Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Role

For months or even years, you’ve likely held one fervent desire: to see those two pink lines indicating a positive pregnancy test. Each month, your hopes soar, only to be dashed when your menstrual cycle begins.

Since 1993, Golden Gate Fertility Centre has been dedicated to supporting women and men on their arduous infertility journeys. Our physicians utilize acupuncture, herbal remedies, and other traditional therapies to offer alternative treatments, emphasizing a holistic perspective rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). TCM views the body as a unified ecosystem comprising the mind, body, and spirit. Any disruption or malfunction within this ecosystem can impede natural conception. While addressing physical factors such as reproductive organs and hormones, TCM recognizes the interconnected nature of these elements, highlighting the need for seamless coordination to create the ideal conditions for pregnancy.

Our experienced TCM practitioners at Golden Gate Chinese Medicine are unwavering in their commitment to helping you regain your fertility. Through acupuncture and herbal remedies, we collaborate with you to enhance your chances of conceiving, all while nurturing your overall well-being, from the pregnancy stage to childbirth. This article delves into TCM’s holistic approach, outlining how acupuncture, herbal medicine, and nutrition can play pivotal roles in boosting fertility.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) role in sub-fertility treatment?

Infertility impacts 1 in every 6 couples, and for that one couple facing an infertility diagnosis, it can be an incredibly challenging experience, particularly for women. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced energy flow along the meridians, the body’s energy pathways, leading to the reproductive organs. In the realm of fertility, the Kidney, Liver, and Spleen are the three vital organ systems involved. By seeking treatments at Golden Gate facilities in Malaysia to support these organs and harmonize the energy flow, your body’s natural hormone production will improve, thereby increasing your likelihood of conceiving.

The skilled fertility practitioners at TCM clinics address fertility issues at their root. Their treatment plans have a singular goal: to enhance your chances of achieving a natural conception. However, to achieve this objective, the initial step involves addressing the underlying causes of infertility.

What causes sub-fertility, from the perspective of TCM?

For centuries, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been a trusted approach for addressing fertility problems. It is widely employed not only in Malaysia but also in various countries around the world. Fertility challenges can stem from diverse sources, including issues related to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, such as conditions like endometriosis, hormonal imbalances like PCOS, autoimmune disorders, or sperm abnormalities. In some cases, the causes remain elusive, subjecting couples to a cycle of extensive testing, diagnosis, and often, disappointment.

Regarding women’s infertility, TCM identifies imbalances in the four key organ systems – Kidney, Liver, Spleen, and Heart, along with Yin, Yang, Qi, and Blood. These imbalances are typically a result of excess or deficient energy. TCM for fertility strives to restore these systems to their natural state, where they can efficiently distribute essential energies throughout the body and ultimately revive natural fertility. Here are some of the factors contributing to infertility in TCM philosophy:

Stress

Maintaining a stress-free and composed state can be challenging, especially when attempting to conceive amidst hectic work routines and a fast-paced lifestyle. The added pressure faced by women in their 30s to 40s doesn’t make it any easier. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), stress is closely linked to Liver Qi stagnation, manifesting as irritability, frequent sighing, chest tightness, or PMS symptoms. It’s a biological reaction to perceived threats or an inability to adapt effectively to one’s surroundings, triggering a “fight or flight” survival mode. Excessive worry, burnout, overexercise, or sleep deprivation often serve as sources of stress, hindering the utilization of progesterone, which has an impact on fertility. Stress elevates cortisol levels, diverting blood flow away from reproductive organs toward the brain and muscles.

In the context of women’s infertility, TCM recognizes imbalances in the four primary organ systems – Kidney, Liver, Spleen, and Heart, in conjunction with Yin, Yang, Qi, and Blood. These imbalances often result from an excess or deficiency of energy. TCM fertility treatments are designed to restore these systems to their natural state, facilitating the distribution of vital energies throughout the body and ultimately rejuvenating natural fertility. Here are some of the infertility factors as per TCM philosophy:

Irregular diet

Your diet can impact ovulation, which is a crucial factor in fertility. Irregular or absent ovulation is a common cause of infertility since it governs the hormonal processes that release a woman’s egg for potential fertilization each month. Neglecting your diet increases the risk of irregular ovulation. One of Golden Gate’s approaches to natural solution – TCM nutritional therapy, as part of our practitioners’ fertility plan, is designed to address dietary deficiencies and ensure your body receives the necessary nourishment. This may involve consuming more warming foods and chewing them thoroughly to support the energy of the Spleen.

