When a couple is diagnosed infertile, first thoughts often run to the woman. Statistics suggest that 35 to 40 percent of the problems are caused by male conditions, another 35 to 40 percent by female conditions, and the last 20 to 30 percent a combination of the two, plus a small percentage of unknown causes.
More than 90% of male infertility cases are due to low sperm counts, poor sperm quality, or both. Although specialists are well aware of the causes of infertility what is very often unknown is the cause behind the cause. A range of conditions including anatomical problems, hormonal imbalances, and genetic defects can also cause infertility amongst men.
In a study published in Fertility and Sterility in 2005, researchers analyzed sperm samples from men with infertility of unknown cause before and after acupuncture treatments. They found that acupuncture was associated with fewer structural defects in sperm and an increase in the number of normal sperm.
Western medicine addresses structural problems or blockages through surgical means, which often help with conception. However, its scope is limited when it comes to non-surgical treatments
Acupuncture is the insertion of tiny, hair-width needles into the body, primarily into the arms, legs, and low abdomen (don’t stress, nothing is heading there). Research shows us that acupuncture has the unique effect of increasing blood flow to the testicular artery and cooling the scrotum. What does this mean for you? Your testes need blood to bring them nutrients, keep things cool, and remove waste products that can damage sperm while they mature. Stagnation of blood in the scrotal sack can lead to increased temperatures, a buildup of metabolic waste products, poor sperm production, and even conditions like varicocele.
Acupuncture might not be the first thing you think of if you’re having a problem with infertility, but maybe it should be. Studies – and a great deal of clinical experience – suggest that it might help, even if you’re already undergoing standard therapies like in vitro fertilization or intrauterine insemination. Acupuncture is actually one of the oldest medical practices in the world.
Dr Huafei Li works closely with a couple trying to conceive, because of many couples reaching for western treatments first, it may take time for acupuncture to be successful. As soon as a couple conceives the next step is to prevent miscarriage. Dr. Li helps every step of the way.
