Public education has replaced stigma of infertility with understanding and support

There was a time when infertility was only spoken about in hushed tones behind closed doors, when the stigma of having trouble conceiving a child ostracized a couple from their friends and family.

Luckily, those days are long gone. Today the issue of infertility is talked about openly for the medical condition it is, not for the vaguely undefined inadequacy it used to appear to be. There are support groups for couples undergoing fertility treatments. There are personal blogs dedicated to both male infertility and female infertility. And the media, both online and in print, keep us abreast of changes and improvements in the various kinds of fertility treatments that are available.

We see TV personalities like Giuliana and Bill Rancic going through the process, and their openness brings with it an enlightenment for us all, the understanding that this is a real-life issue for couples of all walks of life, not something to be whispered with shame. The fact that people can see the Rancics’ fertility specialist counseling them through the process is comforting, making the whole thing less mysterious and more confidence-building.

If you are considering fertility treatments, know that there is a wealth of resources to guide you on your way, and support you through your journey.

http://www.rsiinfertility.com/

Know the causes of male infertility

Approximately one-third of infertility cases are attributed to the male partner. But how much do you really know about the causes of male infertility? Here is a rundown of the most common causes of male infertility, according to the Mayo Clinic:

• “Abnormal sperm production or function (motility) due to various problems, such as undescended testicles, genetic defects or repeated infections.
• Problems with the delivery of sperm due to sexual problems, such as premature ejaculation or painful intercourse (dyspareunia); health issues, such as retrograde ejaculation; certain genetic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis; or structural problems, such as blockage of the part of the testicle that contains sperm (epididymis).
• General health and lifestyle issues, including poor nutrition, obesity, or use of alcohol, tobacco and drugs.
• Overexposure to certain environmental factors, such as pesticides and other chemicals. In addition, frequent exposure to heat, such as in saunas or hot tubs, can elevate your core body temperature. This may impair your sperm production and lower your sperm count.
• Damage related to cancer and its treatments. Both radiation and chemotherapy treatment for cancer can impair sperm production, sometimes severely. The closer radiation treatment is to the testicles, the higher the risk of infertility. Removal of one or both testicles due to cancer also may affect male fertility.
• Age. Men older than age 40 may be less fertile than younger men.”

If you and your partner have been trying to conceive a child by having unprotected sex for at least six months, it might be time to explore your fertility treatment options. Both partners should be screened for potential infertility issues, so that we can find the very best fertility treatment to meet your unique situation and make your family’s dreams come true.

http://www.rsiinfertility.com/

What’s a fibroid and is it affecting your fertility?

A woman’s fertility issues could be caused by any number of things, one of which is fibroids.

Fibroids are benign growths that can occur either in the wall of the uterus, in the lining of the uterus or protruding from the outside of the uterus into the abdominal cavity. Sometimes called uterine leiomyomas, or simply myomas, Most uterine fibroids are harmless, do not cause symptoms, and shrink with menopause.

However, fibroids that are in the wall of the uterus or in the uterine lining can cause or contribute to infertility. They are usually a sign of a hormone imbalance, referred to as “estrogen dominance.” Essentially that means one of three things is happening: 1. There is a higher than normal estrogen level; 2. There is higher than normal estrogen activity; or 3. There is a lower level of progesterone to balance out the estrogen.

Surgery can remove existing fibroids but it doesn’t prevent new ones from growing, and unfortunately fibroids often return after surgery if the estrogen dominance issue is not addressed. Surgical removal of fibroids also can result in scarring inside the uterus that could interfere with pregnancy.

It’s important to keep in mind that uterine fibroids are the cause of infertility only 2 to 3 percent of the time. Many women with fibroids have no trouble getting pregnant. If you know you have fibroids and wonder whether they could be contributing to your fertility issues, make an appointment with a specialist to discuss your health history, and your options.

http://www.rsiinfertility.com/

Can surfing the Web on your laptop affect male fertility?

In the past, male infertility studies have focused on the fact that elevated temperatures in a man’s testicles due to a laptop sitting on his lap can affect the quality of his sperm. But a new study out of Argentina, published in the medical journal Fertility and Sterility, has found a larger concern — the effect on sperm situated very near a Wi-Fi-connected laptop.

The study found that semen samples placed under a laptop connected to the Internet experienced more DNA damage and mobility issues than regular sperm. After four hours sitting about an inch below a Wi-Fi-connected laptop, 25 percent of the sperm samples lost their mobility and 9 percent showed defects in their DNA — three times more than the control samples, which were kept at the same temperature but away from the Wi-Fi.

