What is infertility?

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after a year or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. It affects both men and women, manifesting as either male or female infertility based on the source of the reproductive issue. This condition not only challenges couples' ability to grow their families but also often leads to significant emotional distress.

The causes of infertility are varied, including hormonal imbalances, physical obstructions, and issues with sperm or egg production, making it a complex health concern requiring comprehensive evaluation and treatment.

How does TCM view infertility?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches infertility as a manifestation of imbalance within the body's fundamental systems. Contrary to the specific causal focus of Western medicine, TCM examines infertility through the lens of disrupted Qi (vital energy), Blood, Yin, Yang, and Essence harmony.

This holistic perspective prioritizes identifying and treating the underlying patterns of disharmony, emphasizing the interconnectedness of bodily systems and the importance of restoring balance to enhance reproductive capacity.

Root Causes of Infertility in TCM

TCM identifies several key patterns contributing to infertility, notably including Yin Deficiency and Yang Deficiency. Yin Deficiency, such as Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, presents with symptoms like dizziness, tinnitus, and lower back pain, suggesting a depletion of the body's cooling, nourishing energies.

Yang Deficiency, exemplified by Kidney Yang Deficiency, is characterized by coldness, weakness, and fatigue, indicating a lack of the body's warming, active energies. These patterns highlight TCM's nuanced understanding of infertility, linking reproductive challenges to broader systemic imbalances.

Explore below more details about what might cause Infertility according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Yang Deficiency
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Cold
  • Phlegm
  • Essence Deficiency
  • Blood Stasis
  • Dampness
Detailed description of the cause

Yang Deficiency

Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more

Yang Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Infertility

Common Symptoms: Chills Generalized Fatigue General Weakness Diarrhea Erectile Dysfunction Premature Ejaculation Low Sex Drive Nocturia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney Yang Deficiency Infertility, Infertility in women, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Low sex drive, Pale and abudant urination, Constipation... see more Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan | Tu Si Zi Wan | Ba Wei Di Huang Wan | You Gui Wan | Er Xian Tang | Shen Qi Wan | Ji Chuan Jian
Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang Infertility, Chills, General cold feeling, Pale urine, Undigested food in stools, General weakness, Abdominal pain relieved by pressure and warmth, Frequent urination, Polyuria, Nocturia, White vaginal discharge... see more Ba Wei Di Huang Wan | You Gui Wan | Ban Liu Wan
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency Infertility in women, Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Watery ejaculate, Low sex drive, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Clear urination, Nocturia, Apathy, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distention, Desire to lie down... see more Li Zhong Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Infertility

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Tinnitus Hearing Loss Lower Back Pain Insomnia Blurry Vision Dry Throat Dry Hair

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Infertility, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation... see more Zuo Gui Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian
Kidney Yin Deficiency Infertility, Perspiration, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation, Scanty and dark urine, Premature ejaculation, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Anxiety, Heat sensation in palms, Evening heat sensation, Flushed cheekbones, Menopausal hot flashes, Preference for sipping, Evening anxiety... see more Zuo Gui Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan | Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan | Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Cold

In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more

Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Infertility

Common Symptoms: Menstrual Cramps Late Menstruation Dark Menstrual Clots Diarrhea Lack Of Appetite Generalized Fatigue General Weakness Thin Vaginal Discharge

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Cold in the Uterus Infertility, Diarrhea, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge... see more Wen Jing Tang | Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Wen Qi Hua Shi Tang
Full Cold in the Directing and Penetraing Vessels Infertility, Menstrual cramps, Cold sensation in lower abdomen, Late menstruation, Dark menstrual clots, Postpartum abdominal pain, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Uterine hypoplasia, Endometrial hyperplasia, Endometriosis, Uterine fibroids... see more Wen Jing Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Phlegm

In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more

Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Infertility

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus Infertility, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Essence Deficiency

In TCM "Essence" (Jing) deficiency refers to a depletion of the body's fundamental substance, which is vital for growth, development, reproduction, and overall vitality. Jing, often translated as "Essence," is a unique concept in TCM, seen as the basis of all life activities and inherited from our parents. Essence deficiency manifests in various symptoms, such as chronic fatigue, weakness, slow physical or mental development, fertility issues, premature aging, weak bones, and a lackluster complexion. It can also affect the hair, leading to premature greying or hair loss. This pattern of disharmony often arises from congenital factors, chronic illness, overwork, or excessive behaviors that drain the body's resources. ... see more

