Posts Tagged ‘Fertility Specialists’
Friday, August 12th, 2011
If you’re accustomed to sipping a morning cup of coffee (or two… or more), you might not be happy to hear that some fertility specialists are suggesting that caffeine can be problematic for women undergoing fertility treatments.
This warning comes from a recent research study carried out in theUnited Statesat Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. During the study, it was noticed that caffeine appeared to reduce muscular activity in the fallopian tubes of mice. Unfortunately, the lessened muscular activity had an effect on the natural contractions that move ova (eggs). Thus, the ova could not make it to a prime location within the uterus in order to be fertilized.
Though the study hasn’t been conducted on humans, it’s having a huge impact thanks to the implications.
Of course, giving up that java isn’t easy, especially if you have a “Starbucks habit” like so many other Americans!
To assist you in your quest to prepare your body for fertility treatments by reducing or eliminating your caffeine intake, we’d like to share some tips that have worked for other females in your situation:
- If you’re accustomed to drinking a lot of caffeine, don’t stop “cold turkey”. Taper off gradually to avoid withdrawal.
- Don’t forget that more than a cup o’ joe contains caffeine! Soda, chocolate and coffee-flavored ice cream can pack a caffeinated wallop, too!
- If you find yourself missing your morning routine, switch to decaf. You’ll still get the benefit of having a mug of rich coffee.
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Tags: Caffeine Intake, Cold Turkey, Contractions, Cup Of Coffee, Dr. Hearns, Dr. Munabi, Fallopian Tubes, Females, Fertility Specialists, Fertility Treatment, Fertility Treatments, Habit, Johns Hopkins University, Johns Hopkins University School, Johns Hopkins University School Of Medicine, Mice, Muscular Activity, PA Infertility, Patient Appointment, Philadelphia Infertility, Prime Location, Reading, Rich Coffee, School Of Medicine, Starbucks, Uterus, Wallop, Wyomissing, Wyomissing Infertility
Posted in Fertility Treatments, Health and Nutrition | No Comments »
Monday, August 8th, 2011
Giuliana Rancic of E! News and Fashion Police hasn’t kept quiet about her first two in-vitro fertilization (IVF) attempts, and she’s not keeping quiet now as she goes for the third try.
Despite setbacks, Rancic has kept her sense of humor, quipping, “I think third time’s a charm. I feel good about the third time!” This attitude is refreshing, especially given the fact that she experienced a miscarriage during her second IVF attempt.
(As an FYI, miscarriage is not uncommon; in fact, many women undergo several IVF rounds to healthily conceive a child. And Rancic’s own doctor is the one recommending a third try; again, we’re not in the least bit surprised.)
Having someone as visible as Rancic show the public what IVF is all about is a boon to fertility specialists and clinics, including the Philadelphia area’s Reproductive Science Institute (RSI). Not only does having her speak openly add a familiar face to fertility treatments, but it also helps squelch many of the commonly-held myths and misconceptions about IVF.
Rancic’s positivity has positioned her as a great role model for women who are undergoing fertility treatments. As she noted in a recent article: “It’s very easy to just be sad and feel bad… and get a lot of attention for it. Mourn, be sad. But then you have to look at the positive. There are so many things in my life…”
We look forward to hearing how Rancic’s next IVF treatment goes. Here’s hoping for all the best in the world for this optimistic star!
Wondering if fertility treatment is right for you?
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Tags: Abraham Munabi, Boon, Dr. Munabi, E News, Familiar Face, Fashion Police, Fertility Specialists, Fertility Treatment, Fertility Treatments, Fertilization Ivf, IVF treatment, Jacob Mayer, Misconceptions, PA Infertility, Patient Appointment, Ph.D.; H.C.L.D, Philadelphia Area, Positivity, Reading, Recent Article, Reproductive Science Institute, Rhonda Hearns, Role Model, Rsi, Sense Of Humor, Setbacks, Third Time, Vitro Fertilization, Wyomissing Infertility
Posted in Hollywood and Stars, IVF treatments | No Comments »
Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011
A research study recently published in the Pharmacological Research journal has scientists buzzing about the possibility that antioxidants could help infertile couples and individuals.
The study, headed by Oregon State University researcher Tory Hagen and Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies (Spain) scientist Francesco Visioli, is based on the hypothesis that infertility often goes hand-in-hand with diseases such as high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. Consequently, Hagen and Visioli have concluded that the same antioxidants (e.g., lipoic acid) that help lower the chances of a man or woman having those conditions may also help those persons become less likely to be infertile.