The study also tested the sperm next to laptops that were not connected to Wi-Fi. They showed some damage, but less than the connected laptops, which reinforces the previous studies about how the mere heat of the laptop could impact male fertility.

More research needs to be conducted to learn the true effects of electromagnetic radiation generated by a laptop’s Wi-Fi connection, but it’s a good idea for all men to take precautions — such as using special laptop desks and laptop fans — when using laptops.

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Male Infertility and Junk Food Junkies

We often focus on the diets of women who are undergoing fertility treatments or are trying to conceive; however, it seems that men need to watch what they eat as well.

Doctors at Harvard University have concluded that all those trans-fats men eat in fast food, junk food and the like may be contributing to higher-than-normal levels of male infertility.

The Harvard study analyzed the sperm of 188 18-22 year old males.  Those males who ate diets that could hardly be deemed healthy seemed to be on a trajectory to have male infertility in their futures.

To keep the study participants’ results “clean”, Harvard’s researchers ensured that no medical factors could be contributing to any of the sperm quality results. 

The study’s results were presented recently at the Annual Meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, where one of the study’s leaders noted that “…a healthy diet seems to be beneficial for semen quality.”

Our suggestion?  Obviously, we’ve all heard that “we are we eat”, and it’s essential that we take that to heart every day, whether or not fertility factors are involved in our lives.  Besides, it’s prudent and responsible to maintain the healthiest lifestyle possible for our future children.

If you’d like to learn more about male infertility and you can travel to the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, area, please contact the Reproductive Science Institute’s offices today.

http://www.rsiinfertility.com/

Work and Your Fertility Treatments

If you’re considering fertility treatments and you have a job (whether you work for yourself or someone else), it’s important for you to address the following issues before proceeding.  While none are “deal breakers”, they can be causes of undue stress if they are not dealt with prior to the fertility treatment taking place.

1.  Do you need to let your employer know?

Depending upon the fertility treatment you choose, you may not need to tell your employer what is happening medically.  For instance, if you’ve been given a medicine such as Clomid to help you ovulate regularly and you’re not going to miss work, it’s feasible for you to remain quiet about your plans.

However, if you know that you’ll need to have a week off after an assisted reproductive technique (ART), you may want to talk to your human resources representative.

2.  Do you need to let your coworkers know?

Generally speaking, unless your coworkers are direct supervisors, they needn’t know exactly what you’re doing.  Unless you feel comfortable talking about your impending fertility treatments, there’s no need to let the proverbial “cat out of the bag”.

3.  Do you need to let clients know?

Again, it isn’t necessary to tell clients what you’re doing.  However, if you know that you’ll be unavailable for a certain time period, it is essential that their needs be covered by someone else.  That’s something you’ll have to arrange.

Remember that this is your story.  Each man or woman deals differently with how and whether they talk about their fertility treatments.  There are no steadfast rules.  Go with your instincts and you’ll make wise choices.

http://www.rsiinfertility.com/

Pregnant via Fertility Treatments? Eat Right!

Many women who are undergoing fertility treatments make it a point to eat right and stay healthy throughout the process.  But sometimes, when they do become pregnant, they forget that it’s still essential to watch their nutritional intake.

To get the best results from a pregnancy, make sure to follow these simple rules:

ó Avoid “junk foods” as much as possible.  Sure, cravings can and do happen, but eating Reese’s peanut butter cups all day isn’t a good solution.  Be practical and responsible.

ó Eat in moderation.  It can be tough not to gorge sometimes, but the more you eat, the more pressure you put on yourself physically.  Graze throughout the day for good results and consistent energy levels.

ó Eat colorful foods.  No, we’re not suggesting Froot Loops!  We’re talking about colorful veggies and fruits, like red bell peppers, rich green broccoli and yellow squash.  Each contains a plethora of vitamins to help you boost your daily nutritional intake and stay as fit as you can.

ó Try to eat “in”.  Sure, it can be tough to make most of your meals, but if you’re eating out, you can’t be certain of what you’re really getting.  We know it tastes good, but so can a home-cooked meal!  Buy (or go to the library and borrow) cookbooks and try some new recipes.

ó Ask your fertility specialist for thoughts on how you can maintain a healthful diet throughout your pregnancy.  He or she will be happy to assist you.

ó Visit a nutritionist if you’re in the dark about what to eat.  Not sure you know what’s best?  There are plenty of nutritionists who are well-versed in ways to keep in tiptop nutritional shape during pregnancy.

ó Don’t buy things you know are bad for you!  One of the easiest ways to eat well is to rid your pantry, refrigerator and shelves of all the stuff that’s tempting… but not healthy.  If it’s out of sight, it’s more likely to be out of mind!

