It is estimated that one in six couples will experience difficulties with conceiving a child within a period of 12 months of unprotected sexual intercourse, with infertility being statistically represented evenly between the female, the male or a combination of both partners. A range of male and female factors may reduce the ability to conceive including polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, other menstrual disorders, poor semen quality, quantity and morphology, and a range of other endocrine, age-related and genetic conditions, while other couples do not have a diagnosis to explain their fertility challenges.
Recently, research has found that each parent’s health in the few months prior to conception may influence some health outcomes for the future child. Chinese medical and acupuncture theory has traditionally placed great importance on preconception care.
Historically, Chinese medicine and acupuncture were used as a treatment for infertility (bù yùn bù yù) and Chinese classical texts had references to painful periods (tòng jīng), vaginal discharge (dài xià), seminal emission (yí jīng) and impotence (yáng wĕi).
A systematic review involving studies including 4247 women found “that management of female infertility with Chinese herbal medicine can improve pregnancy rates 2-fold within a 3–6 month period compared with Western medical fertility drug therapy. In addition, fertility indicators such as ovulation rates, cervical mucus score, biphasic basal body temperature, and appropriate thickness of the endometrial lining were positively influenced by CHM therapy, indicating an ameliorating physiological effect conducive for a viable pregnancy.”
Parents-to-be often express that difficulty conceiving a child is a deeply stressful situation. At Acupuncture Emporium and Natural Therapy Centre we are compassionate and empathetic to each and every patient in their unique situation.
Whether you are aiming to conceive naturally or with the support of Assisted Reproductive Techniques (such as IVF and/or using donor sperm or eggs), our West End clinic offers an inclusive and supportive environment to all parents-to-be including members of the LGBTQI community.
Call 07 3844 2217 or 0490 915 628 for more information or to make an appointment at our West End or Holland Park clinics in Brisbane.