Infertility is a widespread issue that affects both men and women. When it comes to male infertility, various factors can contribute to difficulties in conceiving. Understanding these causes can help individuals and couples address and manage fertility issues. Here are eight of the top causes of male infertility:
1. Sperm Abnormalities
Abnormalities in sperm production, quality, or function are a leading cause of male infertility. This can include low sperm count (oligospermia), poor sperm motility (asthenospermia), and abnormal sperm shape (teratospermia). Sperm abnormalities can make it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize the egg. A semen analysis performed at Neway Fertility can identify any sperm abnormalities.
2. Varicocele
A varicocele is a condition in which the veins in the scrotum become enlarged and dilated. This can lead to overheating of the testicles, which can adversely affect sperm production and quality. Surgical intervention can sometimes correct this condition and improve fertility.
3. Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone levels, can disrupt sperm production. Hormonal issues can result from various factors, including certain medications, chronic illnesses, obesity, and stress. Treatment may involve hormone replacement therapy.
4. Sexual Problems
Erectile dysfunction (ED) or other sexual problems can hinder a man’s ability to achieve or maintain an erection during intercourse. This can make it difficult to deposit sperm into the female reproductive tract. Medications, counseling, or lifestyle changes may be recommended to address these issues.
5. Infections
Certain infections, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or urinary tract infections, can damage the male reproductive organs or obstruct the ducts that transport sperm. Treating the underlying infection is crucial to preserving fertility.
6. Blockages or Structural Issues
Blockages or structural abnormalities in the male reproductive tract can prevent sperm from being ejaculated properly. These can result from congenital conditions, prior surgeries, or inflammation. Surgical procedures may be required to correct these issues.
7. Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle choices can significantly impact male fertility. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, and obesity can harm sperm quality and quantity. Adopting a healthier lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can improve fertility outcomes.
8. Environmental Toxins
Exposure to environmental toxins, such as pesticides, heavy metals, and industrial chemicals, can harm sperm production and function. Reducing exposure to these toxins at home and in the workplace can help protect male fertility.
It is important to note that male infertility is often a combination of factors. A comprehensive evaluation by a fertility expert is essential to determine the underlying causes and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Age can also play a role in male infertility, as sperm quality and quantity tend to decline with age.
In many cases, male infertility can be addressed through medical treatments, lifestyle modifications, or assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). However, treatment success can vary depending on the specific causes of infertility.
Couples experiencing fertility issues should seek the guidance of a reproductive specialist or fertility expert who can conduct a thorough evaluation, provide personalized recommendations, and offer support throughout the journey to parenthood. Advances in reproductive medicine have provided many couples with effective options to overcome male infertility and achieve their dream of having children. To learn more about male infertility evaluations and treatment plans, contact our team at Neway Fertility. Call our office in NYC to schedule a male infertility consultation.
Elective single embryo transfer, or eSET, is a procedure that has become more popular in recent years as more couples are choosing to have children through IVF. This approach involves the transfer of a single embryo into the uterus rather than multiple embryos. While this approach has some potential downsides, there are also some compelling reasons why couples may want to consider this option.
Here are seven reasons to consider elective single embryo transfer:
1. Reduced Risk of Multiple Pregnancies
One of the biggest benefits of eSET is that it significantly reduces the risk of multiple pregnancies. When multiple embryos are transferred, there is a higher likelihood of twins, triplets or more. While some couples may be excited about the prospect of having multiples, there are also significant risks associated with carrying and delivering more than one baby at a time. These risks include preterm labor, low birth weight and other complications.
2. Higher Success Rates Per Embryo
While it may seem counterintuitive, studies have shown that eSET can result in higher success rates per embryo. This is because when multiple embryos are transferred, they may compete with each other for resources in the uterus, which can reduce the chances of any individual embryo implanting successfully. Transferring just one embryo increases the chances of that embryo successfully implanting and resulting in pregnancy.
3. Lower Overall Cost
IVF can be expensive, and transferring multiple embryos can increase costs even further. By opting for eSET, couples can potentially save money on IVF’s overall cost. While additional costs may be associated with freezing and storing unused embryos, these costs may still be lower than those associated with a multiple pregnancy.
4. Reduced Need for Selective Reduction
If a multiple pregnancy does occur, there may be a need for selective reduction. This is a procedure in which one or more fetuses are selectively terminated to reduce the risks associated with a multiple pregnancy. While this can be a difficult decision for parents, opting for eSET can eliminate the need for this procedure altogether.
5. Lower Risk of Pregnancy Complications
Carrying multiples can increase the risk of pregnancy complications, including preterm labor, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes. By opting for eSET and reducing the risk of a multiple pregnancy, couples can potentially lower their risk of experiencing these complications.
