Infertility Resources & Support
5 Ways to Boost Male Fertility & Increase Sperm Count
While conceiving a child can be unplanned, quick or easy for some couples, for others, it can be a difficult process. In fact, according to the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), for every 100 couples in the US, about 12 or 13 have trouble becoming pregnant. This can be due to a number of different factors, related to both female and male fertility issues.
According to the HHS, “about one-third of infertility cases are caused by fertility problems in women, and another one-third of fertility problems are due to fertility problems in men. The other cases are caused by a mixture of male and female problems or by problems that cannot be determined.”
For men, many of these fertility issues can be due to a lowered sperm count and, in general, lower overall fertility— both important factors when it comes to creating a viable pregnancy. However, there are a number of different ways that men can increase their chances of conceiving a child with their partner.
- Avoid Smoking and drug use
When it comes to ensuring sperm are strong and active, avoiding smoking, vaping and drug use is a must. A number of studies have actually shown that smokers have a lower overall sperm quality than non-smokers. LIkewise, in studies focused on drug use with substances like marijuana, cocaine, steroids and even prescription drugs, their use has been linked to Bodybuilding motivation - SACRIFICE brand mecleods epic bodybuilding motivation changes in certain levels of hormones within the male body, impairing sperm production, sperm’s motility, and overall fertility. - Get enough Vitamin D
Being in the great outdoors can be a huge mood elevator, but it can also give a big boost when it comes to male fertility. The primary way that most people get vitamin D is by being outside and exposing themselves to sunlight. When the sunlight hits your skin, vitamin D synthesis begins, a process that helps humans with bone, muscle and even mental health.
However, even with outdoor time, most people are actually vitamin D deficient. This is why many physicians recommend a supplement of at least 25,000 IUs per week, for both men and women.
When it comes to male fertility in particular, vitamin D has been shown to increase the levels of calcium found in sperm. This, in turn, makes sperm more active, mobile, and thus, more likely to result in fusion with a woman’s egg. - Limit soy consumption
Soy sauce, tofu and soymilk might all seem like healthy additions to a man’s diet, but when it comes to boosting sperm count, soy products may be something to avoid. Soy has been linked with estrogen production, a hormone that could affect overall sperm production. In fact, according to one study, “men who ate the most soy had 41 million fewer sperm per milliliter of semen compared with men who did not eat soy foods. Normal sperm counts range between 80 million and 120 million per milliliter.” - Eat foods rich in antioxidants
A healthy diet is imperative when it comes to increasing the chances of a couple having a child. Not only is this great for overall health, it can substantially help to boost the number of active sperm a man produces. Even more specifically, foods that are high in antioxidants can be particularly helpful. Antioxidants are special compounds that can help to slow cell damage caused by free radicals.
Some foods high in antioxidants can include:
— Green vegetables
— Nuts
— Dark chocolate
— Artichokes
— Apples
— Broccoli
— Strawberries
— And many more. - Limit alcohol
Having a beer after a tough day, or sipping on a nice glass of scotch on the weekend is something that many men look forward to. However, too much alcohol can have a negative effect on sperm count and fertility. Alcohol has been shown to increase estrogen levels and decrease testosterone, which can both be detrimental when a couple is trying to get pregnant. Likewise, too much booze can lower sperm count, play a role in sperm morbidity, and can damage overall quality.
5 Ways to Boost Male Fertility & Increase Sperm Count
There are a large number of factors that can each play their own roles when it comes to getting pregnant. By exercising, eating right and getting enough vitamins, men can better their chances of conceiving a child with their partner by increasing their sperm health and count. By making healthy choices as much as possible throughout the process, men can help to increase the chances of their partner conceiving quickly, and having a healthy pregnancy.
Infertility Resources & Support
Four Toxic Chemicals That Can Impact Fertility
The road to pregnancy can be a happy, joyous time. For others, it can be one of the most trying times of their lives, testing their patience in a roller coaster of emotions. In either scenario, it’s not rare for people to make sure they’re making good choices to be as healthy as possible, helping them to increase their fertility and the likelihood of becoming pregnant.
While everyone is exposed to a number of different chemicals every day, when trying to get pregnant, these chemicals can have a negative impact on overall fertility and conception efforts. What’s even more tricky is that these chemicals aren’t always easily identifiable. Often, they’re lurking in the air, in the items we use on our bodies, and even in our food, all unknowingly. While it’s easy to avoid the toxins that are obvious, some of these hidden compounds can be much more difficult when it comes to steering clear.