Essence Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Infertility

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney Essence Deficiency Infertility, Sterility, Deafness, Decreased mental sharpness, Intellectual disability, Osteomalacia, Hair loss, Lower back pain, Primary amenorrhea, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Absentmindness... see more Zuo Gui Wan | Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan | Tu Si Zi Wan | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Stasis

Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more

Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Infertility

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Blood Stagnation Infertility, Hypochondriac pain, Abdominal pain, Vomiting blood, Nosebleeds, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods, Dark menstrual clots, Abdominal masses, Purple nails, Purple lips, Purple face, Skin dryness, Petechiae... see more Xiao Yao San | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Shi Xiao San
Detailed description of the cause

Dampness

"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more

Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Infertility

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus Infertility, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Infertility

Common Symptoms: Lower Back Pain Dizziness Tinnitus Generalized Fatigue Back Pain Blurry Vision Night Sweats Nocturnal Emission

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Infertility, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation... see more Zuo Gui Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian
Kidney Essence Deficiency Infertility, Sterility, Deafness, Decreased mental sharpness, Intellectual disability, Osteomalacia, Hair loss, Lower back pain, Primary amenorrhea, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Absentmindness... see more Zuo Gui Wan | Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan | Tu Si Zi Wan | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan
Kidney Yang Deficiency Infertility, Infertility in women, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Low sex drive, Pale and abudant urination, Constipation... see more Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan | Tu Si Zi Wan | Ba Wei Di Huang Wan | You Gui Wan | Er Xian Tang | Shen Qi Wan | Ji Chuan Jian
Kidney Yin Deficiency Infertility, Perspiration, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation, Scanty and dark urine, Premature ejaculation, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Anxiety, Heat sensation in palms, Evening heat sensation, Flushed cheekbones, Menopausal hot flashes, Preference for sipping, Evening anxiety... see more Zuo Gui Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan | Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan | Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency Infertility in women, Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Watery ejaculate, Low sex drive, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Clear urination, Nocturia, Apathy, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distention, Desire to lie down... see more Li Zhong Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Uterus

In TCM the Uterus (or "Bao Gong") is not just a reproductive organ but a vital system closely linked to Kidney energy, responsible for menstrual health, fertility, and pregnancy. It's also connected to the Heart and Liver, reflecting the importance of emotional and blood health in reproductive wellness. In TCM, the Uterus is seen as a reservoir of Blood and Qi, crucial for reproductive health and general vitality. When the Uterus malfunctions or is imbalanced, it can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, miscarriages, or menopausal symptoms. Additionally, there might be symptoms like lower abdominal pain or emotional disturbances such as mood swings, often linked to Liver Qi stagnation. These manifestations highlight the TCM perspective that the health of the Uterus is intertwined with the overall balance of energy and blood in the body, as well as emotional well-being.... see more

Uterus Patterns That Can Lead to Infertility

Common Symptoms: Diarrhea Generalized Fatigue General Weakness Scanty Menstruation Late Menstruation Amenorrhea Lower Abdominal Pain Lack Of Appetite

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Cold in the Uterus Infertility, Diarrhea, Lack of appetite, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Thin vaginal discharge... see more Wen Jing Tang | Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang | Wen Qi Hua Shi Tang
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus Infertility, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Infertility

Common Symptoms: Skin Dryness Dizziness Tinnitus Hearing Loss Lower Back Pain Vertical Headaches Occipital Headache Insomnia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Infertility, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation... see more Zuo Gui Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian
Liver Blood Stagnation Infertility, Hypochondriac pain, Abdominal pain, Vomiting blood, Nosebleeds, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods, Dark menstrual clots, Abdominal masses, Purple nails, Purple lips, Purple face, Skin dryness, Petechiae... see more Xiao Yao San | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Shi Xiao San
Detailed description of the cause

Spleen

In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more

Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Infertility

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency Infertility in women, Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Weak legs, Bright pale face, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Watery ejaculate, Low sex drive, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Clear urination, Nocturia, Apathy, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distention, Desire to lie down... see more Li Zhong Wan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Infertility

To address infertility, TCM employs targeted herbal formulas to nourish Yin and Yang, thereby correcting underlying imbalances. For Yin Deficiency, Zuo Gui Wan, containing key herbs like Prepared rehmannia, is used to replenish Kidney and Liver Yin, supporting the foundational energies necessary for reproduction.