Here’s to a happy and healthy pregnancy post fertility treatments! 

If you’re interested in fertility treatments and you can travel to either suburban Philadelphia or Berks County please contact the Reproductive Science Institute (RSI) for an appointment.

Obese Canadian Women May Be Denied Fertility Treatments

In the past few weeks, there has been a very interesting news story circulating the web regarding fertility treatments for Canadian women.  In Canada, fertility treatments are covered under their state-run healthcare system; however, many scientists, physicians and lobbyists are pushing toward a law that would only enable females to get these kinds of reproductive services if they have a lower-than-obese BMI.

Though opponents of this movement accuse the controversial consideration as blatantly discriminatory, there are some scientifically-proven correlations between obesity and poor fertility treatment outcomes.  For instance, women whose weight falls into the obese category are not only likely to have less of a chance of conceiving through fertility treatments; they are also more apt to suffer from medical complications.  And those complications could be costly to remedy or treat.

As we’ve discussed numerous times here on the Reproductive Science Institute (RSI) blog, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight if you’re a women who is interested in pursuing (or potentially pursuing) fertility treatments.  Whether or not you’re deemed clinically obese may not matter, either.  Being quite overweight and out-of-shape lowers the chances of assisted reproductive techniques working for your body and situation.

The bottom line?  Regardless of what Canada decides to do about the matter, it’s important for you to take matters into your own hands and be a smart steward of your physical well being.

http://www.rsiinfertility.com/

Is It Possible for a Woman to Be Allergic to Her Partner’s Sperm?

One of the aspects of infertility that is perhaps most baffling is that there could always be many different reasons for the condition.  That includes a phenomenon whereby a woman is essentially “allergic” to her partner’s sperm.  Fortunately, fertility specialists who are highly trained can combat such issues by applying new techniques to overcome the challenge.

In a recent case from Britain, a couple who had experienced failed IVF attempts and miscarriages finally got the news that the underlying cause was the female’s “allergy” to the male’s sperm.  Her body’s reaction, as with all allergies, was to reject the sperm and protect herself.  Thus, conception was made impossible.

Because she was producing what have been colloquially deemed “killer cells” in her uterus, she was unknowingly attacking any “foreign invaders”… and that included eggs recently fertilized with her husband’s sperm.

Like many spouses, they were determined to find a solution, so they traveled to North America to expand their options.  Eventually, they were able to find a fertility specialist who injected her with anti “killer cells” (again, in layman’s terms) in order to stop her body from seeing a baby as something that needed to be purged from her uterus.

Though this couple experienced many heartbreaking moments, they were overjoyed when the last fertility treatment worked and they became the proud parents of twin baby girls!

If you, like the British couple, have been trying to conceive without success, it’s smart to seek out the advice of a reputable fertility specialist.  In the Philadelphia area, the Reproductive Science Institute (RSI) would be happy to offer a consultation to help you determine your best course of action.

http://www.rsiinfertility.com/

Mumps as a Child Could Affect Male Fertility

Although mumps is no longer common in the United States, it does still occur.  In fact, in 2006, there was a resurgence of the viral disease.  This prompted a second MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccination to be distributed to those who had not received it as a child and were thus afflicted with the virus.

Though the mumps is not typically a fatal condition, it can have lasting effects, most notably among the male population.  That’s due to the fact that the mumps affects and attacks the body’s glandular system.  If the reproductive glands in and around the testes are compromised, the result can be male infertility later in life.

For men who are having fertility issues and who had mumps as a child, teen or young adult, testing can determine whether or not the mumps may have had an impact on their reproductive systems.  In the meantime, it’s important for parents to get their children vaccinated for MMR, especially if the family will be traveling to or staying in a foreign country where the mumps is still regularly seen by doctors.

If you’re uncertain about male infertility and want more answers, we invite you to visit our comprehensive website at http://www.rsiinfertility.com/.  Since 1991, we’ve been helping individuals and couples achieve their dreams of becoming parents.  And we’d love to have the opportunity to speak with you, too.  If you’re within driving distance of the greater Philadelphia or Reading Pennsylvania areas, please give us a call today.

Female Fertility - Reading a Woman’s Biological “Clock” May Be Easier Than Ever

Every woman knows exactly what the term “biological clock” means.  And if she hasn’t had children by the time she’s in her 30s, she’s likely been admonished by well-meaning family and friends about her waning female fertility.

But what is a biological clock, really?  In a nutshell, it’s simply a way of illustrating the fact that throughout a woman’s 30s (and especially after she turns 35), her fertility drops dramatically.  In fact, by the time a female reaches 40, she only has a 5 percent chance of getting pregnant each menstrual cycle.

