How do TCM physicians diagnose infertility?

Hi Zhen Yi,

Thanks for the D2D. If, despite regular unprotected intercourse, pregnancy does not occur after six months to a year, then the couple may be facing fertility problem.

It is an increasingly common problem in modern societies, affecting 10-15% Singaporean couples. If you are unable to conceive after 6 months to a year of trying, it is better to seek medical evaluation and help.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles, we understand the body as an organic whole where the internal body is in tune with one’s social and external environment. We treat holistically, taking into account your physical, emotional and spiritual aspect.

Maintaining balance between yin and yang, qi and blood is essential to good physical and mental health. A TCM diagnosis focuses on finding the body’s imbalance and seeks to bring it back to balance. By doing so, all systems will work more efficiently, including your reproductive organs.

A couple is encouraged to consult the TCM physician together. In a typical TCM consultation, I will be asking you a series of questions pertaining to your fertility and menstrual period. Other questions include diet, lifestyle, sleeping pattern, stress level, bowel movement, past/current illness, family history and emotions.

Combining with TCM unique diagnostic methods, which involve observation, smelling and pulse taking, I will be able to properly diagnose your condition and advise you on the course of treatment to boost fertility.

In ancient times, TCM physicians diagnose infertility by asking a series of questions (symptoms) and examining the patient’s tongue and pulse (signs) to determine the underlying cause of infertility.

Some of the common questions (non-exhaustive) for the ladies are:

• How many days it takes for the patient to complete one menstrual cycle.
• The number of times the patient has gotten pregnant and the number of times she had given birth.
• If the patient experiences menstrual cramps.
• The patient’s observation of her vaginal discharge.
• The patient’s emotional well being and mental state.
• If the patient feels cold easily.
• The patient’s BMI (body mass index) measurement.
• If the patient has any pre-existing medical conditions.

Some of the common questions (non-exhaustive) for the men are:

• If the patient experiences erectile dysfunction issues.
• If the patient experiences frequent nocturia.
• If patients experience itchiness or moisture around the groin area.
• The patient’s BMI (body mass index) measurement.
• If the patient has any pre-existing medical conditions.

With advancements in technology, TCM physicians have adapted their time-tested TCM diagnostic methods their predecessors have established over the centuries to technology, such as referring to the patient’s medical reports like hormonal tests, seminal analyses, ultrasound scans, etc.. to gain a broader and more holistic understanding of the patient’s current condition.

This information enables us to further refine our treatment plan so as to serve our patient better.