Should you put pregnancy on hold because of COVID19?

The COVID-19 has changed a lot of plans for a lot of people. Schools and businesses have closed, gatherings have been cancelled, and many people are quarantining at home. If you’ve been trying to start a family, should that plan be changed as well? The decision about whether or not to put your pregnancy on hold during the pandemic is multifaceted and, ultimately, deeply personal and subjective.

It’s important to acknowledge that there’s no right answer to this question. Everyone family’s circumstance is different, and each couple has to decide for themselves when it’s the right time to have a baby. There’s not even really a scientific consensus on this issue. There are, however, a few different factors to consider.

• First, consider your age. If you’re young and have plenty of time to get pregnant, there may be no rush to go ahead and do it now, during this uncertain time. If you’re nearing the end of your childbearing window, however, it may be worth pressing ahead.
• Think about what you do for a living. If you work from home, there may be very little risk of you contracting the virus. If you’re working in a high-risk setting, however, this may not be such a good time. Even if you’re not on the front lines of the virus, if you’re the primary breadwinner and your employer won’t allow you to work remotely, you may consider waiting to get pregnant.
• What are your risk factors? If you’ve got a history of high-risk pregnancies, or if you have underlying medical conditions that put you at higher risk of contracting COVID-19, you should not consider pregnancy at this time. It’s important to discuss your risk factors with your doctor, so that you can make an informed decision.
• The pandemic is limiting medical care. Many medical practices are moving to virtual or telephone visits, and this is not ideal for prenatal care. Further, reallocation of medical resources may limit your access to care during your pregnancy. Doctors are restricting elective procedures, and this applies to fertility treatments as well. Back in March, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) issued new guidelines restricting assisted reproduction, so while you can still become pregnant naturally, your other options are limited.

Here’s another question: does COVID-19 pose risks to the pregnancy or the baby? The answer is not entirely clear. There have been some small studies indicating the babies can contract COVID-19 from their mothers in utero. However, the babies studied all recovered quickly, as the virus seems to typically impact small children less severely than adults.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people build their families. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website, or call 941-894-6428 for a free consultation.

How to be Supportive During Your Partner’s Pregnancy

Many expectant parents are excited about the arrival of a new child, but sometimes, pregnancy brings a bundle of stress along with the joy. It’s easier to face the many changes, unknowns, and lengthy to-do lists when a man and woman act as partners in the pregnancy. A partnership strengthens the relationship, lowers anxiety, and increases the chance of a smooth transition into parenthood. Follow these tips to help you support your partner during her pregnancy.

Educate Yourself

The more you learn about your partner’s body and the changes she’s experiencing, the more effectively you can support her. It’s also wise to educate yourself about childbirth and infant development, so you know what to expect when the baby arrives. Here are some resources to guide you:

• Read pregnancy books with helpful week-by-week details.
• Attend childbirth classes and doctor visits where you can ask specific questions of educators and healthcare providers.
• Speak with other new parents, including friends and family, who may be eager to talk about how they navigated unique pregnancy challenges.

Provide Emotional Support

If you notice your partner struggling emotionally or dealing with high stress, step in with these tips:

• Encourage and reassure your partner.
• Ask her how you can help, and then follow through.
• Shower her with affection.
• Help her make difficult lifestyle changes, such as giving up alcohol alongside her.
• Encourage her to take breaks and rest more, being aware that pregnancy hormones increase a woman’s need for sleep.
• Talk to your partner about her desire for intimacy.
• Take walks together, where you can get some exercise and have time to talk.
• Reach out to a counselor, therapist, or healthcare provider if you feel your partner could use help for anxiety or depression.

Offer Physical Support

As your partner’s body undergoes tremendous change, be prepared to offer your physical support in the following ways:

• Take on more responsibilities at home, such as cooking and cleaning.
• Be open to eating different foods if your partner’s nausea or cravings change her usual diet.
• Don’t smoke around her. Seriously consider quitting or at least cutting back.
• Offer back massages and foot rubs to ease her stress and pain as the pregnancy progresses.
• Help her check items off that long to-do list.
• Make sure your partner knows you’re planning to be an involved father. This includes helping to feed, change, and bathe your baby to give her a break. If you have other children, volunteer to handle more of their care during the first few weeks of the baby’s arrival.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping moms and dads build their families together. If you’re ready to begin your journey into parenthood, we’re here to help. Our team offers state-of-the-art treatment for men seeking vasectomy reversal under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green. To learn more, please call our Sarasota, FL clinic at 941-894-6428 and schedule a free consultation.

