Category Archives: Informative artikel

DONOR SPERM:

About 50% of couples with reproductive problems are diagnosed with a male infertility factor. However, men are generally less likely than women to undergo fertility assessments. One reason for this is the misconception that male infertility is associated with impotence or reduced masculinity.

 Sometimes the only way to conceive is through the use of donor sperm. Of course, in order to reach this conclusion, all other possibilities for assisted reproduction must have been exhausted, or they must inapplicable in your case.

MEN’S REACTION TO THE NEED FOR DONOR SPERM

 No one is ready to learn that they suffer from infertility. This news usually makes men and women feel the same way – depressed and with a low self-esteem. While women prefer to seek support from family and friends, men often decide to deal with the problem by distancing themselves from it.

HOW CAN I CONVINCE MY PARTNER THAT WE SHOULD USE DONOR SPERM?

 Having a child is probably the most important decision a couple can make. That is why it is very important that both partners have the same opinion on that matter. Meanwhile, pressuring your partner into having a baby is unacceptable and could lead to problems in the future.

HOW TO COMMUNICATE WITH MY PARTNER ABOUT DONOR SPERM?

Infertility is a real test of a person’s psyche and the relationship between partners. The problem must not be ignored, and at the same time the talks on the subject must be filled with a lot of compassion, patience and a willingness to compromise.

1. You know your partner the best. If he finds it difficult to talk about his problems, give him time to think about what is happening without being intrusive.
2. Start a conversation only when both of you are rested and not in a hurry.
3. Show compassion. Before you say something that would hurt your partner, put yourself in his shoes.
4. Talk about your feelings. Does your partner agree that you get pregnant by donor sperm? How would he feel about raising a child he’s not genetically related to? What would you say to family, friends, and one day to the child?
5. Seek professional help. A psychologist can be a great mediator when we need to have a serious conversation. With us in New Life you can also get a consultation with a psychologist who has experience with couples suffering from infertility.

Donor sperm are a promising option for couples suffering from male infertility factor. As with other forms of assisted reproduction, the road to a successful pregnancy is often long, but the end result is always worth it.

In the past, when a couple had problems conceiving, it was believed it was the woman’s fault. Today we know that almost 40% of infertility cases are cause by male infertility factor.

There are various causes of male infertility, which is usually assessed by sperm analysis (spermogram). When a spermogram is performed, indicators such as sperm concentration, motility and morphology are evaluated by a specialist. Slight deviations in the indicators are not necessarily equal to infertility. Instead, the spermogram helps determine if and how male factors contribute to infertility and points to a specific treatment for the problem.

In this article we will summarize most of the causes of infertility in men:

TESTICULAR FUNCTION DISORDERS

1. Varicocele, a condition in which the venous vessels of the testicles dilate, leading to blood stasis and a correspondingly elevated temperature in the scrotum. Heat can affect the number or morphology of sperm. This explains why testicles need to be outside of the abdominal cavity.
2. Injuries to the testicles can affect sperm production, leading to a reduced concentration of sperm in the semen.
3. Harmful habits such as the use of alcohol, cigarettes or anabolic steroids lead to reduced sperm production.
4. Treatment of oncological diseases, including the use of certain types of chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgical removal of the testicles. Today, oncology patients have the option of cryopreservation of their sperm.
5. Diseases such as diabetes, cystic fibrosis, certain types of autoimmune disorders and certain types of infections can cause testicular failure.

HORMONAL DISORDERS

Infertility can be caused by disfunctions of the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. These are structures in the brain that produce hormones, some of which are required for proper testicular function. The production of too much prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland (usually due to the presence of a benign tumor), can significantly reduce sperm production.

Other hormonal causes may include congenital adrenal hyperplasia, exposure to too much estrogen or testosterone, Cushing’s syndrome, and chronic corticosteroid use.

GENETIC ANOMALIES

Genetic conditions such as Kleinfelter’s syndrome, Y-chromosome microdeletion, myotonic dystrophy, and other, less common genetic disorders can lead to reduced to absent sperm production. Some congenital anomalies of the reproductive system, such as congenital agenesis of the vas deferens, interfere with the transport of sperm to the seminal fluid.

If you are worried that you will fall into any of these risk categories, do not delay your consultation with an urologist. They will asses your case and explain to you what your options are.