In cases of Yang Deficiency, formulas like Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan, with Cuscuta seeds, aim to warm and tonify Kidney Yang, enhancing the vital warmth required for fertility. These tailored treatments reflect TCM's comprehensive approach to restoring reproductive health through balance and harmony.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address infertility, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Yang Deficiency
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Cold
  • Phlegm
  • Essence Deficiency
  • Blood Stasis
  • Dampness
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that warm yang and tonify
  • Formulas that warm the middle and dispel cold
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
  • Formulas that tonify yin and yang
  • Formulas that tonify
  • Formulas that expel dampness
  • Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
  • Formulas that clear heat from deficiency
  • Formulas that moisten intestines and unblock bowels
  • Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that warm and purge
  • Formulas that tonify qi and blood
  • Formulas that tonify blood

All Formulas Recommended for Infertility Caused by Yang Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ba Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney Yang Deficiency, Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
You Gui Wan Kidney Yang Deficiency, Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan Kidney Yang Deficiency
Tu Si Zi Wan Kidney Yang Deficiency
Er Xian Tang Kidney Yang Deficiency
Shen Qi Wan Kidney Yang Deficiency
Ji Chuan Jian Kidney Yang Deficiency
Ban Liu Wan Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
Li Zhong Wan Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Infertility Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Kidney Yin Deficiency
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Kidney Yin Deficiency
Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan Kidney Yin Deficiency
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Qing Gu San Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Yi Guan Jian Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan Kidney Yin Deficiency
Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang Kidney Yin Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Infertility Caused by Cold

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Wen Jing Tang Cold in the Uterus, Full Cold in the Directing and Penetraing Vessels
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang Cold in the Uterus
Wen Qi Hua Shi Tang Cold in the Uterus

All Formulas Recommended for Infertility Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Wei Ling Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Wan Dai Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus

All Formulas Recommended for Infertility Caused by Essence Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney Essence Deficiency
Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan Kidney Essence Deficiency
Tu Si Zi Wan Kidney Essence Deficiency
Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan Kidney Essence Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Infertility Caused by Blood Stasis

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xiao Yao San Liver Blood Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Blood Stagnation
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang Liver Blood Stagnation
Shi Xiao San Liver Blood Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Infertility Caused by Dampness

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Wei Ling Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Wan Dai Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for infertility

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Kidney Essence Deficiency, Kidney Yin Deficiency... see more
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency, Kidney Yin Deficiency
Ba Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney Yang Deficiency, Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Yi Guan Jian Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan Kidney Yin Deficiency

All "formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation" recommended for infertility

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Wen Jing Tang Cold in the Uterus, Full Cold in the Directing and Penetraing Vessels, Dampness and Phlegm in the Uterus... see more
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang Cold in the Uterus
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang Liver Blood Stagnation
Shi Xiao San Liver Blood Stagnation
Dang Gui Shao Yao San Not applicable
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan Not applicable

All "formulas that warm yang and tonify" recommended for infertility

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan Kidney Essence Deficiency, Kidney Yang Deficiency
Tu Si Zi Wan Kidney Essence Deficiency, Kidney Yang Deficiency
You Gui Wan Kidney Yang Deficiency, Yang Deficiency or Empty Yang
Shen Qi Wan Kidney Yang Deficiency
Zan Yu Dan Not applicable

All "formulas that tonify yin and yang" recommended for infertility

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan Kidney Essence Deficiency, Kidney Yin Deficiency
Er Xian Tang Kidney Yang Deficiency

All "formulas that warm the middle and dispel cold" recommended for infertility

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Wen Qi Hua Shi Tang Cold in the Uterus
Li Zhong Wan Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency

All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for infertility

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus

All "formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen" recommended for infertility

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xiao Yao San Liver Blood Stagnation
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Not applicable

Acupoints for Infertility

TCM acupuncture targets specific meridians and acupoints to treat infertility, aiming to restore the flow of Qi and Blood and address systemic imbalances. Kidney Channel acupoints like Dahe KID-12 and Qixue KID-13 are utilized to tonify Kidney Yin and regulate the Uterus, supporting ovulation and menstrual health.

