Phoenix Tree Fertility

Supporting your fertility journey

- whether you’re seeking natural solutions or IVF support, we’re here to help.

I’m Susanβ€”The Fertility Detective.

With over 14 years of clinical experience as a specialist fertility acupuncturist, I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate their journey to parenthood. My approach combines the time-honoured wisdom of traditional acupuncture with the latest advancements in reproductive medicine, ensuring my patients receive personalised, evidence-based care.

I hold a BSc (Hons) in Acupuncture from the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine (CICM) in Reading and have undergone advanced fertility training with renowned expert Naava Carman. My professional journey led me to co-found ACCT Bristol (Acupuncture from Conception to Childbirth Team), a collaborative group focused on providing integrated fertility and pregnancy support.

Through continuous professional development, I ensure that my practice is aligned with the latest fertility research, allowing me to provide cutting-edge treatments that optimise reproductive health.

But beyond my professional expertise, I have also walked this path myself. I have faced my own fertility struggles and undergone IVF, so I understandβ€”on a deeply personal levelβ€”the rollercoaster of emotions, the uncertainty, and the hope that comes with trying to conceive. My first-hand experience fuels my commitment to providing not just clinical expertise, but genuine empathy and emotional support to every patient I see.

Why "The Fertility Detective"?

Before dedicating my career to acupuncture, I spent 25 years as a police detectiveβ€”a role that sharpened my investigative skills, analytical thinking, and attention to detail. Now, I bring these skills into the fertility world, working to uncover the missing pieces in each patient’s reproductive health journey.

I take a meticulous, problem-solving approach to fertility, exploring everything from hormonal balance and reproductive immunology to lifestyle and nutrition, ensuring my patients receive the comprehensive support they deserve.

I truly believe that there is no such thing as unexplained infertilityβ€”only unexplored infertility, and my mission is to leave no stone unturned in identifying and addressing the root causes of reproductive challenges.

🧩 Finding the Missing Piece in Your Fertility Journey 🧩

Trying to conceive can feel like working on a jigsaw puzzleβ€”carefully placing each piece, only to realise something vital is missing.

For many, that missing piece could be something often overlooked, like:

🧩 Reproductive immunology such as a High TSH & thyroid peroxidase antibodies

🧩 PCOS & hormonal imbalances

🧩 Endometriosis

🧩Male factor infertility such as varicocele or urogenital infections

🧩 OHSS & IVF complications

If you’re facing challenges or preparing for IVF, I use Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to support Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)β€”helping to optimise your body and improve success rates.

I also work with experts Emily Barker, nutritionalist and fertility specialist, and Jennifer Creedon, nutritionalist and acupuncturist, who can guide you through what best foods and supplements can nourish yours and your partners  health and fertility.

As part of @fertilitysupport, I’m backed by a network of leading fertility specialists, ensuring I bring the gold standard of fertility acupuncture and coaching to every patient.

πŸ” Struggling to find the missing piece? Let’s complete your fertility puzzle together.

〰️

πŸ” Struggling to find the missing piece? Let’s complete your fertility puzzle together. 〰️

  • At my clinic, I go beyond acupuncture. My approach includes:

    βœ”οΈ Lifestyle & Nutritional Guidance – Helping to optimise overall health and fertility.

    βœ”οΈ Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach – Identifying root causes of infertility, recurrent miscarriage, and failed IVF cycles.

    βœ”οΈ Acupuncture for Fertility, IVF Support & Pregnancy – Using evidence-based techniques to enhance reproductive health.

    βœ”οΈ Reproductive Immunology & PCOS Support – Addressing immune-related fertility challenges.

    I also work closely with fertility nutritionalist Emily Barker (@rootsandshoots) to provide additional dietary strategies that support natural conception and assisted reproductive treatments.

    My Commitment to You:

    Having been through this journey myself, I know how it feels to desperately want answers, to face disappointment, and to keep hoping. I understand the mental, emotional, and physical toll of infertilityβ€”but I also know that there is always a way forward.