So what would happen if we could figure out a way to “read” the numbers on the clock before the ticking stops?  A new hormone test from researchers in St. Andrews, Glasgow and Edinburgh may provide this opportunity.

The scientists have announced that they’ve isolated a chemical change that can reveal how many eggs a female has left.  This will assist fertility specialists in estimating with far more accuracy than before how long a woman will remain fertile.  It will also provide answers as to when a woman is likely to approach menopause.

Though the tests can’t tell a woman a day and time when her female fertility rate will be nonexistent, they can help physicians measure patients’ hormone levels against norms.  And this will give much more reliable data in terms of how soon a woman should begin moving toward fertility treatments such as IVF and IUI.

For more information, visit http://www.rsiinfertility.com/

Should You Let Money Get in the Way of Fertility Treatments?

“It will simply cost too much money!”  That’s what so many couples say when they’re considering fertility treatments.  Unfortunately, they’ve bought into the myth that if it’s not expensive, it won’t work.

As usual, the truth is much different than the stories told from one person to another.  Consider the following items:

1.  Not all fertility treatments are the same, so the costs are variable.

When you hear about someone spending “a fortune” on fertility treatments, it’s important to recognize that there’s no reason you have to go that route.  Though some would-be parents do, others do not.

2.  Some fertility treatments may be covered under an insurance plan.

There may actually be medically-related elements of reproductive health that are covered by insurance carriers, such as for a woman with endometriosis.  Prescription medications like Clomid may also be covered.

3.  Reputable fertility specialists will understand financial concerns.

Fertility specialists are aware that any investment is important to individuals or couples.  At the Reproductive Science Institute (RSI) outside Philadelphia, we keep that in mind when covering all aspects of treatment.  That way, decisions can be made pragmatically and with all the facts.

Should you decide to proceed with fertility treatments that are more expensive than others, be assured that there are numerous ways to pay for the associated costs, including but not limited to:

ó Payment plans with the fertility specialist and/or fertility clinic.

ó Low-interest personal loans.

ó Low-interest (or no interest) loans from family members. 

However, it’s important to get all the facts before you make any assumptions.  That way, you can decide for yourself the best way to proceed.

For more information, visit http://www.rsiinfertility.com/

Treatment Options for Endometriosis - Part Two

continued......

As a background summary, National Institute of Health (NIH) funded researchers are gaining a better understanding of some of the workings of the uterus. Throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle, hormone levels are continually changing in the uterus. At the start of the cycle, the hormone estrogen gradually increases and encourages the thickening of the endometrium. Once the ovary releases an egg, levels of the hormone progesterone begin to increase. Progesterone counteracts the estrogen in relation to the endometrium, preventing the lining from getting too thick in the case of egg fertilization. If the uterine lining is too thick, a fertilized egg will have difficulty implanting itself.

What researchers have recently discovered is the role of a protein called Hand2 in the whole process of the menstrual cycle. It was previously recognized that Hand2 increases along with the levels of progesterone following the release of an egg. However, based on a study with female mice, it is now understood that Hand2 acts as a sort of switch to turn off the estrogen from stimulating the endometrium. Now plans are underway to continue the study in women to determine the effects on the human uterus.

As mentioned a bit earlier, the effects of this study could be helpful in terms of possibly finding treatment for endometriosis and female infertility treatment as well. Failure to produce Hand2 within the uterus could be a cause for infertility as well as, it is speculated, a cause for endometriosis, because the result of a lack of Hand2 is a thickened uterine lining. The thought is that maybe without the presence of Hand2 in a woman’s uterus, the endometrium continues to grow even to the point of growing outside of the uterus, as is the case, in a sense, with endometriosis. Obviously it is too early to tell what the findings will reveal, but the speculated findings could open up the door to exciting research and possible treatments in regards to female reproductive health.

As you can see, things are still being studied and developed in respect to endometriosis, but there are options available so please don’t continue to suffer with it unnecessarily. Consult your doctor to explore your options or set up an appointment with the specialists at Reproductive Science Institute of Suburban Philadelphia, P.C.

Treatment Options for Endometriosis - Part One

Maybe you’ve known that you have endometriosis ever since you started menstruating as a girl and have always dealt with painful periods. Or maybe you didn’t realize that you have endometriosis until you began trying to get pregnant and found that it could be the cause for your struggles with fertility. Whatever your experience, it is never pleasant to deal with, but there are options for endometriosis treatment or infertility treatment.