This connection between nutrition and infertility is not a new one. For years, many fertility specialists have known that what goes into the body can have an effect on infertility. In fact, we at RSI, one of Philadelphia’s premiere fertility clinics, have blogged before about the topic. However, the published study has opened the doors for more in-depth research.
As Hagen said in a recent statement released to the press: “…the problem [infertility] is huge, and the data from laboratory studies is very robust, it all fits. There is evidence this might work, and the potential benefits could be enormous.”
All in all, it sounds like a promising path, and we’re all for changing diets and lifestyle habits to help improve fertility in our patients.
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Tags: Congestive Heart Failure, Diets, Dr. Munabi, Facebook, Fertility Clinics, Fertility Specialists, Hagen, Heart Failure, High Blood Pressure, Hypothesis, infertile couples, Infertility, Laboratory Studies, Lifestyle Habits, Oregon State University, Patient Appointment, Pharmacological Research, Promising Path, Reproductice Science, Reproductive Science Institute of Suburban Philadelphia, Rsi, Scientist, Tory, University Researcher
Posted in Infertility | No Comments »
Wednesday, July 27th, 2011
For many men, taking the first trip to a fertility specialist can seem embarrassing or uncomfortable. That’s likely due to the media’s focus on female infertility rather than male infertility. However, it’s important for guys to be open to finding out why they’ve been unable to conceive.
Many individuals are surprised to learn that male infertility is the primary issue in at least one third of all cases of infertility between couples. (Some statistics report this number to be 40 percent or higher!) Just hearing this fact is calming for many male fertility patients, as it eases the psychological burden of them feeling like they are “alone” in their fertility struggles or that they “cannot perform”.
Still, it’s not unusual for us at RSI, one of the premiere fertility clinics in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, area, to come against some resistance when men initially arrive at our facility. This is especially true when they have been brought by the women in their lives; for men, this can feel akin to being “pointed at” in a crowd.
Guys, the bottom line is this: We understand. Male infertility is one of our specialties; therefore, we are sensitive to the emotional considerations that accompany the diagnosis. If you’re feeling irate, standoffish, sad or uncomfortable, it’s okay. We as fertility specialists are not here to push you in one direction or another; we’re here to make sure you have all the facts and can proceed as makes sense for you and your significant other.
The upshot – and it’s a great one! – is that we’ve successfully helped many couples with their infertility issues, whether they stemmed from female infertility or male infertility. But it’s necessary for patients to take the first step and give us (or a preferred, reputable fertility clinic) a call.
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Tags: Abraham Munabi, Bottom Line, Courage, Diagnosis, Dr. Munabi, Emotional Considerations, Facebook, female infertility, fertility clinic, Fertility Clinics, fertility specialist, Fertility Specialists, First Trip, Infertility, Infertility Issues, Male Fertility, Male Infertility, Many Men, Philadelphia Pennsylvania Area, Psychological Burden, Reproductive Science Institute of Suburban Philadelphia, Rsi, Twitter, Upshot
Posted in Male Infertility | No Comments »
Tuesday, July 5th, 2011
One of the biggest issues many individuals and couples face when considering fertility treatments is what financial ramifications they will have on the family’s finances.
It’s definitely a consideration that needs to be mulled over; after all, though many fertility treatments are easily afforded by most persons, some can be a little costlier than others.
To help you proceed with the knowledge you need, we’ve put together some ideas for you:
1. Understand your financial options for fertility treatments.
Many people don’t realize there are financial options out there, such as IVF refunds, IVF financing or low-cost IVF offerings.
2. Ask your fertility specialist for his/her recommendations.
Reputable fertility specialists, like Philadelphia area’s RSI, will be able to direct you to a wealth of information and professionals that can talk to you about your financial options.
3. Check online for financial assistance.
Many sites are dedicated to providing information to individuals and families looking to pay for fertility treatments. One caveat, though – never give out your personal information over the Internet. If you want to reach an organization, pick up the phone and call them.
4. Ask your financial planner for ideas.
If you have money invested with a financial planner, ask him or her what he or she recommends. You may be surprised to hear of financial possibilities about which you were previously unaware.
5. Ask friends and family for help.
Though this isn’t an option for all individuals or couples, it may be wise in your case to ask family members or very close friends for their assistance. Some may be willing to give you low-interest loans. Just make sure that all money received (that is to be repaid) is documented.