    Whether you are:

    • Trying to conceive naturally,

    • Undergoing IVF or ICSI,

    • Recovering from miscarriage, or

    • Managing conditions like PCOS or endometriosis,

    …I am here to support, guide, and empower you every step of the way.

    πŸ“Œ Let’s work together to create your own success story.

  • In today’s fast-paced world, the idea of slowing down to support fertility can feel unfamiliar. However, research shows that restoring balance in the body plays a crucial role in optimising fertility and improving IVF success rates.

    🟒 Preparation Before IVF:

    The most important work happens in the three months before treatment.

    It takes three months for an egg to mature and be selected for ovulation.

    Acupuncture supports this process, improving egg quality, circulation, and overall reproductive health.

    🟒 Reducing Stress & Anxiety:

    IVF and ICSI treatments can be highly stressful and emotionally demanding.

    Acupuncture helps to calm the nervous system, lower stress hormones, and improve your ability to cope with the process.

    🟒 Improving IVF Success Rates:

    A 2024 study found that acupuncture improved IVF live birth rates by 33.8% (PubMed Study).

    A 2018 meta-analysis of 3,188 women undergoing IVF or ICSI showed acupuncture significantly increased live birth rates (RR = 1.36, 95% CI 1.09–1.69, P=0.006).

    A 2018 randomised controlled trial in China found that acupuncture improved ovarian blood flow and pregnancy rates, with a clinical pregnancy rate of 52.6% in the acupuncture group, compared to 33.3% and 32.8% in the control groups.

    By integrating acupuncture into your IVF journey, we can help enhance your chances of success, support your well-being, and guide you every step of the way.

    Let’s work together to create your own success story.

  • Recent studies continue to highlight the growing evidence supporting acupuncture’s role in fertility treatment. Acupuncture has been shown to enhance the success of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as IUI and IVF, while also promoting emotional well-being by reducing stress and anxietyβ€”two factors that can impact fertility outcomes.

    At Phoenix Tree Fertility, we take a holistic, investigative approach to your reproductive health. Your first consultation is an opportunity to assess how you feel, how you live, and what changes may support your fertility journey.

    What to Expect at Your First Appointment:

    We begin with a comprehensive consultation, looking at key lifestyle factors that influence fertility:

    βœ… Nutrition – What you eat and how it affects your hormones and energy.

    βœ… Stress & Mental Well-being – How daily pressures impact your reproductive health.

    βœ… Exercise & Movement – Understanding your activity levels and whether they support optimal fertility.

    βœ… Sleep Quality – The role of rest and recovery in balancing hormones.

    βœ… Emotional & Physical Well-being – How you feel in yourself, and what needs to change.

    Following your initial consultation, you will receive a written report with personalised recommendations, including a tailored acupuncture and lifestyle plan.

  • 🟒 Regulating Hormones & Menstrual Cycles – Acupuncture supports the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis (HPOA), helping to balance hormone levels that are crucial for fertility.

    🟒 Improving Egg Quality – Acupuncture promotes better ovarian blood flow, supporting healthier egg development.

    🟒 Enhancing Sperm Vitality – Research suggests acupuncture can improve sperm count, motility, and morphology, supporting male fertility.

    🟒 Optimising IVF Success Rates – Acupuncture may enhance the effects of IVF medications, improve ovarian response, and reduce the side effects of fertility drugs.

    🟒 Supporting Embryo Implantation – By increasing blood flow to the uterus (Stener-Victorin, 1996; Huang, 2008), acupuncture can improve endometrial thickness, creating an optimal environment for implantation.

    🟒 Reducing the Risk of Miscarriage – Acupuncture can stabilise progesterone levels, support a healthy uterine environment, and help reduce pregnancy loss risk.

    🟒 Supporting Women with PCOS – Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common cause of infertility. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce ovarian cysts, stimulate ovulation, and regulate cycles, improving conception chances.

