Infertility can have a variety of causes and sometimes it may be caused by a combination of factors.
Here are some of the most common causes of infertility:
• Ovulation disorders: These are the most common causes of infertility in women. Disorders that affect ovulation include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothalamic dysfunction, premature ovarian failure and hyperprolactinemia.
• Fallopian tube damage or blockage: Damage to the fallopian tubes can prevent fertilization and implantation of the egg. Common causes of tubal damage include pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis and prior abdominal or pelvic surgery.
• Endometriosis: This is a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation and damage to the reproductive organs.
• Uterine or cervical abnormalities: Abnormalities in the shape or structure of the uterus or cervix can affect the ability of the sperm to reach and fertilize the egg.
• Male factor infertility: Male factor infertility can be caused by low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal sperm shape or blockages in the reproductive tract.
• Age-related factors: Age can affect fertility in both men and women. Women are born with a finite number of eggs and as they age, the quantity and quality of their eggs decline. Men also experience a decline in fertility as they age.
• Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and being overweight or underweight can affect fertility.
It’s important to note that infertility can also occur without a known cause, which is referred to as unexplained infertility. In such cases, standard fertility testing does not reveal a clear cause for infertility.
Acupuncture is believed to help fertility in several ways:
• Regulating hormones: Acupuncture may help regulate the hormones involved in ovulation and improve the function of the ovaries.
• Increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs: Acupuncture may help increase blood flow to the uterus and ovaries which can improve the chances of successful fertilization and implantation.
• Reducing stress: Acupuncture has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety which can have a negative impact on fertility.
• Improving sperm quality: Acupuncture may also help improve sperm quality and motility in men.
• Enhancing the effectiveness of fertility treatments: Acupuncture can be used with fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) to enhance their effectiveness and improve pregnancy rates.