WHAT CAN MEN DO TO BOOST THEIR FERTILITY

The peak of fertility for women is from the end of adolescence to the end of their 20s. The modern woman has more opportunities than ever for personal development, therefore very often the birth of the first child is postponed until after some successes have been achieved (career, education, travel)

 By the age of 30, fertility begins to decline. This decline becomes more noticeable around the age of 35. By age 45, fertility has dropped so much that natural conception is unlikely for most women.

AGE AND OVARIAN RESERVE

Women are born with a fixed number of eggs in their ovaries, and the ovarian reserve decreases with age. In a normally ovulating woman, one or more of these eggs mature each month under the influence of FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone). Several hundred more begin to mature, but become atretic and „die“ every month. As you grow older, the quality of the eggs decreases.

WHAT ARE MY CHANCES OF GETTING PREGNANT?

The chance of a woman aged 20-30 to get pregnant within one menstrual cycle is about 25%. This statistic applies if the couple does not suffer from fertility issues. By the age of 40, about 1 in 10 women will become pregnant during within one menstrual cycle. Male fertility also decreases with age, but not as predictably.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF A LATE PREGNANCY?

It’s no secret that late pregnancy is a riskier for complications. For example, pregnant women over the age of 40 have an increased risk of preeclampsia, a common and dangerous hypertensive disorder.

Older people suffer from more chronic diseases in general, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Pregnancy can exacerbate these conditions, which can have negative consequences for both the mother and the fetus. Gynecological problems such as uterine fibroids and endometriosis are also more common.

The risks of miscarriage and preterm birth are higher in women over the age of 35. In addition, multiple pregnancies are more common in older women than in younger ones. This phenomenon is explained by the fact that the ovaries more often release more than one egg during ovulation.

Every woman has the right to choose when to become a mother. If you are worried that your age may prevent you from becoming pregnant, talk to your obstetrician-gynecologist. They will give you the most competent advice about your case.

PREMATURE OVARIAN FAILURE

WHAT CAN MEN DO TO BOOST THEIR FERTILITY

Fertility problems do not affect women only. In nearly half of the cases, infertility is caused by male factor. While the problem may not always be „cured,“ there are safe natural methods that can increase male fertility and are worth trying.

DON’T SKIP WORKOUTS

In addition to being good for your overall health, regular exercise can increase testosterone levels and improve fertility. Studies show that men who work out have higher testosterone levels and better sperm quality than inactive men. However, you should avoid overtraining, as this can have the opposite effect and potentially lower testosterone levels.

If you rarely exercise, but want to improve your fertility, make physical activity a part of your daily routine – for example, replace driving with cycling where possible.

AVOID ALCOHOL AND CIGARETTES

 Smoking is known to have a detrimental effect on sperm quality, on concentration, motility and morphology. Smoking has also been associated with an increased incidence of aneuploidy (abnormal chromosome count) in human sperm, and increased oxidative damage to sperm DNA. In addition, chronic alcohol intake can affect male fertility by reducing sperm volume, number, and motility of sperm and by affecting their morphology.

TAKE ENOUGH VITAMINS AND MINERALS

 Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and helps the body fight oxidative stress, which is a potential cause of infertility in men. In summer, getting this vitamin is especially easy because it is found in fresh fruits and vegetables (peppers, broccoli, spinach, citruses).

 Zinc is an important mineral found in large quantities in meat, fish, eggs, and seafood. Studies show that zinc deficiency is associated with low testosterone levels, poor sperm quality and an increased risk of male infertility. In addition, zinc supplements can compensate for the reduced testosterone levels that are associated with excessive exercise.

 Optimal levels of vitamin D are thought to be associated with higher testosterone levels. Some foods you could add to your menu in this case are red meat, fish (salmon, trout), eggs. Before taking a vitamin D supplement, it is advisable to check its levels in your blood, because excessive intake could lead to toxicity.

 Sometimes lifestyle changes are not enough for couples to conceive naturally. If you and your partner have been trying to have a baby in more than a year without success, we recommend consulting an assisted reproduction specialist.

Computer Aided Sperm Analysis (CASA)

In the last few years, Aesthetic Gynecology has gained popularity as a modern and innovative solution to a number of intimate problems. Nowadays, women pay more and more attention to their bodies, having the opportunity to apply new medical practices and procedures for achieving harmony between the desired inner feeling and intimate appearance. Aesthetic Gynecology is not only related to improve the sexual lifestyle, but it regards also to woman’s reproductive and overall health. In addition to that, the way we feel and perceive our body directly affects our emotional health and balance.

