Infertility can be defined in two ways: as inability to conceive after a year of regular sexual intercourse without contraception, or as repeated ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages or perinatal loss. Male and female specific factors account for about 30% of the infertility causes (individually);the combination of male and female causation leads to an additional 20% and the remaining 20% are caused by uncertain origins.
When one is dealing with infertility, as much as it is important to strictly follow the rules of the treatment, it is equally important to make sure that you have the correct diagnosis of the root cause of your condition. In this article you will find a broad outline, enumerating the various probable causes of infertility.
Why it is important to determine the causes.
Infertility may be caused due to a multitude of factors at a time, or it may be the result of perhaps the deviation of a certain single factor from its premeditated path. Since misdiagnosis can often lead to further fertility complications, the very first step of treating and curing infertility depends largely on indentifying the root cause right in the beginning of treatment.
The broad causes of infertility in females may be listed as follows:
* Anovulation: In females, ovulatory problems are the most common causes of infertility. The failure to ovulate may be due to a number of factors:
* Hormonal imbalance is the most frequent cause of anovulation; when the ovaries produce immature eggs, pregnancy becomes impossible.
* Women with polycystic ovaries suffer from a decreased secretion of FSH and increased secretion of LH and testosterone; therefore polycystic ovarian syndrome may lead to anovulation in women.
* Approximately 20% of the cases of infertility occur due to the malfunctioning of the hypothalamus, the gland which controls hormonal stimuli, resulting in immature eggs. The pituitary gland is responsible for the regulation of LH and FSH, and its malfunctioning produces immature eggs.
* Damage to the ovaries caused by previous surgeries, ovarian cysts, tumors and infections may lead to production of immature eggs as well.
* Premature menopause and follicular problems are also responsible for anovulation.
* Improper functioning of fallopian tubes: Viral and bacterial infections of the fallopian tubes are the primary cause of their malfunction.
Appendicitis and colitis are abdominal problems which lead to blockage of the fallopian tubes. Tubal damages may also be caused by previous surgeries, which render the tubes incapable of passing eggs. Ectopic pregnancy, which occurs within the tube, is a potential threat to life that also causes tubal damage. Congenital tubal defects are rare, but not impossible to come across as causes of infertility.
* Use of drugs: Smoking, drinking and using other drugs have been known to decrease the chances of getting pregnant.
* Problems in the Immune system: This problem includes autoimmune reactions in the body and the creation of antisperm antibodies which exterminate sperms. Natural killer cells, which when present in excess, can damage the embryo in the uterus. The antinuclear antibodies cause inflammation of the uterus when present in excess. The presence of antisperm antibodies in the female's body kills off the sperms before they can fertilize the egg.
Although the causes of infertility are many, they are fairly easy to overcome, especially when diagnosed in the early stages. Using a holistic approach, comprising of the prescribed medicines, following a healthy diet, regular exercise, abstinence from alcohol, nicotine and other drugs, stress management, acupuncture etc. guarantees positive results. Due to the complex and multifactoral nature of infertility, the problem can be solved permanently only by dealing with it in the holistic way, which tackles all the root causes of this condition rather than focusing on specific triggering elements.
This article is based on the book, "Pregnancy Miracle" by Lisa Olson. Lisa is an author, researcher, nutritionist and health consultant who dedicated her life to creating the ultimate pregnancy solution guaranteed to permanently reverse the root of infertility, help you get pregnant quickly and naturally and dramatically improve the overall quality of your life, without the use prescription medication and without any surgical procedures.
Learn more by visiting her website: www.PregnancyMiracle.com
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Tips For Getting Pregnant
If you're like most women, you have probably spent a good portion of your adult life trying not to get pregnant. And you have probably received lots of information from various sources (friends, family, school) on just how to accomplish this. I'm sure you imagined that when the time came that you actually wanted to get pregnant, it would be quite an easy task. That tips on getting pregnant would be the last thing you would need. Simply stop using any precautions, ie. birth control, and that should do it!
Well, as it turns out, it is not always so simple. Yet most women have much more knowledge about how to avoid getting pregnant than how to actually get pregnant. You probably never thought you would need any tips on getting pregnant, but the truth is it might not "just happen" unless you get some good information first.
If you ask your friends for tips on getting pregnant, most will just tell you to have a lot of sex. This is definitely a good start, but the number one mistake that couples make when trying to get pregnant is improper timing of intercourse. One of the biggest reasons that occurs is because many women have the mistaken idea that they ovulate on day 14. This is a myth that has been perpetuated because most examples of an ideal menstrual cycle use a model of 28 days, in which case it is likely you would ovulate around day 14--but not definitely. However, many women do not have a perfect 28 day cycle, it can range from 24 days to 35 days or even a bit more or less. So you must never assume that you ovulate on day 14--that is one of the best tips on getting pregnant that you could ever get.
So how do you figure out when you do actually ovulate? Well, there are several methods that can help you accomplish this. One way is using a basal body thermometer and take your temperature each morning upon waking and keep a record for several months. You will start to see a pattern that shows a slight shift up in the temperatures each month. At the point that your temperature shifts up, you have just ovulated. Keeping this chart for a few months will give you a very good idea as to the approximate time of month that you in fact ovulate.