If you’re reading this and you don’t really know what we’re talking about, endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that normally lines the uterus (the endometrial tissue) grows around other organs where it isn’t meant to be. Most often, these include the ovaries, fallopian tubes, outer surface of the uterus and other abdominal organs. The extra growth of this tissue can bleed during menstruation, which is the reason for painful periods. Scar tissue can also develop, causing disruption in the way that that organ functions. This is the most typical reason for cause of infertility with women who have endometriosis.

The most common treatment for endometriosis at this time is through hormone therapy and, more specifically, birth control in many cases. Though, if you are a woman who is wanting to get pregnant in the near future or has already been trying to get pregnant, this type of treatment is obviously not a good choice for you. There is also a laparoscopic surgery that women could opt for if she has hopes for a pregnancy in the near future. Very recently, a study resulted in findings that look promising in terms of working towards steps to a new type of treatment for endometriosis.

Next week, we'll publish the remaining portion of this article.

What to Consider… When Seeking Out an Infertility Counselor

It probably won’t surprise you to learn that, along with fertility treatments, often come emotional issues.  And it makes perfect sense, as this can be a highly-charged issue for most individuals and couples. 

That’s one of the reasons it’s important to seek out therapy during the experience.  But what kind of infertility counselor should you choose?  And how will you know when it’s the right fit?

Below are some considerations to ponder when you’re moving forward with fertility treatments and wish to have an infertility counselor help you along the way.

1.  The term “infertility counselor” doesn’t mean someone with a Ph.D. or intensive schooling.

“Infertility counselors” may not be psychiatrists or having much training.  In fact, they can be counselors, consultants and/or coaches who simply have a passion for this area.  That doesn’t make them better or worse; it’s just something about which you need to be aware.

2.  There are infertility counselors that work via telephone, so geography isn’t necessarily a huge problem.

In our cyber era, it’s not uncommon to have therapists, consultants and coaches working remotely with clientele.  If you’re comfortable with that kind of an Internet-based arrangement, you can broaden your search for the “right” person beyond your geography.

3.  Plenty of fertility clinics have infertility counselors on staff or infertility counselors whom they recommend.

If you’re already working with a fertility specialist, ask him or her for recommendations in terms of infertility counselors.

4.  Even if your partner doesn’t want to undergo infertility counseling, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it for yourself.

If your significant other eschews the idea of infertility counseling, go by yourself.  There’s nothing wrong with protecting your mental health, despite his or her desires that run counter to your needs.

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What to Consider… When Determining What Kind of Reproductive Law Help You May Need

You’re pretty certain that you’re going to have to hire an attorney to proceed with the legal issues surrounding your fertility treatment decisions.  But how do you know what kinds of reproductive law are even available to you?

At RSI, one of the Philadelphia area’s premiere fertility clinics, we understand how confusing it can be to figure out the many types of reproductive law being practiced today.  That’s why we’ve put together the following list of reproductive law areas/issues that you may need legal representation to handle.

List of Reproductive Law Areas

ó Adoption

ó Agency, family and independently arranged matches.

ó Egg/sperm donor arrangements

ó Embryo donations

ó Gestational carrier contracts

ó Insured escrow services

ó Pre-birth orders

ó Surrogate arrangements

ó Wills/estate planning

Visit http://www.rsiinfertility.com/ for more information.

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What to Consider… When Deciding Which Fertility Specialist to Choose

If you’re considering pursuing fertility treatments, you’re likely bewildered by the many places and professionals touting themselves as fertility specialists.  Which one do you choose?  And how will you know when you’ve made the right decision?

As you go through the process, we recommend that you use the following guidelines to assist you in making the right fit for you (and, if applicable, your partner.)

1.  Don’t limit yourself by geography.

It may seem counterintuitive to look outside your geographical radius for a fertility specialist, but it’s important that you look at all possibilities.  For instance, if you work with a fertility specialist who is local, he or she may not have access to resources that someone farther away will have.  Thus, you may not end up saving money or getting the best results for your financial investment.

2.  Ask other people in your circle of family and friends.

Obviously, if you’re a private individual, you may not want to ask around about fertility specialists, but if you have a few folks you know have considered or used fertility methods, ask for their suggestions on whom to contact.  That way, you’ll be guaranteed that the fertility specialist has already been vetted.

3.  When you make your first consultation, look around and go with your gut instincts.

Once you’ve chosen a potential fertility specialist and made an initial appointment (often at a very low cost), be aware of your surroundings when you visit the clinic.  Is it clean?  Are the staff members friendly?  Do you feel “heard” by the reproductive specialists?  If the answers are “no”, then you probably need to try somewhere else.

