Approximately 40% of couples who are struggling to conceive are due to male infertility. And are overlooked by professionals and themselves.
One of the most common causes of poor sperm production are problems with the testicle function and unknown causes which contribute to 50% infertility cases.
Studies have demonstrated acupuncture to be of benefit in the treatment of male infertility by improving sperm quality, particularly volume, count, motility and morphology.
How does it work?
Acupuncture with mild stimulation called electroacupuncture is applied in specific points according to research protocols on the abdomen, legs, head and ears according to your main diagnosis.
Electroacupuncture increases blood flow through the small blood vessels in the testes, improving delivery of nutrients to develop sperm and promote optimal sperm vitality.
Acupuncture can be used: during the time your partner is ovulating to boost sperm production, one month before assisted reproductive techniques, and as part of a pre-conception program even where there is a normal semen analysis.
It has been proven that acupuncture increases the metenkephalin (the substance in the sperm) which promotes the motility of the sperm which is abnormally low in the semen of men with poor mobility.
Thus, where motility is an issue, acupuncture even in a short term: e.g. applied at the time of the female partners ovulation may be of great benefit!
The 10 Causes of Sperm Defects
1. Testicular Disease
2. Obstructions
3. Varicocele
4. Medication
5. DNA Fragmentation
6. Chemicals
7. Sperm Defects
8. Mobile Phones
9. Tight Jeans
10. Antisperm Antibody
Their are other lifestyle factors that affect sperm health and most of it is under your control…
Stress: Has been shown to reduce sperm quality. 3 effective ways to manage your daily stress are exercising, 7-8 hours of sleep, and well balanced meals. Regular acupuncture treatments are effective and long lasting.
Alcohol: Heavy alcohol consumption has a damaging effect on sperm count and function.
Smoking: All studies have shown the harmful effects of tobacco or marijuana on sperm.
Coffee: 3 cups a day or more has been shown to damage sperm DNA. Limit to 1 cup a day.
Weight loss: Decreased testosterone and increased estrogen is likely in a high BMI (being overweight), neither of which are good for your sperm count or quality.
Sex: Low libido or performance is a major issue for couples trying to conceive. When not having frequent sex becomes the norm, very often the window when their partner is ovulating is missed. Did you know that having frequent sex improves the quality of sperm in an ejaculate, while a few days of abstinence increases the quantity of sperm? Knowing when your partner ovulates gives you time to have sex daily around this time. If you don’t know when she ovulates, then try to have sex every other 9 days after her period is finished and continue for 7 days (or 10 days if she has a long cycle).
Fumes: Exposer to chemicals or fumes at work causes lower sperm counts and poor morphology. Try and limit exposure at work and at home.
Varicocele and anti-sperm antibodies: Are found in 15% of infertile men. Varicocele is very common in men and seen as normal since they don’t feel any discomfort, but a number of clinical studies have shown that 20-30% of infertility shares a relationship to this condition, as it interferes with sperm production. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs have a beneficial effect in improving sperm quality and fertility in both these conditions.
Supplements: During the 90 days of sperm development, the seminal fluid needs high levels of antioxidants to protect the sperm from oxidative damage to the membrane and DNA. CoQ10, vitamins E and C, Zinc, selenium and carnitine have all been shown to improve sperm quality, as a number of Chinese herbs.
Diet: Eat organic foods when possible and consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and adequate protein.
Clothing: The testicles are carried outside the body which is where the sperm is manufactured and it works better at cooler temperatures. Men should avoid wearing tight jeans, tight under pants, and not taking hot showers or baths.
Exercise: Keep a regular exercise routine and avoid excessive cycling or prolonged overheating.
Mobile phones and laptops: Electromagnetic radiation from mobile phones is associated with hormone changes, and long hours of use is associated with reduced fertility. Do not keep your mobile phone in the front pocket, do not place your laptop over your groin with a pillow and try to limit its use.
Acupuncture: Their are more than ten separate trials in different countries showing a significant improvement in sperm morphology and motility after a course of acupuncture treatments, which 10 to 15 treatments are given over a period of 5 to 10 weeks.
Whether you are trying to conceive naturally or using assisted reproductive techniques, we can connect you with licensed acupuncturist in Miami with a custom program that is natural, safe and effective to ensure a successful outcome.
If you have any questions, please send us an email or call us at (305) 306-4150. We will refer you to a licensed acupuncturists who will answer your questions and discuss your concerns.