Conventional Medical Views

Infertility is defined arbitrarily as the inability of a couple to conceive within 12 months, despite having unprotected intercourse. By definition this affects up to 15% of couples. Absolute infertility is rare and for most couples a diagnosis of reduced fertility is made.

In about 10-25% of couples who are referred for investigation, no physical abnormalities are detected.

Despite normal ovulation and healthy semen, conception does not occur. There is no agreed conventional explanation for this problem although some specialists suggest that this form of infertility may be due to a defect in the development of the corpus luteum. In 40% of cases there is some problem with the semen and in up to 60% of cases the woman is found to have some abnormalities. In up to 25% of cases both partners may have a condition which contributes to the infertility.

Defective Semen

The quantity and quality of spermatozoa is deficient. Most cases are due to a reduced number of normal spermatozoa (low sperm count). This maybe as a result of past infection with the mumps virus, late descent of testes or treatment with anti-cancer drugs.

Absence of ovulation

is the cause of between 5-25% of infertility cases (anovulation). 

Anovulatory cycles

May increase in frequency from ongoing stress, poor diet and over-exercise. A period of anovulation can follow the withdrawal from long term prescriptions of hormonal based contraceptives or may occur due to ovarian damage from surgery, drugs and polycystic ovary syndrome.

Defects of the corpus Luteum  

A fertilised egg fails to implant because of a poorly developed endometrium in the second half of the cycle.

Fallopian tube damage

Most commonly due to scarring and adhesions resulting from Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). Also from ectopic pregnancy.

Structural problems

of the uterus or vagina including endometriosis and inherited structural defects.

Chinese Medical Views

Defective semen

is from Deficiency of Kidney Essence. Damp-Heat is also considered to be a cause in some cases.

Anovulation

may be from a deficiency of Blood and Kidney Essence. It may also result from Damp, Heat and Liver Qi Stagnation, which contribute in the development of PCOS.

Corpus Luteum defects

correspond to a deficiency of Blood and Kidney Essence.

Where no measurable causes are present by conventional medical standards, Cold, Damp and Blood Stagnation may prevent implant.

Fallopian tube damage

is Damp-Heat, Toxic Heat or Blood Stagnation.

Endometriosis

is Blood Stagnation.

Fibroids

are Blood Stagnation.

Structural Defects

are Essence Deficiency