Fertility & Pregnancy
In the U.K about 1:6 couples will experience some difficulty in having a baby, so you are not alone. In Chinese medical theory, the Kidney is the internal organ which is responsible for reproduction, growth, and aging. When Kidney energy is insufficient to support normal growth and development, or becomes depleted by lifestyle factors such as poor diet, overwork, or excessive sexual activity, many health problems can result, including infertility. Kidney Deficiency is the most common cause of infertility.
Other patterns that can result in infertility are Liver Qi Stagnation, Blood Stasis or Deficiency, and Dampness with Phlegm or Heat. In Western terms, TCM has a high success rate with functional infertility, which results from factors such as hormone imbalances, endocrine gland disorders, and emotional problems. TCM can also significantly improve some structural infertility problems, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, vaginitis, ovary dysfunction, and immune-system-related infertility.
Acupuncture and fertility in the news.
A new study analysis by University of Maryland School of Medicine suggests that women who undergo IVF can increase their chances of pregnancy by up to 65% if they are also treated with acupuncture.
Regarding Female Infertility with TCM.
TCM recognises that many ovulatory problems can be resolved if the menstrual cycle is regulated. It therefore attempts to balance the body’s Yin and Yang while regulating Qi and Blood flows during the menstrual cycle.
By improving egg quality and strengthening the lining of the womb,TCM increases the chances of successful implantation. This is particularly relevant in older patients.
TCM can also reduce levels of circulating FSH (follicle stimulating hormone). This is of particular relevance to women with high levels of FSH who are often turned away from fertility clinics because they generally respond poorly, if at all, to the drugs used to stimulate their ovaries for IVF treatment. Many fertility specialists regard this condition as untreatable and advise women to consider using donor eggs. Experience has shown that when these women follow a course of TCM, their FSH levels may fall, improving their chances of success in an assisted conception treatment cycle using their own eggs.
Regarding Male Infertility with TCM.
A study published by the World Health Organisation (1992) found that in at least 50% of infertile couples, a significant male factor was contributing to the problem.
Few advances have been made in understanding the aetiology or prevention of male infertility. However, in the UK with the advent of assisted reproduction techniques, in particular the use of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), which involves the microinjection of a single sperm into an egg, men with severe low sperm count and many with zero sperm can go on to father their own children. Although ICSI is the best option so far, it doesn’t address the underlying condition. Furthermore, the treatment is very invasive and can be emotionally demanding. The success rate for this procedure is also very low across all age groups.
How TCM can help with assisted fertility treatment?
Even the most sophisticated assisted conception techniques can benefit from a helping hand. So whatever the nature of your fertility problem, our TCM remedies can help maximise your chances of success.
By improving the quality of eggs and sperm, improving your reproductive system’s blood flow and balancing hormone levels, TCM gives you the best chance of achieving and maintaining a healthy pregnancy. As a result, the amount of assisted fertility cycles you have can be reduced or you can opt for less invasive assisted fertility procedures than might otherwise be possible.
Notice: If you have a Fertility Report such as an Ultrasound copy, X-ray, Hematology or Biochemistry blood test, please bring it with you for the initial consultation.