How Traditional Chinese Medicine Supports Fertility

Recommended by HHPCL, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) preconception support can effectively enhance fertility and increase the chances of getting pregnant, helping couples fulfill their dreams of having children.

  • Regulating the Menstrual Cycle

    TCM believes that a regular menstrual cycle is crucial for healthy egg development and successful pregnancy. TCM preconception regulation uses methods such as herbal medicine and acupuncture to regulate the endocrine system, improve irregular or anovulatory menstruation, and promote the normal release of eggs.

  • Improving Egg Quality

    TCM recognizes the importance of egg quality for successful pregnancy. TCM preconception regulation utilizes herbal medicine to balance the body's yin and yang, supplement nutrients, and improve blood circulation to enhance egg quality. Additionally, acupuncture can promote uterine blood flow, nourishing the ovaries and further improving egg quality.

  • Stabilizing Progesterone

     Progesterone is an important hormone in the body, playing a key role in ovarian function and conception. TCM preconception support can help stabilize progesterone secretion to ensure proper functioning of the corpus luteum during pregnancy.

  • Enhancing Uterine Endometrium

    TCM recognizes the significance of the uterine endometrium for conception and embryo implantation. TCM preconception support can help improve the thickness and quality of the endometrium, providing a favorable environment for embryo implantation and development.

  • Acupuncture Therapy

     Research has shown that acupuncture can have a positive impact on fertility. TCM preconception support utilizes acupuncture to promote uterine blood circulation, improve overall physical condition, and support conception. During acupuncture sessions, practicing abdominal breathing and relaxation techniques can further facilitate the chances of getting pregnant.

TCM Support for Conceiving at an Advanced Maternal Age

In modern times, women are increasingly having children at later stages of their lives. However, after the age of 40, egg quality tends to decline, and the risk of miscarriage may increase. TCM can address this concern. In clinical TCM treatments, practitioners accurately diagnose the constitution of women of advanced maternal age who face difficulties in conceiving and prescribe appropriate herbal formulas to regulate their constitution, strengthen the foundation, and support a healthy pregnancy. If there has been a history of miscarriage, TCM attributes it to the individual's innate and acquired constitution, possibly due to insufficient innate kidney qi, which leads to a deficiency of kidney essence and qi. TCM support for conception at an advanced maternal age requires targeted treatment accordingly.

Overall, TCM support for conception at an advanced maternal age focuses on regulating the liver, spleen, and kidneys, providing the necessary nourishment and minimizing the risk of miscarriage. In addition to TCM support, women of advanced maternal age should also pay attention to their diet, avoid excessive consumption of cold and cool foods, and increase intake of zinc and vitamin E, among other nutrients. By combining these approaches with TCM support, women of advanced maternal age can increase their chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.

Important Steps in Traditional Chinese Medicine Preconception Support

From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) on conception, it believes that "the kidneys govern reproduction," meaning that kidney function directly affects the reproductive system and influences fertility. In TCM theory, the kidneys are responsible for regulating the secretion of reproductive hormones, adjusting the function of reproductive organs, and maintaining the overall health of the reproductive system. TCM preconception theory suggests that if kidney function is insufficient or weak, it can reduce a woman's fertility. To enhance the chances of conception, TCM preconception support emphasizes the protection and regulation of kidney health to aid in fertility.

  • Overall Body Regulation

    The first step in TCM preconception support is to regulate the entire body, with the primary goal of improving overall Qi and blood circulation, particularly by regulating the functions of the liver, spleen, and kidneys.

  • Menstrual Regulation

    The second step in TCM preconception support is to regulate the menstrual cycle. A woman's menstrual cycle is related to the Chongmai, Renmai, and Dumai meridians. Normal menstruation indicates smooth Qi and blood flow. TCM preconception support recommends observing the menstrual cycle, body temperature, and blood color, as a regular menstrual cycle and ovulation pattern contribute to improved fertility.

  • Warming the Uterus

    TCM preconception theory includes the concept of "uterine coldness causing infertility," suggesting that uterine coldness may affect conception. The third step in TCM preconception support is to warm the uterus using methods such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, and moxibustion.

  • Nourishing Qi and Calming the Mind

    TCM preconception support emphasizes the impact of jealousy on fertility, referring to women who are prone to anxiety and nervousness, which can lead to liver Qi stagnation and affect fertility. Therefore, TCM preconception support recommends cultivating a positive mindset, relaxing the body and mind, and stabilizing emotions.