4.  Find a place that fits your needs.

Finally, it’s critical to find a fertility specialist who works with people in your situation.  For example, if you are part of what would be considered an “alternative lifestyle” commitment and your fertility specialist “talks down” to you or treats you poorly, it’s time to start searching again.  After all, you are the customer!



Visit http://www.rsiinfertility.com/ for more information.
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When Does Fertility Dip in Women?

If you’re a woman who expects to one day have a child (or more children than you already do), you’ll eventually hear a remark similar to this one:  “Your clock is ticking!  Better start soon!”

It’s something every female takes as a certainty – that one day her fertility will be gone.  But when exactly does that happen?

The facts and figures on this aspect of fertility can be confusing at best, but below is a good guideline:

-          Barring any reasons that fertility may have been compromised, most women under 30 are at their highest points of fertility.  (This doesn’t mean they can’t experience infertility, of course.  It simply means that their bodies are best suited to conceive children during those years.)

-          After the age of 30, changes in women’s bodies begin to happen.  They may be slow, they may be rapid… it all depends upon the female and the perspective.  In general, though, the likelihood of infertility in a woman between the ages of 30 and 34 is about 60% higher than when she’s 25-29.

-          By age 35 (often considered a “magic number” by women who are concerned about diminishing fertility), a female will have about a 15% chance of dealing with infertility.  And with each passing year until around 40, that chance grows to between 32-36%.

-          After 40, a woman’s body begins to enter perimenopause and her fertility lessens quickly.  By 45, only about 5% of women can become pregnant without heading to fertility clinics like RSI (one of the premiere fertility clinics in the Philadelphia region.)  And by 50, it’s almost impossible for any woman to become pregnant on her own.

Of course, every situation is unique.  And that’s why it’s critical to talk to a reproductive health specialist if you are concerned about your fertility. 

In the end, whether you’re 25 or 45, there’s no reason not to consult a fertility specialist if you and your partner can’t seem to have children.

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Infertility Doesn’t Have to End a Marriage

Without a doubt, infertility can cause serious stress on a marriage.  But it doesn’t have to end in a divorce.

Unfortunately, many couples do find themselves splitting up because of their inability to conceive children naturally.  However, if you want to make sure that doesn’t happen with you and your partner, you need to follow some simple rules:

1. Don’t keep your emotions hidden from one another.  Holding back can lead to resentment, anger and depression.
2. If you need something from your partner that you’re not getting, ASK.  Most people cannot intuitively determine what another individual needs.
3. Attending marriage or couples counseling is not indicative of “failure”.  In fact, it can give you a forum during which to air your concerns in an objective, nonjudgmental manner.
4. Make sure you’re on the same page when it comes to discussing infertility with third parties.  For instance, if you want to remain private about your fertility treatments, your partner should honor that request and not discuss your infertility issues with just anyone.
5. Make time to spend with each other doing non-child activities.  Don’t forget that you have every right to enjoy each other as adults!  The fact that you’re experiencing infertility doesn’t mean it has to become the center of your lives.

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Quiz: How Much Do You Know about Infertility?

Think you know all there is to know about infertility?  Then we’re here to challenge you with this fast quiz!  Answers are at the end.

1.  In most cases, it is the man who is infertile, not the woman.

1. True
2. False

2.  It is estimated that how many millions of American couples suffer from infertility?

1. 7
2. 9
3. 11
4. 15

3.  What percentage of men around the globe are considered “sub-fertile”, meaning they are not entirely infertile but are more than likely not to be able to fertilize an ova?

1. 10 percent
2. 30 percent
3. 50 percent
4. 75 percent

4.  Between her early 30s and early 40s, a woman’s fertility rate may be reduced by up to how much?

1. 100 percent
2. 80 percent
3. 60 percent
4. 40 percent

5.  Stress may be a contributing factor of infertility in as many as how many cases?

1. 1 in 5
2. 1 in 8
3. 1 in 10
4. 1 in 20

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ANSWERS:

1. False.  There’s usually a 50-50 chance it could be either partner.
2. (c). 
3. (b).
4. (b).
5. (a).

Varicose Veins in Scrotum Can Lead to Infertility

We often hear about varicose veins in the legs, but did you know that men can also get them in the scrotal area?

Varicose veins, when found in the scrotum, create a condition called varicocele.  Typically, men who have varicocele experience occasional swelling and (sometimes) discomfort in the genital region.  Up to 70-80% of men with varicocele have trouble getting their partner pregnant.

Other symptoms of varicocele include (though not all will necessarily be present):

-          Pain

-          Testicular Atrophy

-          Male Infertility

If you think you may have varicocele, make an appointment with your doctor.  And if you think you have male infertility, contact a reproductive health specialist like those at RSI, one of the Philadelphia area’s premiere fertility clinics.