    (Extract taken from the British Acupuncture Council’s Research Fact Sheet)

  • Miscarriage is an incredibly painful and traumatic experience, leaving many women and couples feeling lost, heartbroken, and uncertain about the future. At Phoenix Tree Fertility, we understand the depth of this loss and are here to provide compassionate, holistic support to help you heal physically and emotionally.

    Many of the women I see in my clinic have experienced one or multiple miscarriages. While no words can ease the grief of pregnancy loss, acupuncture can support your recovery and help prepare your body for a future pregnancy.

    How Acupuncture Can Support You After Miscarriage

    ❀️ Regulating Hormones

    Hormonal balance is crucial for a stable uterine environment and the successful implantation and maintenance of a pregnancy. Acupuncture helps to regulate key hormones such as progesterone and estrogen, supporting a healthy reproductive system.

    πŸ’™ Reducing Stress & Anxiety

    The emotional toll of miscarriage can be overwhelming. Acupuncture is known to reduce stress hormones, calm the nervous system, and promote emotional healing, helping you regain a sense of stability and hope.

    πŸ›‘οΈ Modulating the Immune System

    In some cases, immune system imbalances may contribute to recurrent pregnancy loss. Acupuncture can help regulate immune responses, supporting a healthier environment for implantation and early pregnancy development.

    🌿 Improving Blood Flow to the Uterus

    Healthy blood circulation is essential for a thick, receptive endometrial lining. Acupuncture enhances uterine and ovarian blood flow, improving conditions for embryo implantation and fetal development.

    🌸 Supporting You Through the Grieving Process

    Miscarriage is a deeply personal and heartbreaking loss. Our approach is not just about physical recoveryβ€”we provide emotional support and compassionate care to help you process your grief and move forward when you feel ready.

    You Are Not Alone

    At Phoenix Tree Fertility, we are here to support you every step of the wayβ€”whether you need help healing after a loss, preparing your body for a future pregnancy, or simply someone to listen and guide you through this difficult time.

    πŸ“Œ Book a consultation today to explore how acupuncture can help support your recovery and fertility journey.

  • Acupuncture is a safe and effective way to support your well-being throughout pregnancy, helping to ease common discomforts, reduce stress, and prepare your body for childbirth. Whether you are in the early stages of pregnancy, approaching labour, or in the postpartum phase, acupuncture can provide natural relief and balance.

    How Can Acupuncture Support You During Pregnancy?

    Acupuncture is widely used to help manage pregnancy-related symptoms and promote overall well-being. It can be used alone or alongside conventional treatments, including medications and physical therapy.

    Benefits of Acupuncture During Pregnancy:

    🌿 Eases Nausea & Morning Sickness – Helps reduce nausea and vomiting, especially in the first trimester.

    🧘 Reduces Anxiety & Stress – Supports emotional balance during pregnancy and postpartum.

    πŸ’†β€β™€οΈ Relieves Pregnancy Discomforts – Helps manage common symptoms such as:

    • Pelvic pain & back pain (including sciatica)

    • Heartburn & indigestion

    • Constipation & haemorrhoids

    • Varicose veins & leg cramps

    • Carpal tunnel syndrome

    • Nasal congestion & nosebleeds

    • Bleeding gums

    • Swelling of hands & feet

    • Difficulty sleeping & fatigue

    • Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD)

    Pre-Birth Acupuncture: Preparing for Labour

    Starting from week 36, your body enters the pre-labour phase, shifting energy toward childbirth. This is a critical time to receive acupuncture treatments, as they help:

    βœ”οΈ Support ligaments & muscles as they stretch to widen the pelvis.

    βœ”οΈ Soften & ripen the cervix to prepare for labour.

    βœ”οΈ Encourage the baby to descend into the optimal position.

    βœ”οΈ Boost energy levels to support endurance during labour.

    Recommended Treatment Schedule:

    πŸ“Œ Week 36–39: Weekly acupuncture to prepare the body for labour.