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Tags: Abraham Munabi, Caveat, Close Friends, Couples, Dr. Munabi, Facebook, Family Members, fertility specialist, Fertility Specialists, Fertility Treatments, Financial Assistance, Financial Options, Financial Planner, Financial Possibilities, Financial Ramifications, Friends And Family, Low Interest Loans, Many People, Offerings, Philadelphia Area, Reproductive Science Institute of Suburban Philadelphia, Rsi, Twitter
Posted in Fertility Treatments, Financial Issues | No Comments »
Wednesday, June 15th, 2011
Infertility may be a medical condition, but it has far-reaching consequences, especially psychologically. Many women and men who have been diagnosed as permanently or temporarily infertile suffer from emotional experiences like depression (mild to severe), anger, guilt and more.
Though these types of responses to infertility are completely understandable – and expected –, they can also be difficult to accept and handle.
According to an article released by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, it’s important for all individuals and couples (when applicable) to stay in touch with their psychological states when going through fertility treatments. If any of the following warning signs appear, counseling should be pursued immediately:
- disinterest in activities that used to be enjoyable
- depression that’s beyond “the blues”
- problems with relationships (e.g., partner, family members, friends, colleagues)
- inability to finish responsibilities
- sleeping too much or too little
- trouble focusing
- weight changes
- use of drugs/alcohol to “numb” the pain
- suicidal thoughts
- alienation of oneself from family, friends, etc.
- constant feelings of bitterness, pessimism or worthlessness
Again, these are not uncommon response, especially when the journey to have a baby includes challenges. However, it’s critical that those undergoing treatments for infertility be open with their fertility specialists about their psychological/emotional states in order to be at their strongest during treatment.
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Tags: Abraham Munabi, Alienation, American Society For Reproductive Medicine, Disinterest, Dr. Munabi, Emotional Experiences, Emotional States, Facebook, Fertility Specialists, Fertility Treatments, Infertility, Little Trouble, Partner Family Members, Pessimism, Psychological Aspects, Psychological States, Reproductive Science Institute, Rsi, Suicidal Thoughts, Twitter, Uncommon Response, Warning Signs, Weight Changes, Worthlessness
Posted in Fertility Info 101, Infertility | No Comments »
Wednesday, April 27th, 2011
There are two kinds of “art” in the world of fertility specialists like those at Philadelphia area’s RSI. One stands for assisted reproductive techniques and is abbreviated as “ART” (all capital letters). The other is art such as that which is found in museums, on walls, in gardens, etc.
This post is most definitely dedicated to the latter.
The artist Georgia O’Keeffe has long been considered a very sensual artist. Her paintings and photos, especially those of flora, are typically said to echo the various parts of a woman’s body, especially parts located in the genital areas. And now a research study from Muhlenberg College, Pennsylvania, has revealed that O’Keeffe’s art seems to be most appealing to women who are at the middle of their menstrual cycles (or at their most fertile.) In fact, the participants of a study who were at their most fertile gravitated toward O’Keeffe’s artwork more so than during other times.
It’s an interesting notion, that art can indicate fertility – and one that begs the question as to whether fertility specialists could someday merge art and science in the practice of ART. As one of the researchers of the Muhlenberg College study, Jeffrey Rudski, notes, women tend to be evolutionarily driven to have sex during their more fertile times of the month. So it would, perhaps, make sense for them to gravitate to O’Keeffe’s more sexually-charged works most when their bodies are ovulating.
If you’re interested in hearing more about this fascinating study, you can check out the Archives of Sexual Behavior, a publication that has written about the findings. And for Georgia O’Keeffe artwork, just do a quick Google search and you’ll see some amazing pieces.
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Tags: Archives Of Sexual Behavior, Art And Science, Art In The World, Artist Georgia, Assisted Reproductive Techniques, Capital Letters, College Pennsylvania, Dr. Munabi, Facebook, Fertile Times, Fertility Specialists, Flora, Genital Areas, Georgia O Keeffe, Google, Google Search, Menstrual Cycles, Muhlenberg College, Philadelphia Area, Reproductive Science Institute, Rsi, Twitter, Two Kinds
Posted in Fertility Specialists | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 23rd, 2011
Perhaps you can relate to this scenario: After a year or two or maybe more of trying to get pregnant, your doctor breaks the news that your most likely options for having a child are egg donation or surrogacy. You and your partner are devastated that your dream of raising a child has been dashed. It is perfectly normal and appropriate to grieve over this news.
However, you are not alone. First of all, there are counselors and fertility specialists who can help you walk through your decision. At RSI we treat every patient with compassion and carefully help them consider their options. It is our #1 priority to help you successfully become parents. Secondly, there are millions of other couples out there who have found themselves in your shoes and are now parents. Look through websites and agencies to read some testimonials of people who have started their families by way of egg donation, surrogacy and gestational carrier. You may appreciate knowing that the Reproductive Science Institute of Suburban Philadelphia, P.C. has excellent egg donor and surrogate programs.