In the context of women’s infertility, TCM recognizes imbalances in the four primary organ systems – Kidney, Liver, Spleen, and Heart, in conjunction with Yin, Yang, Qi, and Blood. These imbalances can result from excess or deficiency of energy, and TCM fertility treatments aim to restore these systems to their natural state, facilitating the distribution of vital energies throughout the body, ultimately rejuvenating natural fertility. Here are some of the infertility factors according to TCM philosophy:

Effects from our environment

TCM emphasizes the importance of achieving a harmonious state of both mind and body for optimal conditions conducive to natural conception. However, residing in an industrialized environment, where various toxic chemicals pervade the air, can have adverse effects on your health and fertility. These chemicals, known as endocrine disruptors, can infiltrate your system and mimic hormones, disrupting your natural hormonal balance and impeding your fertility process. It’s crucial to minimize exposure to these endocrine-disrupting chemicals by avoiding cosmetics, perfumes, and plastic food containers. In Malaysia, TCM practitioners employ herbal medicines to support liver detoxification and provide dietary guidance to enhance your fertility.

Concerning women’s infertility, TCM identifies potential imbalances in the four primary organ systems – Kidney, Liver, Spleen, and Heart, in conjunction with Yin, Yang, Qi, and Blood. These imbalances can result from excess or deficiency of energy, and TCM fertility treatments are designed to restore them to their natural state, facilitating the distribution of vital energies throughout the body and ultimately rejuvenating natural fertility. Here are some of the infertility factors as per TCM philosophy:

Lifestyle habits

Enhancing your overall well-being involves assessing your lifestyle choices. This entails discontinuing habits like drinking and smoking and replacing them with more physical activity in your daily routine. Incorporating exercises like Ba Duan Jin or Yoga can be a step toward harmonizing your body’s energy. Learning to heed your body’s signals doesn’t require a lifetime of practice, and TCM practitioners posit that hormonal imbalances are often linked to an agitated “shen” (the spirit within your heart), whether it’s overactive or underactive. To rectify this imbalance, your TCM practitioner will recommend suitable dietary changes and exercise regimens to boost your fertility prospects.

Regarding women’s infertility, TCM identifies potential imbalances in the four key organ systems – Kidney, Liver, Spleen, and Heart, along with Yin, Yang, Qi, and Blood. These imbalances may arise from an excess or deficiency of energy, and TCM fertility treatments are designed to restore them to their natural state, facilitating the distribution of vital energies throughout the body and ultimately rejuvenating natural fertility. Here are some of the infertility factors as perceived in TCM philosophy:

Can acupuncture help solve my sub-fertility issue and increase my chances of getting pregnant?

Following the diagnosis by your TCM practitioner, a strategy will be devised to reestablish equilibrium within your body through acupuncture. The process of using acupuncture for fertility entails the insertion of needles into your body’s acupoints to release blocked energy hindering the restoration of your body’s natural balance. This, in turn, will enhance the fertility process over time.

It clears blocked energies and restores balance

The human body consists of meridians, known as energy pathways, with each meridian corresponding to an organ and containing specific acupuncture points, each serving unique purposes. These points are essential for revitalizing various bodily functions, including the reproductive system. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), an energy imbalance is thought to disrupt the body’s ability to ovulate and manage hormonal variations. The gentle placement of slender, sterile, and disposable needles, as performed by Golden Gate clinics in Malaysia, stimulates the body’s 14 primary pathways, facilitating the restoration of this equilibrium and the improvement of fertility.

It complements Western fertility treatments

In TCM clinics, herbal treatments and prescribed remedies are frequently combined with ongoing acupuncture sessions. This synergy reinforces and harmonizes the body’s hormonal systems. The insertion of acupuncture needles generates a micro electric current upon contact, leading to the release of prostaglandins into the bloodstream. This, in turn, triggers the brain’s control over hormonal functions. Consequently, acupuncture can promote the hormonal system, benefiting both women’s and men’s fertility. Consistent acupuncture sessions, whether during natural conception or assisted reproductive technology (ART), can enhance your prospects of achieving pregnancy.

