Preparing Your Kids for Preschool

The weeks leading up to the first day of preschool are filled with emotions. You may be wondering if your child is ready. You may even be wondering if you’re ready. The best way to ensure that this transition goes smoothly is to be prepared. What steps must you take to prepare for this next step? Here are some tips that will make this adjustment go smoothly.

Visit the School
Most preschools are willing to take you on a tour of their facility before the first day. Call or email the school to set up an appointment and bring your little one on a little tour of the school. You will likely be able to meet the teacher and the principal. You’ll also typically be able to bring your child into a classroom and have a mini practice run during which you can sit at a desk and look around the room. This will give you both an idea of what life will be like for your little one at school.

Practicing Separating from Your Child
One of the most challenging steps in beginning preschool is separating from your child. This may be as challenging for you as it is for them. This can be even more challenging for families who don’t spend much time apart. As your child approaches preschool, it’s time to start. Step one is to try having a relative or sitter stay with them at home. Step two will be leaving them with a relative or sitter at a location that is not your home. This is a safe and easy way to practice separation and will likely make the big first day of preschool a little easier on you both.

Read to Your Child
While preschool is not highly focused on the “academic” side of learning, reading to your child is still very important. If you haven’t started already, get into a habit of reading to them daily. This will help grow your child’s attention span and promote emergent literacy at the same time.

Take a Toddler Class
From music to mini gym, there are numerous opportunities for you and your child to attend a toddler class together. You and your little one will enjoy learning together, and it will also give your child the opportunity to listen to a teacher and understand what it’s like to be part of a class.

Get Your Child Excited for School
You’re your child’s biggest fan, so cheer them on. Talk up the preschool experience so they are excited for the first day. Let them walk around the house with a backpack and a lunchbox. Play “school” so that they know how important and exciting this transition can be.

Conclusion
Remember that preschool’s primary function is not so much the “academic” side of learning. Rather, children will work on social-emotional adaptation, executive function, fine motor, and gross motor skills. It’s a beautiful first step into independence and autonomy. So good luck, parents! It’s going to be an incredible journey!

Center for Vasectomy Reversal
In the Gulf Coast area, the Center for Vasectomy Reversal is your answer for vasectomy reversal. We know each situation is unique and want to hear your story. We will thoughtfully discuss options to carefully tailor our services to your needs. When you’re ready to check us out, visit our website or call us at (941) 313-7749.

Simple Ways to Get a Little Exercise

We get it. Between work, parenting, and all life’s other responsibilities, squeezing in a bit of exercise can be a real challenge. But of all the ways you take care of yourself, studies show that exercise is likely the most important one. So, how do we make sure to fit at least a little fitness into our routines? Here are some facts about fitness.

Why Is Exercise So Important?
We all know that exercise is vital for the body. We want to stay strong and active. We may even be peripherally aware that exercise is good for the heart and the cardiovascular system. But did you know that exercise is crucial for healthy brain function? If exercise isn’t a part of your daily routine, this is your notification to try to work some exercise into your daily routine. Here are some ways to do just that.

At Home

• Morning Routine
  Work in a few stretches when you wake up. Run up and down your stairs in the morning to get the blood pumping. Do a quick YouTube yoga sesh before you leave for the office. These changes will change your life.
• Exercise While You Clean
  Putting on a fun playlist can be a great way to get moving while you clean. Use that mop as a mic and do your best boy band dance moves while you put away the laundry.
• Yard Work
  Don’t let this become drudgery. When it’s time to mow or weed, put your back into it. It’s a fabulous way to get cardio and a little weight training.

At Work

• Treadmill Desk
  It seems cliché, but you’d be amazed at how much more productive one can be while exercising both their mind and body.
• Take the Stairs
  Give your elevator button finger a rest and start working those hamstrings and glutes. Taking the stairs at work is an inspired choice for getting some exercise.
• Walk During Lunch
  You don’t have to skip lunch, but walking before or after the meal will be a great way to burn some calories and help you feel like you’ve really earned that turkey sandwich. If you don’t have time to fit in a complete exercise cycle, simply walk to lunch. That will at least complete a ring or two on the fitness watch.

On the Commute

• Walk or Bike to Work
  If you live close enough to work, try walking or biking there.
• Walk or Bike from the Train Station
  If you don’t live close enough to walk or bike all the way to work, try just making it to the commuter train. That will at least get your blood pumping first thing.
• Park Farther Away
  If you must drive to work, try parking in the very last spot. Get there early and walk in. Even 5-10 minutes of movement is better than nothing.

