Chinese medicine to the rescue of infertility
According to recent figures from the WHO, one in six people worldwide are affected by fertility problems, and these figures are continuing to rise. They affect men and women equally. Among these cases of infertility, 20% are due to both partners at the same time.
These fertility problems are a source of concern and even stress for many couples. And yet, solutions do exist!
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), fertility problems are caused by energy imbalances. All that is needed is to restore this energy balance in the partner(s) concerned so that the organs involved in procreation have all the energy they need.
A study conducted in the gynaecology and obstetrics department of the maternal and child clinic in Gan Shu province, China, demonstrated the effectiveness of TCM in this area. Two groups received two different treatments. The first group was treated with Western medicine ovulation stimulants, while the other group was treated with acupuncture and moxibustion. The group treated with acupuncture had a 65% higher success rate than the group treated with chemical medication.
In addition, doctors observed a 35-45% higher chance of success for patients receiving IVF (in vitro fertilisation) while also being treated with acupuncture.
Causes of female infertility in TCM
Chinese medicine lists several causes that may contribute to fertility issues. These will be identified through a personalised diagnosis. Here are the main causes of infertility in women.
- The accumulation of ‘Phlegm-Dampness’:
Like Blood Stasis, the accumulation of ‘Phlegm’ can hinder fertilisation. This accumulation can also cause excess weight, abundant and viscous leucorrhoea, and even mucus in menstruation.
- Kidney deficiency:
The kidney belongs to the water element, which is also responsible for the reproductive organs. It is considered to be the body’s battery.Therefore, if the energy of the Kidney is low, the body will not allow pregnancy in order to avoid further energy loss. Or, if pregnancy does occur, it may be interrupted by a miscarriage. In the case of a weak Kidney, infrequent periods and a decrease in libido may be observed.
- A deficiency of ‘Xue’ (Blood):
Blood plays a role in the conception of the foetus. If there is a lack of Blood, pregnancy cannot occur. A deficiency of Blood results in a pale complexion, dizziness, lack of strength, weakness and general fatigue.
- Blockage of Liver qi:
The Liver’s function is to store and distribute Blood. When Liver qi is stagnant, it causes Blood stasis. This type of blockage is very common. It is caused in particular by anger, frustration, or stress. It is usually accompanied by premenstrual syndrome (breast pain, painful periods, light flow with dark blood, and sometimes blood clots).
The cold womb
- Cold accumulation in the uterus and blood stasis:
A ‘cold uterus’ is very common. This means there is too much ‘cold in the abdomen and uterus’, which prevents fertilisation or implantation. The embryo needs warmth to implant itself.
The majority of women who consult us for fertility issues have this syndrome. Cold weather also causes a slowdown that can create ‘blood stasis,’ preventing pregnancy.
This stasis manifests itself in dark red periods, clots, and lower abdominal pain that worsens with palpation.
- Blockage of the ‘Shen’ (spirit):
In some cases, everything is working well and the conditions for procreation are in place, but the woman, even if she wants a child, suffers from unconscious fears. These fears may be related to work, family, financial situation, etc.
In this case, the ‘Shen’ (spirit) is agitated, and the woman may unconsciously block fertilisation.
A significant improvement in sperm quality
Chinese medicine is equally effective in improving male fertility. It helps increase sperm production, improves sperm morphology and increases motility. Finally, it can resolve hormonal imbalances that can affect fertility. Here again, we focus on restoring overall energy balance, particularly in the kidneys, liver and spleen.
A study was conducted by the College of Acupuncture and Moxibustion at Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine on sperm abnormalities. Patients were treated with acupuncture, and an improvement in sperm quantity and quality and sex hormones was observed in the following rates:
- FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone): +33%
- LH (luteinising hormone): +35.3%
- Oestrogen: +57.1%
- Testosterone: +65.1%
Acupuncture, like Chinese herbs, increases blood flow in the pelvic cavity. This strengthens the kidneys and optimises the functioning of the sexual organs, while stimulating the body’s natural hormone production.
The result is an increase in the quantity and quality of sperm.
Of course, any fertility treatment must take into account environmental factors and the lifestyle of both partners.
Stress caused by various factors, including difficulty conceiving, can only increase energy blockages. The couple can then become trapped in a vicious circle.
Chinese medicine – acupuncture and herbal medicine – can also significantly improve stress management and help control disruptive emotions. This is an equally important factor in enabling couples to release pressure… and enter a state of serenity and openness conducive to procreation.
Healthy lifestyle and fertility
Beyond the energy imbalances mentioned above, certain environmental factors are harmful to fertility in both men and women. These include:
- being overweight or underweight,
- extreme working conditions such as prolonged exposure to heat or excessively long commutes,
- stress,
- lack of sleep,
- the use of stimulants such as tobacco, alcohol, drugs, including excessive coffee consumption,
- exposure to pesticides (endocrine disruptors),
- exposure to other toxins (arsenic, lead, aluminium, mercury, parabens, Bisphenol A, etc.),
- excessive exercise,
prolonged exposure to mobile waves (Wi-Fi, 4G, Bluetooth, etc.).
But above all, fertility requires both partners to take care of their well-being and agree to trust in nature. When they are in a good overall balance and their state of mind is calm and confident, then they are ready to welcome life… when the time is right. Because despite scientific progress, procreation remains a mystery and a blessing.
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