7 Common Infertility Myths Debunked & How TCM Can Help
Infertility is a deeply personal and often misunderstood journey for many couples. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), infertility affects around 17.5% of reproductive-age couples globally[1]. Despite its prevalence, misinformation and myths about infertility persist, adding unnecessary stress to an already challenging situation. In this article, we’ll debunk seven common myths about infertility and explore how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can play a supportive role in enhancing reproductive health.
Myth #1: Infertility Is Always a Woman’s Issue
Fact: Infertility affects both men and women equally.
Male infertility accounts for up to 50% of infertility cases, often due to issues such as low sperm count, poor motility, structural abnormalities or DNA fragmentation. Addressing both partners' reproductive health is essential for identifying and treating infertility effectively.
How TCM Can Help:
TCM emphasises balancing Yin and Yang to restore harmony in the body. For male infertility, acupuncture, herbal remedies such as 五子衍宗丸 (Wu Zi Yan Zong Pills), and dietary recommendations can improve sperm quality by enhancing blood flow to the reproductive organs and reducing oxidative stress. Individuals looking into infertility TCM solutions may find these practices helpful in supporting reproductive health.
Myth #2: Infertility Means You’ll Never Have a Child
Fact: Infertility does not equate to permanent sterility.
Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse. With modern treatments like IVF, lifestyle changes, and TCM, many couples eventually achieve pregnancy.
How TCM Can Help:
TCM takes a holistic approach by addressing the root cause of infertility, whether it’s hormonal imbalance, poor egg quality, or endometriosis. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, such as 当归 (Dang Gui) and 八珍汤 (Ba Zhen Decoction), work to nourish the blood, regulate menstrual cycles, and improve overall reproductive health. Many individuals turn to TCM treatments to complement conventional methods and enhance their chances of conception.
Myth #3: Stress Has Nothing to Do with Infertility
Fact: Stress plays a significant role in reproductive health.
Chronic stress can interfere with hormone production, disrupt ovulation, and reduce sperm quality. While stress alone is not the sole cause of infertility, it can exacerbate underlying issues.
How TCM Can Help:
One of TCM’s strengths is its ability to address both the physical and emotional aspects of infertility. Acupuncture, for example, is widely recognised for its ability to reduce symptoms of stress and improve blood circulation. TCM practitioners may also recommend mindfulness techniques, Qi Gong, or Tai Chi to help calm the mind and balance the body. Those seeking TCM for fertility in Singapore often find these holistic methods beneficial in managing both physical and emotional health.
Myth #4: Age Doesn’t Matter If You’re Healthy
Fact: Age is a critical factor in fertility, particularly for women.
Women are born with a finite number of eggs, and both the quantity and quality of eggs decline with age. Fertility starts to decrease in the early 30s and drops significantly after age 35[2].
How TCM Can Help:
TCM focuses on nourishing the Kidney, which is considered the foundation of reproductive health. Herbal formulas like 左归丸(Zuo Gui Pills) and acupuncture can help support ovarian function, regulate hormone levels, and improve egg quality. Starting TCM treatments early may help preserve fertility and promote overall reproductive health.
Myth #5: Lifestyle Choices Don’t Affect Fertility
Fact: Lifestyle plays a crucial role in fertility for both men and women.
Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, lack of exercise, and exposure to environmental toxins can all impair reproductive health.
How TCM Can Help:
TCM practitioners often work with patients to make healthier lifestyle choices. Recommendations may include a fertility-friendly diet (warming foods like ginger and black sesame seeds to support Yang energy), regular moderate exercise, and avoiding cold foods and drinks that can cause Qi stagnation in the uterus. Herbal formulas such as 桂枝茯苓丸 (Gui Zhi Fu Ling Pills) are also used to address uterine health and circulation.
Myth #6: Once You’ve Had a Child, Infertility Can’t Happen
Fact: Secondary infertility is a real and common issue.
Even if you’ve successfully conceived before, factors such as age, hormonal changes, or medical conditions (e.g., PCOS or endometriosis) can affect your ability to conceive again.
How TCM Can Help:
For secondary infertility, TCM looks at the body’s overall energy reserves and reproductive organ health. Acupuncture can help regulate menstrual cycles, and herbs like 益母草 (Yi Mu Cao) are often used to enhance uterine health. TCM’s individualised approach ensures that treatments are tailored to address your specific concerns.
Myth #7: Infertility Treatments Are Only About Medication or Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
Fact: There are many paths to improving fertility, including complementary therapies like TCM.
While medications and assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as IVF are essential tools, they are not the only options. TCM can complement conventional treatments to improve their success rates.
How TCM Can Help:
Acupuncture has been shown to increase IVF clinical pregnancy rates by improving blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, reducing stress, and enhancing embryo implantation. Herbs like 柴胡疏肝散 (Chai Hu Shu Gan Powder) may be prescribed to regulate Liver Qi and improve emotional well-being during the fertility journey. By addressing the whole body, TCM can support both natural and assisted conception.
Summary
Infertility can be a challenging experience, but it’s important to separate fact from fiction. By understanding the truth behind common myths and exploring holistic approaches like TCM, couples can take proactive steps toward improving their reproductive health.
Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a time-tested, natural approach to restoring balance and optimising fertility. Whether used on its own or alongside conventional treatments, TCM provides hope and support for individuals and couples striving to build their families.
If you’re struggling with infertility, a consultation with a good TCM clinic in Singapore can be an opportunity to review your well-being status, stress levels and personalise your healthcare journey. For those exploring TCM for fertility in Singapore, early intervention and customised care could make a significant difference.
[1]
https://www.who.int/news/item/04-04-2023-1-in-6-people-globally-affected-by-infertility
[2]