During Recreation Hours
We all love binge-watching a show on the weekends or reading a good book. But there are many ways to relax while getting fit. Here are some fun examples of how to get in shape while enjoying recreation time.

• Go On a Hike
  Usually, a short drive outside the city limits will provide you with a nice place to walk or hike.
• Rollerblading
  Skating and rollerblading are wonderful forms of exercise that give you cardio and strength training.
• Play with Your Kids
  Children have much more energy than adults do. Running around, playing hide and seek, or just chasing and throwing a ball can all be great ways to get your heart pumping and make memories with your kiddos, too!
• Visit a Trampoline Park
  Whether you bring the kids or not, these parks are tons of fun and a great way to get some exercise.
• Go Sightseeing
  Be a tourist in your own town. Pick a landmark or tourist attraction in your city and visit it. Whether it’s a museum, a natural landmark, or a scenic garden, you will enjoy this kind of exercise.

Conclusion
Long story short, exercise doesn’t need to feel like a chore. Grab it while you can and make it something you enjoy. This will promote heart health, brain health, and an overall elevation of mood.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal
Your choice for vasectomy reversal in the Gulf Coast area is the Center for Vasectomy Reversal. When it comes to vasectomy reversal, procedures, and the path to parenthood, we can answer your questions and help you find your way. We will help you navigate the challenges on the way to becoming a parent. When you’re ready to check us out, visit our website or call us at (941) 313-7749.

How to Navigate an Overstimulated Child

We’ve all been there. Out of nowhere, your child is overstimulated, and it seems like there’s no way out. Whether you’re in a public place, leaving a babysitter’s house, or just hanging out at home, once you’ve crossed into the territory of an overstimulated child, it feels like it will never end. There’s hope. Here are some effective strategies that will help you navigate having an overstimulated child.

What is Overstimulation?
When a child receives too much input, they can reach a state of overstimulation. The source of overstimulation can vary from child to child, but some sources may be:

• Too much screen time
• A change in their environment
• Large crowds
• Loud music
• Bright or flashing lights
• Dietary Stimulation
  -this can include caffeine, sugar, or food dye

What are some Symptoms of Overstimulation?
Just as the source of overstimulation can vary from child to child, the symptoms vary and are on a broad spectrum. While some children act out as a result of overstimulation, others retreat. Here are some common symptoms of overstimulation.

• Temper Tantrums and Meltdowns
  Some children react strongly to overstimulation, which can result in tantrums, mood swings, and meltdowns.
• Hyperactivity
  Hyperactivity is a frequent symptom of overstimulation. Children will adapt to their environment; as challenging as this can be, it is a natural response.
• Avoidance and Withdrawal
  Some children shut down when they’re overstimulated.
• Irritability
  Some children become easily angered or grumpy when they are overstimulated.
• Issues or Difficulty Concentrating
  It can be extremely difficult to concentrate when overstimulated. This is true for anyone, but children’s nervous systems are still developing, so they can become much more easily overstimulated.

What To Do?
Don’t panic. A few simple steps to navigating the overstimulated space include:

• Remove the Stimulation
  Whether you scoop up your child and take them out of the theatre or turn off the TV, reducing the level of stimulation they’re receiving is crucial.
• Move the Child to a Peaceful Quiet Environment
  Quiet is key. It’s unlikely a child will calm in a noisy environment.
• Comfort the Child
  Holding, rocking, or providing a stuffed animal are all great ways to bring comfort to the child.
• Food or Drink
  Sometimes, offering a healthy snack or a drink will do the trick.
• Offer a Quiet Activity
  Getting the brain to switch gears can be challenging, but offering the child a new activity can help.
• Deep Breathing
  We used to tell my child to sniff the flower and blow out the candle. Breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth. This provides much-needed oxygen to the brain and can help to soothe the child.

Conclusion
Working through an episode of overstimulation can be challenging, but practicing these steps should help you and your child smoothly transition back to a normal, calm headspace.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal
The Center for Vasectomy Reversal is located on the beautiful Gulf Coast. We are available to answer any questions you might have about vasectomy reversal, procedures, and the path to parenthood. We will discuss the best options with you to find what you need for a successful journey to becoming a parent. When you’re ready to check us out, visit our website or call us at (941) 313-7749.

Can Coffee Affect Sperm Health?