    πŸ“Œ Week 40 (if needed): Additional session to further support natural labour readiness.

    πŸ“Œ Acupuncture for Induction: From the due date, acupuncture can be used to help encourage labour naturally.

    Partner Support: Acupressure for Labour

    This is also a valuable time to involve birth partners in the preparation process. I provide acupressure guides and hands-on instruction to help partners use acupressure techniques during labour, offering natural pain relief and emotional support throughout the birthing experience.

    A Natural, Holistic Approach to Pregnancy Well-being

    Acupuncture is a gentle, effective way to support both mother and baby throughout pregnancy. Whether you are seeking relief from discomforts, preparing for birth, or simply looking for a way to feel more balanced and supported, Phoenix Tree Fertility is here to help.

    πŸ“Œ Book a session to experience the benefits of acupuncture during pregnancy.

  • Many cases of infertility, recurrent miscarriage, or failed IVF cycles are not unexplainedβ€”but unexplored. As part of my @FertilitySupportTraining, I am skilled in assessing a comprehensive range of tests to investigate immune-related causes of infertility and develop an effective, personalised treatment plan.

    For some individuals, an overactive immune system may be a key factor preventing pregnancy. In these cases, the immune system can mistakenly attack sperm, eggs, embryos, or even a developing fetus, leading to:

    βœ”οΈ Difficulty conceiving

    βœ”οΈ Failure of embryo implantation

    βœ”οΈ Recurrent miscarriage

    βœ”οΈ Unsuccessful IVF cycles

    At Phoenix Tree Fertility, I take an investigative approach, leaving no stone unturned in identifying potential immune-related fertility challenges.

    The Role of the Immune System in Pregnancy

    πŸ“Œ (Adapted from the Reproductive Immunology Centre)

    From implantation to birth, the maternal immune system plays a critical role in supporting a healthy pregnancy. The body must tolerate the genetically unique embryo, yet in some cases, the immune system overreactsβ€”treating the pregnancy as a threat.

    If chromosomal, genetic, or uterine issues have been ruled out, then exaggerated maternal immune activity is considered a primary concern. Key immune cells involved in this process include:

    πŸ›‘οΈ Natural Killer (NK) Cells & T Cells – If overly active, these cells may prevent implantation or attack the developing embryo.

    πŸ›‘οΈ B Cells & Anti-Phospholipid Antibodies – Linked to autoimmune conditions that may contribute to miscarriage.

    By testing for abnormal immune activity and identifying potential autoimmune responses, targeted treatment can significantly improve reproductive success.

    πŸ”— Learn more from the Reproductive Immunology Centre

    Western & Complementary Treatments for Reproductive Immunology Issues

    1️⃣ Intralipids Therapy (Used in Western medicine)

    Intralipids are 20% intravenous fat emulsions that help modulate immune activity and reduce overactive responses.

    They contain soybean oil, egg yolk phospholipids, glycerine, and water and are commonly used alongside fertility treatments.

    2️⃣ Acupuncture & Immune Modulation (Used as a complementary approach)

    Acupuncture helps to regulate immune function, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow to the reproductive organs.

    It can be used alongside intralipid therapy to support implantation and pregnancy maintenance.

    Taking the Next Step

    If you have experienced:

    βœ”οΈ Recurrent miscarriages

    βœ”οΈ Unexplained infertility

    βœ”οΈ Failed IVF cycles despite good embryo quality

    βœ”οΈ A history of autoimmune disorders

    Then immune testing and personalised treatment could be a key part of your fertility journey.

    πŸ“Œ Book a consultation to explore how reproductive immunology testing and acupuncture can support your path to parenthood.

  • Endometriosis symptoms vary from mild to severe, and some women may not even realise they have it until they face fertility challenges.

    πŸ’’ Pain-related symptoms:

    • Severe menstrual cramps (often worsening over time).

    • Chronic pelvic & lower back pain.

    • Pain during or after sex.

