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.

Tips for Step Parenting

Step dad hanging out with step son.

Blending a Family

After the loss of a spouse, through death or divorce, finding a new partner is exciting! Just as exciting, but more cause for anxiety, is the blending of two different lives. Being a parent is challenging; being a stepparent is even more difficult. Even if you weren’t warring with the established and widespread “evil stepparent” tropes, you would still be stepping into an intimate role with a young person who may not be inclined to accept you unconditionally. Fortunately, there are some guidelines you can follow as a stepparent to help create a positive and healthy relationship between you and your stepchildren.

Tips for Step Parenting

• Ease into a relationship. Even if you feel thrown into the role of parent, remember that you are not the primary parent, and shouldn’t pretend to be. Never forget that your partner and stepchild have a bond that was formed long before you came on the scene. This doesn’t mean you will never play an important role in the child’s life, as an important parental figure, but it does mean that you should refrain from coming on too strong, instead letting the child set the pace for getting to know each other. Most of the time, if you are patient, showing interest in them while giving them time to warm up to you, children will give you a chance.
• Don’t try to be the cool parent. It’s not a competition. You’re not competing with your partner and, more importantly, you’re not competing with the ex. Don’t let your insecurity or ego cause you to overstep and try to ingratiate yourself with the children, making them want or need you more than the original parent. Children see through this sort of thing, and it will cause conflicts between the adults.
• Don’t let existing familial bonds make you feel threatened. You and your partner are creating a new family, but the old family had a history before you came into the picture. Accept this, integrating the past into the present by asking occasional questions in an interested way. Move forward, while respecting what came before, without trying to upstage it. Additionally, encourage your stepchild to spend one-on-one time with each of their biological parents. This sends a message that you are not in competition, and you just want everyone to be truly happy.
• Prioritize the needs of the child. We all have big feelings sometimes, but as a parent, it’s important that you focus on the children’s feelings rather than your own. Aim for selflessness in your interactions, setting high standards for your own coping skills. This doesn’t mean that your emotional needs are not important, but it’s up to you to make sure they are met in appropriate ways. Take time for yourself, to socialize, exercise, and generally practice self-care, and when you are interacting with the child it will be easier to put your emotions on the back burner. Don’t take it personally if your stepchild doesn’t seem to be taking to you. Remember that the child needs to mourn the loss of the original family.
• Know how to respond to hostility. Will your stepchild yell at you that you are not his or her real parent? It is incredibly likely. Knowing this, take the time to prepare your response. Don’t try to argue, but acknowledge the truth of the statement. Tell the children that while you are not their biological parent, you are a stepparent who loves them. Responding to hostility with a calm, loving response is a great way to defuse it. If it doesn’t? Take a deep breath and move on.
• Get on the same page with the other parents. This means discussing parenting techniques, methods, and philosophies with your spouse, but it also means addressing these things with the other biological parent. When all the parents are in accord on how things should be done, it makes parenting easier for everyone.
• Talk it out. Regularly touch base with each other as a family, setting aside family time in which everyone can share how they’re feeling. Ask the kids to be honest, sharing positive and negative feedback, so that you can make your family stronger and better.
• Create routines to build strong family bonds. Spend one-on-one time with your stepchild, doing something together once or twice a week. It doesn’t have to be a big deal, it can be something as simple as cooking together, as long as you have time to share, listen, and bond. Establish routines as a family, too, like game night, special celebrations on birthdays and minor holidays, and regular family meals. Time together can help the family bond and become more united.
• Keep your expectations in check. You are unlikely to step into a child’s life and immediately have a strong bond, and you can’t force it by trying too hard. By the same token, you are not likely to be accepted as an authority figure if you over-discipline to try to establish your authority. Take it easy, avoid overstepping your bounds, and keep your expectations realistic. It’s ok, you will eventually develop a relationship, and you can have a happy, healthy, blended family.

Growing into a Family, Together

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.

Understanding Your Newborn’s Language

Father talking to his newborn baby.

Communicating with Your Newborn

Babies cry, everyone knows that. What you might not realize until you become a parent, though, is that different cries mean different things. Because it’s an ability they’re born with, babies use crying to communicate their needs, and part of your job is to try to figure out exactly what those needs may be. Don’t worry! In any new relationship, it takes a while to get to know the person and understand his or her style of communication. It’s no different with your new little one, and you will get the hang of it before you know it.

What Does Baby Need?

Babies cry because they are hungry, need a diaper change, are uncomfortable, or are in pain. They also cry when they’re overwhelmed by all the stimuli in this brand-new world, so be a little bit patient when you are trying to figure out the issue. Paying attention to other signals, like facial expressions and body movements, can help you get to know your baby better and understand what he or she is trying to say. Some people also find it helpful to begin teaching baby sign language around six months old, just to provide another communication tool.

Connecting with Your Baby

As you try to determine what your little one is communicating, use it as an opportunity to bond. Don’t just communicate when little one is fussy, either. Watch how your baby responds to your voice, your touch, and your body language. Talk to your baby as much as you can, while you are playing, during diaper changes and feedings, and when you are just relaxing and getting to know each other. Talking to babies is important, because it makes them feel safe and helps them develop language skills. Always respond to your baby’s cries, to offer reassurance as well as comfort. Knowing that you will meet their needs helps babies grow into secure people.

When Will Your Baby Talk?

Of course, communication becomes easier when children learn to talk. This will happen in stages, as baby begins to babble and coo, then make sounds that sound like words, before they actually begin to engage in coherent speech. They understand earlier than they can talk, though, and most babies know what the word “no” means by about six months of age. You can reasonably expect your child to say his or her first work around the first birthday.

Should I Be Worried?