In the pursuit of parenthood, you’re doing all you can to facilitate the plan. Are there roadblocks in your way that you may not even know about? What foods can you eat to ensure a healthy sperm count? What foods should you cut out? What about coffee? Is it dangerous to sperm? Here’s everything you need to know about coffee and how it affects sperm health.

The Fertility Journey
As we embark on the path to better fertility in the pursuit of parenthood, it is evident that both the carrier of the child and the provider of the sperm will need to make a few lifestyle changes. Some of these changes can include:

• Getting More Rest
• Cessation from Smoking
• Limiting or Quitting Alcohol Consumption
• Getting More Exercise

We also know that someone carrying a child should limit coffee intake. Excessive coffee intake has been linked to several complications during fertility and pregnancy, including premature birth, pregnancy loss, and fetal growth issues.

Coffee’s Effect on Sperm Health
There is substantial evidence that the quality of semen has declined worldwide. Is coffee to blame? Multiple studies have been conducted to study the effects of coffee on sperm, and here are the most recent findings.

• Coffee Doesn’t Affect Sperm Count
  Currently, no studies show that coffee’s caffeine intake affects sperm count. Cola drinkers did have a lower sperm count, but they also had other poor nutritional habits that may have contributed to these effects.
• Coffee Doesn’t Affect Sperm Concentration
  A recent study showed that men who consume four or more cups of coffee daily have a higher sperm concentration than men who drink 0 cups of coffee per day. However, men who consume 1-3 cups of coffee daily have the highest sperm concentration of these three groups.
• Coffee Does Seem to Alter DNA of Sperm
  Some studies have shown that coffee intake is related to damaged or altered DNA, specifically double-strand DNA breakage.
• Coffee Intake Does Seem to Increase the Time it Takes to Conceive
  There is also corelative evidence that links coffee intake with lengthening the time it takes to conceive.

Conclusion
Caffeine intake from coffee does not seem to have a significant effect on sperm count or concentration, but there does seem to be some DNA damage that is related to coffee intake. Additionally, caffeine intake from cola did have a slightly negative effect on sperm count and quality. A recent study concluded that those who consumed a moderate amount of coffee had a higher likelihood of conceiving than those who drank a low amount. The same study concluded that high levels of coffee consumption had adverse effects. Consuming caffeine from any source in moderation is likely the best choice while trying to conceive.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal
If you are considering a vasectomy reversal, it’s essential to understand everything that goes into the procedure. The Center for Vasectomy Reversal can help. Read our patient reviews to learn about our increasingly positive satisfaction rate. We will help you navigate the challenges on the way to becoming a parent. When you’re ready to check us out, visit our website or call us at (941) 313-7749.

Empowering Choices: The Vital Role of Pre-Vasectomy Reversal Counseling

If you are considering a vasectomy, it is important to understand the procedure and all the factors worth considering. Storing sperm before you undergo the procedure is a good idea, because nearly 20 percent of men change their minds after having a vasectomy, deciding that they do want to father a child (or another child) after all. Cryopreservation of sperm is available, and can facilitate sperm storage. Still, many men decide they want to undergo a vasectomy reversal, and this option is not only viable, but much more successful than it has been in years past. Here, we offer some information to help improve your understanding of vasectomy reversal options and the importance of pre-reversal counseling.

The Process of Vasectomy Reversal

Somewhere between two and six percent of American men will undergo a vasectomy reversal. Vasectomy reversal is done using microsurgery, and there are two different types of reversal used: vasovasostomy (VV) or vasoepididymostomy (VE). These procedures were first used in the early 20^th century, but have improved by leaps and bounds since then, and have a much higher success rate now than they had even a few decades ago. So, why is counseling for vasectomy reversal so important?

Importance of Pre-Vasectomy Reversal Counseling

Vasectomy reversals are safe and effective, but they are not something that patients should enter into without careful consideration. Rather, the process should be thoroughly discussed with a qualified vasectomy reversal surgeon, to ensure that the patient understands the procedure. Pre-vasectomy reversal education should start with statistics regarding success rates, and should also involve explanations of the different surgical techniques that could be used. For a VV, the surgeon makes a small incision in each side of the scrotum, then removes scar tissue, flushes the vas deferens, and checks for sperm. If the fluid is clear, or sperm are present, the surgeon will then carefully connect the ends of the vas deferens, which was cut during the vasectomy. If the fluid is not clear, but is pasty and thick, the surgeon will switch gears and perform a VE procedure instead. This typically happens when the vasectomy happened over 10 years prior to the vasectomy reversal, or there is scar tissue blocking the epididymis. In a VE procedure, the vas deferens is connected to one of the tubules on the epididymis, located behind the testicles. This is a more complex procedure, because the epididymis is attached to the testes, so the testes will need to be removed from the scrotum before the epididymis and vas deferens can be connected. It is a technically demanding surgery, requiring the skills of an experienced microsurgeon.

