Male Infertility. Why Acupuncture?
Did you know that 90% of male Infertility are due to low sperm counts, poor sperm quality or both. In western provinces 60% of sperm counts have plummeted in the last 40 years as modern life has impacted men’s health.
1 in 6 couples in Canada experience infertility. This number has doubled since the 1980’s. Infertility can be traced to either the male/female or combination of both.
Sperm Count and other semen framework have been associated with multiple environmental influences such as long term or intensive exposure to certain types of chemicals, pesticides, heat, stress, insomnia, depression, tobacco use, obesity & lifestyle. Some other contributing illnesses or diseases like diabetes, cancer, chemotherapy, radiation or surgery also have a major impact.
Exposure in certain work environments such as welders, firefighters, truck drivers, or habits such as excessive hot tub use or tight clothing are also contributing factors. Consuming to much alcohol, high caffeine intake, processed meats, soy products and potatoes may also have an diverse effect on male fertility.
Consume organic! a observational study showed men who ate organic have 43% more sperm than those that do not.
How can Traditional Chinese medicine help?
In both men and women strong Kidney energy play a key role in conceiving (our seeds of life). Traditional Chinese Medicine views our Kidneys as a yin organ, yin organs store, secrete, make and transform our essence, spirit, Qi and blood fluids, as we age this decreases. Stress and work overload, will also deplete this energy. In most cases regular acupuncture alone will increase mortality rate. Combining acupuncture sessions with naturopathic doctor visits will focus on overall health and work on underlining issues, as well as improve on quality and quantity of sperm. Acupuncture when timed with your partner’s ovulation is also beneficial. Keep in mind It can take up to 3 months for sperm to form, an acupuncturist will work with you to discuss a treatment plan based on your individual need. Points used during your sessions will vary, majority of them are located on your lower back & limbs.
Andrea Low R.Ac
Registered Acupuncturist