Intimate health and Aesthetic Gynecology

Intimate problems can often lead to emotional disturbances and low self-esteem, as a result of which our daily lifestyle changes. Discomfort and problems may occur when walking, inability to exercise, discomfort when wearing tight clothes, reduced sexual activity and painful intercourse.

Present-day medicine relies on surgical and non-surgical options to improve the health of the intimate area and women’s health in general.
By applying the innovative methods of Aesthetic Gynecology structural anatomical defects in the genital area in women of all ages(after childbirth and / or due to age) might be treated.

One of the main advantages of implementation of these new methods is connected with intimate health prevention. Laser procedures do not only treat existing problems, but the procedures themselves applied at an earlier stage prevent the appearance of unpleasant symptoms and subsequent problems like vaginal atrophy, urinary incontinence and prolapse of female genitals.

NEW LIFE AESTHETIC GYNECOLOGY

Development is an integral part of the path we are taking. We maintain a high medical standard and we are always up to date with the latest trends and news applied in world medical practice.

We always strive to stay true to you – our patients. To provide high quality services, reliability and security to all who trust us.

Why NewLife Aesthetic Gynecology?

New methodology and laser treatment are becoming integral part of the Gynecology specialty offering non-invasive and modern methods for diagnosis and treatment of surgical procedures done in operating room until now. By applying these new technics no downtime and post-procedure care is required. One of the main advantages of implementation of these new methods is connected with intimate health prevention. Laser procedures do not only treat existing problems, but the procedures themselves applied at an earlier stage prevent the appearance of unpleasant symptoms and subsequent problems like vaginal atrophy, urinary incontinence and prolapse of female genitals.

At NewLife Center we provide a full range of medical procedures entirely focused on female health.

Our team of experienced and proven specialists is completely dedicated to individual patient care.

Aesthetic Gynecology

Aesthetic gynecology is a highly specialized and rapidly developing new part of the specialty Obstetrics and Gynecology. It offers the most modern, innovative and non-invasive methods to diagnose some gynecological symptoms and problems allowing treatment without a hospital stay or need for anesthesia. Applying this new methodology gives the patient wanted results with minimum recovery period without changing the usual lifestyle. The positive effect after the treatment is visible to the woman after the first procedure and has a lasting therapeutic result.

With the methods of Aesthetic Gynecology we can correct structural anatomical defects in the genital area in women of all ages after childbirth and / or due to age.

Lumenis and FemTouch

For years, Lumenis’ ground-breaking products have redefined medical treatments and have set numerous technological and clinical gold-standards.

The Lumenis® FemTouch™ is an out-patient, minimally invasive, non-surgical, non-hormonal laser procedure, that stimulate new collagen production for healthier tissue.

FemTouch Technology

FemTouch is an innovative CO2 laser technology, enabling to apply precise and controlled laser microbeams on the vaginal lining. This allows stimulation of new tissue growth, by triggering collagen production.

When will I see results?

Typically 3 treatments are needed to achieve the desired outcome on the vaginal lining. In clinical evaluation women reported feeling improvement already after the first treatment.

What can I expect after treatment?

Immediately after treatment you may feel a very mild heat sensation in which case your treatment provider can prescribe a hydrating gel. This sensation usually should not last longer than a few hours.

Intimate procedures related with Aesthetic Gynecology and AcuPulseTM FemTouch

• tightening of the vagina with loose vaginal walls (cystocele, urethrocele, descent of the vagina)

• improving vaginal hydration

• treatment of vaginal atrophy, atrophic vaginitis

• treatment of urinary incontinence

• vaginal rejuvenation

• elimination of genital pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse

• procedures on the external genitalia – whitening, peeling, vulvar rejuvenation

• treatment of episiotomy scars after normal birth and other surgical scars

• better sensitivity of the external genitalia премахване на генитална

• increase the sensitivity of the clitoris

• G-spot stimulation – increased sensitivity

1. How did you choose medicine for your recognition? How did start thinking about becoming a doctor?

I have always felt that my life is connected with medicine. I have come a long and difficult way to make this dream come true. I put a lot of effort and will to be here now and do what I love. We do not have doctors in our family and my desire to become one was surprising for my relatives. I am grateful to all of them for supporting me and always be there for me over the years.