Another thing you can do is check your cervical mucus throughout your cycle to notice any changes. You will start to notice that your cervical fluid changes in consistency as you get towards the middle of the cycle. When the cervical fluid becomes clear and stretchy (like raw eggwhites), you are approaching ovulation.
If you are more interested in a scientific method, you can purchase ovulation test kits, a saliva test kit or a fertility monitor. Each of these note changes in your hormones that indicate when ovulation is approaching. These methods are more expensive, but can be very reliable.
Once you have pinpointed when you will be ovulating, you need to time intercourse so that you can have the maximum number of sperm "waiting" when your egg is released. One of the best tips on getting pregnant would be to have intercourse every day up through the day of ovulation as soon as you discover your ovulation is approaching through one of the methods outlined above. The reason is that the sperm can live for about 5 days inside a woman's body while waiting for the egg to drop. Once ovulation occurs the egg only lives for a short time. So having intercourse after you have already ovulated is probably too late! The egg will start to disintegrate within 12-24 hours of ovulation.
So in conclusion, if you are searching for tips on getting pregnant, concentrate your efforts on figuring out when you ovulate so that you do not waste the small window of opportunity to get pregnant that arrives each month. Once you have that figured out, you can time intercourse to maximize your chances of having the most sperm available and "waiting" when the day of ovulation arrives. Good luck!
Beth Kiley is the author of the international best-selling e-book, Personal Path to Pregnancy. For more tips on getting pregnant, get her FREE report, "The 7 Most Common Mistakes to Avoid", by going here: www.PersonalPathToPregnancy.com
Well, as it turns out, it is not always so simple. Yet most women have much more knowledge about how to avoid getting pregnant than how to actually get pregnant. You probably never thought you would need any tips on getting pregnant, but the truth is it might not "just happen" unless you get some good information first.
If you ask your friends for tips on getting pregnant, most will just tell you to have a lot of sex. This is definitely a good start, but the number one mistake that couples make when trying to get pregnant is improper timing of intercourse. One of the biggest reasons that occurs is because many women have the mistaken idea that they ovulate on day 14. This is a myth that has been perpetuated because most examples of an ideal menstrual cycle use a model of 28 days, in which case it is likely you would ovulate around day 14--but not definitely. However, many women do not have a perfect 28 day cycle, it can range from 24 days to 35 days or even a bit more or less. So you must never assume that you ovulate on day 14--that is one of the best tips on getting pregnant that you could ever get.
So how do you figure out when you do actually ovulate? Well, there are several methods that can help you accomplish this. One way is using a basal body thermometer and take your temperature each morning upon waking and keep a record for several months. You will start to see a pattern that shows a slight shift up in the temperatures each month. At the point that your temperature shifts up, you have just ovulated. Keeping this chart for a few months will give you a very good idea as to the approximate time of month that you in fact ovulate.
Another thing you can do is check your cervical mucus throughout your cycle to notice any changes. You will start to notice that your cervical fluid changes in consistency as you get towards the middle of the cycle. When the cervical fluid becomes clear and stretchy (like raw eggwhites), you are approaching ovulation.
If you are more interested in a scientific method, you can purchase ovulation test kits, a saliva test kit or a fertility monitor. Each of these note changes in your hormones that indicate when ovulation is approaching. These methods are more expensive, but can be very reliable.
Once you have pinpointed when you will be ovulating, you need to time intercourse so that you can have the maximum number of sperm "waiting" when your egg is released. One of the best tips on getting pregnant would be to have intercourse every day up through the day of ovulation as soon as you discover your ovulation is approaching through one of the methods outlined above. The reason is that the sperm can live for about 5 days inside a woman's body while waiting for the egg to drop. Once ovulation occurs the egg only lives for a short time. So having intercourse after you have already ovulated is probably too late! The egg will start to disintegrate within 12-24 hours of ovulation.
So in conclusion, if you are searching for tips on getting pregnant, concentrate your efforts on figuring out when you ovulate so that you do not waste the small window of opportunity to get pregnant that arrives each month. Once you have that figured out, you can time intercourse to maximize your chances of having the most sperm available and "waiting" when the day of ovulation arrives. Good luck!
Beth Kiley is the author of the international best-selling e-book, Personal Path to Pregnancy. For more tips on getting pregnant, get her FREE report, "The 7 Most Common Mistakes to Avoid", by going here: www.PersonalPathToPregnancy.com
Monday, June 27, 2011
Pregnancy Nutrition - Is Caffeine OK?
Back in 1980 the FDA published a warning advising pregnant women to restrict or eliminate their intake of caffeine because of its teratogenic effects (cause birth defects). This was echoed in 1994 with a review of over 200 medical journals by Dr. Astrid Nehlig that was published in The Journal of Neurotoxicology and Teratology.
