4 Myths About Male Fertility & How TCM Helps

Link copied! Bringing a child into the world is a dream cherished by many couples. However, when the path to parenthood becomes challenging, it is natural to seek answers and solutions. It is a common misconception that fertility issues are solely the woman’s concern but the truth is, male fertility plays an equally crucial role. In this article, we will debunk some of the most common myths about male fertility and explore how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for fertility can be an alternative to overcoming these obstacles. Learn more: Improving Male Fertility Using Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Myth 1: Only Women’s Health Matters When It Comes to Conceiving A prevalent misunderstanding is that a woman’s health predominantly influences fertility. While a woman’s well-being is undeniably essential, men should not overlook their role in this process. Factors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can significantly impact the production and quality of sperm. Therefore, men also need to prioritise their health to increase the couple’s chances of conceiving. Myth 2: Age is Not a Concern When It Comes to Male Fertility While older men can still father children, sperm quality tends to decrease with age, leading to potential fertility challenges. Men of all ages should be mindful of this when planning to start a family. Myth 3: Heat Exposure Does Not Affect Fertility In Men Prolonged exposure to high temperatures has been associated with poorer male fertility. This is because sperm production and vitality depend on maintaining an optimal temperature within the scrotum, slightly lower than the body’s core temperature. When this delicate balance is disrupted due to prolonged heat exposure, it can impair sperm production in terms of both count and motility, making it more challenging for couples to conceive. Beyond external sources of heat, poorly managed metabolic conditions can also contribute to elevated body temperature, creating an unfavourable environment for sperm production. Conditions like hyperthyroidism and diabetes, for instance, can lead to increased inflammation which raises the body’s core temperature. Myth 4: Fertility Has Nothing to Do with Lifestyle Habits Contrary to the belief that lifestyle habits have little effect on fertility, our daily lives expose us to free radicals from various sources like cigarette smoke, plastics, alcohol, and electromagnetic frequencies from digital devices. Excessive free radicals can cause oxidative stress in the body, which can result in poor sperm quality. Thus, adopting a healthy lifestyle and minimising exposure to these harmful factors is crucial for improving male fertility. How TCM for Fertility Lends a Helping Hand Many couples, even those undergoing IVF/IUI, turn to TCM for fertility support. Its holistic approach to health and well-being and infertility treatments play a significant role in enhancing one’s chances of conceiving. 1. Herbal Medications Rather than merely targeting the symptoms of infertility, herbal medications aim to address the underlying causes. This can include correcting imbalances that lead to metabolic conditions, clearing inflammation from the body, alleviating deficiencies that affect sperm quality, and addressing other factors that may affect male fertility. It is essential to note that herbal medication as an infertility treatment is not a universal solution — seek guidance from a certified physician to develop a personalised treatment plan. Learn more: Top 30 Foods You Should Eat To Boost Your Fertility 2. Acupuncture Stress can lead to conditions like Liver Qi stagnation and Spleen Qi deficiency, both of which can disrupt the delicate balance required for optimal reproductive function. Acupuncture for fertility targets acupoints in men promoting Qi flow for stress relief and those linked to the Kidney and Spleen meridians to improve sperm quality. It also balances hormone levels and endocrine function, thus boosting sperm quality and viability 3. Electro-Lymphatic Therapy (ELT) ELT uses an FDA-registered device to stimulate proper flow and drainage of the lymphatic system with a gentle, non-invasive technique. By improving lymphatic flow and drainage, it helps to clear inflammation. The lymphatic system also plays a role in hormone regulation, making ELT a valuable tool for managing metabolic conditions linked to hormonal imbalances. Hence, ELT can support the management of metabolic conditions, protecting sperm quality while increasing sperm count through the improved circulation of testosterone. 4. Cell Pro Therapy Cell pro therapy helps reduce oxidative stress to protect sperm quality. The therapy introduces reducing electrons into the body, which function as an antioxidant to neutralise free radicals that cause DNA damage in sperms. It is also able to balance the autonomic nervous system and support hormone regulation, leading to a healthier reproductive system Your Journey to Fatherhood Begins Here Oriental Remedies Group offers comprehensive support for couples trying to conceive, whether through TCM fertility treatments or tech-enhanced therapies. Combining the wisdom of TCM with modern biomedical knowledge, our physicians can help couples on their fertility journey at all stages. Whether you are already undergoing IVF/IUI or have just started exploring fertility support, we can provide you with a personalised plan to increase your chances of conceiving successfully. Get in touch with us to find out more. Note: all words in Italics mentioned henceforth refer to the TCM organ system and not the anatomical organs/terms referenced in western medicine. Disclaimer: The information on this page is for information and educational purposes only. Such medical information may relate to disease, injury, drugs and other treatments, medical devices and/or health products. Medical information does not amount to advice, and if advice is needed an appropriate professional help should be sought. The disclaimer asserts that no warranties or representations are given in respect of the medical information, and that the website operator should not be held liable if a user suffers any injury or loss after relying upon the medical information. All wellness assessments and technology-enhanced therapies using wellness device(s) are intended for use only for general well-being purposes or to encourage or maintain a healthy lifestyle, and it is not intended to be used for any medical purposes (such as detection, diagnosis, monitoring, management or treatment of any medical condition or disease). Any health-related information provided by these

