Acupuncture for Erectile Dysfunction: Can Acupuncture Treat Sexual Problems

Acupuncture for erectile dysfunction focuses on specific pressure points that Traditional Chinese Medicine believes can improve blood flow, reduce stress, and support sexual health. The top points include CV4 (below the navel for kidney energy), SP6 (inner ankle for pelvic circulation), BL23 (lower back for kidney function), and LV3 (foot for stress relief), among others. While research shows promise, especially for stress-related ED, acupuncture works best as part of a comprehensive approach alongside lifestyle changes and, when appropriate, conventional treatments. Remember that results take time (multiple sessions), and you should only work with licensed practitioners who use sterile techniques and realistic expectations about outcomes.
Acupuncture needle points for erectile dysfunction have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries to support men’s sexual health. Acupuncture may support better blood flow, reduce stress, and improve overall vitality, but it’s not a standalone cure.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the most commonly used acupuncture points for ED and explain how they’re thought to work.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a key part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which involves applying pressure to specific pressure points on the body and believes in the self-healing method of the body. It has also been approved by the World Health Organization.
According to Chinese-inspired treatment, our body’s energy, known as qi (pronounced “chee”), flows through defined energy pathways called meridian lines. When this energy flow is blocked or unbalanced in the meridian lines, it can lead to discomfort, pain, or even illness.
Acupuncture helps by clearing these blockages and encouraging smooth energy flow, which in turn supports the body’s natural healing processes. It’s very similar to acupressure; the main difference is that acupressure for ED uses fingers instead of needles(de qi), which are used in acupuncture.
Is Acupuncture for Erectile Dysfunction Beneficial?
Acupuncture works by gently stimulating both the nervous system and the vascular system, and both play a key role in achieving and maintaining a healthy penile erection.
When these systems are activated properly, they help improve blood flow in the blood vessels, hormonal imbalances, and signal pathways needed for erections.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), there’s another perspective: the liver and kidneys are considered the two main organs linked to sexual health and erectile function.
The kidneys are believed to store “essence”- the vital energy responsible for growth, reproduction, and immunity. The liver, on the other hand, regulates blood flow and emotional states.
Studies[1] show that acupuncture might work by regulating the nervous system and helping release chemicals required for erections by working on the pressure points.
Research shows that acupuncture may be especially effective for psychogenic erectile dysfunction. Acupuncture works by:
- Strengthening Kidney Essence
- Regulating liver qi
- Harmonising Yin-Yang balance
Erectile dysfunction isn’t just about the penis; it’s about blood flow, stress, hormones, and even confidence. Acupuncture may help by supporting all of these systems together.
How Acupuncture for Erectile Dysfunction Might Help
The benefits put forward of acupuncture for erectile dysfunction( jinwei in TMC) are:
Increased Blood Flow
Proper blood flow to the penis(corpus cavernosum) is essential for a healthy erection. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the kidneys and liver are linked to blood production and circulation. If these organs are imbalanced, it can affect blood flow and lead to ED.
Some studies[2] suggest that stimulating specific acupoints related to these organs may help improve blood flow in the pelvic area.
Increased Nitric Oxide
Nitric oxide for erections is very important. It is a natural chemical released by the inner lining of blood vessels. It helps relax and widen the vessels, allowing for better blood flow, especially to areas like the penis during arousal. This is essential for achieving a firm erection.
Acupuncture may indirectly support the body’s natural production of nitric oxide by stimulating the nervous system and enhancing blood circulation.
Better Mood
Psychological factors like stress, anxiety disorders, and depression can impact sexual performance even when there’s no physical issue. Certain acupuncture points may help calm the nervous system and improve mood.
A six-week study[3] on 64 men with psychogenic ED showed improvement after regular acupuncture therapy. Other research[4] also supports the acupuncture point’s role in reducing stress and enhancing emotional well-being.
Top Acupuncture Points for Erectile Dysfunction
There are a total of 361 acupuncture needle points in the body, out of which many are related to sexual performance and sexual health. Let’s see the top 9 acupuncture points for erectile dysfunction:
1. CV4-Conception Vessel 4 (Guānyuán): Gate of Origin
Where to find it:
Midline of lower abdomen, 3-4 finger-widths below the navel
Why is it chosen:
Classic point to replenish Kidney qi and improve genital circulation; appears in most ED acupuncture trials
2. CV3-Conception Vessel 3 (Zhongji): Middle Pole
Where to find it
Midline, just above the pubic bone
Why is it chosen:
stimulating points CV3 helps delay ejaculation and boost a hormone linked to testosterone.
3. CV6-Conception Vessel 6 (Qi Hai): Sea Of Energy
Where is it:
1.5 Inches below the navel.
Why is it chosen:
It’s believed to boost stamina, support overall male vitality, and help with concerns like erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.