6. More Control Over Family Size
Having more than one child at once may not be desirable for some couples. By choosing eSET, couples can have more control over their family size and plan to have additional children in the future if desired.
7. Reduced Emotional Stress
IVF can be emotionally challenging, and the prospect of multiples can add additional stress. By opting for eSET, couples can potentially reduce the emotional stress associated with IVF and increase their chances of a successful pregnancy.
While eSET may not be the right choice for every couple, it is an option that should be considered. By reducing the risk of multiple pregnancies, increasing success rates per embryo, and potentially lowering overall costs, eSET can be a viable option for couples seeking to start or grow their families through IVF. To learn more about eSET and whether it is right for you, contact our team at Neway Fertility in NYC.
If you talk to any woman with fertility issues, they will tell you not to take getting pregnant for granted. While you may not want to become pregnant now, it is not always easy when the time comes. The eggs your ovaries release each month may not be around when you do decide to try to conceive. Many factors can impact your ovaries and eggs. Many women choose to freeze their eggs to ensure they have options when they are ready to have a child. Here are some of the reasons to consider freezing your eggs.
Getting Older
As you age, your fertility and egg quality diminish. You may not be ready to have a child in your twenties or early thirties, but this is when your eggs are at their highest quality. Preserving your eggs at their peak can give you options if you have issues becoming pregnant when you are ready to start a family. This can reduce the chance of needing fertility treatments in the future.
Family History of Fertility Concerns
Many women become mothers later in life, but if you have a family history of early menopause or other fertility concerns, this may not be possible for you. If your mother, sister, or other female family members have had premature ovarian failure or endometriosis, you may have these same genes. Freezing your eggs now may be the best way to ensure you have viable eggs when you try to become pregnant.
Waiting for a Partner
Many women want to wait to have children until they have a partner to share the experience. If you are currently single, you may not be ready to have a child on your own. If you know that you do want a child eventually, it may be prudent to freeze your eggs to ensure you have the best chance of conceiving once you are in a relationship or decide it is time to become a mother.
Health Concerns
If you have been diagnosed with cancer or need to have your ovaries removed for any reason, now may be the time to preserve your eggs. Chemotherapy and radiation used in cancer treatment could impact your ability to get pregnant in the future. Freezing your eggs while they are still healthy before your medical treatment can give you the chance to pursue pregnancy once you are healed and ready to have a child.
At Neway Fertility, we have helped many women freeze their eggs for various reasons. If you are concerned that your eggs may not be viable when it comes time to have a baby, it is wise to freeze them now. Contact our medical team to learn more about freezing your eggs and how the process works. We offer advanced options in egg freezing, including using our IVM technology to reduce the medication needed for egg collection. Call our clinic in NYC to discuss the egg freezing process.
When you are trying to start a family and it is not going as planned, it can be frustrating. Fertility is more complex than many people realize, and many factors can impact your fertility. While there are serious conditions that can cause infertility and require more in-depth treatments, there are also lifestyle and health issues that may be affecting your ability to become pregnant or have a successful live birth. Excess weight may be contributing to your difficulty conceiving. Here is how fertility can be impacted in overweight men and women.
Male Fertility and Excess Weight
There are multiple impacts on male fertility that are caused by obesity or excess weight. Carrying extra fat on the body affects sperm production, hormone levels, erectile function, and much more. For men struggling to conceive, it may be related to their weight. Some of the effects of excess weight on male fertility include:
- Hormone imbalances. Fat cells produce estrogen which can contribute to low testosterone and hormone imbalances. Low testosterone can affect sexual performance, including reducing libido and resulting in erectile dysfunction.
- Sperm health. Obesity in males can affect the health of sperm down to a cellular level. This can affect the quality and quantity of healthy sperm, reducing the chance of conceiving, even when using fertility treatments.
- Reduction of live births. There are studies that show that overweight men’s sperm can impact the rate of live births in women receiving IVF treatments.
While excess weight is only one factor, it can have a significant effect on fertility in men. Losing weight and choosing a healthier lifestyle can have a positive impact on increasing the chance of conceiving.
Female Fertility and Excess Weight
Women that are overweight have the potential to have fertility issues. The more excess weight a woman carries, the higher her chance of experiencing low fertility. Part of this is due to the production of leptin, a hormone that is produced in fatty tissue. High levels of leptin can disrupt the menstrual cycle and hormone balance.
Excess weight, especially in women with BMIs of over 27, can greatly reduce ovulation and egg quality. Hormonal changes resulting in insulin resistance and irregular menstruation all can reduce the chance of becoming pregnant. Excess weight in females is also linked with PCOS, a common cause of infertility.
Is Excess Weight Impacting Your Fertility?