    • Intestinal discomfort.

    • Painful bowel movements or urination during periods.

    🩸 Menstrual & reproductive symptoms:

    • Heavy, prolonged periods.

    • Spotting or bleeding between cycles.

    • Difficulty conceiving (infertility).

    • Increased risk of recurrent miscarriage.

    🌿 Other common symptoms:

    • Fatigue & low energy levels.

    • Digestive issues (bloating, diarrhoea, constipation), especially during periods.

    How We Can Support You

    At Phoenix Tree Fertility, we take a holistic, whole-body approach to managing endometriosis-related fertility challenges. Acupuncture, dietary changes, and lifestyle adjustments can help:

    βœ”οΈ Reduce inflammation & pain.

    βœ”οΈ Regulate hormone imbalances.

    βœ”οΈ Support the immune system.

    βœ”οΈ Improve circulation to reproductive organs.

    βœ”οΈ Enhance implantation success & fertility outcomes.

    If you have been diagnosed with endometriosisβ€”or suspect you may have itβ€”we are here to help.

    πŸ“Œ Book a consultation to explore acupuncture and natural fertility support for endometriosis.

  • We now understand that endometriosis is not just a reproductive disorderβ€”it is an immune-related chronic inflammatory disease that affects the entire body. Research has shown that women with endometriosis experience:

    πŸ›‘οΈ Dysregulated Immune Function – Decreased T-cell reactivity and natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity.

    πŸ”₯ Chronic Systemic Inflammation – Increased inflammatory mediators, leading to widespread symptoms beyond the reproductive system.

    🩸 Blood Flow Disruptions – Inflammation may impair circulation to the uterus, affecting implantation and fertility.

    πŸ“š Research Reference:

    Riccio, L. da G. C., et al. (2020). Immunology of Endometriosis. Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynecology, 50, 39-40.

    How Acupuncture Supports Endometriosis:

    At Phoenix Tree Fertility, we specialise in acupuncture for endometriosis, using evidence-based techniques to:

    βœ”οΈ Improve Blood Flow to the Uterus – Supporting endometrial health and reducing stagnation.

    βœ”οΈ Reduce Systemic Inflammation – Helping to calm immune overactivity and modulate inflammatory responses.

    βœ”οΈ Regulate the Immune System – Supporting T-cell and NK cell balance, which may enhance fertility.

    βœ”οΈ Alleviate Pain & Symptoms – Reducing pelvic pain, period pain, bloating, and fatigue.

    Acupuncture is especially beneficial during the menstrual and follicular phases, when the body is naturally trying to clear blood stagnation and prepare for ovulation.

  • Diet plays a significant role in managing endometriosis symptoms and inflammation. Research suggests that certain foods increase or decrease the risk of disease progression.

    πŸ“‰ Foods Associated with a Decreased Risk of Endometriosis:

    πŸ₯¦ Fruits & Vegetables – Higher intake linked to lower risk (Parazzini, 2004).

    🐟 Omega-3 Fats – Women in the highest quartile of omega-3 intake had a reduced likelihood of developing endometriosis (Missmer, 2010).

    πŸ“ˆ Foods Associated with an Increased Risk of Endometriosis:

    πŸ₯© Red Meat – Eating more than 2 portions/day was associated with a 56% higher risk of endometriosis (Yamamoto, 2018).

    πŸ– Ham & Processed Meats – Linked to higher rates of disease (Parazzini, 2004).

    🧈 Butter & Alcohol – Consumption correlated with increased risk (Heilier, 2007).

    🍟 Trans-Fats & Animal Fats – Women with high trans-fat intake had a 48% increased risk, while those in the upper quartile of animal fat intake had a 20% increased risk (Missmer, 2010).

    πŸ“ Gluten & Endometriosis:

    A short-term gluten-free and dairy-free elimination diet has shown promise in managing painful endometriosis-related symptoms (Marziali et al., 2012). Research also suggests that non-coeliac gluten sensitivity may contribute to reproductive disorders (Bold & Rostami, 2015).