4. KD3- Kidney 3(Taxini): Great Ravine
Where to find it:
A soft spot is located between the inner ankle bone and where the Achilles tendon begins.
Why is it chosen:
It’s a primary point on the Kidney meridian, which is believed to be crucial for sexual function.
5. BL23-Bladder 23 (Shènshū): Jinyu
Where to find it:
On the lower back, about two finger-widths to the side of the spine, near the second lower back bone (lumbar vertebra).
Why is it chosen:
This point is linked to the kidneys and bladder meridian is often used to boost energy, improve erection, sperm production, and premature ejaculation.
6. SP 6-Spleen 6(Sānyīnjiāo): Three Yin Intersection
Where is it:
Inner lower leg, about four finger-widths above the inner ankle, just behind the shinbone.
Why is it chosen:
Meeting point of the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney energy lines; often used with CV4 to boost pelvic blood flow and ease stress-linked erectile dysfunction.
7. LV3-Liver 3(Tàichōng ): Great Rushing
Where to find it:
It is also known as LR3. It is found at the top of the foot, in the soft area between the big toe and second toe bones.
Why is it chosen:
Helps release blocked energy in the liver and reduce anxiety that may interfere with erections.
8. ST36-Stomach 36 (Zusanli ): Leg Three Miles
Where is it:
About four finger-widths below the kneecap, on the outer side of the shinbone.
Why is it chosen:
Enhances overall circulation.
9. GV20 (Bai Hui): Hundred Meetings
Where is it:
Top of the head.
Why is it chosen:
Helps calm the mind, ease stress, and support ED linked to psychological causes.
What to Expect in an Acupuncture For Erectile Dysfunction Session
- You’ll lie comfortably on a table, with only the treated areas exposed.
- The needles are hair-thin; most people feel just a light pinch or nothing at all.
- These needles are not placed anywhere near your genitals. They are placed further away from this area.
- Once placed, the needles stay in for 20-30 minutes; many patients even drift off to sleep.
- The acupuncturist may gently adjust them to keep the effect going.
- Acupuncture usually takes more than one session. Think of it like physical therapy for your circulation and nerves; gradual, steady progress rather than a quick fix.
Is Acupuncture Safe for Erectile Dysfunction?
Yes, acupuncture points for erectile dysfunction are safe when done by a licensed professional. Studies[5] on the safety of acupuncture for ED show very few side effects, and when they do occur, they’re usually minor and temporary.
Possible mild effects:
- Small bruise where the needle was inserted
- Mild soreness for a day or two
- Brief dizziness or drowsiness right after treatment
Red flags to avoid:
- Unlicensed practitioners
- Anyone promising guaranteed results
- Unsterile or non-clinical settings
- Never try DIY acupuncture. Incorrect needling can cause infections, nerve damage, or even organ injury.
Who Should Consider Acupuncture for ED?
Acupuncture isn’t for everyone, but some men may find it especially helpful.
Who Can Try Acupuncture for ED :
- Men with stress or anxiety-related ED (psychogenic ED)
- Those who prefer natural or complementary therapies
- Men who can’t take ED medications due to heart conditions or drug interactions
- Anyone interested in improving overall wellness, not just erections
Who Should Avoid Acupuncture for ED:
- You have a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners (check with your doctor first)
- You have a severe needle phobia
- You have skin infections at the needle sites
According to Allo Health, 62% of erectile dysfunction cases in men under 35 are linked to stress or anxiety, based on our internal clinical data from over 2.5 lakh patient consultations at our clinics.
Combining Acupressure With Other ED Treatments
Acupuncture works best when it’s part of a bigger picture. Both Traditional Chinese Medicine and modern research agree: healthy living is the foundation.
Acupuncture can be a supportive option, often used alongside conventional ED treatments. It’s most effective for ED tied to stress, anxiety, or circulation problems, as long as expectations are realistic.
With medications (like Viagra or Cialis):
Acupuncture may boost the effects of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors and even ease some side effects.
With lifestyle changes:
Combining a good lifestyle with acupuncture can help alleviate the benefits of acupuncture.
With pelvic floor therapy (Kegel Exercises):
Pairing acupressure with these kegel exercises for ED led to better outcomes, since both blood flow and muscle tension were addressed.
When to Seek Medical Support
- Erectile dysfunction symptoms lasting more than 3 months
- Any chest pain or cardiovascular symptoms during practice
- Sudden changes in erectile function
- If you’re taking medications and notice unusual interactions
Bottom Line
Erectile dysfunction often reflects deeper issues like heart disease, diabetes, or chronic stress. Acupuncture isn’t a cure, but it’s safe, simple, and can support better blood flow, stress relief, and overall wellness.
The evidence so far is promising but still limited. Think of acupuncture not as a quick fix, but as one tool in supporting long-term sexual health. When paired with healthy habits, it may become a helpful part of a broader treatment plan.
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