Fertility Myths that Should be Left in the Last Decade

As we move into a whole new decade, with exciting new medical technology and new scientific discoveries making the news all the time, you’d think we’d leave old myths by the wayside. It’s surprising to note, then, that some people still believe a number of untrue things about healthcare. Fertility, in particular, is plagued by persistent myths. Have you fallen for any of these? It’s time to shake them off and move forward.

• Menstruation is connected to the moon. The idea that a woman’s cycle and the lunar cycle is a fairly popular notion. It’s easy to see why: menstrual cycles are typically about 28 days, and the moon’s cycle, from new moon to new moon, is about 29.5. There’s no evidence, however, to suggest that this is more than coincidence. If there was a moon-menstruation connection, what purpose would that serve?
• To become pregnant, lie down after sex. It’s widely believed that lying down for a certain period of time after sex can increase your odds of conception. In fact, there’s no evidence that remaining prone is helpful at all: after sex, the sperm likely to fertilize the egg have already gotten where they need to go.
• Menopause is unnatural. Some people believe that women were never meant to go through menopause, because for much of history women did not live long enough to experience it. This myth comes from the idea that women’s value is tied up in reproduction. In fact, even in the 17^th century, women lived an average of 60 years. Men didn’t live much longer than that, but society wasn’t as interested in their reproductive function and its decline.
• The female orgasm promotes conception. In order for a female orgasm to propel sperm, it would have to happen at the same time as the male orgasm, and that’s rare.
• The HPV vaccine causes premature ovarian failure. The human papillomavirus vaccine is somewhat controversial, and in the vaccine literature, there was mention of six cases of premature ovarian failure. However, a much larger study disproved the connection with the vaccine.
• Men are forever fertile. Though some men can father children in their old age, for most men fertility declines with age, and there’s a marked decline in the success of fertility treatments for men over 50.

If you’re considering a vasectomy reversal, the Center for Vasectomy Reversal is here to help. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other concerns about their fertility. We accept major credit cards as well as cash and checks, and offer a payment plan for those who are unable to pay the entire fee at the time of surgery. Whether you’re ready to schedule a procedure or just want to learn more, you can contact us through our website, or call 941-894-6428 to arrange a free consultation.

What Are Your Chances of Giving Birth to Twins?

Having a baby is very exciting, so how would you feel about a two-for-one pregnancy? If you’re undergoing fertility treatment, you probably already know that twins are a possibility. However, there are many other factors that come into play when it comes to multiples. Do you know your chances of giving birth to twins?  

• Your age plays a role. Women who are over 30 are more likely to have twins because they have higher levels of follicle–stimulating hormone. This surge in FSH occurs because older women have lower fertility in general, but sometimes the follicles can overreact and release two or more eggs.  
• Twins are sometimes hereditary. If your family history includes identical twins, that doesn’t make you more likely to conceive them. However, a history of fraternal twins on the woman’s side indicates a genetic predisposition to ovulate more than one egg per cycle, and if it’s in the man’s family it indicates high sperm production, so if your family has fraternal twins, you might have them too.  
• Your height and weight are a factor. Overweight women are more likely to have twins, even though extra weight can keep some women from conceiving because more weight means more estrogen, which can overstimulate the ovaries. Taller women are prone to twins, though no one knows quite why.  
• If you have a large family, it might get larger still. Women who have carried many pregnancies are more likely to conceive twins.  
• Race makes a difference. African Americans are more likely than Caucasian women to conceive twins, and Asian women are the least likely.  
• Surprisingly, breastfeeding can contribute to a higher risk of twins. This may seem unbelievable, because breastfeeding typically suppresses fertility, preventing pregnancy, especially if the baby is under six months and exclusively breastfed. However, if you do get pregnant while breastfeeding, you’re more than ten times as likely to have twins.  

All of these factors work together, so if you have more than one, your chances of twins are higher, especially if you are also undergoing fertility treatments. In general, the rate of twins is about 3.35%, but with fertility treatment, that number jumps significantly, depending on the type of treatment. With Clomid and Femera, for instance, the rate is between 5 and 12%, while with IVF it’s 12.1% for women under 35, and decreases as women age.  

