male fertility
Your Questions Answered
Male factor accounts for approximately 30% of problems in conception. Causes include structural abnormalities, sperm production disorders, ejaculatory disturbances and immunologic disorders. Several risk factors are also linked to male infertility including alcohol and tobacco use, and overheating of the testicles. As with with women, age, weight, nutrition and lifestyle factors also play a significant role.
How may acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine influence male fertility?
There have been several studies which suggest acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine may effectively support male infertility by improving sperm morphology, motility, and count. There have been some studies which show that acupuncture and Chinese herbs may also have a beneficial effect on erectile dysfunction. More specifically, acupuncture and Chinese herbs may help improve sperm quality by:
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lowering scrotal temperature
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enhancing local microcirculation
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reducing inflammation
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improving sperm maturation in the epididymis
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increasing testosterone levels
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reducing lipid peroxidation of sperm
WHAT TO EXPECT
Consultation
During your initial consultation you can expect an in-depth intake of your reproductive and medical history, your overall health and wellbeing, as well as any tests or examinations that you and your partner may have already done and any fertility treatment you may be currently undergoing or scheduled to have.
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Further Testing
As a continuation of your initial assessment, further investigations may be warranted. This may be further blood tests or a referral to another medical specialist (urologist/andrologist , or endocrinologist) for further examinations. Where appropriate you may also be referred to a specialist clinical nutritionist for extra support.
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A Typical Treatment Programme
A typical treatment programme with traditional Chinese medicine uses a combination of acupuncture, herbs, nutrition and lifestyle counselling. Treatment is individually customized and takes into account multiple factors including specific symptoms of the male reproductive system, biomedical test findings and diagnoses.
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The frequency and length of treatment are typically determined by the nature of one's infertility, although a minimal course of three months is generally recommended.
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Preparing for your Appointment
There are a few things you can do in preparation of your appointment:
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Avoid stimulants including coffee on the day
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Where possible wear loose and comfortable clothing to you appointment
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Eat a snack or light meal 1-2 hours before your appointment. Its important not to be hungry or thirsty during treatment. Equally treatment on a full stomach is to be avoided.
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Avoid any strenuous activities immediately before or after your acupuncture session.
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Arrive 10-15 minutes early to your appointment
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Bring any medical reports to your appointment.