Qi Blog

By: Dr. Peter Wood (Vancouver Atopic Acupuncturist)

Chronic ear infections are a common problem among infants and toddlers. Otitis media, or middle-ear infection, is more common in infants of 7 years of age and less. This is due to a delayed development in the structure of the Eustachian tube of the inner ear, combined with a comparatively lower resistance to viruses and bacteria than in adults. An increased incidence of recurrent ear infections occurs in those whose tubes are further malformed or slower to develop than the norm.
The pain associated with otitis media is due to the increased pressure put on the eardrum by blocked fluids and secreted pus. Ruptured eardrums ensue and are the catalyst for severe pain and often hearing loss.

Conventional treatment for the condition includes, once topical remedies have proven ineffective, local or systemic antibiotics, the downside of which is a vicious cycle of a compromised immune system, leading to the proclivity of further infection. The condition becomes chronic when the infections come in a rapid succession such that the eardrum is unable to heal itself. In these cases, it is indicated that a tympanostomy tube, or ‘grommet’ be inserted into the ear to provide better drainage for the built up fluids. This more invasive approach, while necessary in these cases, is itself the cause of short-term pain on insertion and eventually on removal.

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a holistic approach to treating otitis media. Herbal remedies are prescribed according to the specific presentation, but commonly contain herbs to stop the production of ‘Dampness’, that becomes ‘Phlegm’ when it reaches the ear. The other side of the treatment entails strengthening the immune system to make it more resistant to invasion by harmful viruses and bacteria. In this way, the treatment is said to treat both the ‘Branch’ – the symptoms – and the ‘Root’ – the cause of the symptoms.

An example of one such case I saw in my practice is of a boy who already had the grommets inserted into his ear but was still contracting many colds, which would still lead to some ear discomfort. It was his mother’s hope that a new procedure replacing the old tubes with new ones could be avoided. After several months of the boy’s courageous ingestion of herbal tea (we never said it would taste good), we have reached the date set to perform the grommet procedure. It has been postponed because the patient has not had pressure in the ear in over a month and has contracted relatively few colds, lasting for only a short time, never leading to an ear infection.

As in any condition, it is always my recommendation to consider a holistic approach before jumping into often more invasive conventional approaches. This could help avoid much pain and suffering now and into your child’s future. Of course, severity of the condition will ultimately dictate whether delaying such procedures is possible, and the ENT specialist should be the one to make that decision with you.

From my experience, if your child is on the vicious-cycle of antibiotics to infections, this is a good indication that it is the appropriate time to add TCM to the treatment protocol.

By: Dr. Spence Pentland (Vancouver Fertility Acupuncturist)

Testosterone is a sex hormone in men required to be able to produce sperm. It is produced primarily in the testis and is especially abundant in young men. As we age, testosterone levels naturally decline. Statistically, at the age of 50, the decline becomes more rapid and gives way to male menopause (andropause).

Yes, it’s a fact guys, we become more sensitive with age. Tears come quicker, and we really deeply cherish the important things in life, like family and love. You may go through a denial phase and buy a really inappropriate car. You may feel the need to act out in various ways in order to feel young again. Inevitably the fact remains, that you have to accept this fate or grow old and bitter, hanging onto an array of different cousins of ‘anger’ like impatience, irritability, bitterness, resentment, and just basically not enjoying life.

Whether you are trying to reproduce, or be more manly, there are many things you can do and avoid to help slow the vanishing of the ‘James Bond’ within. The following list are things that may reduce testosterone levels in men. Most can be addressed quite easily with simple lifestyle choices. It’s time to take responsibility for your male hormone health!

1. Lack of sleep. A new study in Chicago showed a drop in testosterone levels when men did not get enough sleep.

2. High stress levels. Reduce your stress, or incorporate things into your life that help alleviate the stress such as acupuncture and time in nature.

3. Marriage and children. Once you have a family, you only need enough testosterone to properly provide and protect them. This is simply a time that requires you to put others needs ahead of yours, i.e. be more sensitive.

4. Lack of exercise. Need I say more? You know who you are.

5. Plant based protein diet. In many, many respects, this is a much healthier choice, but as far as testosterone production is concerned, a little animal protein may help, especially when trying to conceive.