7 TCM Tips to Boost Fertility the Natural Way

Oriental Remedies Clinic Are you struggling to conceive and considering fertility treatment but hoping to find a more natural and holistic solution? Consider Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Having been used for centuries to improve reproductive health and boost fertility, TCM is a safe complement to many conventional infertility treatments in Singapore. Through techniques such as acupuncture, herbal remedies and dietary changes, TCM for fertility can help regulate your menstrual cycle, improve sperm count and quality, and create a nurturing environment for conception. Keep reading for tips to boost fertilty the natural way, according to RCM. 1. Keep your lower abdomen warm (for women) TCM physicians believe that keeping the lower abdomen warm can help ensure good blood circulation to the womb, creating an ideal environment for implantation. It also prevents coldness from entering the body which helps regulate the menstrual cycle and alleviate cramps. Prioritise cosy, warm clothing over tight-fitting and short outfits to avoid cold womb syndrome. 2. Enhance your IVF and IUI success with TCM for fertility There is no harm in getting a fresh perspective from another practitioner – in fact, TCM for fertility can work in tandem with Western treatments like IVF and IUI to increase success rates. With its focus on restoring balance and harmony within the body, TCM can help improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, regulate hormonal imbalances and reduce stress and anxiety – factors that can contribute to infertility. 3. Try herbal medications TCM also uses herbs to support the reproductive health of both partners to increase the chances of conception. From Dang Gui to Bai Shao, there are numerous herbs that can help regulate menstrual cycles to improve follicle development and ovulation. Furthermore, herbal tonics keep the body warm and nourish it with Qi, creating an optimal environment for implantation and pregnancy. When it comes to addressing fertility issues in men, Chinese herbs can be a powerful tool too – wolfberries and Chinese dodder seed are often used to support the Kidney and Liver, while Codonopsis root and Astragalus are utilised to target the Spleen and Lung Qi. These help to improve sperm quality and quantity. 4. Consider acupuncture Acupuncture for fertility offers both men and women a multitude of benefits. When specific acupoints are stimulated, blood flow and hormone levels in women get regulated, improving ovulation and improving the chances of conceiving. Acupuncture can also be a valuable tool for women struggling with conditions like endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, which can affect ovulation and embryo implantation, hence reducing the chances of conceiving. Stress is also a major factor that can negatively impact male fertility, and acupuncture can help address that too. By reducing mental stress and releasing tension and anxiety, acupuncture relieves Liver Qi stagnation, Spleen and Kidney Qi deficiency to promote a healthier environment for sperm production and support the overall reproductive health of men. 5. Load up on fertility-boosting food – especially rice When it comes to TCM for fertility, physicians tend to emphasise the importance of diet and nutrition as the food you consume is seen as a powerful tool for promoting balance and harmony within the body, which is essential for optimal reproductive health. By nourishing your body with the right food, you can help support your body’s natural processes and improve your chances of conception. A diet rich in unsaturated fats, whole grains, vegetables and fish that have been linked to improved fertility in both men and women is recommended. A special tip from our physicians is to incorporate rice in your meals – even for ladies who are on a diet but planning to conceive. TCM views grains as a good source of nourishment for the Spleen which is necessary for the production of sufficient Qi & Blood to support the proper functioning of the body’s organs, including your reproductive organs. If you are underweight or malnourished, your chances of conceiving can be impacted. Our TCM physicians recommend adding at least a small portion of rice to your diet for your fertility. Learn more: Top 30 Foods You Should Eat To Boost Your Fertility 6. Manage stress levels In TCM, stress is seen as a major contributor to a variety of fertility issues, including irregular menstrual cycles, poor egg quality and low sperm count. This is because stress can lead to imbalances in the body’s Qi, which is the vital life force that flows through all living things. When Qi is flowing smoothly, the body is able to function optimally and maintain balance. But when Qi becomes stagnant or blocked due to stress, it can create a range of health problems including fertility issues. Incorporate stress-reducing practices like meditation, acupuncture for fertility or stretching exercises such as yoga or pilates into your routine to encourage a good flow of Qi and increase the chances of conceiving. 7. Cut down on smoking and drinking The Kidneys and Liver are considered key organs for reproduction according to TCM and smoking and drinking can compromise their functions, making it more difficult to conceive. Smoking is particularly harmful, as it can lead to a decrease in both sperm count and motility, as well as affect the quality of eggs. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption can disrupt the balance of hormones and negatively impact ovulation in women. Focus on adopting healthy habits instead, like regular exercise and a balanced diet, to enhance overall health for conception. Let TCM support you through your fertility journey It is natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure about what to do next if you are struggling with infertility, but do not give up hope just yet. TCM could be the missing piece to the puzzle – from acupuncture for fertility to herbal medications, TCM can improve your chances of conception while also addressing any underlying imbalances that may be affecting your reproductive health. Whether you are just starting out on your fertility journey or you have been trying for a while, let our team here at Oriental Remedies Group be your partner in