2. What made you focus on reproductive medicine?

 Obstetrics and gynecology are an extensive specialty and allows a person to specialize more closely in different areas. While I was specializing in obstetrics, the birth of a new life was my favorite part of the job, because in my eyes it is a miracle and I wanted to be a part of it. Sterility is a deepening problem even among young couples. This part of our specialty is dynamic and constantly evolving, so I wanted to participate in it. This is my way to help people to become a real family.

3. What would you say to all people with reproductive problems?

Time is precious to all of us. My advice is do not wait for years and experience the disappointment of the negative test every month, because it exhausts the couple emotionally. When specialized help is sought and the problem is found, even if the path to the baby is not short, the important thing is that measures are taken and the couple is going in the right direction.

4. What are the most important moments during a pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a wonderful condition and every moment of it is precious and important. In our textbooks is written that it is a woman’s physiological condition, but we all know how many changes occur in the physique and emotions during these nine months. Monthly visits to an obstetrician are essential.

5. You have diverse interests. You have started studying Dietetics. How important is nutrition during pregnancy?

Nutrition is extremely important throughout life and especially during pregnancy, when in addition to our health we need to think about the proper development and growth of our baby. A balanced diet is important even before pregnancy. Nowadays life is so busy and predisposes to dietary mistakes which can cause disorders in a woman’s carbohydrate metabolism – insulin resistance and the often-accompanying problem of polycystic ovaries. On the other hand, this often leads to obesity and subsequently problematic pregnancy.

6. How do you free your mind in your spare time? What do you like to do besides the medicine?

I like riding a bike, reading books, especially in the field of human psychology and human relationships. In general, I am an active person and I do not like to stay in one place.

7. What is New Life for you? What prompted you to take this important step?

 New Life is a very special place for me. In a way, it’s my baby right now. I am completely dedicated to the clinic and I am proud of myself that I had the faith and courage to take this step. Change is not always easy, but in a sense, it is necessary to move forward and develop. My choice to work only in New Life came naturally and as expected because of my interest in the field of reproductive medicine. I fully trust the clinic – the people behind it, the team of specialists working here and the direction that we have taken and develop together.

Dr. Darina Davidova

A year after the announcement of the Covid-19 pandemic, it is time to look back at much our lives have changed. The „new normal“ has had an impact on everything – work, education, travel, social life.

One of the most significant impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic is on partnerships. COVID-19 has created an environment that has changed and strained the dynamics in many relationships. Yet these connections are needed more than ever because of the support they bring.

THE CHALLENGES FOR COUPLES

Social distance as a proven strategy to reduce morbidity forced us to stay at home. On the one hand, the time spent with the partner gives a sense of security and stability. On the other hand, the lack of some independence (for example during the working day) destroys the relationship.

Uncertainty about work, finances, children’s education, fear of possible infection play the role of stressors. All this plus the change in the daily routine of the partners leads to tension and conflicts. Conflicts, on the other hand, affect the intimacy of the relationship, including both physical and emotional intimacy. Therefore, our own feelings about the unusual situation we are in could affect our relationships with others.

HOW CAN PARTNERS HELP EACH OTHER?

Disagreements in your family caused by the coronavirus do not mean that your relationship should end. On the contrary – now is the perfect time to strengthen your relationship and learn to deal with difficulties together.

One of the most important moments in overcoming the crisis is communication. It is perfectly normal to be anxious about the changes this pandemic has brought which causes you to act in a rather short-tempered way. However, don’t expect that your partner will guess how you feel. Instead, talk about your feelings and needs and how you would like to help each other. These conversations can bring you two closer. Furthermore, your partner won’t feel as if they did something to hurt you.

On the other hand, you must not forget that your partner is also experiencing the „new normal“ in their own way. That’s why some emotion control is needed. This means staying calm and taking a moment to think in a situation where you would otherwise start a fight. For example, instead of making a scene every time your partner forgets to buy something from the store, think about how your behavior would affect the future of the relationship. Emotion control helps couples to make adequate decisions without unnecessary drama and conflict, which increases the satisfaction of being together.

Last but not least, try to make the most of all this time spent at home. Now is the time for spring cleaning or training or learning something new together.  Restaurants and shops may not work, but there are other ways to pamper each other, for example with a fancy dinner.

As hopeless as the Covid-19 situation may seem to us, we must not forget that this will pass and soon we’ll be back to our normal routines.

RELATIONS BETWEEN PARTNERS CHANGE DURING IVF?