There are a number of toxic chemicals that can have a negative impact on conception and fertility, but there are a few that can be particularly harmful and, unfortunately, common throughout our homes and environment. These include:
- Bisphenols (BPA)
You may have heard of BPAs over the years, but not know exactly what they are or where they’re found. Bisphenols are compounds that are used in a variety of plastic products, and often, can even spread into food if it’s stored within a container made with it. BPA is utilized to help with corrosion and/or reactions between containers and food, but has been linked to male impotence, fertility issues, and even heart problems. To avoid BPA, look for plastics that specifically label themselves as “BPA free”, or glass containers. - Parabens
Parabens are preservatives that are typically an ingredient in a variety of different products, including cosmetics and hair care. They can even be found in foods like jellies, jams, processed vegetables, and pickles. Although parabens are widely present, across a large number of different products and brands, they can be detrimental when it comes to fertility and conception. Parabens have been linked with allergies, breast cancer, rashes, blisters, and when exposed during pregnancy, to infant weight gain that can lead to adulthood obesity. - Pesticides
Although pesticides can be found in places as common as a household garden, they are often used in much larger capacities. Pesticides are used to deter pests from damaging crops, and are often present on foods, like produce, that are purchased from the grocery store. They can also be difficult to get off of produce, as a simple wash with water doesn’t always completely rid fruits and veggies of their traces. Pesticides have been linked with a reduction in fertility, and when a woman is pregnant, have even been thought to lead to miscarriages.
- Heavy Metals
Some examples of heavy metals can include lead, arsenic and aluminum. These can often occur in the air that we breathe, in contaminated foods, household products, and even cigarettes. Studies have shown that too much exposure to these metals can lead to trouble conceiving due to pregnancy delay, reduced sperm count, and even reduced sperm mobility.
Although toxins are found all throughout our world, when trying to conceive a child, it’s important to avoid these as much as possible. While avoiding them completely may not always be an option, by limiting one’s exposure, the chances of negative impacts can be greatly reduced.
When trying to maximize your fertility, there are a number of different ways that one can limit their exposure to these chemicals. These can include quitting smoking, using only filtered water, ensuring your home is free of lead paint, and educating yourself on other dangerous chemicals that could be present throughout your environment.
Infertility Resources & Support
Drinking and infertility - How Alcohol Affects Fertility
If you’ve been thinking about starting a family but have been having trouble conceiving, infertility may come to mind. While some factors are beyond your control, there are lifestyle choices that have a serious impact on your fertility. Alcohol and infertility have been proven to go hand in hand.Read on to learn more about the effects of alcohol on fertility:
What is Female Fertility
As a female, your fertility is your biological ability to conceive a child. Both you and your partner may question your fertility if you’e been trying to get pregnant. If you’ve been trying for over at least one year, or at least six months if you are over 35, there could be an underlying fertility issue. But what if you live a healthy lifestyle? You eat a heart-healthy diet, exercise regularly and only indulge once in a while? Enjoying an occasional cocktail usually doesn't cause infertility. However, alcohol and fertility can be the reason you're not able to conceive. In addition, you should know that insurance might not cover it.
Alcohol and Infertility in Females
If all underlying medical conditions known to cause infertility have been ruled out, you need to start looking at your lifestyle choices. While it's true that having an occasional glass of wine may actually be beneficial, exceeding the recommended guidelines can cause infertility. There is a direct link between consuming and alcohol and female infertility.Many studies now show that having even one drink a day can lower your fertility levels. If you’re consuming more than 10 drinks per week, your chances of becoming pregnant are even lower. Alcohol and infertility rates triple when one or both partners are heavy drinkers, not to mention the other medical problems you are at risk of developing.If you fall into this category, the effects of alcohol on fertility are staggering. Knowing how much is too much is key.The ongoing affects of alcohol and infertility in females is far deeper than simply abstaining for a few days. Since many women don't find out they are pregnant until a month or two after conception, the CDC recommends completely eliminating alcohol for at least four to six weeks before trying to conceive. If not you can inadvertently cause damage to the fetus and possibly even miscarry.
Alcohol and Male Infertility
Keep in mind that it’s not only female fertility that’s affected by alcohol consumption. Excessive alcohol intake can significantly lower testosterone levels and sperms quantity and quality in males. It can also reduce libido and even cause impotence. If your partner is a heavy drinker, it can negatively impact your ability to conceive. However, the reduction or elimination of alcohol consumption can quickly reverse the ill-effects of alcohol.
