Sunday 10 July 2011

Does Acupuncture Increase Sperm Motility?

The cause of a couple's infertility may lie with either the man or the woman in the relationship, as both sexes are affected by fertility issues. When experiencing infertility, it is important to see a fertility specialist to help determine what may be causing the issue so that treatment may be administered. One treatment that has been used by many couples and individuals is acupuncture.

This is an ancient Chinese treatment that has been used for thousands of years to provide relief from various conditions including pain. It has been used more frequently in the West as well. Practitioners believe that a life energy called Qi flows through the body and when it becomes blocked, it may manifest in certain conditions such as infertility. Acupuncture works to unblock this energy.
While the reasons for acupuncture's success are not fully understood, it has been successful in improving circulation in the reproductive organs, increase thickness of the uterine lining, improve egg quality and may improve the effectiveness of fertility medication.
For men, acupuncture may increase sperm count and may help to improve sperm motility. Acupuncture may be a good way to reduce stress as well, as stress may be a major inhibitor to fertility. There are numerous benefits of acupuncture and it is often helpful to speak with a specialist to learn more about what this treatment may do and what to expect during and after treatment.
In one study involving 28 men with idiopathic infertility, meaning the cause was unknown, who were given acupuncture two times a week for five weeks, motility levels were improved in men who received acupuncture compared to those who did not. Those who received acupuncture also saw changes in sperm structure and quality of sperm.
Men whose sperm quality, motility or count may be in question may find acupuncture a helpful treatment. What's more, in cases in which the cause of infertility is unknown, acupuncture may be recommended as well. Simply reducing stress may be helpful in some cases and may lead to success.
For many, acupuncture may be recommended in cases of endometriosis, PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), poor egg quality, low ovarian reserve, advanced age, recurrent miscarriage and others. Men with low sperm count or sperm DNA fragmentation may be encouraged to give acupuncture a try. What's more, acupuncture may be recommended for couples or individuals who are undergoing infertility treatment such as in vitro fertilization or other assisted reproductive technologies.

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