Many couples experience infertility. While some causes of infertility remain unknown, about one-third of infertility cases are due to factors present in both partners. Standard infertility treatments can vary depending on the underlying cause. Saw palmetto is an herb that shows some promise as a medicinal remedy for prostate enlargement, although there is no evidence indicating this herb can help promote fertility in men or women.
Fertility
A sperm analysis can help determine whether a man has abnormal sperm. This condition may account for as many as 50 percent of male infertility cases. Conditions that cause low sperm counts, such as wearing tight clothing, using anabolic steroids, smoking marijuana or chemotherapy treatment, can lead to infertility in men. Common conditions that cause female infertility include ovulation problems, ovarian tube damage and uterine abnormalities. Saw palmetto is not a standard medical or herbal remedy for treating fertility problems.
Saw Palmetto
Serenoa repens is the botanical name for saw palmetto. This herb has a long history of medicinal uses in Native American cultures. Early male settlers used the berries of this plant in an attempt to treat urinary tract problems and boost libido, as well as increase sperm production. There is no scientific evidence supporting the claims of benefits to the libido or sperm count.
Enlarged Prostate
Benign prostatic Hyperplasia, or BPH, is the medical term for an enlarged prostate gland, a common condition. Although some studies indicate that saw palmetto may play a role in reducing the size of an enlarged prostate, the results are inconclusive and more research is necessary to determine any potential benefits. Medical evidence does not suggest that using saw palmetto for an enlarged prostate can help promote fertility.
Precautions
Infertility may stem from a serious medical condition that requires medical care. Consult your doctor before using saw palmetto to treat infertility or other medical conditions, including an enlarged prostate. Although saw palmetto is safe for most people, consuming this herb may cause minor headaches and stomach complaints. The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that women who have a risk or history of hormone-related cancers should not take this herb. Saw palmetto may interact with some drugs, including oral contraceptives and anticoagulant medications.
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