If male infertility is impairing your ability to conceive, the Center for Vasectomy Reversal is here to help. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for vasectomy reversals and other fertility issues. We accept major credit cards as well as cash and checks and offer a payment plan option for those who are unable to pay the entire fee at the time of surgery. Whether you’re ready to schedule a procedure or just want to learn more, contact us through our website, or call 941-894-6428 to arrange a free consultation.  

Supporting Your Partner During Labor

After a successful vasectomy reversal, one of the final steps in growing your family is supporting your partner during labor and delivery. This process is extremely intense for women, and the best way to be supportive is not always clear. This video explains more.  

When your partner is in labor, it helps to hear your voice, so in addition to offering back rubs and supportive touch, offer reassurance so that she knows she is not alone. It’s important to not ask any questions during a contraction, which can be intensely painful and require concentration on breathing rather than conversation.  

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we make these moments possible with effective vasectomy reversal surgeries in Sarasota. To make an appointment with our vasectomy reversal surgeon, call (941) 894-6428.

Here Are the Facts About Getting Pregnant After a Vasectomy Reversal

The reason that couples consider vasectomy reversals is so that future pregnancy is possible. However, the process is not always as simple as having a reversal and then conceiving right away. If you are considering having a vasectomy reversal so you can grow your family, here is a look at the facts that you need to know.  

It can take several months for fertility to be restored after a reversal.  

A vasectomy reversal does not instantly restore fertility for men. It can take several months for sperm to appear in the ejaculate after a procedure. Generally, if a vasectomy reversal is successful, the sperm will be in the ejaculate about three to six months later, though the timeline can be both faster and slower—and in some cases, fertility will not be restored at all. The vasectomy reversal surgeon will not know if there are any blockages or excessive scar tissue that could impact the success of the procedure until he or she begins the procedure.  

Some couples should consider sperm aspiration with IVF instead of a reversal.  

If it has been a long time since the original vasectomy, or if both partners have fertility challenges, a vasectomy reversal may not be the best fit. Instead, these couples could benefit by having sperm aspirated during a procedure called MESA to be used in in vitro fertilization, or IVF. This removes the waiting period to see if a vasectomy reversal is successful and helps to bypass fertility challenges to both partners.  

Healthy lifestyle choices can help when you’re trying to conceive.  

After a vasectomy reversal, both partners can increase the chance of conceiving by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Quitting smoking, cutting back on alcohol, and eating a healthy diet can help, as can regular exercise.  

The Center for Vasectomy Reversal has helped countless couples realize their dreams of growing their families after a vasectomy. To learn more about Dr. Green and vasectomy reversal in Sarasota, Orlando, and Tampa, call (941) 894-6428. 

How Does the Age of the Female Partner Affect Post-Reversal Pregnancy Rates?

There are dozens of issues that can potentially affect fertility. For men who have had a vasectomy, that procedure is the overriding factor. But there are also issues that may affect female fertility. It’s a smart idea to explore all the possible factors before making a medical decision, including the potential effects of the age of the female partner. 

What Science Says About Age and Fertility 

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), a woman’s fertility “decreases gradually but significantly” when she reaches her 32nd birthday. The rate of fertility decline accelerates after 37 years. By age 40, it’s quite common for women to have trouble conceiving naturally. ACOG notes that females are born with one to two million oocytes, or eggs. By puberty, women will have between 300,000 and 500,000 eggs. That number declines sharply at age 37, at which point women will only have 25,000 eggs. As ovarian reserve declines, so too does fertility. 

How Age Affects Post-Reversal Pregnancy Rates 

Research indicates that female age has no special effect on pregnancy rates after the male partner has had a vasectomy reversal. In other words, the chances of pregnancy are comparable. If Jane, age 40, and Jose, post-vasectomy reversal, try to have a baby, their chances of getting pregnant would be roughly the same as if Jose had never had a vasectomy, assuming that all other factors remain consistent. 

What This Means for You  

When a couple is considering a vasectomy reversal, it’s wise for the female partner to discuss potential fertility issues with her physician. Even if female infertility may be a problem, there are other options to consider. The vasectomy reversal surgeon could perform a sperm retrieval procedure if the couple wants to consider in vitro fertilization (IVF), for example. 

Dr. Green at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal strongly encourages couples to be proactive patients. It’s always a good idea for the female partner to explore possible fertility issues with her doctor before making decisions about the vasectomy reversal. When you’re ready to move forward, call Dr. Joshua Green in Sarasota at (941) 894-6428 to request a consult. 