Evaluation Before Vasectomy Reversal

In addition to counseling the patient on the types of procedures, the doctor will need to evaluate the patient’s baseline fertility, because if a man had difficulty with conception before the vasectomy, infertility is likely to remain a problem. If the patient has a history of hernia repairs or other pelvic surgeries, the doctor may need to perform an intraoperative vasogram. Patients should also be made aware of the option of intraoperative sperm extraction and cryopreservation, especially for couples who have lower fertility potential. If a man requires a bilateral EV, cryopreservation with intraoperative sperm extraction may be the right option.

Commonly Asked Questions Pre-Vasectomy Reversal

• What is the likelihood that the vasectomy reversal will be successful? The success rate for a VV procedure is fairly high. It drops somewhat if you have to have a VE procedure, or if your vasectomy is more than 10 years old. Still, the success rate is between 60 and 95 percent.
• Does a vasectomy ever result in nerve damage? Sometimes, pain from nerve damage can happen after a vasectomy, so it is important for a patient to have a full workup before a vasectomy reversal, to determine whether the pain can be resolved.
• How is vasectomy reversal surgery performed? Typically, vasectomy reversals are performed as outpatient surgery, under general anesthesia, though you and the anesthesiologist will determine the best option for your anesthesia together. The surgery will take between two and three hours, and when you wake up, you will probably not have too much discomfort, because you will have been given a long-lasting local anesthetic.
• How long does it take to recover from a vasectomy reversal? It can take anywhere from five to 14 days to feel like yourself again after this procedure. It is recommended that you avoid sexual intercourse and heavy lifting for the first four weeks after the surgery.
• Is there anyone who shouldn’t have a vasectomy reversal? Some patients are better candidates than others. If the patient’s partner has had a tubal ligation, though, it is probably better to try surgical sperm retrieval and IVF, rather than trying to have a vasectomy reversal and a tubal ligation reversal.
• Does a vasectomy reversal cause any side effects? Usually, side effects from a vasectomy reversal are minimal, and include swelling, pain, or bruising. Neither the vasectomy or the reversal should impact potency or urinary function.
• Does vasectomy reversal carry a cancer risk? While there was a report several years ago linking vasectomies with prostate cancer, but this report has been largely disproven. There is no evidence connecting vasectomy reversal to a higher cancer risk.
• Is there an age limit for a vasectomy reversal?
• How can one find the right surgeon for this procedure? Look for an experienced surgeon who performs reversals regularly and has special training in male fertility and men’s health.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal Cares About Men’s Health

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, men’s health is our priority. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their health and fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Dr. Green and his team provide state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. Having had extensive training in urology, microsurgery, and vasectomy reversal, Dr. Green founded the Center for Vasectomy Reversal to provide the highest level of patient care while delivering optimal surgical results. To learn more about how our experienced team can help you reach your reproductive goals, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Unlocking Fertility Secrets: How Lifestyle Impacts Your Reproductive Health

How Lifestyle Impacts Your Reproductive Health.

Optimizing Fertility through Lifestyle

If you have been trying to conceive without success, consider this: when it comes to fertility, lifestyle factors can have a major impact. There are some elements of fertility that are beyond your control, of course, like your genetic makeup and your age. However, there is a lifestyle and infertility connection to indicate that changing your habits may be helpful in improving your chances of conception. Here, we offer some suggestions for adopting healthy habits for fertility.

Improve Your Diet, Improve Your Fertility

When you eat a nutrient-dense diet, filling your plate whole grains, healthy fats, lean proteins, and plenty of multi-colored fruits and vegetables, you are doing something that supports both male and female fertility, benefiting sperm production and ovulation alike. Consuming essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, zinc, and antioxidants can protect the body from inflammation and cellular damage, and help promote a healthy pregnancy. Trans fats should be limited or avoided entirely, as they are linked with higher risks of infertility. Strive to maintain a healthy weight, as being underweight or overweight can impede fertility.

