“Creating new life is a sacred and wonderful journey. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes that ‘the kidneys govern reproduction.’ According to TCM’s foundational theory, the kidneys are responsible for regulating the secretion of reproductive hormones, adjusting the functions of reproductive organs, and maintaining the health of the reproductive system.
- Nourish the whole body, improve the circulation of qi and blood, especially of the liver, spleen, stomach, and kidneys.
- Secondly, regulate menstruation; normal menstruation represents smooth qi and blood flow. A normal menstrual cycle and ovulation help increase the chances of conception.
- Warm the womb, as ‘cold and deficiency of the uterus leads to infertility.’ The uterus represents the land; seeds need to fall to the ground and take root to grow, so the land must be fertile. Therefore, a good internal uterine environment is conducive to embryo implantation and development.
- Calm the mind and spirit; anxiety and tension can lead to liver stagnation and hinder pregnancy.
In the process of assisting with conception, TCM can utilize herbal medicine, acupuncture, and moxibustion.
Herbal conditioning：Commonly used herbs include Angelica sinensis, Rehmannia glutinosa, White Peony, Astragalus, and Cuscuta seed, which can replenish qi and blood, regulate menstruation, nourish the endometrial lining, and enhance egg quality.
Acupuncture for pregnancy：By acupuncture at the uterus point, Guan Yuan point, and San Yin Jiao point, enhance uterine blood flow and regulate endocrine functions.
Moxibustion for warming the womb：Moxibustion dispels cold from the uterus, warms yang, and replenishes qi, which can regulate menstrual irregularities.
Dietary therapy soup：
Ingredients: Eucommia 15g, Codonopsis pilosula 15g, Chinese yam 20g, roasted black beans 25g, Goji berries 10g, Rehmannia glutinosa 15g, Ophiopogon 15g, a small amount of lean meat, a small amount of ginger slices.
Method: Clean the ingredients, place them in a pot, add an appropriate amount of water to boil, then reduce to a low heat and simmer for 30 minutes, finally adding salt to taste.
Effects: Strengthens the spleen and replenishes the kidneys.
Tips for daily health maintenance to increase pregnancy chances
- Regular schedule: Go to bed early and wake up early, nourish the liver and kidneys, maintain endocrine balance.
- Moderate exercise: Jogging, yoga, etc. to enhance physical fitness and immunity, promoting blood circulation.
- Relax your mood: Excessive anxiety and tension can easily lead to endocrine disorders.
- Soak feet in hot water: Warms the womb and dispels cold, promoting blood circulation.
- Diet moderation: Avoid raw and cold foods.
Dr Yip Yuet Yan
Registered Chinese Medicine Practitioner of the Chinese Medicine Council of Hong Kong