6. Depression. Seek help when times are tough. Put away the ego and talk to a life coach, counsellor, or doctor of traditional Chinese medicine.

7. Alcohol. Some vino with a great meal, or some spirits with a worthy celebration is just a part of living a good life. But, if alcohol is a habit in your life, it is time to check in and make a change, for so so many reasons.

8. Tobacco. Unless being used ever so occasionally for ceremonial purposes, tobacco use should be avoided.

9. Illness. More serious infections such as the mumps can have detrimental effects on testosterone levels.

10. Testosterone and human growth hormone (‘steroids’) medications. When you supplement the body with these medications, the body stops producing them itself. Shooting yourself in the foot so to speak.

11. Age. After 30 it all starts, if at all possible, make your babies earlier in life. After 50, get ready to feel more emotions guys!

12. Obesity. An epidemic that can be avoided or reversed with proper support, sustainable healthier lifestyle choices, deep commitments to change, and shining lights on the aspects of yourself that will sabotage your success.

13. Type 2 diabetes. See #12.

14. Hypertension. Again, see #12.

15. Endocrine disrupting chemicals such as phthalates. Found in common household products and packaged foods. Learn about these and avoid them at all costs.

When one takes a step back and looks at the above list of 15 things that can negatively affect male hormones, it is quite clear that most simply belong to a prescription for a healthy life wouldn’t you say?

By: Dr. Spence Pentland (Vancouver Fertility Acupuncturist)

Acupuncture is good for treating many conditions and uncomfortable issues associated with being pregnant.

Prevent miscarriage. Treatments 1-2 times per week help prevent miscarriage or early pregnancy loss by reducing the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, reducing stress, and encouraging blood flow to the developing embryo.

Spotting (sub-chorionic hematoma). Acupuncture employed with a technique called moxibustion can help reduce or eliminate bleeding from the uterus (depending on the cause).

Nausea or morning sickness. Depending on the severity of the nausea, 1-5 acupuncture treatments per week may be necessary to restore quality of life and the ability to eat. Often acupuncture is very effective for this condition, especially if combined with the knowledge and practice of keeping blood sugar levels consistent throughout the day.

Headaches. Many women experience headaches toward the end of their first trimester. Acupuncture is known better for the relief of pain than for any other ailment. If you are experiencing headaches that are not just obviously associated with dehydration or fatigue, then try acupuncture.

Depression. The balancing of many emotional conditions is a primary principle of treatment when pregnant women come to my practice. Acupuncture combined with singing lessons administered by singing teacher proficient in proper breathing techniques is quite effective for pregnancy or post-partum related depression. Sing the blues away.

Stress. Hormones secreted by the adrenal glands cause anxiety and stress. During pregnancy, this can affect the amount of life giving blood flow feeding the embryo. Therefore reducing stress or using techniques such as acupuncture to alleviate stress is important.

Restless legs. Acupuncture has shown some promise in relieving the sometimes agonising frustration associated with restless legs. If you have it you understand all too well the agony mentioned. You may also need more calcium in your diet.

Back pain. Again, acupuncture is fundamentally one of the best choices humans have for relieving pain of any kind. Cupping and moxibustion may also be administered when back pain is effecting a woman that is pregnant.

Breech presentation. Studies have shown that moxibustion can be effective at turning a baby that is presenting breech. Is is most effective if done daily for 10-14 days between the weeks of 34-36.

Labour preparation or cervical ripening. Between the weeks of 37-40, acupuncture given once per week helps prepare a woman for labour by boosting vital energy and ensuring smooth flow of emotions and blood during the process. Induction is most often not needed when women commit to the cervical ripening acupuncture protocol.

Induction of Labour. Many women move swiftly into active labour after just one acupuncture induction treatment. Sometimes 2-3 are required within 1 week post due date.

Mastitis. Blocked milk duct. Acupuncture given quickly enough, along with somewhat aggressive self-massage and herbal compresses, can help hasten the recovery from a mastitis infection. This infection can progress quickly so do not hesitate to get treatment and do everything you can at home as well.

