Men, Sperm & Fertility Health

Did you know that male factor contributes to approximately 50% of all cases of infertility?
By the age of 35, a typical male is about 50% as fertile as he was at age of 30.

Male factor is the primary/sole cause in about 20% of couples and a significant contributing factor in 20-40% of couples experiencing reproductive problems.

It is interesting, then, that the overwhelming majority of fertility patients are women.  Remembering that a healthy pregnancy and baby require both healthy eggs AND healthy sperm, the male factor involved needs to be addressed as well.

Infertility (male) is defined as inability to fertilize the ovum.  Sterility is defined as lack of sperm production, or azoopermira.
Male infertility responds well to acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), while Sterility is beyond the scope of TCM.

Healthy sperm requires a combination of factors:

• Sperm Count (adequate production of spermatozoa by the testis)
• Motility (speed & ability to swim straight through seminal tract to the ovum/egg)
• Morphology (shape; ability to penetrate the ovum)
• Strong DNA, so that defragmentation of DNA does not occur

The health of both partners should be addressed to ensure the healthiest pregnancy and, of course, children.  Remember, getting pregnant is just the beginning of the process!  A healthy pregnancy and a healthy child – these are the true goals.

Studies have shown that acupuncture, herbs and nutrition can substantially improve the health and quality of sperm.  I do not recommend taking supplements and/or herbs on your own, without the guidance of an experienced practitioner, as you could be doing yourself a great disservice.  Taking too much of a nutrient can damage sperm as much as having too little of that nutrient.  It is a delicate balance and your particular requirements should be considered.

By identifying and correcting your unique problems, your fertility potential and your future child’s health will be optimized.

Please read this article for more information on how viable sperm levels are plummeting.

Please read this list of zinc-rich foods; important for improving motility and morphology.