The Bladder Channel's Shenshu BL-23 and the Directing Vessel's Guanyuan REN-4 are other key points, focusing on nourishing Kidney Essence and strengthening the Uterus. These acupoint selections exemplify TCM's strategic approach to enhancing fertility by harmonizing the body's vital energies.

Explore below some acupoints used to address infertility, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Kidney Channel
  • Bladder Channel
  • Directing Vessel
  • Stomach Channel
  • Liver Channel
  • Extra Points: Chest and Abdomen (EX-CA)
  • Gall Bladder Channel
  • Spleen Channel
Yongquan KID-1

Yongquan KID-1

In the depression between the 2nd and 3rd metatarsal bones on the sole when the foot is in plantar flexion, approximately at the junction of the anterior and middle third of the sole.

Rangu KID-2

Rangu KID-2

Anterior and inferior to the medial malleolus tip, in the depression on the lower border of the navicular bone, at the border of the 'red and white' skin.

Taixi KID-3

Taixi KID-3

In the depression between the medial malleolus tip and Achilles tendon (Calcaneal tendon), level with the tip of the medial malleolus.

Zhaohai KID-6

Zhaohai KID-6

Approximately 1 cun below the medial malleolus tip, over the joint space between the talus and the calcaneus.

Dahe KID-12

Dahe KID-12

4 cun below the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Qixue KID-13

Qixue KID-13

3 cun below the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Siman KID-14

Siman KID-14

2 cun below the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Shiguan KID-18

Shiguan KID-18

3 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Yindu KID-19

Yindu KID-19

4 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Shenshu BL-23

Shenshu BL-23

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd lumber vertebra (L2).

Shangliao BL-31

Shangliao BL-31

In the 1st posterior sacral foramen, about midway between the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) and the midline.

Ciliao BL-32

Ciliao BL-32

In the 2nd posterior sacral foramen, about midway between the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) and the midline.

Zhongliao BL-33

Zhongliao BL-33

In the 3rd posterior sacral foramen, between the posterior superior iliac spine and the midline.

Zhishi BL-52

Zhishi BL-52

3 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd lumber vertebra (L2).

Zhongji REN-3

Zhongji REN-3

On the anterior midline, 4 cun below the umbilicus, 1 cun above Qugu REN-2, which is located at the upper border of the symphysis pubis.

Guanyuan REN-4

Guanyuan REN-4

On the midline of the abdomen, 3 cun below the umbilicus.

Yinjiao REN-7

Yinjiao REN-7

On the midline of the abdomen, 1 cun below the umbilicus.

Shenque REN-8

Shenque REN-8

In the center of the umbilicus.

Tianshu ST-25

Tianshu ST-25

2 cun lateral to the center of the umbilicus.

Shuidao ST-28

Shuidao ST-28

3 cun below the umbilicus, 2 cun lateral to anterior midline.

Guilai ST-29

Guilai ST-29

4 cun below the umbilicus, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Qichong ST-30

Qichong ST-30

5 cun below the umbilicus, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline, superior to the inguinal groove, on the medial side of the femoral artery, nerve and vein.

Ququan LIV-8

Ququan LIV-8

On the medial aspect of the knee join. Flex the knee and locate the point above the medial end of the popliteal crease, posterior to the medial condyle of the tibia, on the anterior border of the insertion of semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscle, about 1 cun anterior to Yingu KID-10.

Zuwuli LIV-10

Zuwuli LIV-10

3 cun inferior to Qichong ST-30 which is on the upper border of the symphysis and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline. The point is also on the lateral border of adductor longus muscle.

Yinlian LIV-11

Yinlian LIV-11

2 cun inferior to Qichong ST-30 which is on the upper border of the symphysis and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Zigong EX-CA-1

Zigong EX-CA-1

3 cun lateral to the anterior midline and 1 cun superior to the upper border of the pubic symphysis.

Qimen EX-CA

Qimen EX-CA

3 cun lateral to the anterior midline and 2 cun superior to the upper border of the pubic symphysis.

Daimai GB-26

Daimai GB-26

Level with the umbilicus, directly below Zhangmen LIV-13 which is on the free end of the 11th rib.

Sanyinjiao SP-6

Sanyinjiao SP-6

3 cun directly above the tip of the medial malleolus, on the posterior border of the tibia, on the line drawn from the medial malleolus to Yinlingquan SP-9.