The Right Amount of Exercise Can Improve Fertility

Regular moderate to vigorous exercise is good for the fertility of men and women alike. Strive for physical activities that elevate your heart rate, like brisk walking, because this kind of activity is linked to higher-quality sperm and better maternal and fetal health outcomes. It is important for women to avoid workouts that are too intense, though. While exercising in moderation promotes reproductive and overall health, excessive exercise can inhibit ovulation and disrupt a woman’s hormonal balance, decreasing a woman’s chances of conceiving. A sedentary lifestyle is just as bad for a person’s health, and can lead to obesity, which can diminish fertility. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, women should be encouraged to participate in aerobic and strength conditioning exercise before, during, and after pregnancy. Finding the right balance can be tricky, so if you have concerns, speak to your doctor.

Reducing Your Stress Can Benefit Your Reproductive Health

Stress, on its own, does not cause infertility. However, it is one piece of the puzzle, and there is evidence to suggest that people with a long history of anxiety or depression may have trouble conceiving, both naturally and with IVF. This issue needs to be studied further, but it does help to try and manage your stress when trying to conceive. Of course, properly managing your stress is important for your overall health, as well.

The Reproductive Health Impact of Substance Use

As is evidenced by the impact of dietary options on your fertility, what you put into your body matters. Women have long been told to completely avoid alcohol when trying to conceive, and there is evidence to indicate that consuming alcohol when attempting IVF lowers the chance of conception by as much as 16 percent. However, what is less well known is that men should avoid alcohol when trying to conceive, as well. Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to reduced testosterone levels, and can also make it difficult to maintain an erection.

Cigarette smoking also reduces fertility in both men and women. If you needed another reason to quit smoking, in addition to the long list of reasons that already exist in regard to your overall health, smoking damages eggs and sperm, decreases motility, is harmful to the lining of the uterus, damages DNA, and impedes essential hormone production. Quitting smoking should be high on your list of lifestyle changes if you are trying to conceive.

This may not even need to be said, but illicit drug use is not something you should be participating in when trying to conceive. Drugs like marijuana, cocaine, LSD, ecstasy, and methamphetamines can disrupt menstrual cycles as well as lowering sperm count, testosterone levels, and total seminal fluid. For the sake of your fertility, and for many other reasons, recreational drugs should be avoided, particularly when trying to conceive.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal Cares About Men’s Health

When you are trying to achieve pregnancy, it is important to understand the impact your lifestyle choices have on your reproductive health. Of course, it is also vital that you partner with healthcare providers who can help you improve your reproductive and overall health. At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, men’s health is our priority. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their health and fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Dr. Green and his team provide state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. Having had extensive training in urology, microsurgery, and vasectomy reversal, Dr. Green founded the Center for Vasectomy Reversal to provide the highest level of patient care while delivering optimal surgical results. To learn more about how our experienced team can help you reach your reproductive goals, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Breaking Ground: The Latest Innovations in Infertility Research

Lab technician conducting infertility research

Advances in Infertility Research

The first successful in vitro fertilization took place in 1977, and since then, technology has improved dramatically, leading to a wealth of cutting-edge infertility solutions. This is wonderful news for the millions of Americans affected by infertility struggles, which impact about 12 percent of women between the ages of 15 and 44. While there is no easy fix for male or female infertility, advanced reproductive technologies are available to help improve couples’ chances. Here, we look at some of these advances in the field, and how they can help patients achieve pregnancy.

What is Involved in Infertility?

There are many factors that influence fertility, including age. About a third of people over age 35 struggle with infertility, and the risk of miscarriage increases with age. Lifestyle factors also play a role, and smoking, excessive alcohol, a poor diet, too much or too little exercise, and weight issues can all contribute to difficulty conceiving. Infertility can be caused by ovulation difficulties, uterine issues, blocked fallopian tubes, fibroids, low sperm count, low sperm quality, and other male factors. Male factors account for as much as 40 percent of fertility issues. There is no cure for infertility, but doctors can treat underlying problems and develop strategies to help overcome these problems, in order to help couples achieve pregnancy.

Innovative Fertility Treatments

Sometimes, pregnancy can be achieved through intrauterine insemination, a relatively simple fertility treatment in which sperm are inserted into the uterus, in conjunction with medication. Other infertility treatments may seem almost like science fiction.

