Fertility is a delicate balance of physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach to support fertility by nurturing the body and mind.
Here are practical tips based on TCM principles to help you on your journey.
1. Avoid Iced Beverages and Foods
Cold temperatures can constrict blood flow and impair the warmth needed for optimal uterine function. TCM emphasises the importance of keeping the body warm to promote blood circulation and energy flow, particularly in the reproductive organs. Opt for room-temperature or warm drinks and meals. (Lyttleton, 2013)
2. Wear Socks and Keep Covered
Keeping your feet , waist and low back covered/warm is essential in TCM, as cold can deplete the energy (Qi) of your Kidneys, which are vital for reproductive health. An important Acupuncture point on the Kidnet channel is on the soles of the feet. Wear socks even indoors and ensure your abdomen and lower back are covered, especially in colder weather (Wang et al., 2018).
3. Prioritise Warm, Cooked Foods
Easily digestible meals like soups, stews, and congees/porridges provide nourishment and support digestive health (Spleen Qi). Cold, raw foods, such as salads and smoothies, can tax the digestive system, so balance your diet with cooked options that warm the body from within (Lyttleton, 2013).
4. Bone Broth for Vitality
Bone broth is a nutrient powerhouse that supports gut health and gut lining, nourishes the blood, and strengthens overall vitality. Sip on warm bone broth regularly to boost your fertility foundation. Use organic/free-range animal bones where possible.
5. Support Kidney Health
In TCM, the Kidneys are considered the foundation of life and reproduction. Strengthen Kidney energy with practices like Acupuncture, adequate rest, and a diet rich in nutrient-dense foods such as black beans, walnuts, and seaweed (Huang et al., 2017). Add good quality salt such as Celtic Sea Salt to your diet.
6. Incorporate Fertility-Boosting Foods
Certain foods are celebrated in TCM for their fertility-enhancing properties. Include:
Red meats and organ meats: Nourish blood and Qi.
Eggs: Symbol of fertility and rich in nutrients.
Dark leafy greens: Packed with folate and iron.
Pomegranate juice: Supports blood flow to the uterus (Liu et al., 2020).
Goji Berries: Nourish blood
7. Use Herbs Wisely
Dandelion tea can help with a gentle Liver detox. Herbs like Dong Quai, Chaste Tree Berry, and Chinese Yam are often used to enhance fertility, but they should be tailored to your individual needs. Always consult a licensed TCM Herbalist before starting any herbal regimen.
8. Minimise Environmental Toxins
Environmental toxins can disrupt hormonal balance and burden the liver, which plays a critical role in hormone metabolism. Consider these steps:
Avoid aluminium-based deodorants: Aluminium can interfere with endocrine function. Opt for natural alternatives (Johnson et al., 2021). “No Pong”, Weleda, Mukti are some brands that I recommend.
Filter fluoride from drinking water: Excess fluoride may impair thyroid function, which is essential for hormonal balance (Green et al., 2020). Zazen Water, WatersCo are some brands that I recommend.
Avoid non-stick (Teflon) coated cookware: Non-stick coatings can release harmful chemicals that affect liver health. Use stainless steel or cast iron instead (Taylor et al., 2020).
Limit plastic use: Plastics, especially those containing BPA, can disrupt hormone function. Use glass or stainless steel for food storage (Johnson et al., 2021).
Avoid Polyester clothing and/or underwear where possible: Boody is a brand that I recommend. Avoid synthetic fragrances: These often contain phthalates, which can mimic hormones and disrupt the endocrine system. Opt for fragrance-free or naturally scented products, including perfumes, creams, scent diffusers, and candles (Steinemann, 2019). Tinderbox and HalkaB are two brands that I recommend. I recommend using natural bees wax candles and candles made using natural fragrances.
9. Understand the Impact of Oral Contraceptives (OCP)
Prolonged use of OCPs can deplete the body’s nutrient stores and disrupt natural hormonal rhythms (Taylor et al., 2019). This can put your womb and cycle in a type of stasis. If you’re transitioning off OCPs, work with a practitioner to support your body’s recovery with a Naturopath and Acupuncturist. Stop taking OCP as much in advance as possible.
10. Manage Stress
Levels Stress can significantly impact fertility by disrupting hormonal harmony. Stress stagnates the Liver Qi, impacting the flow of the whole body. Incorporate stress-reducing practices like Yoga, Tai Chi, or journaling into your daily routine, also consider having regular Reiki sessions. Balancing rest and work, will help facilitate a better Yin and Yang balance too.
11. Practice Meditation and Mindfulness
Meditation can improve emotional well-being and reduce the mental stressors that may interfere with fertility. Regular mindfulness practices can create a calmer, more balanced environment for conception (Harris et al., 2020). Start with 10 minute guided meditations and build upon them, if you find meditation challenging. I also recommend using this time to practice creating visualisations of your desired outcome and future family. Take some time to feel into exactly what is it that you want and how you want the future to look for you.
12. Regular Acupuncture Sessions
Acupuncture helps balance your body’s energy, reduce stress, and improve blood flow to the reproductive organs. Regular Acupuncture is great for both partners. Regular treatments can regulate menstrual cycles, enhance ovulation, and support overall fertility health (Kim et al., 2018). The treatment plan will be unique to the individual but usually looks like weekly, fortnightly or monthly sessions.
How Acupuncture Supports Male Fertility: For men, Acupuncture can improve sperm quality, including count, motility, and morphology, by enhancing blood flow to the reproductive organs and reducing oxidative stress. It also addresses underlying imbalances such as stress or hormonal irregularities, supporting overall reproductive health (Dieterle et al., 2009).
Fertility care is unique to each individual, and TCM emphasises tailoring dietary and lifestyle recommendations to your constitution. By nurturing your body and mind with these time-tested practices, you create a strong foundation for growth and vitality. For personalised guidance, consult a licensed TCM practitioner.
Jasmine Vogel - BHSc (Acupuncture)
Blue Wren Acupuncture, Mount Nasura, Western Australia

References:
Dieterle, S., et al. (2009). The role of acupuncture in the treatment of male infertility. Fertility and Sterility, 92(6), 2000-2007.
Green, A., et al. (2020). Fluoride exposure and thyroid function: Implications for hormonal health. Environmental Toxicology, 35(4), 456-465.
Harris, P., et al. (2020). Meditation and mindfulness for reproductive health. Mind-Body Medicine Quarterly, 6(1), 45-52.
Huang, L., et al. (2017). Kidney health and reproductive energy in TCM. Chinese Medicine Journal, 31(2), 78-85.
Johnson, A., et al. (2021). Environmental toxins and endocrine health. Global Health Perspectives, 15(2), 101- 112.
Kim, S. H., et al. (2018). Acupuncture and fertility outcomes: A meta-analysis. Acupuncture Research International, 12(5), 234-240.
Lyttleton, J. (2013). Treatment of infertility with Chinese medicine (2nd ed.). Churchill Livingstone. Liu, X., et al. (2020). Pomegranate’s role in uterine health. Nutrition and Fertility Review, 11(2), 56-64.
Steinemann, A. (2019). Fragranced consumer products: Sources of emissions, exposures, and health effects. Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health, 12(3), 259-271.
Taylor, M., et al. (2019). Recovery post-oral contraceptive use. Hormonal Health Journal, 8(3), 89-96.
Taylor, M., et al. (2020). The impact of non-stick cookware on liver health. Environmental Health Review, 14(2), 98-105.
Wang, Y., et al. (2018). The role of warmth in reproductive health. TCM Health Perspectives, 10(4), 147-154
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