Lack of breast milk. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs, when given alongside a Guinness beer per day has shown moderate to good results with increasing the amount of milk production.

By: Dr. Spence Pentland (Vancouver Fertility Acupuncturist)

One of the major causes of infertility and IVF failure is a thin uterine lining, inadequate blood flow to the uterus, i.e. low uterine artery pulsatility index. Treatment to increase blood flow is essential to improving fertility and reducing chances of miscarriage. It should be noted that stress, lack of exercise, not enough rest, lack of joy, and certain foods all can inhibit blood flow to the uterus and ovaries. The following are effective treatments for a thin endometrial lining;

Acupuncture. An area of research, as well as my own experience, has shown extreme effectiveness with acupuncture and its affect on the increase of blood flow to the reproductive organs (uterus, ovaries, testis). This may very well be a primary reason that acupuncture displays benefit to women going through IVF fertility treatments in Vancouver. Simply, blood bring the medications to the ovaries and uterus, and if the flow is unimpeded, then more IVF medications arrive at their intended destination which results in better responses and positive outcomes.

Chinese herbal medicine. Many of the herbals in the Chinese medicine pharmacy have the effect of increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs. Many are said to ‘quicken and invigorate blood’. Others ‘nourish and build blood’. Science is now showing that many of these herbs have the identical physiological effects of Viagra (Sildenafil), a drug well known for its effect on erectile health. This drug, and the mentioned herbs, simply increase blood flow to the uterus, ovaries, and penis (causing erections) via the increase of Nitric Oxide release, a substance that dilates blood vessels.

Femoral massage. Perform from end of menses to ovulation or retrieval date if undergoing IVF. Do 2-3 times each leg (separately), 1-2 times per day. This massage increases the blood flow to the pelvic organs, providing more nourishment to the uterus and ovaries, testes and penis. Compress the femoral artery with your fingers, fairly heavy pressure will be required. When you feel the flow has ceased, hold for 30 seconds. The femoral artery can be located level with your pubic bone, just beneath the crease in your groin between your thigh and lower abdomen. The blood will then back up and increase the pressure gradient in the iliac arteries which forces more blood into the pelvic arteries. This floods the pelvic organs and genitals with more blood. When the hold is released, you should feel a sensation of warmth rushing down your legs as the blood supply returns to the lower extremities. Do not perform this exercise if you: are pregnant, are post-transfer during an IVF cycle, have high blood pressure, have heart disease or circulatory problems (aneurisms, varicose veins, phlebitis, thrombosis), have a history of strokes, or detached retinas.

Castor Oil Pack. A castor oil pack is placed on the skin to increase circulation and to promote elimination and healing of the tissues and organs underneath the skin. It is used to stimulate the liver, relieve pain, increase lymphatic circulation, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion. Castor oil packs are made by soaking a piece of flannel in castor oil and placing it on the skin. The flannel is covered with a sheet of plastic, and then a hot water bottle is placed over the plastic to heat the pack. Castor oil should not be taken internally. It should not be applied to broken skin, or used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. METHOD: Place the flannel in the container. Soak it in castor oil so that it is saturated, but not dripping. Place the pack over the lower abdomen, above the uterus. Cover with plastic. Place the hot water bottle over the pack. Leave it on for 45-60 minutes. Rest while the pack is in place. After removing the pack, cleanse the area with a dilute solution of water and baking soda. Store the pack in the covered container in the refrigerator. Each pack may be reused up to 25- 30 times. NOTE: It is generally recommended that a castor oil pack be used for 3 to 7 days in a week to treat a health condition or for detox. best if the packs are used on alternating days for the first week. After that, usually the packs may be used on consecutive days from that point on. 30-60 min per use.

Food. Here are a few dietary principles you can implement to help create a thick uterine lining; Avoid sour food when bleeding (yogurt, vinegar, pickles, grapefruit, currants, and green apples. Eat more blood nourishing foods when bleeding such as eggs, carrots, spinach, dates, & goji berries. Consume more blood invigorating foods when bleeding such as fish, ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric. Click here to watch a short video about foods that help and hinder blood flow to the uterus and can help in the treatment of a thin endometrial lining.