Just because you are overweight and experiencing fertility concerns does not mean that weight is the only issue. While losing weight by eating healthier and staying active is a good place to start, you may have other fertility issues with either partner that are standing in the way of conceiving and having a successful pregnancy.
There are so many different factors that can affect fertility, including excess weight. If you are ready to talk to a fertility specialist to help you begin the family you always wanted, come see us at Neway Fertility. We offer all types of fertility testing and treatments to help you achieve your goals. Call us today at our office in NYC.weigh
Infertility or difficulty conceiving can be an incredibly challenging and disappointing journey for those hoping to expand their families. Fortunately, advances in fertility treatments offer hope and promising alternatives to traditional in vitro fertilization (IVF.) In particular, Natural Cycle IVF/M and Mild Stimulation IVF are generating exceptional buzz and delivering life-changing results. Exploring these new approaches can help you make more informed decisions about family planning and reproductive health.
Natural Cycle IVF/M – A Gentler Alternative
Natural Cycle IVF/M is a groundbreaking approach combining natural cycle IVF and in vitro maturation (IVM) elements. Unlike conventional IVF, which involves high doses of stimulating drugs, Natural Cycle IVF/M aims to retrieve a single mature egg without medications. This approach is ideally suited to individuals who prefer a drug and chemical-free lifestyle or those with limited ovarian response to medicines due to age or poor egg reserve.
In Natural Cycle IVF/M, a naturally selected, single mature egg is collected from the ovary for fertilization. This method is considered the easiest way to perform IVF and may be an ideal choice for individuals looking for a gentler fertility treatment option. However, it’s important to note that the success rates for Natural Cycle IVF/M can be lower than conventional IVF because usually, only one egg, if any, can be used.
The cancellation rate may also be higher due to the limited number of available eggs. Therefore, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) still considers Natural Cycle IVF/M an experimental procedure. Still, it shows promising potential for individuals seeking a more natural and less intensive fertility treatment.
Mild Stimulation IVF – A Balanced Approach
Mild Stimulation IVF offers a less disruptive, cost-effective alternative to conventional IVF. This approach involves using fewer medications for ovarian stimulation, making it a significantly gentler option. The reduced medication dosage lowers the cost and minimizes the potential side effects associated with high-dose stimulation.
Choosing the Right Approach for You
It’s vital to remember that every fertility journey and every human body is different. Therefore, what works for one person may not be the right choice for another. Consultation with a fertility specialist will help you determine the most appropriate treatment based on any existing diagnoses, your preferences, and your goals.
At Neway Fertility, we offer a comprehensive range of fertility treatments tailored to your needs. Our experienced team will guide you through the options and help determine the most suitable approach for your unique situation. Call or contact us today to learn more about next-generation fertility treatments and how they could help you reach your family planning goals.
As the understanding of fertility and reproductive health continues to evolve, research has shown that various lifestyle factors, including diet, can play a significant role in men’s fertility. While many may associate fertility with women, it is crucial to recognize that men’s fertility is equally vital in the journey to parenthood.
The Impact of Diet on Sperm Health
Sperm health is a crucial factor in male fertility, and diet plays a pivotal role in determining sperm quality and quantity. Studies have shown that a poor diet high in added sugars, processed foods and unhealthy fats can decrease sperm count, motility and morphology. On the contrary, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats (like omega-3 fatty acids) and lean proteins can promote sperm health and improve fertility outcomes.
Additionally, specific nutrients, such as antioxidants, zinc and folate, have been shown to positively impact sperm health. Antioxidants in foods like berries, nuts and leafy greens can help protect sperm from oxidative stress and DNA damage. Zinc, found in foods like oysters, beans and seeds, has been shown to improve sperm quality and function. Folate, found in foods like leafy greens, legumes and fortified cereals, is essential for DNA synthesis and has been linked to better sperm health.
The Role of Weight and Body Mass Index (BMI)
Maintaining a healthy BMI is important for overall health and it can also have a significant impact on men’s fertility. Both overweight and underweight men may experience fertility issues. Studies have shown that excess body fat can lead to hormonal imbalances, such as increased estrogen levels, negatively affecting sperm production and quality. On the other hand, being underweight can lead to hormonal imbalances, such as decreased testosterone levels, impairing sperm production and quality. Men can maintain a healthy weight and BMI through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
The Importance of Hydration and Avoidance of Harmful Substances
Staying hydrated plays a role in men’s fertility. Dehydration can lead to a decrease in semen volume and concentration, which can affect fertility outcomes. Therefore, men must drink adequate water and stay hydrated throughout the day. Additionally, avoiding harmful substances, such as excessive alcohol consumption and smoking, is crucial for men’s fertility. Studies have shown that heavy alcohol consumption can negatively impact sperm production and function, while smoking can lead to DNA damage in sperm, reducing fertility potential.