    πŸ“š Research References:

    Parazzini, F. (2004). Diet and Endometriosis: Risk Factors.

    Yamamoto, T. (2018). Red Meat & Endometriosis Risk.

    Missmer, S. (2010). Omega-3, Trans-Fats & Endometriosis.

    Heilier, J. (2007). Alcohol, Butter & Endometriosis Risk.

    Marziali, M. et al. (2012). Gluten-Free Diet for Endometriosis Pain Management.

    Bold, J., Rostami, K. (2015). Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity & Reproductive Disorders.

    The Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Endometriosis

    We recommend an anti-inflammatory diet to help reduce endometriosis symptoms and inflammation. This includes:

    βœ… Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Trial – To assess potential food sensitivities.

    βœ… Increased Omega-3 Fats – Found in salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts.

    βœ… Phytonutrient-Rich Foods – High in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to combat oxidative stress.

    βœ… Reduced Red Meat & Processed Foods – To support hormonal balance.

    At Phoenix Tree Fertility, we offer personalised food plans and dietary inspiration to help support your fertility and endometriosis management naturally.

    πŸ“Œ Book a consultation today to explore acupuncture, nutrition, and holistic approaches for managing endometriosis.

  • Supporting Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a leading cause of female infertility. Acupuncture can help by reducing sympathetic nerve activity and balancing hormone levels. Research shows it may reduce the number of ovarian cysts, stimulate ovulation, enhance blastocyst implantation, and regulate menstrual cycles in women with PCOS.

    Rushing into IVF is rarely the best option of IVF with low AMH if the egg producer is under 40 years.

    PCOS & Fertility: How Acupuncture Can Help

    Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the leading causes of female infertility, affecting hormone regulation, ovulation, and metabolic function. Women with PCOS often experience:

    ❌ Irregular or absent periods

    ❌ Anovulation (lack of ovulation)

    ❌ Multiple ovarian cysts

    ❌ Hormonal imbalances (high androgens, insulin resistance)

    ❌ Difficulty conceiving

    While PCOS can present challenges to fertility, acupuncture has been shown to offer significant benefits in regulating cycles, improving ovulation, and enhancing reproductive outcomes.

    How Acupuncture Supports PCOS & Fertility

    βœ”οΈ Regulates Menstrual Cycles – Encourages more consistent ovulation and balanced cycles.

    βœ”οΈ Reduces Sympathetic Nerve Activity – Helps lower stress hormones that can contribute to PCOS symptoms.

    βœ”οΈ Balances Hormone Levels – Modulates LH, FSH, and insulin resistance, crucial for healthy egg development.

    βœ”οΈ Reduces Ovarian Cysts – Research suggests acupuncture may help reduce cyst formation.

    βœ”οΈ Enhances Blastocyst Implantation – Improves uterine receptivity for successful implantation.

    πŸ“š Research Reference: Studies indicate that acupuncture may stimulate ovulation, improve egg quality, and enhance fertility outcomes in women with PCOS.

    Should You Rush into IVF with PCOS & Low AMH?

    For women with low AMH (Anti-MΓΌllerian Hormone) levels, particularly those under 40, rushing into IVF may not always be the best first option. Instead, preparing the body properly with acupuncture, lifestyle changes, and targeted nutritional support can improve egg quality and reproductive health, potentially enhancing natural conception or increasing IVF success rates.

    At Phoenix Tree Fertility, we take a holistic, step-by-step approach to optimising fertility before considering IVF. This ensures that when medical intervention is needed, the body is in the best possible state for a successful outcome.

    πŸ“Œ Book a consultation today to explore acupuncture and natural fertility support for PCOS.

  • Male Fertility: The Missing Piece in the Fertility Puzzle

    Male fertility has declined by 50% in the West between 1960 and 2015β€”and in some countries, the decline is even more dramatic. Despite this, male infertility is often overlooked or not thoroughly investigated.