By: Dr. Spence Pentland (Vancouver Fertility Acupuncturist)

Acupressure is an ancient healing technique using the fingers (vs. needles) to stimulate acupuncture points. It is used for general health preservation and the self-treatment of disease. The 7 key acupressure points explained below effectively stimulate the body’s natural self-curative abilities.

Acupressure is best known for its ability to alleviate physical pain. For issues such as headaches and back pain, acupressure is extremely effective. For issues of emotional pain, the positive effects of acupressure is only starting to get the attention it deserves.

In addition to its applications for pain, acupressure points have been used as a beauty treatment for thousands of years. An acupressure beauty treatment enhances muscle tone, relieves stress, and increases circulation.

There are 7 key acupressure points every woman should stimulate daily for overall emotional health and long lasting beauty;

1. Zu San Li – Relieves worry, pensiveness, and over-thinking which leads to deep wrinkles on the forehead, digestive pain, headaches, and fatigue. The Zu San Li point is located 3 inches below the knee cap, and one finger breadth lateral to the shin bone.

2. Tai Chong – Relieves anger, irritability, and impatience which leads to permanent furrows between the eyebrows, acne, PMS, and irregular menstrual cycles. The Tai Chong point is located between the big toe and the second toe, approx. 1 inch inward from the webbing on the top of the foot.

3. San Yin Jiao – Relieves all fear, anger, and worry related emotions. These emotions ultimately rob their possessor of leading a fulfilling life. They may also cause urinary problems, high blood pressure, and thyroid conditions, just to name a few. The San Yin Jiao point is located 3 inches above the inner ankle bone, just behind the shin bone.

4. Yang Ling Quan – Relieves timidity and aids in making decisions. The classic ‘hunch-back’ may be a result of not taking charge of your life. This acupressure point should always be used if physical pain is present. The Yang Ling Quan point is located just below the knee cap, between the head of the fibula bone (on the outside of the leg) and the shin bone.

5. Nei Guan – Relieves anxiety, shallow breathing, and stress which leads to palpitations, circulatory problems, and neck tension. The Nei Guan point is located on the inside of the wrist, 2 inches from the crease of the wrist (toward the elbow) and between the 2 major tendons that can be felt in the middle of the arm.

6. Lie Que – Relieves sadness, grief, and depression. The vibrant magnetic aspect of a woman suffers most from these emotional issues. Poor posture, respiratory problems, and various skin conditions may be prevented with the use of this point. The Lie Que point is located on the thumb side of the wrist, beside the head of the radial bone (just below the base of the thumb) approx 1 inch from the crease of the wrist (toward the elbow).

7. He Gu – This point can be used for any emotional stress. It is very important for the health of the facial muscles and skin. It is also effective in relieving menstrual pain and problems with the large bowel. The He Gu point is located in the muscle between the thumb and the pointer finger.

When administering acupressure to these points, use enough pressure that there is slight discomfort but no pain. Apply this pressure for 20-30 seconds to each point, 2 times per day. Is should be noted that the above points are on both sides of the body.

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Dr. Spence Pentland is a board licensed Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and certified Fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine. Since 2004 Spence has focused exclusively on the treatment of reproductive disorders in both men and women in Vancouver Canada. To book an appointment or for a free 15 minute phone consultation visit DrSpencePentland.com (Vancouver fertility acupuncture). He and his wife are also ‘bringing sexy back to baby-making’ with their new line of ‘fertility friendly’ men’s underwear!

By: Dr. Spence Pentland (Vancouver Fertility Acupuncturist)

Are you or a friend having difficulty conceiving? Starting to wonder if something may be wrong? Do not want to go to the doctor ‘just yet’, or have already taken some of those first medical steps? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, the information in this article will prove to be a useful quick glance into understanding one of the female body’s key signs of fertility.

‘Fertile’ pre-ovulation cervical fluid. This essential body fluid is something that a woman trying to conceive must understand. ‘Slippery, clear, raw egg-white, stretchy’. These are the common descriptions given to the vaginal secretions that must be present just before the release of the egg from the ovary (ovulation).