Currently, the advice on caffeine intake during pregnancy is moderation - meaning less than 300mg. This is because new studies show no harm with intakes less than that. Due to the fact that scientific studies are showing new and different results, I tend to be conservative in my personal view on caffeine and pregnancy.
What does caffeine do?
Caffeine stimulates your central nervous system, leaches calcium, reduces iron absorption, has a diuretic effect and crosses the placenta into your baby. This means it has the following results in your body:
AND the same things occur for your baby (except baby will steal from your bones to get needed calcium)
That's not all - it also interferes with a normal fetal growth, is associated with lower birth weight and weakens adrenal glands, which affect your blood sugar regulation and stress coping abilities.
It is best to avoid or at least reduce your caffeine intake to no more than 300mg per day. Some experts say no more than 150mg per day. You may be able to handle the caffeine, but baby's liver is immature and not able to get rid of it like you. Imagine if that 1 cup of morning coffee lasted you 40-130 hours as it does for your baby.
Common caffeine sources
If you are a caffeine user, I recommend reducing to less than 300mg per day (some studies show increase miscarriages with more than 300mg). Then gradually reducing to as close to zero as possible, which will not only benefit your baby, but also your ability to handle stress.
Laura Flynn, Registered Dietician, is Co-Author of The Fit and Healthy Pregnancy Guide - your source for holistic coaching on pregnancy nutrition and exercise. Visit www.FitandHealthyPregnancy.com for Free Special Reports and articles.
Currently, the advice on caffeine intake during pregnancy is moderation - meaning less than 300mg. This is because new studies show no harm with intakes less than that. Due to the fact that scientific studies are showing new and different results, I tend to be conservative in my personal view on caffeine and pregnancy.
What does caffeine do?
Caffeine stimulates your central nervous system, leaches calcium, reduces iron absorption, has a diuretic effect and crosses the placenta into your baby. This means it has the following results in your body:
- Raises your heart rate
- Decreases the amount of calcium in your body
- Dehydrates you
- Increases your blood pressure
AND the same things occur for your baby (except baby will steal from your bones to get needed calcium)
That's not all - it also interferes with a normal fetal growth, is associated with lower birth weight and weakens adrenal glands, which affect your blood sugar regulation and stress coping abilities.
It is best to avoid or at least reduce your caffeine intake to no more than 300mg per day. Some experts say no more than 150mg per day. You may be able to handle the caffeine, but baby's liver is immature and not able to get rid of it like you. Imagine if that 1 cup of morning coffee lasted you 40-130 hours as it does for your baby.
Common caffeine sources
- Coffee (100-200 mg per 8 ounce)
- Tea (black 60mg, green 40mg)
- Soda (40-75mg per can)
- Dark Chocolate (5-35mg per 1 ounce)
- Milk Chocolate (1-15mg per 1 ounce)
- Headache medicine (65-130mg)
If you are a caffeine user, I recommend reducing to less than 300mg per day (some studies show increase miscarriages with more than 300mg). Then gradually reducing to as close to zero as possible, which will not only benefit your baby, but also your ability to handle stress.
Laura Flynn, Registered Dietician, is Co-Author of The Fit and Healthy Pregnancy Guide - your source for holistic coaching on pregnancy nutrition and exercise. Visit www.FitandHealthyPregnancy.com for Free Special Reports and articles.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Pregnancy Exercise - Why Moms-To-Be Must Be Strong
Most people start an exercise program to lose weight. Of course, this isn't the objective during pregnancy exercise but there are lots of other reasons to get started on or continue on a regular exercise routine when you're pregnant.
When you think of exercise, cardiovascular exercise is what usually comes to mind. Walking, jogging, swimming and many other activities that get your heart rate up are all part of this category. And, it's an important piece to the puzzle.
But - The other half of the formula for a well rounded pre-natal exercise routine is strength training. This is the one people often forget about. The running (i.e. cardio) craze of the 1970's is still in the forefront of people's mind when they think about good exercise, burning calories and a healthy, lean body.
The truth is, while cardio is great for your heart, it is strength training that will prepare you for the physical demands of being a mom. In addition, it is strength training that will play a bigger role in getting your pre-pregnancy body back, or making it even better than before!
All of the lifting, bending and carrying you have to look forward to in the upcoming months will be much easier with a functionally strong body. In the mean time, gaining or maintaining strength during pregnancy is the key to reducing aches and pains as your body continues to change.
Pregnancy strength training will help:
Studies now show that strength training during pregnancy is not only safe and beneficial, but a must for an overall healthy strong body. If you were a regular exerciser before your pregnancy, it is usually safe to continue your routine, although some modifications may be necessary.
If you didn't have a consistent program in place, the general rule of thumb is to wait until your 2nd trimester (when you'll be feeling much better) to ease yourself into a routine. Either way, checks in with your doctor first to be sure you don't have any complications that could be affected by a pregnancy exercise routine.
Michelle Ladd is a Holistic Lifestyle Coach and Expert Pre-Natal Personal Trainer. She is the Co-Author of The Fit and Healthy Pregnancy Guide. Visit www.FitAndHealthyPregnancy.com for Free Special Reports on how to look and feel your best - before, during and after - AND have a healthy and happy baby.