These are the important directions in TCM preconception support and fertility regulation. Providing a healthy environment for the fetus is beneficial for successful conception. However, individual constitutions and needs may vary, so it is recommended to consult a TCM practitioner from HHPCL, who specializes in TCM preconception support, to develop a personalized TCM preconception plan.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Preconception Recommended Food Therapy

Many couples are interested in finding secret formulas from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners. Here are some TCM secret formulas shared by TCM doctors, utilizing commonly used Chinese herbs and ingredients for treating infertility to help women conceive more easily. TCM preconception recommended food therapy includes ingredients such as Dodder seed, Goji berries, Dong Quai, Red dates, Astragalus root, White peony root, Szechuan lovage rhizome, and Rehmannia root.

  • TCM Preconception Recommended Food Therapy 1: Four Substances Soup with Dong Quai

    Ingredients: 15g Dong Quai, 15g White peony root, 10g Szechuan lovage rhizome, 15g Rehmannia root, 10g Goji berries, 15g Astragalus root, 6-8 Red dates (pitted), 1 free-range chicken.

    Benefits: Nourishes and harmonizes the blood, regulates Qi and blood, strengthens the body. Suitable for consumption by women during the preconception period.

    Preparation: Wash all the ingredients. Put all the ingredients in a pot with 500ml of water and bring to a boil. Simmer over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes.

  • TCM Preconception Recommended Food Therapy 2: Goji Berry and Red Date Tea

    Ingredients: 15g Goji berries, 10 Red dates (pitted), 1 scallion (white part, cut into sections), 3 slices of ginger.

    Benefits: Nourishes the liver and kidneys, enhances the immune system.

    Preparation: Wash all the ingredients. Peel and wash the free-range chicken, then cut it into pieces and blanch in boiling water. Put all the ingredients in a pot, add water, and simmer for 2-3 hours.

These TCM secret formulas are for reference only and should not be compared with personalized TCM treatments and therapies. Since everyone's constitution is different, if you have any questions, it is advisable to consult a TCM practitioner from HHPCL and understand your constitution before consuming them.

Common Questions about Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Preconception

1. What are the constitutions that make it difficult to conceive in TCM preconception?

In TCM preconception, the following are some constitutions that make it difficult to conceive:

Yin deficiency constitution: This refers to a constitution with insufficient Yin energy and excessive Yang energy. It may manifest as menstrual irregularities, scanty menstrual flow, ovulation issues, etc. Women with a Yin deficiency constitution may face difficulties in conceiving.

Liver stagnation constitution: This constitution is caused by emotional depression and high stress leading to stagnant Liver Qi. Liver stagnation can cause menstrual irregularities and hinder ovulation, reducing the chances of successful conception.

Blood stasis constitution: This constitution refers to poor blood circulation. It may result in symptoms such as irregular periods and blood clots, affecting the health of the uterine endometrium. Women with a blood stasis constitution may encounter difficulties in conceiving.

Spleen and stomach weakness constitution: This constitution indicates an unhealthy function of the spleen and stomach. The spleen and stomach play crucial roles in nutrient absorption and transformation. If their functions are weak, it may affect nutrient absorption and the supply of nutrients to the embryo. Women with this constitution may face difficulties in conceiving.

Weak essence and Qi constitution: This usually refers to insufficient essence and Qi in males. Essence and Qi are considered vital for fertility in TCM. If a male has weak essence and Qi, it may affect the quality and quantity of sperm, making conception difficult.

Through TCM preconception recommended treatments and adjustments from HHPCL, it is possible to improve and regulate these constitutions that make it difficult to conceive, increasing the chances of successful conception.

2. Does TCM preconception guarantee results?

Although TCM preconception often has positive effects, it does not guarantee 100% success. The goal of TCM preconception is to balance Yin and Yang in the body, promote overall health, and increase the chances of conception. TCM preconception treatments can provide professional assistance, but their effectiveness is influenced by various factors, including individual health conditions, lifestyle habits, age, and the partner's health. Therefore, TCM preconception cannot provide a guarantee of conception.

3. How long does TCM preconception treatment take?

The duration of TCM preconception treatment varies depending on individual factors such as constitution, lifestyle habits, and underlying health issues. TCM practitioners will develop a medium to long-term preconception treatment plan, which generally ranges from several months to a year.