Put simply, this ‘fertile’ pre-ovulation cervical secretion (which is 90%+ water) not only looks and feels almost exactly like semen, but it is also your sperm’s best friend on its long journey toward its ultimate goal, the penetration of the egg! Let’s go through a few reasons why this is so;

1. Lubrication.
Glycerol (glycerine) amounts increase during sexual excitement and around ovulation. This is thought to be responsible for the lubricating qualities that define these important reproductive events.

2. Vaginal PH.
Reducing the acidity of the vagina helps sperm survive. High acidity kills sperm and other invaders, which is very beneficial, except when ovulating and trying to conceive.

3. Swimming.
It is easier to swim in water than lotion. ‘Fertile’ pre-ovulation cervical fluid has more water than cervical fluid does at other times during the menstrual cycle.

4. Food.
Sperm needs to eat. Components in the cervical fluid such as calcium, sodium, potassium, glucose, amino acids, zinc, copper, iron, manganese, & selenium, give the sperm what it needs to thrive.

The above points display the importance of healthy ‘fertile’ pre-ovulation cervical secretion. The interaction of sperm and cervical fluid is often disrupted in couples struggling with fertility. In many cases, women are not producing adequate amounts, or any detectable presence of ‘fertile’ pre-ovulation cervical fluid. This scenario, coupled with the male infertility epidemic that we are faced with today, manifests in many months of ‘trying’ and all the difficulties that eventually come with it. This is why understanding cervical fluid is paramount, and, if there are issues, doing what you can to help remedy this fluid imbalance.

Checking cervical fluid is easy, no need for any tools (thermometer, urine sticks, etc), and when you know what to look for, it tells you precisely when to get romantic. Generally it is present for 2-5 days before ovulation. Start checking once bleeding has stopped. The changes in pre-ovulatory cervical fluid, when comparing to its presentation during other phases of the menstrual cycle, are actually quite obvious once you have observed your body for just a couple cycles. As stated earlier, ‘fertile’ pre-ovulation cervical fluid has an uncanny resemblance to semen. There are 3 main characteristics to look for when identifying ‘fertile’ pre-ovulatory cervical fluid;

1. It is slippery so as to provide lubrication for sex. Some women report a ‘wet’ sensation.
2. It becomes more transparent (like raw egg-white) due to higher water content so as to aid in sperm motility (swimming).
3. It stretches when examined between the fingers. Does not appear ‘tacky’ like lotion.

It should be re-stated that for some women this is very easy, as enough ‘fertile’ pre-ovulation cervical secretion is produced that they observe the secretions on their underwear. For others, it may be necessary to insert a finger into the vagina to check if smaller amounts are present around the cervix.

If it has been determined, or even suspected that an inadequate amount of ‘fertile’ pre-ovulation cervical fluid is present, there are 3 things that can be done to help remedy this;

1. Use Pre~seed ‘Sperm friendly’ lubricant. It is the only lubricant on the market proven to mimic the composition and functions of a woman’s natural ‘fertile’ pre-ovulation cervical fluid
2. Use supplements that may help increase cervical fluid production
3. Use Traditional Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture to help restore balance to body fluid levels

If you want to learn more about the ways your body displays its reproductive health, go to your library and take out the book “Taking Charge of Your Fertility: the definitive guide to natural birth control, pregnancy achievement, and reproductive health”, by Toni Weschler. Good luck creating your family.

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Dr. Spence Pentland is a board licensed Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and certified Fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine. Since 2004 Spence has focused exclusively on the treatment of reproductive disorders in both men and women in Vancouver Canada. To book an appointment or for a free 15 minute phone consultation visit DrSpencePentland.com (Vancouver fertility acupuncture). He and his wife are also ‘bringing sexy back to baby-making’ with their new line of ‘fertility friendly’ men’s underwear!

By: Dr. Spence Pentland (Vancouver Fertility Acupuncturist)

Over the years working in the reproductive health field I have seen many diets come and go. What is effective is a diet that is simple & sustainable, meaning one that people can actually stick to for the long term. There is much truth to the adage ‘you are what you eat’, so I believe diet is the best place to start no matter what health condition you are faced with. It is something you have almost complete control over. The only hurdle is the commitment to being accountable for your actions, and identifying the ways you may sabotage your own success.