Learn More About Improving Male Fertility Health Through Diet
Various factors, including diet, influence men’s fertility. If you struggle with fertility issues, consider working with a fertility expert at Neway Fertility for personalized guidance and support. Our experienced fertility specialists can help you achieve your dream of parenthood. Take the first step toward better fertility health today by contacting us to schedule a consultation.
Endometriosis makes it difficult for thousands of women to have children, but there is hope. Inflamed tissue growing outside of the uterus can lead to scarring and lesions that can damage healthy eggs and sperm. While there is no cure for this condition, there are treatment options that can help relieve distress with infertility issues. Here are three fertility treatments that can boost your chances of getting pregnant if you have endometriosis.
In-Vitro Fertilization
In-vitro fertilization treatment involves taking medications to help stimulate the lost egg production caused by endometriosis. Mature eggs are removed from the ovaries using a needle guided by ultrasound technology. These eggs are then blended with sperm in a carefully controlled laboratory setting and allowed to develop into embryos. Any viable embryos are placed into the uterus to help grow a healthy baby.
Intrauterine Insemination
Intrauterine insemination helps with fertility issues from endometriosis by implanting sperm directly into the uterus. This procedure is done during a woman’s ovulation time with minimal discomfort. You may need to take medication for several days before treatment to increase your chances of ovulation. Success rates are not as high as in-vitro fertilization with endometriosis, but it can be effective over time if done on a monthly basis with other medical treatments. This treatment option can be ideal for couples with unexplained fertility issues.
Gestational Surrogacy
Gestational surrogacy may be an option if fertility issues from endometriosis make it difficult for your body to carry a baby throughout an entire pregnancy. The chosen surrogate is impregnated through in-vitro fertilization. Neway Fertility specialists can help you with all the resources and guidance if this process is an option for you.
Experienced Fertility Treatment in New York City You Can Trust
Fertility issues can be caused by endometriosis and other similar health conditions. Neway Fertility can help you explore all your options to relieve your discomfort and have a healthy and successful pregnancy. With over ten years of experience, you can trust the caring and compassionate staff and doctors to help you make your dreams of parenthood come true. Call to schedule an appointment for a consultation today.
A healthy lifestyle is paramount for overall health and is even more so during pregnancy. A well-balanced, nutritious diet, regular exercise and healthy habits are necessary for a healthful pregnancy and to lower the risk of congenital disabilities.
Eating a Balanced Diet
Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients is crucial during pregnancy. A diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains and healthy fats can provide the essential nutrients for a successful pregnancy. The most important nutrients include folic acid, calcium, iron and omega-3 fatty acids. It is also vital to avoid foods high in sugar, salt and saturated fats.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is a B vitamin vital in the development of the neural tube, which will become the baby’s brain and spinal cord. Taking a folic acid supplement daily before and during pregnancy can help lower the risk of congenital disabilities like spina bifida, which affect the neural tubes.
The recommended daily intake of folic acid during pregnancy is 600-800 micrograms. This vitamin can be found in fortified cereals, leafy green vegetables and supplements.
Calcium
Calcium is essential for building strong teeth and bones and developing the baby’s heart, nerves and muscles. The recommended daily intake of calcium during pregnancy is 1,000 milligrams. This mineral can be found in dairy products, leafy green vegetables and supplements.
Iron
Iron is essential for forming hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. During pregnancy, the body needs extra iron to support the growth and development of the baby. The recommended daily intake of iron during pregnancy is 27 milligrams. This mineral can be found in lean red meat, poultry, fish, beans and supplements.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are fundamental for the development of the baby’s brain and eyes. The recommended daily intake of this healthy fat during pregnancy is 200–300 milligrams. You can find it in fatty fish like salmon and sardines and in supplements.
Exercise Regularly
A consistent physical activity regimen can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress and improve circulation. Exercise can also help prepare the body for labor and delivery during pregnancy. Some safe, low-impact exercises for pregnant women include walking, swimming and yoga. However, talking to a fertility specialist like Dr. Jin-Lo Lim of the Neway Fertility Clinic before starting or keeping up with an exercise program while pregnant is essential.
Healthy Habits
Along with eating well and exercising often, healthy habits can help prevent congenital disabilities. These include:
- Avoiding alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs
- Getting enough sleep
- Managing stress
- Practicing good hygiene, like washing hands frequently and avoiding contact with sick people
- Avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals, such as cleaning products and pesticides
These healthy lifestyle choices can give your baby the best possible start in life.
When in doubt, the Neway Fertility Clinic team can provide further guidance. Contact us to learn more about how you can boost your health to benefit your unborn child.
