Late Marriage and Infertility? Traditional Chinese Acupuncture Can Enhance Your Chances of Conceiving!

In recent years, the trend of late marriage and delayed childbirth has become increasingly apparent, leading many women to postpone their fertility age. However, the optimal fertility age for women is between 21 and 28 years old, and after age 35, both the quantity and quality of eggs begin to decline, making conception more challenging. Statistics show that about 20% of couples in our country face infertility issues. Infertility is generally defined as a condition where a couple is unable to conceive after one year of regular sexual intercourse (1 to 3 times per week) without using any contraception.

On this journey towards new life, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture can offer strong support. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized infertility as an indication for acupuncture. Research in medical journals from the UK and the US also indicates that acupuncture combined with in vitro fertilization (IVF) can significantly improve pregnancy rates, with success rates increasing by 1.26 times.

What is TCM Acupuncture for Enhancing Fertility?

Acupuncture is a combination of two different therapeutic methods in TCM. "Needles" refer to the use of disposable fine needles inserted into specific acupuncture points; "Moxibustion" involves burning mugwort to stimulate specific points on the skin’s surface. By adjusting the flow of energy through meridians, acupuncture can balance Qi (energy), blood, and Yin-Yang in the body. TCM emphasizes individual differences and tailors treatment plans according to each person’s constitution to enhance therapeutic effects. Acupuncture can be used alongside Western medicine at different stages, with minimal side effects and no interference with Western medication.

Is TCM Acupuncture for Fertility Scientifically Valid or Just a Superstition?

Acupuncture for fertility is not a superstition but a scientifically validated treatment method. Recent studies have increasingly confirmed the effectiveness of TCM in the fertility process. For instance, acupuncture can regulate hormone levels, improve ovarian function, and increase the chances of conception. Additionally, acupuncture can enhance the quality and quantity of male sperm. The use of Chinese herbs is also supported by modern medicine, proving its effect on the female reproductive system.

According to an article released by the Malaysian Ministry of Health in 2017, acupuncture has many benefits including:

• Male infertility and sexual dysfunction
• Female infertility
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Labor pain, and more

Combining Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine for More Effective Fertility Treatment

Studies show that combining Chinese herbs and acupuncture significantly improves pregnancy success rates in infertility cases. A comprehensive analysis indicates that women receiving combined Western and TCM treatments have pregnancy rates over 74% higher than those receiving only Western treatments.

Considerations for Choosing Acupuncture Treatment

For women undergoing fertility treatments, Chinese herbs and acupuncture can often be combined for adjustment. However, during ovulation induction, Chinese herbs should generally be avoided to prevent interference with Western treatments, though acupuncture can continue. During embryo implantation, both Chinese herbs and acupuncture should be used cautiously and preferably under the guidance of an experienced TCM practitioner.

Acupuncture is suitable for the following women:

• Those with declining ovarian function (AMH<2) or over the age of 40
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) patients
• Women undergoing Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or IVF
• Women with unexplained infertility in Western medical examinations

Principles of Acupuncture for Female Fertility:

• Improve ovarian function, enhance ovarian response to stimulation, and promote ovulation
• Improve egg quality, increase IVF success rates
• Stabilize the endometrial lining, improve blood flow, reduce chronic inflammation, and provide a good environment for conception
• Alleviate stress during conception planning, reduce egg retrieval pain, and relieve discomfort during treatments
• Integrate all these factors to increase female fertility chances

Principles of Acupuncture for Male Fertility:

• Acupuncture enhances sperm quality and vitality by regulating the male kidney Qi
• By stimulating specific points, acupuncture can improve blood circulation in the male body
• Regulate male hormone levels and balance the endocrine system
• Reduce stress during conception planning
• Combining Chinese herbs and vitamins E+C, the results are superior to vitamin-only treatments, with significant improvements in sperm concentration, vitality, survival rate, and conception rates

Personalized Fertility Services at Zi TCM Bai Zi Gui:

Dr. Zhou Yunli, a star practitioner at Zi TCM Bai Zi Gui, combines years of clinical experience to focus on infertility treatment. Unlike traditional TCM fertility approaches, Dr. Zhou integrates modern Western hormone testing and ultrasound examinations to accurately identify the causes of infertility and uses Chinese herbs and acupuncture to improve IVF success rates. To date, Dr. Zhou has helped over 108 couples achieve their parenting dreams.

At Zi TCM Bai Zi Gui, you will experience personalized, scientific fertility adjustment services, helping you achieve your dream of a happy family.

Make Appointment Now

Summary: Effective Strategies of Combining Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine for Fertility

In modern society, late marriage and delayed childbirth have become trends, leading many couples to face infertility challenges. Traditional Chinese acupuncture, as a scientifically validated method, can enhance conception chances by regulating Qi and blood balance, improving ovarian function, and stabilizing the endometrial lining. Meanwhile, Western reproductive technologies such as IUI and IVF provide modern solutions for infertile couples.

Combining Western and TCM approaches not only complements each other but also reduces stress and side effects during treatment, enhancing overall efficacy. Whether facing declining ovarian function, PCOS, or unexplained infertility, the combination of Western and TCM provides a more comprehensive and personalized fertility option for couples.

At Zi TCM Bai Zi Gui, we integrate the essence of traditional Chinese medicine with modern medical technology to provide scientific and effective fertility plans, helping you realize your dream of becoming a parent.

FAQ: Acupuncture Treatment for Fertility

Who is suitable for acupuncture treatment during conception planning?

Women who are particularly suitable for acupuncture include:

• Women with declining ovarian function (AMH<2) or over the age of 40.
• PCOS patients.
• Women undergoing IUI or IVF.
• Women with unexplained infertility in Western medical examinations.

How does acupuncture help increase the chances of conception?

Acupuncture enhances the chances of conception in the following ways:

• Improving ovarian function, enhancing the ovarian response to stimulation, and promoting ovulation.
• Stabilizing the endometrial lining, improving blood flow, reducing chronic inflammation, and providing a good environment for conception.
• Reducing stress during conception planning, alleviating egg retrieval pain, and minimizing medication side effects during treatment.
• Overall increasing fertility chances through combined treatment.

Are there risks associated with using acupuncture for infertility?

The risks of acupuncture treatment for infertility are very low, but choosing an experienced acupuncturist is crucial. A qualified acupuncturist can minimize treatment stress and enhance effectiveness.

Is acupuncture treatment painful? Are there any side effects?

Acupuncture treatment for gynecological conditions uses very fine needles, causing minimal pain. Moxibustion and completely painless uterine care can also be used as alternatives. Acupuncture is very safe, with rare side effects, such as localized bruising.

How should the frequency and duration of acupuncture treatment be arranged?

Before starting acupuncture treatment, it is recommended to undergo an evaluation by a gynecological specialist. Generally, it is advised to have acupuncture 2 to 3 times a week, with each session lasting at least 25 minutes, and continue for three months for optimal results. The specific method and frequency of treatment should be customized based on individual or partner needs through discussion. Typically, continuous treatment for three to four months can effectively address issues affecting fertility and increase the chances of healthy conception.