It boosts the efficiency of reproductive organs

TCM fertility treatment can be likened to preparing fertile soil in a garden. The better nourished and hydrated it is, the greater the likelihood of the seed flourishing. Acupuncture contributes to enhancing energy flow and delivering essential nutrients to optimize the functionality of reproductive organs. The acupuncture points primarily found on the lower abdomen, legs, and arms are intricately connected to the three principal organ systems—Kidney, Liver, and Spleen—that are pivotal in fertility.

Can TCM help to reduce the chances of miscarriage when I am pregnant?

As an expecting mother, the journey towards welcoming your baby into the world demands ongoing care and vigilant attention throughout pregnancy. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments don’t cease once pregnancy is achieved; rather, they persist to enhance and maintain your well-being during your maternal journey.

From a TCM standpoint, infertility treatments aim not only to boost the likelihood of conception but also to promote maternal health during pregnancy. The advantages of receiving TCM acupuncture throughout your pregnancy are:

Helps prevent miscarriages

Particularly for women undergoing IUI or IVF, it is both safe and advisable to continue acupuncture until the end of the first trimester in order to stabilize the pregnancy.

Cope with morning sickness

Morning sickness is a discomforting pregnancy symptom experienced by many expectant mothers, and despite its name, it can occur at any time of the day. Symptoms can vary but often involve a reduced appetite, bouts of nausea, and vomiting. You can rely on consistent acupuncture to help alleviate these symptoms.

Alleviates body aches

Acupuncture is effective in relieving pregnancy-related aches and pains. Treatment will be administered with caution to avoid any acupuncture points that are not recommended during pregnancy.

Support pregnancy fatigue

Fatigue is a commonly experienced symptom among pregnant women. This fatigue arises from your body adapting to the additional energy demands required for nourishing your baby, forming the placenta, and accommodating hormonal changes.

When Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) meet Modern Medicine

In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) represent two prominent approaches within the realm of Assisted Reproductive Therapy (ART) designed to assist couples facing fertility challenges. Both of these methods have demonstrated their effectiveness, with numerous successful cases reported by couples worldwide. In IUI treatment, the primary objective is to provide sperm with a favorable environment for reaching the fallopian tubes, thereby increasing the chances of fertilization. On the other hand, in IVF, the fertilization of sperm and eggs occurs under the supervision of an embryologist before the resulting embryos are transferred into the uterus. Although the techniques may vary, both share the ultimate goal of facilitating conception, and both can be complemented by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments.

TCM has played a significant role in supporting IVF since 2002, when a team of German researchers first observed increased clinical pregnancy rates associated with the inclusion of acupuncture in the IVF process. The results showed that pregnancies aided by acupuncture reached a notable 42.5%, whereas the control group, which did not receive acupuncture, achieved a rate of 26.3%. Consequently, TCM aligns with Western medicine in pursuing a common goal of enhancing women’s health and optimizing energy flow to elevate fertility levels.

Can TCM improve the IVF success rate?

An IVF procedure typically spans several weeks to a few months, contingent upon your specific circumstances. This process encompasses ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, sperm retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer. For optimal IVF preparation, we advise beginning at least three months in advance. This timeline aligns with the 90-day period required for egg recruitment, allowing ample time to condition your body for IVF. However, if you’ve already initiated drug stimulations, your TCM practitioner will coordinate your acupuncture sessions to coincide with your IVF schedule. It is typically recommended to have acupuncture twice a week, with the final session concluding approximately 10 to 12 days after the embryo transfer procedure.

What is the role of TCM in IUI

IUI’s sperm improvement technique involves the separation of sperm from seminal fluid, enhancing sperm quality. This procedure is typically recommended when a man has a low sperm count, reduced sperm motility, or abnormal sperm morphology. It also serves as an option for cases of unexplained infertility, cervical conditions that are hostile to conception, prior cervical scarring preventing sperm access to the uterus, and ejaculation dysfunction. IUI boasts a success rate ranging from 10% to 20% per cycle, with potential for higher success when sperm and egg quality is favorable. TCM’s acupuncture and herbal treatments may further increase the likelihood of successful implantation. Similar to IVF, it is advisable to commence TCM treatments three months before to prepare and optimize the body’s condition prior to IUI. During this time, nurturing the body through a clean diet comprising organic fruits, nuts, vegetables, probiotic supplements, and high-fiber foods is recommended.