    At Phoenix Tree Fertility, we recognise that male reproductive health is just as important as female fertility in conception success. The good news is that sperm quality, production, and sexual performance can be improved through targeted lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, supplementation, and acupuncture.

    Acupuncture has been shown to support:

    βœ”οΈ Sperm production & quality – Enhancing morphology, motility, and count.

    βœ”οΈ Sperm transit & function – Supporting overall sperm health.

    βœ”οΈ Sexual performance – Addressing stress-related erectile dysfunction.

    βœ”οΈ Hormonal balance – Regulating testosterone and key reproductive hormones.

    βœ”οΈ Reducing oxidative stress & inflammation – Supporting healthy sperm DNA integrity.

  • To create a targeted fertility plan, we first assess male reproductive health with key tests, which may include:

    1️⃣ Semen Analysis – Assessing sperm count, motility, and morphology.

    2️⃣ DNA Fragmentation Test – Evaluating sperm DNA integrity, a key factor in miscarriage risk.

    3️⃣ Hormone & Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Blood Tests – Checking for hormone imbalances that may impact sperm health.

    4️⃣ Gut & Urinary Microbiome Testing – Identifying infections or imbalances that may affect fertility.

    5️⃣ Infection Screening – Checking for underlying infections that could compromise sperm quality.

    6️⃣ Physical Examination – Looking for conditions such as varicocele or prostate issues.

    7️⃣ Temperature Check – Monitoring body and scrotal temperature, as overheating can reduce sperm quality.

    Essential Blood Tests for Male Fertility

    Comprehensive bloodwork provides key insights into male reproductive health. The following tests are highly recommended:

    🩸 Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) – Screening for prostate health.

    🩸 Male Hormone Panel, including:

    FSH & LH – Regulating sperm production.

    Oestrogen & Testosterone (Total & Free) – Balancing key male hormones.

    Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) & Free Androgen Index (FAI) – Assessing testosterone availability.

    Prolactin & DHEA Sulphate – Checking for hormonal imbalances that can impact fertility.

    Albumin – Evaluating overall health markers related to fertility.

  • TestHim is a free and easy-to-use tool based on validated research that helps men understand their reproductive health. It offers:

    πŸ“‹ Questionnaire – Quick screening for commonly missed male fertility factors.

    πŸ’‘ Personalised Recommendations – Instant lifestyle, diet, and health advice based on responses.

    πŸ§ͺ Guidance on Further Testing – Including DNA fragmentation and oxidative stress assessments.

    πŸ₯ Referrals – If higher risks are identified, relevant medical referrals are suggested.

    πŸ”— Visit TestHim for more information.

    πŸ“± Follow @testhimltd on social media.

    πŸŽ™οΈ Listen to the TestHim Podcast for expert insights.

    Why Acupuncture Matters for Male Fertility

    Acupuncture is an evidence-based approach that can help improve sperm quality, hormonal balance, and reproductive function. Studies have shown its effectiveness in:

    πŸ”Ή Regulating Fertility Hormones – Acupuncture helps to stabilise the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, supporting optimal sperm production.

    πŸ”Ή Enhancing Blood Flow to the Testes – Research (Stener-Victorin, 2006; Lim, 2010) suggests that acupuncture increases circulation, improving sperm vitality.

    πŸ”Ή Supporting Men with Varicocele & Inflammation – Reducing oxidative stress and promoting healthy sperm DNA integrity.

    πŸ”Ή Improving Outcomes for Men with PCOS Partners – Acupuncture has been shown to enhance implantation rates and sperm-egg compatibility.

    At Phoenix Tree Fertility, we provide a specialist, whole-body approach to male reproductive health, helping you to optimise fertility naturally and increase your chances of conception.

    πŸ“Œ Book a consultation today to start your journey.

  • Scientific studies suggest that acupuncture may play a valuable role in improving male fertility, with research indicating benefits for sperm motility, count, quality, and even erectile function.

