Difference between men and women

That women are different from men is a well-known fact. This also has an impact on sexuality. Here we briefly discuss the TCM perspective on some differences between women and men.

Hormones
Women experience fluctuating hormone levels due to the monthly cycle. This affects everything from libido to mood, and from sleep to concentration. In the fertile age, the hormonal effect looks different than in menopause, but it's there, that's clear. In men, the difference in hormone influence is more visible in the long term. In the short term, there is more consistency.

The Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a unique perspective on sexual functions and relates them, as expected, to the overall energy of an individual. It is quite understandable that a young mother may not be in the mood after pregnancy and childbirth. Her body needs to catch up in terms of energy and nutrients. Add sleep deprivation and possible breastfeeding to the mix, and the picture becomes clear.

The difference in libido between men and women is a popular subject for jokes. However, from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine, this phenomenon can be well explained. With age, the total amount of essential energy decreases, including sexual energy. According to TCM, a woman loses essential energy through menstruation and pregnancies. Men lose this energy through ejaculations, but to a much lesser extent.

Cold and Hot
According to TCM, women are Yin and men are Yang. Yin is cold and Yang is warm. That explains a lot, doesn't it? No, seriously, it really explains a lot. The acupuncturist can interpret symptoms with his expertise and tailor the treatment of complaints, including in the area of sexuality, to this. This can be done through the selection of acupuncture points, by prescribing Chinese herbs, and by providing dietary and lifestyle advice.

To put it simply: where there is too much cold, warmth can help, and where heat disrupts things, some coolness can be beneficial. Also, if there are cold symptoms, prevent more cold from coming in. No cold orange juice for a cold, no mountains of raw vegetables for a cold stomach and loose stools. Red skin rash, headache, premature ejaculation, try reducing alcohol and 'hot' foods (fried foods, red meat).

Reproduction
In fact, sex was invented by evolution for reproduction. When facing reproduction issues, we cannot avoid talking about sex, even in acupuncture practice. Both men and women can seek help from acupuncturists for fertility issues. However, this does not replace the examination by a gynecologist and/or urologist to identify any physical problems that may hinder conception. Acupuncture is effective in optimizing the menstrual cycle, supporting IUI, IVF, and ICSI procedures, and can be used in men to improve sperm production and quality.