Like every other element of a baby’s development, speech evolves differently for different babies. If your little one isn’t hitting every milestone “by the book,” don’t be alarmed. However, talk to your doctor if your baby won’t stop crying, or the crying seems strange, or it is accompanied by other signs that something could be wrong. If your baby doesn’t react to loud sounds by five months of age or isn’t making different sounds by that time, talk to your pediatrician. It may not be anything to worry about, but it’s always good to make sure everything is proceeding normally as you learn to communicate with your baby.

Happy Families Start at Center for Vasectomy Reversal

Communication is the key to any successful relationship, and learning to communicate with your children is a big part of building a happy 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.

Building a Support System and The Importance of Community for New Parents

They say it takes a village….

Becoming a Family

When a couple becomes parents, their world is upended. Community is very important for new parents, because we all need reinforcements to help us navigate new roles. You have probably heard that it takes a village to raise a child, but in fact, it takes a village to give parents the support they need to do the job. When you are expecting, you should begin building your support system, establishing a community for yourself.

Start with Your Family and Friends

In the early days, your biggest hurdle may be letting people know you need and value their support. Take your friends and family members up on their offers of help, whether that’s an offer to bring you a meal, help with laundry, provide some emotional support and help care for your new baby, or simply give advice. Lean on your friends, letting them know when you need their assistance, and making sure you are there for them, too.

Connect with Your Community

Sometimes, there are resources in the community that provide tangible assistance, like visitation services, diaper drives, meal delivery, or mommy and me outings. Look to your local library of community center for resources that can connect you to the people and programs that can offer support. If you are a member of a faith community, that community can provide a great deal of support as well, if you will simply reach out and let them know you need it. According to the National Institutes of Health, new parents who receive community support grow more confident in their parenting.

Make Friends with Your Neighbors

In our modern culture, it’s not uncommon for people living in the same neighborhood to be complete strangers. Make the effort to meet your neighbors, and you may be surprised at the level of support they can provide. Say hello when taking your baby for a stroll, bake some cookies at Christmas, and get contact information so that you and your neighbors can call or text when someone needs a hand. This will benefit you and also give you the opportunity to benefit others.

Join Some Groups

Pregnancy is an ideal time to join a parent support group. There are many that meet online, and this gives you the opportunity to connect with people who understand first hand what you are experiencing. Once your baby is born, take advantage of play groups, story times, puppet shows, and other community activities, where you can meet other people with young children. You may find that these people turn into friends and you are able to offer each other much needed support, but even if you don’t, interacting with people on an outing is beneficial for you and introduces your baby to social interaction.

As Your Child Grows

The community you are building will serve you, but it will also serve your children well. Having a protective network of adults surrounding your child helps teach the child how to interact with others, and show respect for adults. Being part of a larger community helps your children feel secure and also shows them that rules are universal. Build relationships with the parents of your children’s friends, and get to know their children, too. Encourage your kids to have hobbies and extracurricular activities, and don’t forget to pursue your own interests as well, ever widening your circle and giving your children a chance to practice social skills and learn about sharing, discipline and team work. Volunteer for things involving your child, like carpooling, coaching a team, becoming a room parent, teaching Sunday school, or serving with the PTA. This keeps you closely connected to your child’s world, while also demonstrating connection to the community.

Support for Your Family as it Grows

We hope these tips will help you to build a support system of community, to help you navigate parenthood. 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.

Why it’s Important to Foster Family Bonds

Family spending time together.

The Strength of Familial Bonds

Our family is the first support system we ever experience, and the connections we have with our family members are fundamental in shaping who we are. Strong family bonds matter, whether our family members are linked by biology, marriage, or adoption. These strong relationships don’t always just happen, though. Here, we discuss why these bonds are so important, and how you can foster and strengthen them.

Why Do Strong Family Bonds Matter?

When family members connect with each other, it teaches the children important social skills and boosts their self-esteem. These bonds also encourage better behavior, improve academic performance, and strengthen communication between parents and children. Every member of the family benefits from strong family bonds, because they provide a sense of belonging, support and emotional security. What’s more, being securely bonded to your family helps you become more resilient, encourages you to trust, and helps you build essential life skills you will need for success in your personal and professional life. As a parent, you must put in the effort to cultivate and protect the bonds within your family, but this can be tricky in our hectic daily lives. It is well worth the effort, though, and can be achieved by following a few simple tips.

Fostering Family Bonds

How will you create and strengthen these crucial bonds?

• Put family time on the calendar. Scheduling regular family time, whether that’s having dinner together or planning a monthly game night, offers family members the chance to connect with each other and spend quality time together.
• Prioritize communication. Communicating effectively means taking the time to really listen to your family members, speaking in a kind and respectful way, and avoiding criticism or negative comments. It is also important for family members to make a point to express gratitude and appreciation to each other.
• Share experiences and create traditions. Whether its an annual family vacation, a special meal you share each week, or a holiday tradition, shared experiences are building blocks that help create strong relationships. Creating lasting memories by sharing these experiences can build a sense of continuity and connection. When you pass your unique family traditions down through generations, they help to strengthen your family’s legacy.
• Work together. Sometimes, even doing chores together builds a bond. Working together to care for your home and your yard can foster a sense of teamwork and shared responsibility. Take it a step further and volunteer together, and you not only help your community, but you help your children build empathy and become less self-centered.
• Support and encourage each other. This is critical for building connection and fostering bonds. When you are there for each other in difficult times, celebrate achievements and successes together, and offer advice and help when it’s needed, you help to create a sense of belonging, connection, and trust that will serve each family member well in the world outside the family.

Support for Your Family as it Grows

Strengthening bonds between family members helps you grow into a healthy, happy 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.