Tips for Supporting Your Partner During Labor

After dealing with male infertility, the thrill of a positive pregnancy test is matched only by the excitement of the labor itself. You can support your partner by being prepared. Ahead of time, read about the stages of labor, talk about her birth plan preferences, and take childbirth prep courses together. When you watch the accompanying video, you’ll learn about ways of supporting your partner during the labor and birth. 

This expert recommends offering frequent reassurances and a comforting touch. Note that some women appreciate a massage to help manage the pain, while others prefer not to be touched during certain stages of labor. Follow your partner’s cue, and do what she requests. 

Dr. Green is an experienced vasectomy reversal surgeon serving Sarasota. Give us a call today at (941) 894-6428 to request a consultation when you’re ready to overcome male infertility and become a parent.

Announcing a Pregnancy After Your Vasectomy Reversal

For many people, a vasectomy reversal is the first step on the road to the ultimate goal: pregnancy. When you find out that you and your partner have successfully conceived, you may be excited to tell everyone as soon as possible, or you may have some qualms about making the announcement because you’re worried about the timing or the questions that will follow. Here are some strategies for sharing your happy news after your vasectomy reversal in the way that feels right to you. 

Timing Your Announcement 

There is no single right answer to timing your pregnancy announcement. Some people prefer to wait until about 10 to 12 weeks, as the risk of miscarriage declines drastically by then. Other people want to tell everyone as soon as they find out. Other people wait until much later in the pregnancy to share their news with people who are not very close family and friends. The key is to choose the path that makes the most sense to you. You don’t have to share with everyone at the same time. You can opt to tell a few people early and make a big announcement to a broader group of people when you’re comfortable.  

Answering Questions 

For some people, your pregnancy announcement will seem like every other one. For people who know you had a vasectomy, there are may be more questions. How you handle them is up to you. You may opt to share that you had a vasectomy reversal, but you can also simply deflect questions by saying you’re thrilled about the pregnancy. Sharing personal information is not required.  

Making the Announcement 

Gone are the days of phone calls or making an announcement over dinner. Today, people are using social media to share their news in one big swoop, as well as creating little gifts for family and close friends that make the announcement for you. Clever announcements are the rage, so use your imagination to make sharing your news memorable.  

Take the first step towards the day when you get to make a pregnancy announcement by learning more about your vasectomy reversal options. Set up an appointment at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal in Sarasota today by calling (941) 894-6428. 

The Best Ways for Guys to Get Involved During the Pregnancy

You and your partner are finally expecting a baby after dealing with male infertility. Congratulations! If you’re like most older dads who undergo vasectomy reversal, you’re looking forward to being a hands-on, involved dad in your kid’s life. But you might feel a little lost during the pregnancy itself. After all, she’s the one doing the hard work of carrying the baby, right? Actually, there are still plenty of ways expecting dads can get involved during the pregnancy—and she’ll definitely appreciate your efforts! 

Take charge of the household upkeep. 

Cleaning is hard, physical work, and as your partner’s pregnancy progresses, her body might not be up to it anymore. Growing a baby is exhausting work, and she needs to rest as much as possible. Plus, trying to push a vacuum with a belly bump in the way can be tricky. Additionally, many women become nauseated at the smell of cleaning products (some of which may be toxic). Help her out by taking over some of the cleaning responsibilities, switching to nontoxic cleaners, and hiring a maid as needed. Note that if you have a cat, you’ll definitely need to clean the litter box. Pregnant women must avoid this task, due to the risk of toxoplasmosis. 

Ease your partner’s aches and pains. 

The changes associated with pregnancy can hurt. Your partner will almost certainly experience an aching back and sore, swollen feet. When she gets home from work, she’ll probably want nothing more than to kick back on the couch and relax. So surprise her by giving her a foot rub and back massage.  

Be active in the baby prep process. 

Planning for a baby’s arrival is practically a full-time job in itself. Be active in the planning process by researching the safest car seats, cribs, and baby bottles. Paint the nursery on a day when she isn’t home to spare her from the fumes. Assemble the crib as soon as you bring it home so she doesn’t have to worry about asking you to do it. And don’t skip those parenting classes and doctor’s appointments!  

Here at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we’re immensely proud of the beautiful babies we’ve helped couples conceive over the years. Our vasectomy reversal surgeon in Sarasota looks forward to meeting you and your partner and helping you make an informed decision about the surgery. Call (941) 894-6428 to request your consultation with Dr. Joshua Green.