested regularly as age, infections, medication as well as the factors already mentioned can cause sperm count and quality to deteriorate.
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