Visit:  http://www.rsiinfertility.com/

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CDC Urges STD Testing, As Infertility Can Result from Undetected

Even in a day and age where sexual protection is taught to kids as early as middle school, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are still a source of concern for the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

According to the CDC’s numbers, around 19 million new cases of STDs are discovered each year.  And what many people don’t realize is that not all STDs have any symptoms.  So individuals may not find out until later in life… like when they are trying to conceive.

Infertility due to undiagnosed STDs is a huge problem and one we’ve often discussed at RSI, one of the most reputable fertility clinics in the Philadelphia area.  Chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause infertility issues years down the road. 

That’s why it’s so critical to get checked for an STD if you or your partner is having any infertility problems.  There’s no shame in having an STD; in fact, there are many medications and methods to reverse some of the damage that can be done by an STD.  But if you (and your physician) are not aware of your STD, you won’t be able to do anything at all.  And that would be a shame.

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Is Gender Pre-Selection Possible?

It may seem the stuff of science fiction – decide on the gender of your baby before he or she is ever even conceived.  But doctors have realized it’s now possible for fertility specialists to use medicinal know-how to attempt to pre-select whether your child is going to be wearing more pink or blue.

(The actual means for doing so is outside the scope of this blog post.)

Though many couples simply want to have a healthy baby, knowing that they can pre-select the gender of their child is an attractive possibility to others.  For instance, recently, celeb couple Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale visited a fertility specialist to determine how they could (almost) guarantee a baby girl.  According to sources close to the couple, they’re using science to help them achieve this family goal.

Again, the majority of partners may be uninterested in this kind of gender selection process.  And not all fertility specialists are familiar with how to go about pre-selecting.  Therefore, it’s critical that if this IS important to you that you have a frank discussion with your fertility specialist.  The more open you can be, the better your chances of having a strong, successful working relationship with your reproductive health professional will be.

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Does a Diagnosis of Cancer Equal a Loss of Fertility?

Practically every week, a new story comes out about cancer and fertility.  Whether it’s from the UK, from India or from the US, the message is always the same:  Get Cancer, and You Might Not Have a Child Naturally.

Though some of this message is typical media “doom and gloom” hype, there is more than a modicum of truth.  But separating fact from fiction is critically important. 

1.  Cancer does not mean you’ll have a loss of fertility.  However, cancer treatment may.

There are many types of cancer; thus, not all will have a factor in your fertility.  The problem isn’t in the cancer itself, but in the treatment.  And therein lies Shakespeare’s proverbial “rub”.  Depending upon the type of treatment needed to attack your cancer, you may not be able to reproduce. 

2.  There are ways to protect your fertility, even if you are very young.

As long as semen or eggs can be removed and frozen before radiation, chemotherapy, etc., takes place, there is a chance that those items can be used “down the road”.  Therefore, though cancer and fertility seem to go hand-in-hand, they don’t have to.

3.  More doctors are aware that future fertility is an issue to discuss among cancer patients.

Finally, it’s important to realize that there are many physicians who are now counseling cancer patients (and, in the case of minors, their families as well) on the possibilities of preserving fertility (or freezing eggs or sperm).  This means patients are becoming more educated about their options.  And education is always a positive development.

To learn more, visit:  http://www.rsiinfertility.com/
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Head Radiation May Have Links to Female Infertility

New information from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital indicates what many doctors have speculated all along – that women who undergo radiation (especially of their head areas) may suffer from infertility later in life.

The study suggests a direct correlation between even relatively low doses of radiation and ovary egg production; the former essentially destroys the latter, leading to infertility.

This isn’t entirely new in terms of information – it’s long been known that infertility can result from high doses of radiation to the head (as well as other parts of the body).  But until now, there hasn’t been a significant link made between lower doses of radiation and infertility.

What does this mean? 

Essentially, that females who go through radiation for conditions such as cancer are likely to have fertility issues later in life.  This is the reason that plenty of physicians are now making suggestions to girls and their families that eggs (ova) be collected and frozen prior to radiation and chemo treatments in order to preserve the possibility of the patient having a biological child in the future.

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The Role of Confidentiality in Fertility Treatments

All medicine, from a simple doctor’s appointment to an intricate surgical procedure, should have a serious amount of confidentiality attached to it.  And fertility treatments are no different.

The law regulates reproductive health specialists like those at RSI to ensure that patient information is kept confidential to protect both the consumer and the organization providing the fertility treatment services. 

However, we also think it’s important for individuals and couples undergoing fertility treatments to give some serious thought as to how confidentiality will play a role in their reproductive health lives.

