Effectiveness of electroacupuncture in improving sperm motility and morphology in men with varicocele

Uki R. Budihastuti, Bhisma Murti, Teguh Prakosa, Ida Nurwati, Abdurahman Laqif, Eriana Melinawati, Metanolia Sukmawati, Agung S. Wijayanti, Yudhistira Ridwan

Abstract

Infertility affects 15% of couples worldwide, with male factors contributing to over half of the cases. Varicocele, present in 35% of men with primary infertility, impairs sperm quality. This study evaluates the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on improving sperm motility and morphology in varicocele patients. A single-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted with 14 participants divided into an EA group (n=7) and a control group (n=7). The intervention group received EA in combination with a herbal regimen and Tribulus Terrestris, while the control group received only the herbal regimen and Tribulus Terrestris without EA. Men aged 20–35 with ultrasound-confirmed varicocele and abnormal spermiograms were included. Statistical analysis used the paired t-test, Wilcoxon, and Mann-Whitney tests. The EA group showed significant improvements in sperm morphology (P=0.029) and motility (P=0.026) compared to the control group. These findings suggest that EA significantly enhances sperm quality in varicocele patients and may serve as an effective complementary treatment for male infertility.

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