When you think of exercise, cardiovascular exercise is what usually comes to mind. Walking, jogging, swimming and many other activities that get your heart rate up are all part of this category. And, it's an important piece to the puzzle.
But - The other half of the formula for a well rounded pre-natal exercise routine is strength training. This is the one people often forget about. The running (i.e. cardio) craze of the 1970's is still in the forefront of people's mind when they think about good exercise, burning calories and a healthy, lean body.
The truth is, while cardio is great for your heart, it is strength training that will prepare you for the physical demands of being a mom. In addition, it is strength training that will play a bigger role in getting your pre-pregnancy body back, or making it even better than before!
All of the lifting, bending and carrying you have to look forward to in the upcoming months will be much easier with a functionally strong body. In the mean time, gaining or maintaining strength during pregnancy is the key to reducing aches and pains as your body continues to change.
Pregnancy strength training will help:
- Reduce back pain
- Increase your energy levels
- Make labor and delivery easier
- Keep you strong and injury free
- Combat postural changes during pregnancy
- Make post-partum weight loss MUCH easier and faster
- Flatten your tummy after delivery
Studies now show that strength training during pregnancy is not only safe and beneficial, but a must for an overall healthy strong body. If you were a regular exerciser before your pregnancy, it is usually safe to continue your routine, although some modifications may be necessary.
If you didn't have a consistent program in place, the general rule of thumb is to wait until your 2nd trimester (when you'll be feeling much better) to ease yourself into a routine. Either way, checks in with your doctor first to be sure you don't have any complications that could be affected by a pregnancy exercise routine.
Michelle Ladd is a Holistic Lifestyle Coach and Expert Pre-Natal Personal Trainer. She is the Co-Author of The Fit and Healthy Pregnancy Guide. Visit www.FitAndHealthyPregnancy.com for Free Special Reports on how to look and feel your best - before, during and after - AND have a healthy and happy baby.
Pre-Natal Vitamins - What the Mayo Clinic Pregnancy Guide Doesn't Tell You
The Mayo Clinic Pregnancy Guide has a lot right about what's important to eat during pregnancy. They speak of how it's critical to have good eating habits while trying to conceive because major organs form during the first few weeks of pregnancy-before you even know you are pregnant! Without the proper nutrients during this time your baby may be at risk for both short and long-term health issues.
They cover the usual suspects of prenatal vitamins - calcium, folate, and iron which are indeed important, BUT none of them help with...
...fetal development of lung, visual system, skull, skeleton, kidney ...baby brain development
...assistance with utilization of minerals like calcium, water soluble vitamins
...your protein digestion
...your optimal thyroid and immune system function
...your production of sex and stress hormones
What nutrient does all this?
It's Vitamin A!!
Okay, now you may be thinking you've heard vitamin A is that vitamin associated with birth defects.
This claim is inaccurate and based on a study that used questionnaires from 22,000 pregnant women to find out about their eating and supplement habits. Researchers found a high rate of neural crest defects with increased dosages of vitamin A.
But - they did not distinguish between natural and synthetic forms of vitamin A nor did they get lab results for vitamin A blood levels.
Processed foods are fortified with synthetic form of vitamin A.
Also, people can't be trusted to be good record keepers, so questionnaires are an unreliable way to measure a person's nutrient intake. Do you remember what you ate yesterday??
Too bad the media didn't jump all over another study done in Rome, Italy that found no congenital malformations in 120 infants exposed to 50,000IU or more of vitamin A per day.
The real issue is not how much, but what form- synthetic or natural.
The best all natural sources: cod liver oil, liver, butterfat, egg yolks, seafood, organ meats, grass-fed dairy and meats. Notice that these are all fat sources too. This is Mother Nature packaging the foods in the way your body needs them. Moms always know best.
Laura Flynn, Registered Dietitian, is Co-Author of The Fit and Healthy Pregnancy Guide - your source for holistic coaching on pregnancy nutrition and exercise. Visit www.FitandHealthyPregnancy.com for Free Special Reports and articles.
They cover the usual suspects of prenatal vitamins - calcium, folate, and iron which are indeed important, BUT none of them help with...
...fetal development of lung, visual system, skull, skeleton, kidney ...baby brain development
...assistance with utilization of minerals like calcium, water soluble vitamins
...your protein digestion
...your optimal thyroid and immune system function
...your production of sex and stress hormones
What nutrient does all this?
It's Vitamin A!!
Okay, now you may be thinking you've heard vitamin A is that vitamin associated with birth defects.
This claim is inaccurate and based on a study that used questionnaires from 22,000 pregnant women to find out about their eating and supplement habits. Researchers found a high rate of neural crest defects with increased dosages of vitamin A.
But - they did not distinguish between natural and synthetic forms of vitamin A nor did they get lab results for vitamin A blood levels.
Processed foods are fortified with synthetic form of vitamin A.
Also, people can't be trusted to be good record keepers, so questionnaires are an unreliable way to measure a person's nutrient intake. Do you remember what you ate yesterday??