• In vitro fertilization has become even more innovative. There have been many improvements to in vitro fertilization over the years. One such improvement is the development of ISCI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection), one of the more revolutionary IVF techniques which allows an embryologist to inject a single, healthy sperm into the egg, instead of just exposing the egg to sperm. With healthy eggs, this method can be a much as 99 percent effective. Additionally, pre-implantation genetic screening and studies to determine if the embryo will be received by the endometrium can improve the chances of successful pregnancy.
• Letrozole is not used for infertility treatments. Used for breast cancer treatment in post-menopausal women, Letrozole inhibits estrogen production, affecting how the pituitary and hypothalamus function as relates to ovulation. This medication can help women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to conceive. If the pituitary gland is not functioning properly, it can cause the ovaries to stop releasing eggs or to release eggs that are not fully developed, and Letrozole addresses this issue.
• Gonadotropins are used to help women ovulate. These work with the pituitary gland, adjusting when ovulation occurs, to make sure the ovum is mature before it is released. Sometimes, Letrozole and gonadotropins are used together during in vitro fertilization.
• Clomid is another medication used to treat infertility. This also works with the pituitary gland, inducing ovulation in women who don’t develop an egg and improving the way ovaries respond to FSH (follicle stimulating hormone). This results in improved rates of live births.
• There are also groundbreaking vasectomy reversal procedures. While vasectomy reversal used to be minimally successful, the success rates are now as high as 80 to 90 percent, because of innovations in the surgical procedures. Now performed by microsurgeons, vasectomy reversals are more precise than ever before.

What Does the Future Hold?

As science continues to find more innovative ways to help people conceive, and research and development of infertility treatments continues to be one of the most rapidly developing parts of the health care industry, we can expect to see exciting developments going forward. As IVF improves and we gain further control, we will see fewer multiple births, and there will be more options for donor and surrogate reproductive options. Stem cell research continues to evolve, and there could be a time, perhaps even in our lifetime, when pluripotent cells can be developed from bone marrow or skin cells. As the science improves and research continues to find new innovative approaches to the problem, we may well reach a point at which infertility is a thing of the past, and couples who wish to conceive can do so without the difficulty and heartbreak so many experience today. By working with experienced doctors who are experienced in treating infertility, many couples are finding their way to overcoming fertility, even now.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal Cares About Men’s Health

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we stay up to date with the latest innovations in fertility treatment and work to create strategies that help our patients achieve healthy, successful pregnancies. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their health and fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Dr. Green and his team provide state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. Having had extensive training in urology, microsurgery, and vasectomy reversal, Dr. Green founded the Center for Vasectomy Reversal to provide the highest level of patient care while delivering optimal surgical results. To learn more about how our experienced team can help you reach your reproductive goals, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Preserving Fertility: A Deep Dive into Modern Methods

Reproductive Health Innovations

If you are struggling with infertility, working with a specialist can help you determine which treatments are right for you. As science progresses, more and more treatments are available, both in terms of achieving pregnancy and fertility preservation options. Both male and female infertility issues can be overcome with the correct strategies when you work with an experienced reproductive specialist. Here, we look at some modern IVF techniques, along with other treatments available to overcome infertility.

Overcoming Obstacles to Fertility

Certain physical barriers to fertility can be treated by specialists, like a blocked fallopian tube. Tubal blockage is overcome using IVF, which allows fertility specialists to retrieve eggs without the help of the fallopian tubes, allowing fertilization to occur. This is not the only way to deal with blocked fallopian tubes, as there are also medications that can encourage ovulation if only one side is blocked, and procedures that can help unblock a tube. There is also medication to help overcome male infertility, and ICSI allows sperm to be directly introduced into an egg, for higher success rates with in vitro fertilization.

Pre-Implantation Genetic Screening

One of the most amazing advances in modern fertility treatment is the ability to genetically test embryos before attempting to transfer them into the uterus. Preimplantation genetic testing allows doctors to choose a genetically healthy embryo to transfer, reducing the rate of failed embryo transfers and miscarriages. This also reduces the risk of multiple pregnancies, because the fertility specialist can find the correct embryo to transfer, rather than transferring several at once in the hope of successful implantation. Preimplantation screening also helps detect genetic disorders and reduce the risk of birth defects.

Vitrification

This fast freezing method is used to cryopreserve embryos and eggs, so that they can be preserved for years in glass-like structures. This is one of the most popular fertility preservation techniques available, allowing women to postpone pregnancy when battling cancer or for some other reason. Sometimes young women want social egg freezing, so that they can delay pregnancy until they are financially stable and emotionally able to raise a child. When compared to the older slow freezing method, vitrification has doubled pregnancy rates. It helps women receiving fertility treatments to avoid ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, and enables preimplantation genetic screening.

