If you, a friend, a family member, or a patient is trying to
become pregnant, you may want to consider acupuncture and
Traditional Chinese Medicine. The enhancement of fertility has been
at the heart of Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 5,000 years,
and there has been great success with acupuncture and herbal
medicine treating infertility. Below are real patient's questions
that I have been asked in the clinic regarding fertility
support.
How does acupuncture improve fertility?
Acupuncture causes a reduction of stress hormones and a release
of endorphins that produce a profound state of relaxation. Research
has shown that women with elevated stress levels have significantly
lower pregnancy rates. Regular acupuncture treatments result in the
correction of the body's neuro-endocrinological activity resulting
in hormonal regulation and balance. The insertion of needles in
specific acupoints in the body increases ovarian and uterine blood
flow. This increased flow stimulates ovulation and enhances growth
of the uterine lining. Acupuncture supports implantation and growth
of the embryo during the very crucial initial stages of fetal
development.
Fuke 11.24 (Tung's Point)
How does herbal therapy improve fertility?
Herbs work to nourish and strengthen the body; assimilation of
critical nutrients supports a healthy pregnancy. The quality of
ovarian eggs and the thickness of the uterine lining are dependent
on adequate nutrition. When present in the reproductive area,
inflammation creates yet another obstacle to fertility, so
acupuncturists prescribe specific herbs to reduce inflammation.
Lastly, other select herbs are effectively used to regulate and
balance hormone levels.
Can TCM also help with infertility in men?
Yes, Traditional Chinese Medicine is commonly used to increase
and improve the quality, motility and quantity of sperm. Since male
infertility accounts for over 40% of infertility issues in couples,
male partners are encouraged to partake in regular treatments to
address potential sperm issues. Strengthening the male partner
increases the odds of pregnancy. I often encourage couples to come
in together for fertility support.
Huanchao 11.06 (Tung's acupuncture)
Word to the Wise: Please be careful when treating women patients
who are trying to get pregnant or have history of miscarriage;
avoid acupuncture points ST12, GB21, LI4, SP6, UB60, UB67. These
are very strong points that move the qi and blood. I often use
these points: DU20, Zigong, Fuke 11.24 (Tung's point), Huanchao
11.06 (Tung's acupuncture) and sometimes auricular points in the
ear uterus, endocrine, ovary, LV, KD, depending on the patient. I
also remind fertility patient's that consistency is the key to
successful fertility support along with a healthy balanced diet and
exercises, such as Qi Gong and Tai Chi. In addition, I ask
patient's to create a menses calendar to track their menstruation
cycle and ovulation cycle.
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