It Takes Two

Ah yes, that old adage….

Healthy sperm, is an important piece of the reproductive puzzle. Unfortunately, the health of these little swimmers can, and often is, neglected in the quest for optimal reproductive health. When preparing for conception and a healthy baby, it is equally important for the man to nurture his physical and mental well- being as it is for the women.

A recently published cross-sectional study involving 1,221 young Danish men investigated the associations between alcohol consumption and semen quality and reproductive hormones. Not surprisingly, it was indicated that sperm concentration, count and percentage of normal morphology are negatively associated with increased habitual alcohol intake. The researchers concluded that even modest habitual alcohol consumption has adverse effects on semen quality. Here is a link to the research.

Where to turn for help? In addition to providing individual-specific nutritional, supplement and herbal support, Traditional Chinese Medicine can help enhance reproductive health by addressing lifestyle choices.

Acupuncture, a simple and non-invasive treatment, has been shown to:

• Significantly increase sperm production
•  Increase the percentage of healthy sperm
• Improve sperm movement/motility
• Improve the level of hormones responsible for fertility
• Increase the rate of pregnancy when used in conjunction with assisted reproductive technology
• Reduce stress levels

For more resources please visit:
 

• The men’s Fertility Website www.mensfe.net
• The Victoria Fertility Centre www.victoriafertility.com
• Men’s health Information www.mens.health-info.org