Ovarian Tissue Freezing

Sometimes, especially for women and girls facing cancer treatments or undergoing gender affirmation surgery, ovarian tissue freezing is the best option for preserving future fertility and hormone production. In this procedure, the egg-producing portion of the ovary is removed, frozen, and stored, until years later, when it can be transplanted to make pregnancy possible or resume natural hormone production. Ovarian cryopreservation success rates are at about 30 percent right now, and as technology leads to improved methodology, that rate is expected to increase.

Freeze-all strategy

This approach is a combination of IVF, vitrification and preimplantation genetic testing, in which healthy embryos are frozen to be implanted at a later date. This way, patients can us the frozen embryos when they are ready to resume IVF treatment. This avoids the risk of hyperstimulation from fertility drugs and hormones, by allowing the woman to take a break from fertility treatment for a time. It also allows the fertility specialist to help correct hormone levels that may not be conducive to a successful pregnancy. Once the hormones are in balance, the embryo can be transferred.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal Cares About Men’s Health

All of these advances in fertility preservation are very exciting, and the best way to assure your best chance at conceiving is to work with experienced fertility specialists who care about the health of everyone involved in the pregnancy. At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, men’s health is our priority. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their health and fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Dr. Green and his team provide state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. Having had extensive training in urology, microsurgery, and vasectomy reversal, Dr. Green founded the Center for Vasectomy Reversal to provide the highest level of patient care while delivering optimal surgical results. To learn more about how our experienced team can help you reach your reproductive goals, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Does age impact vasectomy reversal success?

Man looking into vasectomy reversals.

Modern Vasectomy Reversals

Vasectomy reversal used to be a long shot, but in recent decades, technological advancements have made it a much more effective procedure. With the advent of microsurgical techniques, the success rate of this intricate procedure has risen significantly. In the 1970s and 80s, a vasectomy reversal could be expected to succeed, returning sperm to the semen, in about 79 to 88 percent of cases. By 2004, that success rate had climbed to between 94 and 97 percent. Many men worry, though, that their age will impact their chances of regaining fertility. Let’s take a look at the question of whether age impacts vasectomy reversal success.

Men’s Age and Overall Fertility

More and more, people are waiting to start a family. This can be a concern for women, whose fertility begins to decline in their 30s, but men’s fertility declines at a slower rate. Then, too, age-related health concerns can affect men, impeding both their fertility and their odds of successful vasectomy reversal. The good news? Age does not seem to have an impact on the procedure itself. As long as a man is healthy enough for a surgical procedure, his chances of a successful vasectomy reversal are good. In fact, recent research analyzing the results of 3,000 men over 50 and 350 men under 50 determined that the age of the man was not a significant factor in the success of the procedure. The researchers concluded that men over 50 should consider vasectomy reversal a viable option.

Which Factors Impact the Success of the Procedure?

While age is not an independent factor, certain elements can impact the chances of success. Smoking decreases the odds of successful vasectomy reversal, and men with older partners were less likely to conceive. Surgery in the groin area, including hernia surgery, can also decrease the likelihood of successful reversal. The most important factor, however, was the time elapsed since the vasectomy. Often, men have vasectomies when they’re young, and then change their minds and want to restore their fertility when they’re older. Studies done in years past have indicated that the longer a man waits after his initial surgery, the lower the chances of a successful reversal. However, newer research, using modern techniques, has shown that the success rates are about the same for reversals done within 15 years of the original vasectomy, regardless of the amount of time that has elapsed within those 15 years. After 15 years, however, the success rates dropped significantly, going as low as 44 percent.

Why is Time a Factor?

As time passes after a vasectomy, pressure can build between the vas deferens and the epididymis. When a vasectomy reversal is performed, this pressure can require the surgeon to perform a more complex, less reliable procedure. The most common type of vasectomy reversal is a vasovasostomy, which is straightforward, just reconnecting the previously severed vas deferens, and has a success rate of over 90 percent. When there is increased pressure or blockage, the surgeon may need to pivot to a more complicated technique known as a vasoepididymostomy, which involves locating and alleviating the blockage from the epididymis. An experienced surgeon can still accomplish a successful reversal, so speak to your doctor if you have concerns.