In a nutshell, the few principles that should be implemented are the following:

1. avoid or completely eliminate gluten, sugar, and dairy (with the possible exception of organic plain yogurt).
2. reduce or eliminate processed and deep fried foods.
3. control portion sizes.
4. increase the amount of colorful foods you consume.
5. half your diet should be raw food.
6. reduce the glycemic load of your food intake.
7. choose organic whenever possible.

Gluten sugar and dairy are over-consumed. I have seen conditions like endometriosis and other inflammatory and allergic conditions improve drastically with the elimination of these foods. These are foods that people are very commonly sensitive or allergic to, which results in fatigue, headaches, bloating, bowel problems, sleep issues, poor concentration, and the list goes on. So bread and pasta should go, as well as treats and dairy. That said, life is about enjoying yourself and balance, so depending on your current and long term health goals, you may allow yourself that wine and cheesecake at your best friends birthday celebration!

Processed foods are full of chemicals we are only beginning to understand. The fact is, that the plastic that many processed foods are packaged in have a chemical within that is a known endocrine disruptor, that means it messes with your hormones.

Deep fried foods are something we all know a lot about already, so this is not news. But, evidence shows, when men’s reproductive or sexual health is concerned, a good rule of thumb to remember is; ‘what is bad for your heart is bad for your penis!’.

Portions are likely to be the main culprit in today’s obesity epidemic. Plainly put, we are just eating too much. If our foods are nutritious, smaller portions will fulfill our needs. Obesity is also strongly linked to reproductive health issues such as fertility in both men and women.

Antioxidants. If you have not heard of this ‘fountain of youth’ it is time you did. Antioxidants essentially clean up the residues left from the stressful lives we lead and the environmental toxins we come in contact with. Stress and toxins are responsible for aging, infertility, skin issues, chronic pain, just to name a few. Antioxidants are found in colorful foods, i.e. fruits and veggies. Therefore, pile your plate high with fresh colorful whole foods.

Raw food vs. cooked food. In my opinion there is no conclusive evidence as to which may be better for you. I understand that food is naturally raw in nature, but we were also given the gift of fire. So it is my belief to make sure half of your diet is raw. Let’s keep it simple.

Did you know that all the carbs in your diet are turned into sugar during digestion? Well, they are. Cards are complex sugar, so don’t be fooled, especially if you have ovulatory disorders such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). Too much sugar, that includes all sugar, grains, starches, etc, are shown to overload the system and lead to insulin resistance and possibly diabetes. This same overload can lead to ovulatory disturbance. So, cut WAY down on the carbs, way down.

Lastly, eat organic whenever possible. This usually supports more local farmers and cuts down on the chemicals dumped on our earth. this overall leads to a healthier more fertile earth, thus more fertile people.

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Dr. Spence Pentland is a board licensed Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and certified Fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine. Since 2004 Spence has focused exclusively on the treatment of reproductive disorders in both men and women in Vancouver Canada. To book an appointment or for a free 15 minute phone consultation visit DrSpencePentland.com (Vancouver fertility acupuncture). He and his wife are also ‘bringing sexy back to baby-making’ with their new line of ‘fertility friendly’ men’s underwear!

By: Dr. Spence Pentland (Vancouver Fertility Acupuncturist)

A new research project showed men that do not experience herpes symptoms may still have it in their semen, and that it negatively affects motility and morphology, thus causing infertility and poor IVF results. The herpes was interestingly more present in the semen in the winter months (study was done in Russia). With this information, it makes sense that all mens sperm that has lowered parameters should get their semen checked for herpes simplex virus,…and really give it the boy scout try to conceive in summer months!

Ask your doctor how you can get your semen check for herpes simplex virus. This should be a simple procedure, as well, at the same time, the semen could be checked for raised white blood cell count to see if there are any other underlying infections causing problems. If it is present in many men without them knowing, and it damages sperm, then we can also conclude that if their wife actually does end up falling pregnant, that the damaged sperm most likely points to poor embryo quality from high % sperm DNA fragmentation rate, which will often result in miscarriage.