Too bad the media didn't jump all over another study done in Rome, Italy that found no congenital malformations in 120 infants exposed to 50,000IU or more of vitamin A per day.
The real issue is not how much, but what form- synthetic or natural.
The best all natural sources: cod liver oil, liver, butterfat, egg yolks, seafood, organ meats, grass-fed dairy and meats. Notice that these are all fat sources too. This is Mother Nature packaging the foods in the way your body needs them. Moms always know best.
Laura Flynn, Registered Dietitian, is Co-Author of The Fit and Healthy Pregnancy Guide - your source for holistic coaching on pregnancy nutrition and exercise. Visit www.FitandHealthyPregnancy.com for Free Special Reports and articles.
IVF Day One - Get Started on the Right Foot
The decision to do an IVF cycle is never easy to make, especially when you consider the financial cost and average margin for success. Here’s a little secret that will increase your chances of conceiving: before IVF day one comes around, start priming your mind and body to produce healthy eggs and receive the embryos. The medication and procedures involved in the cycle can be physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging, and studies show that stress can affect fertility and IVF outcomes.
By educating yourself and preparing for what lies ahead, you’ll be able to lessen the impact of stress, boost your body’s fertility, and go through your cycle calm with a sense of calm that will increase your chances of a successful outcome.
Eat well
A well-nourished body is a healthy body. Eliminate junk food, trans-fats, and refined sugar from your diet and replace them with organic vegetables, fruits, and lean meats. It’s important that you eat organic food as much as possible in order to avoid contaminating your body with pesticides, which can be passed on to babies and affect their development. Two months before the cycle starts, take a daily pre-natal vitamin to make up for any missed nutrients.
Guided imagery and visualization
When the IVF cycle starts, it is possible that you can become your own worst enemy. What do I mean by this? There will be times when you can drive yourself crazy with all sorts of many negative thoughts and what ifs. It’s perfectly normal to worry about the outcome of the cycle, but giving into negative thinking will cause unnecessary emotional strain – not to mention that it may serve as a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Guided imagery and visualization can help keep you optimistic, relaxed, and sane. This approach involves using your imagination and mental imagery to picture a desired outcome – the swelling of your follicles, the fertilization of several eggs, and the implantation of at least one embryo into your uterus. Studies show that using imagery releases neurotransmitters that tranquilize the body, lowering blood pressure and anxiety levels. Imagery has such a potent effect over the body that researchers noted that IVF patients who used visualization during the embryo transfer felt better prepared and more optimistic about the outcome.
Doing guided imagery is so simple –just imagine what it would feel like to hold your son or daughter in your arms. If you don’t know where to start, you can purchase DVDs with a guide who can direct your thoughts in a more streamlined manner. Whatever approach you choose, be your own best friend by spending at least 15 minutes a day engaging in guided imagery to keep your thoughts and emotions in check.
Acupuncture
Among all the alternative treatments for infertility, acupuncture is perhaps the most highly recommended. This technique involves inserting needles into certain points in your body to improve the flow of chi, or life energy. According to acupuncturists, infertility is caused by blockages in the meridians or pathways to the reproductive organs. Stimulating certain points will get rid of the blocks and restore fertility. Acupuncture has been found to minimize the side effects of the fertility drug Lupron, prevent ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome, and improve the blood flow to the uterus. It has also been found to increase pregnancy rates; studies show that women who receive acupuncture treatments on the day of the embryo transfer are more likely to get pregnant. Try not to be intimidated by the treatment’s use of needles; fans of acupuncture say that it’s just as relaxing as a full body massage.
This article is based on the book "The Full Embrace™ IVF Success Program" by Diana Farrell, M.A. Diana’s books on enhancing IVF success have been sold all over the world, and she has helped many couples overcome their infertility with IVF and realize their dream of parenthood.
Find out more by visiting her website: www.IVRSuccessProgram.com
By educating yourself and preparing for what lies ahead, you’ll be able to lessen the impact of stress, boost your body’s fertility, and go through your cycle calm with a sense of calm that will increase your chances of a successful outcome.
Eat well
A well-nourished body is a healthy body. Eliminate junk food, trans-fats, and refined sugar from your diet and replace them with organic vegetables, fruits, and lean meats. It’s important that you eat organic food as much as possible in order to avoid contaminating your body with pesticides, which can be passed on to babies and affect their development. Two months before the cycle starts, take a daily pre-natal vitamin to make up for any missed nutrients.
Guided imagery and visualization
When the IVF cycle starts, it is possible that you can become your own worst enemy. What do I mean by this? There will be times when you can drive yourself crazy with all sorts of many negative thoughts and what ifs. It’s perfectly normal to worry about the outcome of the cycle, but giving into negative thinking will cause unnecessary emotional strain – not to mention that it may serve as a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Guided imagery and visualization can help keep you optimistic, relaxed, and sane. This approach involves using your imagination and mental imagery to picture a desired outcome – the swelling of your follicles, the fertilization of several eggs, and the implantation of at least one embryo into your uterus. Studies show that using imagery releases neurotransmitters that tranquilize the body, lowering blood pressure and anxiety levels. Imagery has such a potent effect over the body that researchers noted that IVF patients who used visualization during the embryo transfer felt better prepared and more optimistic about the outcome.
