Chinese Medicine treats a whole range of gynecological issues ranging from uterine fibroids, infertility, menstrual irregularity, premenstrual syndrome and menopausal syndrome. Gynecology and obstetrics have been specialties within the field of Chinese Medicine for literally thousands of years. There has been extensive research in recent years concerning acupuncture and its effects on fertility.

• Infertility occurs when a couple has unprotected sex for at least one year and pregnancy does not result. About 25% of couples are infertile at one time in their lives and approximately 40% of cases are due to male causes. Chinese Medicine addresses infertility from both the male and female perspectives.

  When infertility is due to male factors, we encourage the couple to bring a semen analysis report. Factors that affect sperm viability include sperm count and volume, motility, liquefaction and morphology. It takes three months for the testes to produce mature sperm; after 3-4 months of acupuncture and herbal treatment, it is recommended to obtain another semen analysis report to evaluate treatment progress. Male semen factors can improve dramatically through a comprehensive treatment course of acupuncture and herbs. Lifestyle factors are also discussed; it is known that diet, smoking, heavy alcohol use and drug use are negative factors for fertility.

  Chinese Medicine is not only effective for aiding conception but also carrying a baby to term. We have found that some women have problems becoming pregnant while others have problems retaining the fetus. Some women cannot do either. If there is a non-structural cause of infertility, Chinese Medicine can be of benefit.

  The majority of our female patients are infertile due to hormonal imbalance and other gynecological problems. In situations of uterine fibroids or endometriosis, these underlying health problems must first be addressed. We recommend that conception attempts be delayed until these health concerns are first resolved.

  In cases of hormone imbalance, please come to the first appointment with a recent hormone panel. After three months, another hormone panel will be conducted to assess treatment progress. We do not recommend a patient continue fertility treatments with our clinic for over six months unless significant progress is made on lab reports or subjective health assessment.

• Premenstrual Syndrome affects approximately 1/3 of premenopausal women. Common symptoms include pain, breast tenderness, bloating, weight gain, diarrhea, skin outbreaks, mood swings, low energy and food cravings. Many PMS patients deal with their pain through over-the-counter or prescription pain medications.

  Acupuncture and herbs are very effective in treating Premenstrual Syndrome. Regulating emotions and relieving pain are usually the first steps taken in treating PMS. Most patients experience improvement in their symptoms by their first or second cycle.

• Menopause is part of the natural menstrual cycle of a woman and signals the end of menstruation. In this regard, menopause is not a disease but part of the expected change that women experience. Menopause can be premature due to ovarian failure or surgical removal of the ovaries. Chinese Medicine is helpful in alleviating the symptoms of menopause, which include hot flashes, night sweats, depression and mood swings, and drying and thinning of mucous membranes.