Today, acupuncture is used across the world to improve semen parameters for infertile men, strength of ejaculation, and erectile dysfunction, and is even promoted by the American Pregnancy Association.

Using acupuncture for health improving purposes goes back millennia and is documented in several ancient books including the most famous “The Yellow Emperor’s Classics of Internal Medicine” from around 2,600 BC which implies that acupuncture had been in use for 2,000 years previous to that.

In modern times the efficacy of acupuncture for improving success rates during IVF embryo transfer and in the treatment of female infertility is well documented.  Since 2000, a number of studies have also examined the effect of acupuncture on male fertility, with encouraging results. A 2005 study published in Fertility and Sterility, a leading peer-reviewed journal for reproductive medicine, found that a course of 10 acupuncture treatments over 5 weeks led to statistically significant increases in both motility and normal sperm in infertile men.  There’s been several smaller studies which have produced similar results.

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If your sperm count or motility are below normal levels, or even if they’re on the lower side of normal, chances are acupuncture may be able to help you increase your levels and speed up time to conception. When considering an acupuncturist, you want to find someone who is a) registered with accreditation by AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency), and b) an expert in the treatment of infertility. You wouldn’t let just any local mechanic tune up your Lambo, would you?

What to expect at your visit

Acupuncture is part of a system of wholistic medicine that addresses the body as microcosm, not just individual symptoms. At your first visit, expect an in depth consultation that will likely include questions about your fertility, along with a full review of systems (digestion, elimination, sleep, etc..). It’s helpful to bring your semen analysis results if you have them, along with any other relevant lab results (do not bring a sample).

Because infertility is a couples’ issue, your acupuncturist may request that your partner join you for the initial consult. Your acupuncturist will likely check your pulse and inspect your tongue prior to treatment. During most treatments, anywhere from four to a dozen needles will be placed in the body, and you will rest with the needles in for 20-30 minutes. The needles are then removed and you’re good to go. Your acupuncturist may also consult on supplements, herbs, diet, and other lifestyle modifications that can benefit your family’s fertility.

 

References

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Please call (07) 3848 8526 to make an appointment.

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