Wet cupping therapy (hijama) and fertility
Does wet cupping therapy (Hijama) Really Help with Fertility? Here’s What We Know So Far
Wet cupping, also known as hijama, has been used for centuries in various cultures as a natural therapy for a wide range of health issues. These days, some people also turn to hijama to help with fertility problems. But how much truth is there behind this? Let’s explore what hijama is, the potential benefits for fertility, and what the science says.
What is wet cupping (hijama)?
Hijama is a traditional form of therapy where suction cups are placed on the skin to create a vacuum, often with small cuts made to draw a little blood. The idea is that by drawing out "stagnant" blood, hijama may improve circulation and reduce inflammation, which could support overall health.
At Revive Life Studios, we often get asked about hijama’s potential benefits for fertility, and we think it’s important to give you a clear and balanced view on this topic.
Can Hijama Really Boost Fertility?
Let’s look at what hijama could theoretically do for fertility, along with what the research says so far.
1. Improving Blood Flow
One common idea is that hijama may improve blood flow. For fertility, this is thought to be helpful because better blood flow to reproductive organs might support a healthy environment for conception.
What the Research Says: Some studies suggest that cupping may boost local blood circulation temporarily, which could help with muscle relaxation and healing (Cao et al., 2015). However, there’s limited evidence showing that increased blood flow directly impacts fertility.
2. Reducing Stress
Stress can be a big factor when it comes to fertility struggles, and hijama is sometimes used as a way to manage stress. Since stress can affect hormone levels and overall health, reducing it might indirectly support fertility.
What the Research Says: While some people feel more relaxed after hijama, there isn’t strong scientific evidence that it impacts fertility directly. A few studies suggest that cupping may help some people feel more relaxed and relieve certain types of pain (Kim et al., 2011). However, these effects tend to be short-term, and they may vary widely from person to person.
3. Reducing Inflammation
Another theory is that hijama might help reduce inflammation, which can sometimes affect fertility, especially in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis.
What the Research Says: There’s some evidence that cupping might reduce certain inflammatory markers in the body (Lowe et al., 2017). But for fertility-related inflammation, more specific studies are needed before we can say for sure if it helps.
4. Hormonal Balance
Hormonal imbalances are a common cause of infertility, and some people believe hijama can help the body rebalance hormones naturally.
What the Research Says: Research on hijama’s effect on hormones is limited, and there’s no direct evidence linking it to improved hormone balance or fertility. While some individuals report feeling more "balanced" after hijama, this is likely due to subjective effects rather than proven changes in hormone levels (Lee et al., 2011).
Is Hijama Right for Fertility Support?
While hijama has shown benefits for things like relaxation and temporary pain relief, the science behind its effects on fertility is still emerging. For anyone exploring hijama as part of a fertility plan, it’s important to see it as a complementary option rather than a primary treatment. Always consider working with a fertility specialist or healthcare provider to find the most effective and evidence-based treatments for your unique needs.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to Hijama and Fertility
While hijama has a rich history and may offer some physical and mental relaxation, current research doesn’t strongly support it as a standalone solution for fertility issues. It may be helpful for overall wellness, and some people do report benefits, but it’s best used alongside other fertility treatments that have stronger evidence.
References
Cao, H., Han, M., Li, X., Dong, S., Shang, Y., Wang, Q., & Xu, S. (2015). Clinical research evidence of cupping therapy in China: a systematic literature review. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 15(1), 1-13.
Kim, J. I., Lee, M. S., Lee, D. H., Boddy, K., & Ernst, E. (2011). Cupping for treating pain: a systematic review. The Korean Journal of Pain, 24(3), 182-190.
Lowe, D. T., Yalamanchili, A., & Brechbuhler, J. S. (2017). Cupping Therapy as a Treatment Modality in Physical Therapy. Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Practice, 29(1), 37–45.
Lee, M. S., Kim, J. I., & Ernst, E. (2011). Is cupping an effective treatment? An overview of systematic reviews. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, 4(1), 1-4.