Again, the evidence for further investigation of men is mounting daily, and the blatant ignoring of this side of fertility because their is actually no treatment for men (folks ICSI is not treatment) is unethical. Modern western medicine needs desperately to improve its treatment of male factor. I will assert that it will be the cultivation of wellness vs more drugs that will be the vehicle.

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Dr. Spence Pentland is a board licensed Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and certified Fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine. Since 2004 Spence has focused exclusively on the treatment of reproductive disorders in both men and women in Vancouver Canada. To book an appointment or for a free 15 minute phone consultation visit DrSpencePentland.com (Vancouver fertility acupuncture). He and his wife are also ‘bringing sexy back to baby-making’ with their new line of ‘fertility friendly’ men’s underwear!

By: Dr. Spence Pentland (Vancouver Fertility Acupuncturist)

There are many genetic reasons for male infertility, and many are still being discovered. The fact that many of these can be passed down to our offspring puts a new responsibility on people wishing to become parents.

Epigenetics is a new area of genetic science that studies how lifestyle affects the way our genes express themselves in our lives. Yes, this means that the way we live our lives effects whether or not certain genetic factors will manifest or not. Conclusion; live a healthy life and reduce the incidence of genetic disease. The following are just a few male genetic causes of infertility.

Y Chromosome Microdeletion: You can lead a perfectly normal life and still have this. This means that you have missing genes in the ‘Y’ chromosome, this is the male chromosome (remember grade 11 biology, XY = man). Men with reduced sperm parameters may have this genetic disorder. But listen, the real kicker with this is, that it will be passed down to your son.

Chromosomal Translocation: Basically, this is a rearrangement of your chromosomes. Usually, the carriers do not know they have any issues, they are asymptomatic. Although, when they create offspring, it often leads to miscarriages or children with abnormalities (i.e. Down Syndrome). Genetic testing is recommended, especially after repeated miscarriage.

Klinefelter’s Syndrome: If you have no sperm, or very low count, small firm testis, and abnormal breast development, you have have XXY sex chromosomes, or, Klinefelter’s. If you have very low counts, get this tested and get genetic counselling for your options. There is a low incidence, but it does sometimes pass down to the offspring.

Kallmann Syndrome: Otherwise known as ‘hypothalamic hypogonadism’ (aka, a gland in the brain is not making enough hormone, therefore your testis are small and unproductive). If puberty onset was slow or late, sperm shows poor parameters, and your sense of smell is poor or absent (anosmia), then get your LH & FSH hormones tested.

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Dr. Spence Pentland is a board licensed Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and certified Fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine. Since 2004 Spence has focused exclusively on the treatment of reproductive disorders in both men and women in Vancouver Canada. To book an appointment or for a free 15 minute phone consultation visit DrSpencePentland.com (Vancouver fertility acupuncture). He and his wife are also ‘bringing sexy back to baby-making’ with their new line of ‘fertility friendly’ men’s underwear!

By: Dr. Spence Pentland (Vancouver Fertility Acupuncturist)

According to traditional Chinese medicine theories, causes are always found in dietary habits, lifestyle (work, exercise, fun), emotions, environment, toxins, constitution, trauma, or wrong medical treatment. Identifying the cause is important so that one knows how to avoid it, minimize it, or prevent its re-occurrence. Most importantly, Chinese medicine stresses balance in ones life. Too much or too little of a good thing can cause disease. Also, what is right for one person may not be for the next.

Emotions

We all have emotions, and yes we are allowed to feel, this is a part of what makes us human. Emotions only cause disease when they are extremely intense, prolonged over a long period of time, and especially when they are not expressed or acknowledged.

There are basically 5 emotions considered in Chinese medicine theory: Anger (resentment, irritability, rage, bitterness, frustration), Joy (excessive excitement, extreme lifestyle), Sadness, Worry & Pensiveness, and Fear. They translate into many different signs and symptoms. The following are some common explanations and manifestations;

Anger: Headaches & painful clotted menses would be the most common symptom. Work, family, and unfulfilled desires are common causes of anger.

Joy: Prolonged excessive excitement, extreme lifestyle, or continuous pleasurable stimulation can lead to troubles sleeping, palpitations, anxiety, and other symptoms.