    πŸ“Š Key Findings from Clinical Trials:

    βœ”οΈ Improves sperm motility (Dieterle, 2009).

    βœ”οΈ Increases sperm count (Siterman, 2001; Siterman, 2009).

    βœ”οΈ Enhances sperm quality (Pei, 2005; Gurfinkel, 2003).

    βœ”οΈ Supports psychogenic erectile dysfunction (Engelhardt, 2003).

    While these research results are promising, further large-scale, high-quality studies are needed to establish acupuncture’s full potential in male fertility treatment.

    How Acupuncture Supports Male Fertility

    Acupuncture may assist in the treatment of male infertility (Stener-Victorin, 2010) by addressing key physiological factors:

    🟒 Lowering Scrotal Temperature – Reducing heat stress on sperm (Siterman, 2009).

    🟒 Enhancing Local Blood Flow – Increasing the diameter and velocity of peripheral arterioles, improving microcirculation (Komori, 2009).

    🟒 Reducing Inflammation – Stimulating the release of vascular and immunomodulatory factors that support sperm health (Zijlstra, 2003).

    🟒 Improving Sperm Maturation & Function – Supporting sperm development in the epididymis, increasing testosterone levels, and reducing oxidative stress that can damage sperm (Crimmel, 2001).

    (Extract taken from the British Acupuncture Council’s Research Fact Sheet)

    The Bottom Line

    Acupuncture offers a natural, evidence-supported approach to enhancing male fertility, improving sperm health, and supporting reproductive function. While research is still developing, studies suggest that acupuncture may help men struggling with low sperm quality, poor motility, and fertility-related hormonal imbalances.

    At Phoenix Tree Fertility, we incorporate acupuncture into a comprehensive fertility plan, ensuring that both partners receive the support they need for conception success.

    πŸ“Œ Book a consultation today to explore how acupuncture can support your fertility journey.

Packages by Emily Barker:

  • If I’ve learned anything from my years of nutrition training and experience working with humans is that food is so complex.

    It’s so much more than energy in and out, it’s information for our bodies. Food can connect us, trigger us, comfort us, nourish us, and is a huge part of how we feel day to day.

    I’ve created the Fertile Food Essentials course to help you cut through the overwhelm when it comes to food and give you the foundational tools to navigate eating for hormonal health and give you a flexible plan that will support you on your fertility journey and beyond!

  • This is a comprehensive blood work up to help us identify and address any key areas of concern and optimise key nutrients needed for conception and a healthy pregnancy.

    Includes:

    • Comprehensive blood testing

    • 1 x 1 hour session with personalised supplement protocol + dietary recommendations

    Investment:

    Couple - Β£750 (cost of tests all inc)

    Single - Β£375  (cost of tests all inc)

  • Have you had a diagnosis of male factor infertility or a semen analysis with results that were less than ideal? This package will help you dig a bit deeper into underlying causes and optimise your diet, lifestyle and supplement protocol to support healthy sperm production.

    Includes:

    • 1 x 90 min deep dive session - Followed by recommendations and ordering of further testing e.g. DNA Frag, microbiome testing, blood testing, gut testing etc

    • 2 x follow-up sessions over 3 months

    • Personalised diet, lifestyle, supplement plan

    Investment:

    Β£900 (tests not inc) - pay in instalments available Please note cost of tests are not included in the package.

  • A three month support package for couples (or singles) who have been trying to conceive for >6 months and are wanting to dig a bit deeper to get to the bottom of issues and optimise their chances of success.

    Includes:

    1 x 90 min initial deep dive sessions (per partner) + 4 follow-up sessions.

    Testing will be recommended to help us dig deeper into the reasons conception might not be happening or losses are happening. It’s a holistic look at everything that can influence fertility from diet, supplements, environment, movement, sleep, stress, genetics and more!

    Investment:

    Β£1500 - single

    Β£1800 - couple - pay in instalments available. Please note cost of tests are not included in the package.