It’s not easy for men to talk about erectile dysfunction (ED). This lack of communication hides the fact that it’s more common than many realize, affecting an estimated 10% of all men. Dr. Beijing Men at Integrated Oriental Medicine understands men’s concerns and works with each patient to improve his sexual function using a combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. If you have any questions about ED or male infertility, call one of the offices in Seattle or Bellevue, Washington, or book an appointment online.

ED Q & A

What causes erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction, the inability to achieve or maintain an erection, can develop due to lifestyle influences such as excessive alcohol use and smoking cigarettes. However, ED is more often caused by an underlying health problem such as:

  • Diabetes
  • Chronic stress
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Enlarged prostate
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Hormone imbalance
  • Depression and anxiety

ED can also be a side effect of medications, including the drugs used to treat hypertension and depression.

What causes male infertility?

Male infertility is the primary cause of infertility in 20-25% of couples who can’t conceive. Together with female infertility, it’s a contributing factor for another 20% of all infertile couples. Men and their partners should be evaluated for infertility when they’re not pregnant after 12 months of unprotected sex.

The most common causes of male infertility include:

  • Low sperm levels
  • Poor sperm motility
  • Abnormally shaped sperm
  • Blocked tubes that carry sperm
  • Varicocele (varicose veins around the testicles)
  • Retrograde ejaculation
  • Hormone imbalances
  • Injured testicles

Men may also become infertile following exposure to environmental toxins, certain medications such, as anabolic steroids, and frequent exposure to heat in saunas or hot tubs. In Chinese medicine, male infertility is associated with kidney, blood, and Qi deficiency, damp heat toxins, Qi stagnation, and phlegm retention.

How are ED and male infertility treated?

At Integrated Oriental Medicine, Dr. Men treats male infertility with a combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. Your herbal mixtures and acupuncture points are based on the underlying cause of your infertility.

Acupuncture also helps restore sexual function and stamina in some men with ED by improving circulation and regulating hormones. Treatment with acupuncture may be especially beneficial for ED caused by stress, depression, and anxiety.

Herbal medicine also produces good results as herbs contain bioactive ingredients that directly affect erectile function. Depending on the herbs used, your ED may improve as they:

  • Dilate blood vessels
  • Boost nitric oxide
  • Increase testosterone
  • Reduce oxidative stress

Dr. Men may use single herbs to target a specific pathway, but in most cases, he carefully selects a mixture of herbs designed to help each individual patient.

You can overcome erectile dysfunction and male infertility with safe and effective Chinese medicine. Call Integrated Oriental Medicine or book an appointment online.