If you are new to all of this, some things to think about before your first appointment with your chosen infertility doctor:
Egg Donation: A donated egg will often be fertilized by the male partner’s sperm and the resulting embryo will then be implanted via IVF either into the female partner’s uterus or that of a surrogate. Many egg donors choose to remain anonymous but every once in awhile you will have the option to know more about your egg donor. In rare, but not unusual, cases, an egg donor might be a family member or friend of the couple.
Surrogacy: A surrogate always is impregnated via IVF, either with an embryo created by the male partner’s sperm and a donor egg or by an embryo created by the sperm and egg of both partners in the couple hoping to be parents (in this case, the surrogate is referred to as a gestational carrier). Again, it is typical to choose a surrogate carrier by way of an agency or often through your fertility clinic but every once in awhile, a couple will have a known family member or friend carry their baby.
After you’ve taken some time to process your situation, schedule a consultation as a couple with a fertility clinic that you have found based on recommendations or based on its reputation. From that point on, the health professionals at your clinic will: see to it that each and every one of your questions is answered; help you assess all the options available to you based on your unique situation; carefully guide you through the screening and selection process of choosing either an egg donor or surrogate if that is the route you choose to take. We wish you the very best of luck!
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Tags: Counselors, Donor Egg, Dr. Munabi, Egg Donation, Egg Donor, Egg Donors, embryo, Family Member, Female Partner, fertility clinic, Fertility Specialists, Gestational Carrier, Infertility, Infertility Doctor, IVF, Male Partner, Reproductive Science Institute, Reproductive Science Institute of Suburban Philadelphia, Rsi, sperm donor, Suburban Philadelphia, surrogacy, Surrogate Programs, Uterus
Posted in Egg Donation, surrogacy | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 12th, 2011
One of the first questions asked by many couples consulting with fertility specialists is: “How much will IVF treatment cost?”
It’s not surprising in the least; after all, IVF treatments are investments and are not an inexpensive proposition. However, there are definitely ways to prepare in terms of having money to pay for IVF treatments:
ü Saving – This is one of the tactics many couples use. They put aside a certain amount of money each month for a year or more and essentially “save up” for IVF treatments.
ü Second Jobs – One or more individuals may take on a second job. The money is then entirely set aside for fertility treatments.
ü Donations/Personal Loans – Some couples choose to ask friends and relatives for donations or loans to pay for IVF treatments. Often, those friends and relatives are happy to help.
ü Insurance – Occasionally, we hear of insurance companies being willing to pay for a portion (even if it’s a small portion) of fertility treatments. Call your carrier and find out if there’s a possibility of yours being open to such an arrangement.
ü Loans – Taking out a loan with a financial institution to pay for IVF treatment can be done. Just make sure you’re getting a good rate.
In the end, if you have a desire to undergo IVF treatments, there’s really little reason to allow the money aspect to completely hold you back. Is it a factor? Definitely. But it’s not one that needs to be seen as insurmountable.
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Tags: Amount Of Money, Couples, Desire, Donations, Fertility Specialists, Fertility Treatments, Financial Institution, Friends, Inexpensive Proposition, Insurance, Insurance Companies, Investments, IVF treatment, IVF treatments, Jobs, Money Aspect, Personal Loans, Relatives, Reproductive Science Institute, Rsi, Second Job, Small Portion
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
Monday, January 10th, 2011
Want to know what your chances of fertility success IVF are going to be? Though it might seem counterintuitive, your computer could hold the answers… or so say programmers who’ve created what they consider to be an accurate way to measure whether or not your body is in a position to conceive sooner rather than later.
It’s a significant claim to make – the notion that answering a few questions could possibly make a prediction that even fertility specialists with decades of experience under their belts cannot promise. Yet it’s also unlikely to hurt any couple as long as they use the computer program with a healthy dose of the reality of the situation.
While a woman’s response to IVF can definitely be monitored and tracked, there’s no “magic bullet” that can pinpoint the time when she’s absolutely, positively going to become pregnant. However, this software boasts a 99% accuracy rating.
The online IVF predictor calculator was developed in the United Kingdom. As we learn more about it, we’ll provide you with information regarding the software and how it works. Until that time, we suggest you consider it as yet another tool to use in your reproductive journey.
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Tags: Accuracy, Belts, Computer Program, Decades, Fertility Software, Fertility Specialists, Fertility Success, IVF, Journey, Magic Bullet, Notion, Online Calculator, Online Software, Pregnant, Programmers, Reproductive Science Institute, Rsi, United Kingdom
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