Living a Healthy Lifestyle
Heavy drinking can also impact your fertility indirectly. Women who drink even moderate amounts of alcohol are at higher risk of ovulation disorders. Moreover, the indirect damage done to the liver and other internal organs have a direct link to alcohol and fertility levels. Finally, alcohol and male infertility is usually considered taboo to talk about. Women are the ones who carry the baby, so why do men need to abstain? Simply put, the overall health of their sperm and themselves counts on it.
Infertility Resources & Support
Pregnancy After Miscarriage - How to Get Pregnant Again
If you've already had a miscarriage, you might be concerned about conceiving another child. While this is a concern that troubles many women, you shouldn't let that get in the way of your desire to have a family. By understanding more about pregnancy after miscarriage, you'll be better prepared to have a more successful pregnancy.
Does One Miscarriage Mean You'll Have Another?
The causes of a miscarriage vary and, in many cases, the cause is left undiscovered, but this doesn't necessarily mean you'll have another one. In the most general terms, a miscarriage is the loss of a baby before the 20th week, which is the result of an abnormally developing fetus. In almost half of the instances, the miscarriage results from chromosomal problems in the fetus, which has little to do with the genetics of the parents. Since it's more a matter of chance, there's no reason to suspect that getting pregnant after miscarriage will result in another failed pregnancy. Getting professional help can improve your chances of a successful pregnancy.
A Closer Look at the Odds
In fact, research shows that less than 1% of women who have previously miscarried will have a second miscarriage. While your doctor or fertility specialist can speak to your specific situation, there's a 14% of having a second miscarriage. That rate rises to 26% for a third miscarriage with women who have previously had two miscarriages. While your chances of getting pregnant after miscarriage drop with a history of miscarriages, you should not be overly concerned about having a second miscarriage. So, while the question of can you get pregnant after a miscarriage may change with additional miscarriages, you shouldn't let one miscarriage sway you from trying to conceive.
How Soon After a Miscarriage Can You Get Pregnant?
The answer to this question largely depends on you and your partner. Before discussing the medical restrictions, it's important to note that feelings of grief, loss, and anger may play a part in determining when you'll be ready to try again. From a physiological standpoint, your doctor or fertility specialist will probably advise you to abstain from sexual activity for at least the first two weeks following the miscarriage. This is to prevent infection. It should also be noted that it can take up to six weeks for your menstrual cycle to resume and you can conceive through this period.
When Should You and Your Partner Try Again?
If you're still nervous about how long to get pregnant after miscarriage, it may help to know that it essentially comes down to a personal choice. However, research has found that women who conceive within six months of their miscarriage experience fewer complications than those who wait. While you may ask your doctor how long after miscarriage can I get pregnant, he will likely recommend trying again as soon as you feel up to it. However, if you have had more than one miscarriage already, your doctor may recommend fertility testing and other exams to ensure you're healthy and capable of carrying a pregnancy to term.
Getting Tested May Be a Wise Precaution
If you have had two or more miscarriages or if you're concerned about passing on genetic defects, it may help to get tested by a fertility specialist or your OB/GYN caregiver. A simple blood test is one way to identify hormonal problems that can affect your ability to have a successful pregnancy. Additionally, you and your partner may be asked to undergo chromosomal tests. These tests will determine if either of you are passing genetic defects on to your child. Other exams can also be conducted to determine if there are physical abnormalities in your body, which may affect your ability to conceive and carry a healthy baby.If you have had a miscarriage in the past, there's no reason to assume you cannot have a baby. Once you and your partner decide to try again, the first thing you should do is discuss your hope of having a baby with your doctor. Your physician can guide you and offer recommendations to improve your chances of having a healthy baby.
Infertility Resources & Support
Infertility is Killing My Marriage: Break the Curse
Infertility can be extremely difficult on a marriage. There are strong emotions that come with such brutal news that cause infertility issues marriage. Luckily, there are things that you can do to handle the news properly and make your marriage better than ever.
1. Find a good fertility clinic
Find a good fertility clinic in Scottsdale. You probably have questions, so you can get all of the answers that you need. If you think "infertility is killing my marriage", you can learn do you have to be married to get fertility treatment? If you want to move forward, the advanced fertility clinic can help you move over.
2. Artificial insemination
One of the popular options today is artificial insemination. Clinics can grow an embryo successfully for up to five days. In this time, the doctors can determine which embryos have the greatest likelihood of success. Talk to your doctor to see if this is an option for you!
