When my mother was younger, it felt like she could get pregnant with the look of an eye. But things have changed. Today, many young women have been on birth control for years—not just to prevent pregnancy, but also to manage health concerns like irregular cycles, hormonal imbalances or heavy bleeding. Now, when they’re finally ready to start a family, it’s not always easy. Many people wait until their 30s or even 40s to have children, often after establishing careers, but by then, a woman’s egg production and egg quality have naturally declined.

Several factors impact egg quality, including age and diet. Even those who are health-conscious may unknowingly be harming fertility by consuming too many cold foods, like iced coffee, salads and sushi. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cold diets can hinder conception; after all, you need to “warm the oven” to nurture life.

Others may follow a diet heavy in fried foods and dairy, or drink alcohol or smoke—all of which disrupt hormonal balance and lower fertility.

And let’s not forget the all-powerful stress factor. Stress can throw reproductive hormones out of balance and lower egg reserves. Some women who have been trying for years find that once they adopt a child, they suddenly conceive, likely because the stress and fear have lifted.

Certain genetic and medical conditions also play a role. Turner Syndrome (a chromosomal disorder) can lead to premature ovarian aging. Endometriosis causes inflammation, affecting both egg quality and hormone balance. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) causes hormonal imbalance, irregular cycles and affects egg maturation. Women with PCOS may have many egg follicles but see their reserves decline quickly. Environmental toxins—from pesticides, plastics and even beauty products—can further disrupt hormone health and reduce fertility.

How can TCM help? TCM has supported fertility for centuries by enhancing overall health and vitality, improving egg quality and balancing hormones. Fertility in TCM is tied to jing, our life essence, with which we are born. Some people have more than others, but lifestyle, nutrition and stress significantly impact it. By nurturing jing, TCM can support fertility, improve the chances of conception and promote
long-term wellness.

In my practice, women seek treatment, not only for fertility support, but also for IVF preparation, implantation support (pre- and post-), breech baby positioning and labor induction. And don’t forget the men! Fertility isn’t just about the female reproductive system; male factors matter, too. As women age and their egg supply declines, men may also experience reduced sperm count and motility; thus, addressing fertility requires a comprehensive look at both partners.

Acupuncture, a key part of TCM, enhances blood flow to the ovaries and uterus, balances reproductive hormones and reduces stress. When combined with a healthy lifestyle, like getting enough B12 and folate for cell growth, consuming omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation and taking royal jelly to support ovarian function, it can make a significant difference.

Ironically, as I was finishing up this article, I received a call from a patient who was canceling her next appointment because after the last one, SHE HAD THE BABY!

Diane Sheppard is a licensed acupuncturist and doctor of traditional Chinese medicine with AcQPoint Wellness Center. She can be reached at (760) 345.2200. For more information, visit www.acqpoint.com.