Male Infertility
Also known as: male factor infertility, low sperm count, oligospermia, asthenospermia, subfertility
Male factors contribute to around half of infertility cases. Medical assessment (semen analysis, hormone testing, examination for varicocele or obstruction) comes first. Chinese medicine is used adjunctively to support sperm parameters and general reproductive health, often alongside IVF or ICSI.
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Avoid scrotal heat: hot baths, saunas, tight underwear and laptops on the lap can impair sperm production.
- •Stop smoking and limit alcohol — both are associated with poorer semen parameters.
- •Maintain a healthy weight and review anabolic steroid or testosterone use, which suppresses sperm production.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Chinese medicine does not replace urological assessment — structural causes (varicocele, obstruction) may need surgery.[]
- •Avoid strong heat moxibustion over the lower abdomen and sacrum where Damp-Heat is present.[]
- •Review herbs for interactions with fertility medications or hormone therapy.[]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can acupuncture improve sperm quality?+
Some studies suggest acupuncture may support semen parameters, but evidence is still limited. It works best as an adjunct to medical fertility assessment and treatment, typically over at least three months to match the sperm production cycle.
What lifestyle changes help male fertility?+
Avoiding scrotal heat, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding anabolic steroids are all supported by evidence. A semen analysis and medical review should come first to rule out treatable structural or hormonal causes.
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.