Doing guided imagery is so simple –just imagine what it would feel like to hold your son or daughter in your arms. If you don’t know where to start, you can purchase DVDs with a guide who can direct your thoughts in a more streamlined manner. Whatever approach you choose, be your own best friend by spending at least 15 minutes a day engaging in guided imagery to keep your thoughts and emotions in check.
Acupuncture
Among all the alternative treatments for infertility, acupuncture is perhaps the most highly recommended. This technique involves inserting needles into certain points in your body to improve the flow of chi, or life energy. According to acupuncturists, infertility is caused by blockages in the meridians or pathways to the reproductive organs. Stimulating certain points will get rid of the blocks and restore fertility. Acupuncture has been found to minimize the side effects of the fertility drug Lupron, prevent ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome, and improve the blood flow to the uterus. It has also been found to increase pregnancy rates; studies show that women who receive acupuncture treatments on the day of the embryo transfer are more likely to get pregnant. Try not to be intimidated by the treatment’s use of needles; fans of acupuncture say that it’s just as relaxing as a full body massage.
This article is based on the book "The Full Embrace™ IVF Success Program" by Diana Farrell, M.A. Diana’s books on enhancing IVF success have been sold all over the world, and she has helped many couples overcome their infertility with IVF and realize their dream of parenthood.
Find out more by visiting her website: www.IVRSuccessProgram.com
Timing Intercourse to Choose the Gender of Your Child
While there are no guarantees when it comes to natural gender selection, there are a few things that can be done to increase the likelihood of having a little boy or a little girl. If you are specifically wanting a boy or girl, it certainly doesn’t hurt to try a few natural techniques. You may not get the gender you want, but it sure is fun trying and the result is the same regardless – a happy and healthy baby, and that is what really matters.
In order to understand how the timing of when you have sex can impact the gender of your child it is important to look at two different things – first, how ovulation works and second, how the differences in sperm affect this timing. Let's look at ovulation first.
Every month, there is a window of fertility that is approximately five days long. Three days prior to ovulation to one day following ovulation are the best times to conceive. Remember, the egg only has 24 hours of viability, and that sperm can live for up to five days in the reproductive tract. Each woman is different however, but this is the generally accepted "window of fertility" that occurs every month.
So, now that you've narrowed it down to five days of the month where you are fertile, it's time to figure out how to time your intercourse to choose the gender of your child. Let's take a look at the differences in sperm that carry the chromosomes that decide gender.
A sperm carrying the Y chromosome will result in a boy if it successfully fertilizes the egg. A sperm carrying the X chromosome will result in a girl. There are some main differences in these sperm that are important to understand. The Y sperm are very small, but also very quick and agile. The main downside is that they don't live very long. The X sperm are bigger and much slower, but on the flip side, they live a lot longer.
Keeping this in mind, now let's move to timing. In order to have a boy, it is vital to allow the Y sperm the time they need to reach the egg as quickly as possible. This means that you need to time intercourse on the day that you ovulate. The Y sperm won't live much longer than that 24 hour period that the egg is viable and you need to give them that chance to meet the egg before they expire.
On the other hand, if you want to have a girl, you should time intercourse to two to three days prior to ovulation. During this time, the Y sperm will have died out, leaving the slower but more durable X sperm behind. This greatly increases the chances that you will have a girl.
There are many other factors that can effect the gender of your child such as diet, and even the sexual position that you use, but timing it properly can help you naturally select your child's gender.
Learn more by visiting www.PlanMyBaby.com
In order to understand how the timing of when you have sex can impact the gender of your child it is important to look at two different things – first, how ovulation works and second, how the differences in sperm affect this timing. Let's look at ovulation first.
Every month, there is a window of fertility that is approximately five days long. Three days prior to ovulation to one day following ovulation are the best times to conceive. Remember, the egg only has 24 hours of viability, and that sperm can live for up to five days in the reproductive tract. Each woman is different however, but this is the generally accepted "window of fertility" that occurs every month.
So, now that you've narrowed it down to five days of the month where you are fertile, it's time to figure out how to time your intercourse to choose the gender of your child. Let's take a look at the differences in sperm that carry the chromosomes that decide gender.
A sperm carrying the Y chromosome will result in a boy if it successfully fertilizes the egg. A sperm carrying the X chromosome will result in a girl. There are some main differences in these sperm that are important to understand. The Y sperm are very small, but also very quick and agile. The main downside is that they don't live very long. The X sperm are bigger and much slower, but on the flip side, they live a lot longer.
Keeping this in mind, now let's move to timing. In order to have a boy, it is vital to allow the Y sperm the time they need to reach the egg as quickly as possible. This means that you need to time intercourse on the day that you ovulate. The Y sperm won't live much longer than that 24 hour period that the egg is viable and you need to give them that chance to meet the egg before they expire.
