Male Fertility

Men suffer from infertility issues just as frequently as women. According to statistics from the National Infertility Association, between 35 percent and 40 percent of fertility problems among couples are actually caused by male conditions.

Some factors responsible for male infertility:

• Low sperm count
• Abnormal sperm shape and size
• Reduced motility
• Lifestyle, genetics, and physiological changes

Acupuncture can have an effect on sperm production and quality. A recent trial published in Fertility and Sterility has shown just how effective acupuncture can be in the treatment of this condition, leading to significant increases in the number of normal sperm and equally significant reductions in structural defects.

In the study, 28 men who were diagnosed with idiopathic infertility received acupuncture twice a week over a period of 5 weeks.

Summary of the Results:

• Increased motility levels
• Healthy sperm increased
• Significant changes in sperm structure and quality
• The percentage of sperm with a normal axoneme pattern increased

“In conjunction with ART or even for reaching natural fertility potential, acupuncture treatment is a simple, noninvasive method that can improve sperm quality,” the authors concluded.

At Irvine Acupuncture we work closely with Infertility doctors to make sure our treatments are not conflicting with their treatments. We actually have an Infertility center in our medical building, making it easier for our patients to commute between us and the infertility center.

References

• Hopps CV, Goldstein M. Male infertility : the basics.
• Levine D. Boxers or briefs: myths and facts about men’s infertility .
• Pei J, Strehler E, Noss U, et al. Quantitative evaluation of spermatozoa ultrastructure after acupuncture treatment for idiopathic male infertility . Fertility and Sterility July 2005;84(1):141-7