3. Surrogate
Many people decide to hire a surrogate who can carry the baby for them. This can be an expensive option, but a fertile woman would be able to carry your baby safely and successfully for you. You could post an ad to interview potential candidates and find one that you are comfortable with.
4. Decide not to have children
One of the possibilities is to cope with the idea of not having children. If having children was always part of the plan for you, this might not be an option. However, it's something to consider.
5. Foster children
There are older children in the foster system who need a place to live. Many of these children have gone through some trauma, and they could really use stability and a safe home. Be prepared for the children to only stay with you for a small amount of time, though.
6. Adoption
Many people have children that they can't care for. These children need someone with a big heart and room in their home to care for them. Not only will you be doing a great thing for the child, but it can give you the child that you've always wanted.
7. Counseling
Everyone can use counseling. It's extremely helpful during such a stressful time. Keep an open mind and actually give therapy a chance. This is especially useful when you and your partner cannot come to an agreement on how to handle the situation.Having children is one of the great joys in the world. However, it's not for everyone. The best thing you can do is get educated and come to an agreement with your partner on how to move forward.
Infertility Resources & Support
10 Myths About the Causes of Infertility
Navigating infertility can be a daunting and confusing experience for many couples. There are my myths and misconceptions that can add to the uncertainty and anxiety surrounding this sensitive topic. We aim to alleviate some of that confusion by debunking common myths surrounding infertility and hope to provide clarity and reassurance to those who need clarification about infertility causes. Here are 10 common myths about what causes infertility.
Women are Responsible for Fertility Issues
This myth perpetuates the misconception that infertility issues solely lie with women. However, fertility problems can stem from both partners. Male infertility, such as low sperm count or poor sperm motility, accounts for a significant portion of infertility cases.
Age as the Sole Culprit
While it's true that fertility declines with age for both men and women, attributing infertility solely to age oversimplifies the issue. Young couples can still experience difficulties conceiving due to various factors, such as underlying health conditions or lifestyle choices.
Underwear Choice Affects Male Fertility
The belief that tight underwear negatively impacts male fertility has been widely debunked by scientific research. While excessive heat, such as that from hot tubs, can temporarily lower sperm count, the type of underwear worn has little to no effect on fertility.
Stress as the Cause
While stress can impact hormone levels and menstrual cycles, leading to irregular ovulation, it's not a direct cause of infertility. However, managing stress through relaxation techniques or seeking support can positively impact overall well-being during the conception journey.
Prolonged Pill Use Affects Fertility
Many individuals worry that long-term use of birth control pills can impair fertility. However, research shows that fertility typically returns to normal shortly after discontinuing the pill. In fact, birth control pills can sometimes be prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles and improve fertility.
Lifestyle Choices Play No Role
Lifestyle factors such as weight, diet, smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use can significantly affect fertility in both men and women. Obesity, for example, can disrupt hormone levels and ovulation in women, while excessive alcohol consumption can impair sperm quality in men.
Age Is a Defining Factor
While fertility declines with age, particularly for women after the age of 35, many individuals successfully conceive healthy babies later in life through options like in vitro fertilization (IVF) or egg donation. Age should not be viewed as an insurmountable barrier to parenthood.
Frequency of Sex Determines Fertility
While having regular intercourse during the fertile window increases the chances of conception, excessive frequency won't necessarily solve fertility issues. It's essential to focus on quality rather than quantity when trying to conceive.
Vasectomy Reversals Are Ineffective
While success rates may decline over time, vasectomy reversals can still offer reasonable chances of restoring fertility, especially when performed by experienced surgeons. It's essential for couples considering this option to discuss success rates and potential outcomes with a fertility specialist.
Infertility Is Genetic
While some genetic factors may contribute to infertility, it's not always the primary cause. Many cases of infertility are due to treatable factors such as hormonal imbalances, reproductive disorders, or lifestyle choices. Additionally, advancements in assisted reproductive technologies offer hope to couples facing genetic challenges in conceiving.
The Next Step In Your Fertility Journey
It's essential to debunk the myths surrounding infertility and recognize the multitude of options available for those seeking assistance. While the journey may seem daunting, there is hope and support available. Whether it's through IVF, lifestyle changes, or alternative treatments, there are paths to parenthood waiting to be explored. By reaching out and educating ourselves about the available options, we can take proactive steps toward building the family we've always dreamed of. Remember, you're not alone on this journey, and there's a community ready to offer guidance and compassion every step of the way.