Korean Medicine for Infertility — Starting with the Uterine Environment
Table of Contents
The causes of infertility are varied
Infertility is not simply about anovulation or sperm problems. The thickness of the endometrium, pelvic blood circulation, hormonal balance, and uterine temperature all interact in complex ways. In particular, a constitution in which the uterus runs cold — what Korean medicine calls uterine cold deficiency (jagungheohan, 子宮虛寒) — is one of the most common conditions that interfere with implantation.
The Korean medicine approach
Korean medicine treatment for infertility focuses on raising the overall function of the uterus and ovaries. Rather than simply administering ovulation-inducing drugs, it improves the body's foundational environment so that natural conception becomes possible.
- Herbal medicine prescriptions: Constitution-tailored formulas that nourish blood (boheol, 補血) and warm the meridians (ongyeong, 溫經) to improve uterine blood flow
- Acupuncture: Promotes blood circulation within the pelvic cavity and stabilizes the autonomic nervous system
- Moxibustion: Stimulates points such as Guanyuan (CV4) and Qihai (CV6) to raise the temperature of the lower abdomen
- Pharmacopuncture: Direct injection of medicinal extracts into acupoints around the uterus for a faster effect
A synergistic effect when combined with assisted reproduction
For those preparing for in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination, combining Korean medicine treatment can improve the endometrial environment and raise implantation rates. A number of international studies have reported that acupuncture significantly improves IVF success rates.
Timing matters
The earlier infertility treatment begins, the better. Ovarian function declines with age, and decreases sharply after 35. If your basal body temperature is irregular, your menstrual cycle is unstable, or you have severe menstrual cramps, we recommend starting examination and constitutional improvement early.