It may be time to add acupuncture to your fertility program! Today, acupuncture is routinely used with success for pain relief and relaxation all over the world. However, many people are unaware it offers benefits for male fertility.
A study published in Fertility and Sterility shows regular acupuncture treatments increase the number of healthy sperm and decrease sperm abnormalities. The study covered 28 men with unexplained infertility that received acupuncture twice a week over five weeks. After treatment, the structural health of sperm improved by 16%! While only a small study, it’s encouraging, and the results are statistically significant in terms of male fertility health.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture is part of the ancient system of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It uses fine needles to manipulate body meridians and energy flow (Qi) through the body. In TCM, the body must be in balance to function at its peak. Acupuncture treatments stimulate the proper flow of Qi, allowing the body systems and organs to return to a natural state of health and balance.
The Fertility Benefits of Acupuncture
Acupuncture harnesses your body’s natural healing energy and improves the functioning of the organs and glands involved in reproduction. Today, acupuncture is used alongside medical fertility treatments and natural fertility therapies. Acupuncture increases circulation and helps clear blockages in the reproductive system that impedes conception for men and women. Some studies find acupuncture even increases the success of IVF treatments.
In addition, acupuncture enhances fertility by decreasing stress reactions that imbalance hormones. We know fertility challenges are stressful for both partners. Research shows high levels of cortisol, the “stress hormone,” can lower testosterone, and affect sperm production.
Acupuncture also helps normalize the HPA (hypothalamus pituitary adrenal) axis and reduces unhealthy “fight or flight” responses. Being less stressed allows your hormones to rebalance and helps you to move forward on your fertility program more easily.
More Good News About Acupuncture
According to the World Health Organization, acupuncture is used successfully to treat 104 different health concerns! Acupuncture especially eases problems like migraines, chronic low back pain, sciatica, repetitive strain injuries and osteoarthritis, which have limited results with conventional treatments. Acupuncture can also offer amazing relief for people with reproductive system pain, common to fertility problems.
What To Expect from an Acupuncture Treatment
Keep an open mind about an acupuncture session. Acupuncture is a non-toxic, minimally invasive therapy. Most people find it to be deeply relaxing. Feel confident your acupuncturist is an experienced professional. Licensed acupuncturists go through years of training, and are highly skilled at their craft. Most also have knowledge of herbs and can share information on the best remedies for your personal situation. Becoming introduced to acupuncture could change your entire life and your fertility!
- Study: Acupuncture Improves Fertility in Men, Too. (2005, October 01). Retrieved from: http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=30217
- Page, L and Abernathy S. (2011). Healthy Healing: A Guide To Self-Healing. Healthy Healing Pub.
- Well Woman Acupuncture. (2017, July 21). Acupuncture and Male Infertility: How Do I Improve My Sperm Quality? Retrieved from: https://wellwomanacupunctureboulder.com/acupuncture-male-infertility-how-to-improve-sperm-quality/