Acupuncture to support sperm quality – where do you put the needles?
Picture this: a lovely couple nervously sits in front of me during their first fertility acupuncture consultation. They want to know how acupuncture can help with male factor infertility.
Due to the male factor infertility diagnosis, the couple had already gone through three cycles of IVF with ICSI, recommended by a reproductive endocrinologist. Sadly, none of these cycles resulted in viable embryos. The gentleman’s eyes fill with tears as he shares his story.
He says, “I’m super healthy! I don’t smoke, drink or eat junk food, I work out regularly. Still… Nothing. We’re willing to try anything at this point.”.
It’s not uncommon for couples to come to us after exhausting all other treatment options. But when IVF doesn’t work, what is next? Luckily, acupuncture can help support sperm quality.
How can reproductive acupuncture support sperm quality?
A male fertility acupuncture experiment with 80 men, showed changes in testis blood circulation. Five minutes of specific frequency electroacupuncture optimised blood vasodilation in the testis.
Healthy testicular blood circulation is essential for male fertility. It provides oxygen, nutrients and removes waste from the testis. An adequate blood flow also assures the sperm production-friendly environment.
In 2019 study, acupuncture also improved sperm production by optimizing Calcium signalling in the testicles. Adequate Calcium levels are fundamental for sperm motility. If Calcium signalling becomes impaired it can negatively affect sperm development and their ability to “swim.”
Where are the points for male fertility located?
In these studies, the main acupuncture points are on the lower abdomen. No needles in testes. Phew, you feel relieved, right?
Why the abdomen? The lower abdomen and testis link through many nerves and arteries. You can tap into this connection through abdominal acupuncture points. Electroacupuncture promotes vasodilation, which in turn improves circulation.
You can detect improved circulation in the testis within 5 min of acupuncture! Remember, the liquid part of semen is produced quite quickly. But the little swimmers, sperm, take about 72-90 days to mature. For the sperm quality to change you still need to allow about three months of regular treatments.
One of the comments we hear from our patients is that they wish they could have started acupuncture sooner. Don’t delay. If you have any questions, do contact Dr Vitalis Acupuncture.