On the other hand, if you want to have a girl, you should time intercourse to two to three days prior to ovulation. During this time, the Y sperm will have died out, leaving the slower but more durable X sperm behind. This greatly increases the chances that you will have a girl.
There are many other factors that can effect the gender of your child such as diet, and even the sexual position that you use, but timing it properly can help you naturally select your child's gender.
Learn more by visiting www.PlanMyBaby.com
Ovulation Cycle
Knowing the science behind your cycle of ovulation may help to understand better when you can be more fertile and have the best chance of conceiving. Although it happens every month, the ovulation cycle is unique, customized for your body and influenced by what is happening in your daily life. Things like stress and big changes in your normal routine can lead to a significant change in the ovulation cycle, which can be painful when you are trying to conceive.
The first part of the cycle of ovulation is the follicular phase. From the first day of the menstrual period, this phase continues until ovulation occurs. This part of the cycle may last 7-40 days, and may vary due to many factors such as age, stress, illness, travel, etc.
The second part of the cycle is called the luteal phase and begins the day of ovulation until the first day of your period. This is a more precise chronology and usually lasts between 12 to 16 days after the day of ovulation. With this in mind, you can try to reduce the amount of stress and changes in your routines only during the ovulation phase, because ovulation is highly influenced by these factors.
How do you know when you ovulating? One way to keep track is through the study and monitoring of cervical mucus and/or basal body temperature to determine when ovulation occurs. Once you know your particular pattern, you can monitor every month to track your times of fertility. With this knowledge, you can time your "baby-making" sessions and then look for any early symptoms of pregnancy two weeks later. Of course, how often and when will be the best time to get pregnant may be different for different people depending on their unique personal circumstances.
If the egg is not fertilized during the ovulation cycle, you will see the hormone levels drop significantly and the uterine lining begins to shed. This will be about 12 to 16 days after ovulation and is cycle day one of your period. Once this happens, a whole new ovulation cycle begins.
Although this seems confusing and complicated at first, understanding your ovulation cycle will enable you to have the best chance of conceiving fast.
For detailed information to help you gain a more in depth understanding, read Personal Path to Pregnancy, the international best-selling ebook,
www.PersonalPathToPregnancy.com
The first part of the cycle of ovulation is the follicular phase. From the first day of the menstrual period, this phase continues until ovulation occurs. This part of the cycle may last 7-40 days, and may vary due to many factors such as age, stress, illness, travel, etc.
The second part of the cycle is called the luteal phase and begins the day of ovulation until the first day of your period. This is a more precise chronology and usually lasts between 12 to 16 days after the day of ovulation. With this in mind, you can try to reduce the amount of stress and changes in your routines only during the ovulation phase, because ovulation is highly influenced by these factors.
How do you know when you ovulating? One way to keep track is through the study and monitoring of cervical mucus and/or basal body temperature to determine when ovulation occurs. Once you know your particular pattern, you can monitor every month to track your times of fertility. With this knowledge, you can time your "baby-making" sessions and then look for any early symptoms of pregnancy two weeks later. Of course, how often and when will be the best time to get pregnant may be different for different people depending on their unique personal circumstances.
If the egg is not fertilized during the ovulation cycle, you will see the hormone levels drop significantly and the uterine lining begins to shed. This will be about 12 to 16 days after ovulation and is cycle day one of your period. Once this happens, a whole new ovulation cycle begins.
Although this seems confusing and complicated at first, understanding your ovulation cycle will enable you to have the best chance of conceiving fast.
For detailed information to help you gain a more in depth understanding, read Personal Path to Pregnancy, the international best-selling ebook,
www.PersonalPathToPregnancy.com
Signs of Infertility
What exactly is infertility?
The problems with either conceiving a child, or with carrying out the pregnancy to its eventual fruitful end, fall under the definition of infertility. Infertility is the incapability of an individual to become pregnant, in case of females, or the incapability to induce pregnancy, in case of the males. The inability of an individual to carry out a pregnancy to its full term is also dubbed infertility. How does one recognize infertility? What are the signs of infertility?
Signs of infertility are not always evident. Most people go through life without knowing there is a problem with their reproductive systems, attributing failed pregnancies to providence. In fact, miscarriages are the most common indicator of infertility. Signs of infertility in women:
In women, the signs of infertility are more readily recognized as compared to men. Endometriosis causes the lining of the uterus to grow outside the uterus.
Bacterial infections may begin around the uterus and spread to other reproductive organs, resulting in infertility. Fibroids in the uterus are indicative of infertility. Tumors in the cervix often cause stenosis, or narrowing of the cervix, which is a common indicator of infertility.
Ovulating before the tenth day and after the twentieth day of one's monthly cycle, pre-menstrual spotting, menopausal symptoms, etc. are indicative of luteal phase defect, and thus in turn are signs too.
Irregular menstrual cycles are the most common indication in females that they might have some problems with fertility. However, an irregular menstrual cycle is not conclusive in itself, but it is definitely one of the signs of infertility.