4. Can TCM preconception improve the success rate of in vitro fertilization (IVF)?

Research has shown that TCM preconception can improve the success rate of in vitro fertilization (IVF). Combining traditional TCM preconception with IVF increases the chances of success in the IVF process. However, each person's constitution, health condition, and causes of infertility are different, so the effectiveness of TCM preconception can vary from person to person.

5. Can I still see a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner during pregnancy? Will TCM preconception treatment affect the fetus?

Chinese herbal medicine is natural and safe, so there are no issues with seeing a TCM practitioner during pregnancy. TCM preconception treatment will not affect the fetus. In fact, TCM preconception treatment can address common discomfort symptoms experienced by women during pregnancy, such as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and constipation. It can also effectively manage symptoms like fetal movement discomfort, vaginal bleeding, and abdominal pain during pregnancy.

6. What dietary restrictions are recommended during TCM preconception?

Here are some dietary restrictions recommended during TCM preconception:

Avoid consuming raw and cold foods: TCM believes that cold foods may cause uterine contractions. Therefore, it is advised to avoid consuming raw and cold foods and beverages, such as ice cream and iced drinks.

Reduce seafood intake: It is recommended to consume less seafood like shrimp, crab, and shellfish during TCM preconception. Seafood is considered cold in nature and may trigger skin allergies.

Avoid spicy and stimulating foods: Spicy foods can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and cause discomfort. It is advised to avoid spicy condiments and foods, such as chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns.

Avoid greasy foods: Greasy foods can lead to indigestion and bloating, putting additional pressure on the stomach. TCM preconception recommends choosing light and easily digestible foods, such as vegetables, fruits, and brown rice.

Limit caffeine intake: Excessive caffeine intake can have adverse effects on the fetus. It is recommended to reduce consumption of caffeinated beverages.

7. How can men cooperate with TCM preconception recommendations?

Men can cooperate with TCM preconception recommendations by making adjustments to their diet and lifestyle to increase the chances of conception. It is beneficial to consume foods rich in zinc, such as oysters, beef, and lamb, to enhance sperm activity. Additionally, foods containing arginine, such as squid, peanuts, and walnuts, can help increase sperm quantity. It is also important for men to avoid staying up late, maintain a good sleep schedule, and keep their reproductive system healthy.

8. What does "clearing fetal toxins" mean in TCM preconception treatment?

"Clearing fetal toxins" in TCM preconception treatment refers to the elimination of toxins or dampness from the body to maintain the healthy development of the fetus. According to TCM theories related to pregnancy, the presence of dampness, heat, blood stasis, or other harmful substances in a pregnant woman's body can negatively impact the growth and development of the fetus. If a pregnant woman experiences issues such as acne, rashes, bad breath, mouth ulcers, constipation, dark urine, dry mouth and tongue, itchy skin, edema, or high blood pressure, it may indicate the need for clearing fetal toxins.

9. Why are there frequent changes in Chinese herbal medicine during TCM preconception treatment?

The reason for frequent changes in Chinese herbal medicine during TCM preconception treatment is that a pregnant woman's constitution and physiological changes vary during different stages of pregnancy. These changes include hormonal fluctuations and fetal growth. These changes may render the previously used herbal medicine less suitable, so TCM preconception treatment is adjusted accordingly. Additionally, pregnant women may experience different symptoms and discomforts during pregnancy, and TCM preconception treatment will select different herbs to alleviate those symptoms.

10. What soup-based dietary therapy is recommended during TCM preconception for maintaining a healthy pregnancy?

There are several Chinese herbs with the function of maintaining a healthy pregnancy, such as Eucommia bark (Du Zhong). Here is a recommended soup-based dietary therapy called "Eucommia Chicken Soup":

TCM Preconception Recommended Dietary Therapy: Eucommia Chicken Soup

Ingredients: 15g Eucommia bark, 15g Codonopsis root (Dang Shen), 15g Lily bulb, 15g Bamboo shavings, 15g Chinese Dodder seed (Tu Si Zi), 5-8 Chinese dates (pitted), 1 black-boned chicken (skin removed and cut into pieces).

Effects: Tonifies Qi, invigorates the spleen, and nourishes the kidneys.

Preparation: Wash all the ingredients. Blanch the black-boned chicken in boiling water. Put all the ingredients into a pot, add water, and simmer for 2 hours.