How to Boost Male Fertility
By Dr (TCM) Attilio D'Alberto | Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, Wokingham
Male factor infertility contributes to approximately 40–50% of all cases of difficulty conceiving, yet it remains significantly under-investigated and under-treated compared to female infertility. A semen analysis is the most important first step for any couple struggling to conceive — and in many cases, targeted treatment of the male partner produces the fastest improvement in the couple's overall fertility picture. In traditional Chinese medicine, male fertility is governed by kidney jing — the fundamental reproductive essence — and improving sperm quality requires nourishing this foundation.
Understanding Semen Analysis
A standard semen analysis measures sperm count (concentration), total motility (percentage of moving sperm), progressive motility (sperm moving in a forward direction), morphology (percentage of normally shaped sperm), and semen volume. WHO 2021 reference values define the lower limits of normal. It is important to know that each of these parameters can be improved with the right interventions — a poor semen analysis is not a fixed diagnosis.
The 90-Day Window
Sperm take approximately 74 days to develop from stem cells to mature sperm, plus a further 12–14 days to travel through the epididymis. This means that any lifestyle, dietary, or treatment intervention takes approximately 90 days to show its full effect in semen analysis. Starting treatment at least three months before a planned IVF cycle or natural conception attempt is therefore essential for meaningful results.
Acupuncture for Male Fertility
Research has shown that acupuncture improves sperm concentration, motility, and morphology. A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials found significant improvements in all three parameters following acupuncture treatment. The proposed mechanisms include improved testicular blood flow, reduced scrotal temperature, hormonal regulation (particularly testosterone and FSH), and reduction of oxidative stress in the testes. I treat male fertility patients weekly for a minimum of twelve weeks, with repeat semen analysis to track progress.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine is highly effective for improving semen parameters. The approach depends on the pattern identified — kidney yang deficiency produces low motility and cold presentation; kidney yin deficiency produces low count and poor morphology with signs of heat; qi and blood stagnation produces abnormal morphology and elevated DNA fragmentation. Key herbs include Tu Si Zi, Yin Yang Huo (epimedium), Gou Qi Zi, and Shu Di Huang. I prescribe bespoke formulas from pharmaceutical-grade Sun Ten granules.
Key Supplements for Male Fertility
The evidence-based supplement foundation for male fertility includes CoQ10 (ubiquinol, 400mg daily) for mitochondrial energy in sperm and sperm DNA fragmentation; zinc (25mg daily) for testosterone and sperm production; selenium (200mcg daily) for antioxidant protection; vitamin D (2,000 IU daily) for testosterone support; L-carnitine for sperm motility; and a comprehensive antioxidant including vitamins C and E, lycopene, and N-acetyl cysteine.
Lifestyle Changes
Avoiding scrotal heat (hot baths, saunas, tight underwear, laptop on lap), stopping smoking, reducing alcohol to within NHS guidelines, maintaining a healthy BMI, managing stress, and getting 7–9 hours of sleep per night each independently improve semen parameters. These changes compound the effects of acupuncture and herbal treatment.
For a full male fertility assessment, contact me or book a consultation in Wokingham.
