Hong Ma, R. Ac., R.TCMP - Acupuncturist & TCM Practitioner
Infertility is considered an inability to conceive in a sexually active couple who have been trying to get pregnant for one year or longer. About 8-12% of the couples in the world are dealing with infertility, and in this modern time that percent continues to increase with 20% of the cases being due to both male and female factors.
By the theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) infertility occurs due to a disruption of vital balance and blockages in the Qi energy and Blood circulation flow. Acupuncture, frequently combined with herbal medicine, has been used for centuries to treat infertility as they may help improve ovarian and follicular function. Additionally, acupuncture can increase blood flow to the endometrium, helping to facilitate a thick, rich lining.
It is becoming increasingly common for women undergoing modern IVF therapy to also have complementary fertility acupuncture treatments at the same time. Studies have shown that besides improving pregnancy rates, fertility acupuncture helps patients better respond to medication and results in healthier eggs. Fertility acupuncture also prepares a woman's uterus to be more receptive to implantation which is one of the major reasons attributed to these higher rates of IVF success. Many women who have had trouble with high FSH levels, or who have had a miscarriage, are being advised that fertility acupuncture has the potential to be a good solution to their issues.
Acupuncture as a treatment for infertility has shown great results both in man and women. It can be considered a successful treatment in restoring fertility in patients by improving sperm quality, ovarian function, and balancing the endocrine system and hormones.