Sadness: It can manifest in breathlessness, fatigue, depression, & crying. In women this often leads to scanty or no menses, fatigue, respiratory issues, and more.

Worry & pensiveness: Excessive thinking, mental work, or studying can cause fatigue, poor appetite, loose stools, weight gain or loss, gas, & bloating. This commonly also leads to fear & anxiety.

Fear: Chronic fear and anxiety (also shock) most often displays as night sweating, palpitations, dryness and heat.

Climate

Excluding common colds/flu & arthritis like conditions, climate effects in 2 basic ways; 1. effecting the person via its natural characteristics, 2. exacerbating and already underlying pattern. For example; Cold contracts and causes pain and watery discharges. Dampness causes heaviness, turbidity, and sticky discharges. Dryness is obvious. Heat gives rise to feelings of heat, skin eruptions, and restlessness.

Constitution

We can only expect moderate improvements in ones constitution, after-all, we are born with it. Through balanced lifestyle & dietary habits, and certain practices such as Qigong (breathing exercises), Taijiquan, Yoga, meditation, & prayer, we can expect life to be as optimal as constitutionally possible.

Over-Exertion

A proper balance between work, exercise, and rest. Too much or too little of these aspects of life cause imbalance. When one overworks beyond the point that they can keep up with the demands, the body takes from the persons Essence to keep up. Essence determines our basic constitutional strength & resistance to external pathogens (Essence governs birth, growth, reproduction and fertility, development of bones, teeth, hair, and brain, and sexual maturity).

When Essence is deficient it may cause: Slow growth in children, poor bone development, infertility, habitual miscarriage, mental retardation, bone deterioration (osteo), premature graying, hair loss, and tooth loss, Poor sexual function, impotence, weakness of knees and back, nocturnal emissions, tinnitus, & deafness, Poor concentration & memory, dizziness, tinnitus, empty headed feeling, Weak immune system, always catching colds/flus, chronic rhinitis & allergic rhinitis (hay fever).

In particular, excessive mental work will damage the Spleen. Excessive physical work will also affect the Spleen and Kidneys. Also, excessive weight lifting can injure the lower back, jogging can stagnate Qi in the knees, and tennis/golf/writing the elbows.

Sexual Activity

‘Normal’ amount of sexual activity is entirely dependant on the person’s state of health, constitution, and strength of Essence. Therefore it should be adjusted accordingly (i.e. age). Lastly, an unhappy sexual life can cause emotional issues (discussed earlier).

Dietary Habits

Food and air give us life. Some simple ideas to follow:

Organic foods: due to all the toxins in our foods, organic should be the choice whenever possible.

Quantitative and qualitative aspects of diet: overly strict diets may cause malnutrition, so will eating disorders. This will weaken the digestion and manifest as a wide array of physical conditions, even weight gain. Over-eating, the more common problem, also weakens the digestion causing bloating, gas, fatigue, and ultimately weight gain.

Too much Cold & Raw foods: in some can cause damage to the digestion. The argument of raw having more nutrients than cooked foods becomes irrelevant when a person has weak digestion and therefore trouble digesting raw uncooked foods.

Too much Sweet: may wreak havoc on the pancreas and insulin levels (diabetes) causing loose stool, bloating, vaginal discharge, and centralized obesity.

Too much Spicy: unless culturally adjusted, curry, lamb, alcohol, beef, lobster, and many hot spices) causes Heat usually resulting in bitter taste, heartburn, thirst, and possible low sperm counts.

Too much greasy: impairs digestion and can lead to sinusitus, foggy mind, & heaviness.

Some other important guidelines to follow: relax while eating, chew food well, and eat at regular times.

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Dr. Spence Pentland is a board licensed Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and certified Fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine. Since 2004 Spence has focused exclusively on the treatment of reproductive disorders in both men and women in Vancouver Canada. To book an appointment or for a free 15 minute phone consultation visit DrSpencePentland.com (Vancouver fertility acupuncture). He and his wife are also ‘bringing sexy back to baby-making’ with their new line of ‘fertility friendly’ men’s underwear!