Center for Vasectomy Reversal Cares About Men’s Health

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, men’s health is our priority. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their health and fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Dr. Green and his team provide state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. Having had extensive training in urology, microsurgery, and vasectomy reversal, Dr. Green founded the Center for Vasectomy Reversal to provide the highest level of patient care while delivering optimal surgical results. To learn more about how our experienced team can help you reach your reproductive goals, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Should you manage your children’s screen time?

Parents watching kids while they’re on their tablet.

The Omnipresence of Screens

Everywhere we go, everything we do in our modern lives, screens are ubiquitous. Computers, televisions, tablets, and smartphones are everywhere, and most of us spend hours of our days staring at screens. We’ve long known this is not healthy for growing brains but, for most parents, the pandemic derailed our efforts to keep screentime under control. Having gotten into the habit of bigger kids doing school online and little kids being entertained with tablets, limiting screentime has become a vague and complicated effort. It is time, though to retake control and manage our children’s screen time.

What’s So Bad About Screen Time?

Really, what’s the big deal? After all, modern technology has many benefits, often delivered through screens! Screens provide educational opportunities to kids, help them learn about current events, expose them to new information, and allow them to connect with friends and family members. They can collaborate with other students on school assignments and projects, and find support when they need it by accessing online support networks. However, despite these benefits, screen time poses definite risks to children and adolescents. Too much screen time can hinder the development of a child’s brain, because children need human interaction and experiences in nature. Children who have too much screen time may not build the language, cognitive, and social skills they need to succeed in life. To develop these skills, they need to read, practice problem-solving in the natural environment, engage in artistic pursuits, and interact with their peers and adults. Spending too much time in front of screens negatively affects a child’s attention span and ability to regulate emotions. What’s more, children who are continually entertained by screens miss out on the benefits of boredom. Being bored provides kids with opportunities to be creative, develop self-sufficiency, and learn to solve their own problems. Screen time can limit children’s physical activity and disrupt their sleep, leading to compromised physical health. Worse, unrestricted access to screens opens opportunities for children to be exposed to content that is inappropriate for their age level and, in some cases, unsafe.

How Much is Too Much?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the following guidelines apply to daily screen time for children.

• No screen time for children under 6 months.
• No screen time for kids 18 to 24 months, unless they are video chatting or co-playing with parents.
• One hour or less of screentime for kids aged two to five, and that hour should be high-quality, educational content.
• Over six, personal time limits should be established to ensure that kids get the right amount of exercise, sleep, and time for other activities. In general, there should be no more than two hours of non-educational screen time in any given day.

How to Make it Happen

Let’s face it, limiting screen time is hard. If your children are used to having free rein in this area, you are going to get some resistance when you try to set limits. Here are some tips that might help you accomplish this herculean task.

• Put your own screens down. If you are consistently scrolling or binge-watching, it’s going to be hard to convince your kids not to follow suit. Make a point to engage in other activities, either as a family or on your own, including reading, hobbies, and being active. Establish “screen-free” times, when everyone in the family puts away their devices.
• Keep screens out of the hands of little ones. You can delay the screen addiction by keeping screens away from young children as long as possible. This can be tough, because there’s a temptation to use screens to entertain them in tricky situations, but it’s best to avoid the electronic babysitter.
• Be clear and firm with screen time rules. Even if you are getting pushback- (and you’re likely to get pushback)- remain consistent in asserting and enforcing screen time limits. Make sure everyone, including both parents, grandparents, babysitters, and anyone else who will be in charge at some point, is clear on the rules.
• Make screen alternatives fun! Play with your kids! Go to the park or just go outside and play with sidewalk chalk or bubbles. Play hide and seek, read books together, or draw silly pictures. Play board games, do arts and crafts, put together puzzles, or teach your kids a new skill, like photography or gardening. Build pillow forts, create indoor obstacle courses, or have a dance party. You can also tuck a few toys and games away to introduce as something new during screen-free time. This is by no means a comprehensive list, but just a few ideas to get you thinking about all the screen-free ways you can interact with your children, or get them doing something fun on their own.
• Remember, it’s all about balance. Screens themselves are not inherently good or bad. Use them wisely, to help kids learn new things, or to give them something to work towards, as they earn screen time by doing chores or accomplishing goals. Aim to create a healthy balance for all members of your family, so that everyone can be happier and healthier.

Support for Your Family as it Grows

Balance is an important part of growing as a family. At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people grow their happy families. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. 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.