To that end, we’ve put together a series of 4 questions to ask yourself (and your partner).  This will help you figure out how much you want to reveal about your situation to head off unnecessary emotional/social discomfort.

1. Are you going to tell your employer that you are undergoing fertility treatments, especially if those treatments require no significant amount of “down time”?
2. Are you planning to share your fertility treatment journey on the Internet (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, blogs)?  If so, is your partner okay with that?  Or will it be done anonymously?
3. Who will you tell about your fertility treatments?  Are certain people “off limits”?  How about family members?
4. If you come to a point where you are feeling like you want to discontinue fertility treatments even if you haven’t gotten pregnant, how will you tell your partner? 

By answering these questions alone and with your partner, you’ll be able to stem all confidentiality concerns in your private lives, which will lead to a healthier relationship during the process.

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As IVF Treatments Increase in Popularity, Success Rates Also Rise

As with most medical procedures, IVF treatments have not only increased in popularity for a wider range of the population than ever before, but they’ve also risen in terms of the success rates doctors and patients have reported. 

This isn’t unusual, really; time is a huge boost to the medical community.  And it’s definitely been an ally for reproductive health specialists who want to improve the success rates for their clients.

Recently released (and highly positive) IVF treatment statistics show just how mainstream and successful the procedures have become:

1. IVF treatments now result in live births for 41.4% of treatment cycles for women who are less than 35 years of age.  (Source:  Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, 2011.)
2. Since 2003, the rate of live births per IVF treatment cycle has increased almost 4% for women less than 35 years old.  (Source:  Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, 2011.)

Of course, what these figures mean for each woman considering IVF treatments will vary.  In fact, many couples are less concerned with statistics than they are with simply trying every means possible to have a child of their own. 

However, the facts are encouraging and tell persons that:

1. IVF treatments are becoming incredibly sophisticated.
2. It’s best to consider IVF treatments as soon as infertility is documented, rather than waiting for years to treat the condition.

If you have been thinking about IVF treatments as a way to have a child, it has never been a better time to set up a consultation with RSI.  The education and one-on-one personalized treatments you will receive will help you make the best decisions, including whether or not to undergo IVF treatments.

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Celiac Disease Linked to Infertility in Females, But Not Males, Says Study

Celiac disease, characterized by an intolerance to gluten (a protein commonly found in breads, pastas, baked goods and other wheat-, barley- and rye-based products), has been casually linked to infertility in women.  However, there have been no conclusive findings as to whether men’s fertility is affected by the condition… until now.

Swedish researchers from rebro University Hospital tracked the children born to men with birthdays between 1914 and 1990 with and without celiac disease to determine the relationship between their fertility and the condition. 

Results showed no reason to believe that celiac disease was problematic in terms of the men’s childbearing abilities.  In fact, the males who had celiac disease actually had slightly more children on average than those without celiac disease.

As with all research, there were limitations to the study:

1. The research was only done on Swedish males, a homogeneous population.
2. The number of children born to each man could have been determined by other factors, including personal considerations, finances and societal norms.
3. Those in the study without celiac disease were not necessarily all evaluated medically; thus, they could have been afflicted with the disease without knowing they had it.

Still, this research provides good news for the millions of would-be fathers who have to be careful in terms of their gluten intake.

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Protein in Uterus Better Understood as Essential to Embryo Implantation

National Institute of Health (NIH) funded researchers are gaining a better understanding of some of the workings of the uterus. Throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle, hormone levels are continually changing in the uterus. At the start of the cycle, the hormone estrogen gradually increases and encourages the thickening of the endometrium (or uterine lining). Once the ovary releases an egg, levels of the hormone progesterone begin to increase. Progesterone counteracts the estrogen in relation to the endometrium, preventing the lining from getting too thick in the case of egg fertilization. If the uterine lining is too thick, a fertilized egg will have difficulty implanting itself.

What researchers have recently discovered is the role of a protein called Hand2 in the whole process. It was previously recognized that Hand2 increases along with the levels of progesterone following the release of an egg. However, it is now understood that Hand2 acts as a sort of switch to turn off the estrogen from stimulating the endometrium. At least, that is how the protein works in the mice who were studied. Now plans are underway to continue the study in women to determine the effects on the human uterus.

The effects of this study could be helpful in terms of finding female infertility treatment and possibly in endometriosis treatment as well. Failure to produce Hand2 within the uterus could be a cause for infertility and, it is speculated, a cause for endometriosis, as the result of a lack of Hand2 is a thickened uterine lining. Obviously it is too early to tell what the findings will reveal, but the speculated findings could open up the door to exciting research and possible treatments in regards to female reproductive health.

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