Past studies regarding acupuncture’s effectiveness in addressing infertility were mostly focused in female infertility. Recently, a new study published in fertility and sterility has shown that acupuncture can also be a treatment that helps boost sperm quality and production.

The study involved the participation of 28 men suffering from infertility. They were all given acupuncture treatment for five weeks twice each week. Samples of their semen were analyzed a day prior to the beginning of treatment and also after the completion of the treatment.

The semen samples after the end of treatment revealed an improvement of sperm motility from 44.5% to 50%. An increase in healthy sperm count was also observed jumping from a previous 40,000 to 200,000.

Acupuncture is noted to help balance hormones and relieve stress. It takes advantage of the energy of the body to jump start the reproductive system and rid the body of toxins.

When it comes to the treatment of male infertility, certain primary acupuncture points need to be treated. These points include KI 3 (tai hsi, bilateral), Liv 3 (tai cong, bilateral), UB 32 (xi liao, bilateral), UB 23 (shen shiu, bilateral), and Ren 4 (Guan yuan). Treatment also for secondary acupoints are used and they include Du 20 (bai hu), ST 29, gui lai, bilateral), SP 6 (san yin chiao, bilateral), SP 10 (hsue hai, bilateral), and ST 36 (shu san li, bilateral). During the procedure, the needles are inserted to a depth of around 15 to 25 mm deep, depending on the body area that is being needled. During the process of insertion the needles are manipulated for around 10 minutes to attain de qi then left inserted and undisturbed for 20 minutes more before being taken out of the body.

This shows that acupuncture can indeed be also a treatment for male infertility and is quite a sensible option to consider if you do suffer from this condition.

Ivelisse DeJongh is a Miami acupuncturist and the medical director at DeJongh Acupuncture Clinic.