Achieving harmony in a woman’s reproductive health is vital for increased fertility and successful childbearing. However, this harmony is often disrupted by stress and anxiety, which can contribute to infertility and the risk of miscarriage. To counteract this, TCM advocates for acupuncture sessions at Malaysian clinics to enhance a woman’s well-being and promote the desired harmony in reproductive health.

What are the benefits can acupuncture give during IVF and IUI treatment?

BEFORE IVF/IUI treatment:

  • Soothes the patient and eases tension in the uterus.
  • Prepares the body to ensure it’s in optimal condition for IUI/IVF treatment.

DURING IVF/IUI treatment: (during follicle stimulation phase)

  • Reinforces the Spleen and Kidney to enhance their response to Follicle Stimulation Hormones (FSH).
  • Bolsters Liver function to increase blood flow to the ovaries and uterus, ultimately enhancing follicle quality and thickening the endometrial lining.

AFTER IUI cycle or IVF embryo transfer:

  • Enhances blood flow and alleviates stress.
  • Enhances uterine blood circulation, ensuring continued implantation and nourishment of embryos for a healthy and successful pregnancy.

Lifestyle and food that need to pay attention to during fertility treatment

In Chinese tradition, food is regarded as the primary source of our energy, and each food type possesses distinct energetic attributes. For instance, hot and spicy foods are considered “heaty” and more Yang in nature, while bitter and raw foods are deemed “cooling” and more Yin. When it comes to enhancing fertility, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) generally recommends the consumption of cooked and warming foods. This is to ensure that the digestive processes in the Spleen and Stomach are robust, enabling efficient food digestion and nutrient absorption for overall nourishment.

Equally essential is the practice of providing the body with balanced meals rich in vegetables and fruits, with a preference for organic and hormone-free meat when available. It is advisable to supplement the diet with a high-bioavailability multivitamin and mineral complex to support fertility. Certain foods, such as Chinese red dates, walnuts, and maca, are recognized for their ability to nourish Qi and Blood.

The following foods should be prioritized to address nutritional deficiencies in the body and promote optimal organ function:

TCM practitioners will also recommend that you avoid these habits:

Our TCM Fertility Specialist

In Golden Gate Fertility Centre, our doctors understand your desire to get pregnant and the tremendous stress you are facing. With our extensive knowledge in Chinese Medicine, clinical experience and knowledge in modern scientific medicine, we can help you achieve a healthy pregnancy you deserve. Make appointment now with us for FREE consultation.

What is TCM's role in male fertility issues?

When embarking on the journey of conception, it takes the involvement of both partners. As we age, the reproductive systems of both men and women naturally experience a decline, with diminishing numbers and quality of eggs and sperm. Notably, an article published last year revealed a 72% increase in male fertility cases in Malaysia between 2015 and 2017, signifying a shift from the long-standing perception that infertility primarily rests with the female partner in cases of conception challenges.

Your interaction with a TCM practitioner commences with a thorough consultation. During this process, they will meticulously assess your medical history, lifestyle choices, and dietary habits. You can anticipate that they will invest time in getting to know both you and your partner, forming a close connection centered around your shared goal of starting a family. TCM practitioners are also trained to provide emotional support, offering guidance to alleviate any emotional distress. Your personalized treatment plan, which may encompass acupuncture sessions and/or prescriptions of Chinese herbal medicine, will be tailored in accordance with your individual health history and current condition.

While success rates may vary, some research has suggested that when acupuncture is combined with other fertility treatments, such as Chinese herbal remedies, it can enhance success rates by as much as 60%.

Golden Gate Fertility Centre

Back in 1993, the inception of Golden Gate Fertility Centre marked the beginning of a journey within the larger organization, all in support of those navigating the complexities of IVF treatment. Over the past decade, our commitment has been unwavering, offering tailored assistance to both men and women in Malaysia grappling with infertility. Through the integration of acupuncture and Chinese herbal remedies, we adopt a holistic approach, delving into the root causes of infertility while considering individual needs and circumstances. When you engage in a comprehensive consultation with our practitioners, they will craft a personalized treatment plan, taking into account your health history, current lifestyle, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) assessment.

Our team of practitioners upholds a core TCM tenet, viewing healing as a holistic process that goes beyond symptom relief. Through acupuncture and herbal treatments, our aim is to elevate your overall well-being, restoring fertility and enhancing the likelihood of natural conception or supporting Western Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) procedures.

Embark on the journey to fertility through our TCM interventions. Reach out to our TCM practitioners today to schedule a consultation.