Issues regarding body weight are often indicators of being infertile. For a woman, being too thin, or anorexic, will definitely hinder pregnancy, since the body does not have the proper nutritional requirements, or the required strength.
Alternatively, obesity can also be a sign. Obesity is accompanied by hormonal imbalance, which affects the reproductive system and pregnancy. Signs of Infertility in Men:
Like females, in males too, either obesity, or anorexia, is an indication that he is infertile. Apart from these, anatomical defects may also be signs of infertility. Undescended testicles, or damage to scrotum and the gonads, are possible indicators too. Wearing tight undergarments, or exposing the testicles to heat, may render the person unable to produce the required number of sperms, or unable to produce sperms altogether, resulting in infertility.
Determining the signs of infertility:
There are many medical procedures for detecting the signs that help to determine whether an individual is infertile or not. Doctors usually prescribe one or more of the following medical tests:
Hysterosalpingography. A dye injected into the vagina is monitored to check for blockage in the fallopian tubes or uterus.
Laparoscopy. If disease and other physical problems are present in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or in the uterus, infertility is suggested. This may be detected through laparoscopy.
Infertility is a problem which can be solved if it is addressed in the holistic way, which is, using a multifaceted method of healing. Getting regular health checkups, taking supplements to combat existing problem, exercising and stress reduction techniques are only part of the holistic solution to infertility. The holistic approach is not only a surefire way to increase your chances of conception it also guarantees a safe and healthy pregnancy.
This article is based on the book, "Pregnancy Miracle" by Lisa Olson. Lisa is an author, researcher, nutritionist and health consultant who dedicated her life to creating the ultimate pregnancy solution guaranteed to permanently reverse the root of infertility, help you get pregnant quickly and naturally and dramatically improve the overall quality of your life, without the use prescription medication and without any surgical procedures.
Learn more by visiting her website: www.PregnancyMiracle.com
The problems with either conceiving a child, or with carrying out the pregnancy to its eventual fruitful end, fall under the definition of infertility. Infertility is the incapability of an individual to become pregnant, in case of females, or the incapability to induce pregnancy, in case of the males. The inability of an individual to carry out a pregnancy to its full term is also dubbed infertility. How does one recognize infertility? What are the signs of infertility?
Signs of infertility are not always evident. Most people go through life without knowing there is a problem with their reproductive systems, attributing failed pregnancies to providence. In fact, miscarriages are the most common indicator of infertility. Signs of infertility in women:
In women, the signs of infertility are more readily recognized as compared to men. Endometriosis causes the lining of the uterus to grow outside the uterus.
Bacterial infections may begin around the uterus and spread to other reproductive organs, resulting in infertility. Fibroids in the uterus are indicative of infertility. Tumors in the cervix often cause stenosis, or narrowing of the cervix, which is a common indicator of infertility.
Ovulating before the tenth day and after the twentieth day of one's monthly cycle, pre-menstrual spotting, menopausal symptoms, etc. are indicative of luteal phase defect, and thus in turn are signs too.
Irregular menstrual cycles are the most common indication in females that they might have some problems with fertility. However, an irregular menstrual cycle is not conclusive in itself, but it is definitely one of the signs of infertility.
Issues regarding body weight are often indicators of being infertile. For a woman, being too thin, or anorexic, will definitely hinder pregnancy, since the body does not have the proper nutritional requirements, or the required strength.
Alternatively, obesity can also be a sign. Obesity is accompanied by hormonal imbalance, which affects the reproductive system and pregnancy. Signs of Infertility in Men:
Like females, in males too, either obesity, or anorexia, is an indication that he is infertile. Apart from these, anatomical defects may also be signs of infertility. Undescended testicles, or damage to scrotum and the gonads, are possible indicators too. Wearing tight undergarments, or exposing the testicles to heat, may render the person unable to produce the required number of sperms, or unable to produce sperms altogether, resulting in infertility.
Determining the signs of infertility:
There are many medical procedures for detecting the signs that help to determine whether an individual is infertile or not. Doctors usually prescribe one or more of the following medical tests:
Hysterosalpingography. A dye injected into the vagina is monitored to check for blockage in the fallopian tubes or uterus.
Laparoscopy. If disease and other physical problems are present in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or in the uterus, infertility is suggested. This may be detected through laparoscopy.
Infertility is a problem which can be solved if it is addressed in the holistic way, which is, using a multifaceted method of healing. Getting regular health checkups, taking supplements to combat existing problem, exercising and stress reduction techniques are only part of the holistic solution to infertility. The holistic approach is not only a surefire way to increase your chances of conception it also guarantees a safe and healthy pregnancy.
This article is based on the book, "Pregnancy Miracle" by Lisa Olson. Lisa is an author, researcher, nutritionist and health consultant who dedicated her life to creating the ultimate pregnancy solution guaranteed to permanently reverse the root of infertility, help you get pregnant quickly and naturally and dramatically improve the overall quality of your life, without the use prescription medication and without any surgical procedures.
Learn more by visiting her website: www.PregnancyMiracle.com
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