IS INFERTILITY ONLY  A WOMEN’S PROBLEM ?

Infertility affects millions of people of reproductive age worldwide – and has an impact on their families and communities. Estimates suggest that approximately 50 million couples live with infertility globally. The term “infertility ” means that a couple has failed to achieve a succesfull pregnancy after one year of trying to get pregnant. For women over the age of 35, the cut-off is 6 months.

In some cases, the woman becomes pregnant but can’t carry the pregnancy to term . This scenario  is also considered infertility.

Infertility is primary when a person has never achieved a pregnancy. Secondary infertility is when a person has already achieved one or more pregnancies.

ARE WOMEN SCAPEGOATED WHEN IT COMES TO INFERTILITY?

In the past, as well as today, in some societies it is women who take the blame for infertility in the family. This was largely due to ignorance of reproductive pathology, as well as some  moral values.

Nowadays, science has confirmed that both women and men can suffer from reproductive problems. Therefore, terms such as female and male infertility factors have been coined.

Interestingly, in about 30% of cases, infertility is due to a purely male factor. Therefore,  blaming women as the only responsible ones for infertility  is scientifically unjustified.

 In 20% of couples, the cause of infertility is in both men and women. A couple is diagnosed with unexplained (idiopathic) infertility (10% of cases) if the cause of infertility cannot be determined by conventional diagnostic methods.

CONCLUSION

Infertility is an extremely painful topic for those who have encountered it. Affected men and women often blame themselves for the problem. The truth is that there is no one to blame. The various conditions leading to infertility are beyond our control and are a matter of an unlucky coincidence.

Fortunately, modern reproductive technologies offer a solution to many cases. The most important thing is not to lose hope, as well as time for diagnosis and treatment.

Common Causes

THYROID GLAND AND PREGNANCY

The thyroid gland is located in front of the neck. It is made up of two lobes – right and left, which are connected to each other by isthmus. In shape, the body resembles a butterfly. Under the influence of TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyrotropin), secreted by the pituitary gland, the thyroid gland produces T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine).

The thyroid gland affects all organs and systems – cardiovascular, nervous, digestive system and reproductive system. It is very important about metabolism and psyche. Disorders of thyroid hormones in women can cause disruption of ovulation, menstruation and even lead to infertility. Sometimes the thyroid gland synthesizes too many hormones – a state of hyperfunction (hyperthyroidism) or too little – hypofunction (hypothyroidism).

The following symptoms can be seen in various forms of hyperthyroidism: • nervousness, emotional lability, hyperkinesis • increased sweating, heat intolerance • palpitations • easy fatigue and shortness of breath with physical exertion • weight loss with increased appetite, rarely – weight gain • increased, rarely decreased appetite • hair loss • increased intestinal motility, diarrhea • swelling of the lower extremities • sleep disturbance • polyuria • menstrual disorders, decreased libido

Symptoms of hypothyroidism: • fatigue • weight gain • dry skin and chills • yellowish skin color • hair loss • hoarse voice • goiter • delayed reflexes • ataxia (uncoordinated movements of the limbs) • constipation • memory impairment • decreased concentration • depression menstrual disorders and infertility • myalgias • hyperlipidemia • bradycardia • hypothermia • myxedema

Thyroid hormones are crucial for the normal development of the brain, nervous system and fetal growth.

During pregnancy, the thyroid gland grows in size by at least 10%, the need for thyroid hormones increases significantly as well as the need for essential elements contained in thyroid hormones such as iodine.

The daily iodine intake during pregnancy and lactation should be at least 250 µg, but should not exceed 500 µg due to the risk of potential thyroid dysfunction. Pregnant and lactating women can meet a significant proportion of their iodine needs through the use of: • iodized salt • foods made with iodized salt (bread, cheese, milk) • natural sources of iodine (fish and seafood)

Iodine-containing combination preparations that contain vitamins and minerals can be taken during pregnancy. Screening for thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy is performed in the following cases:

women with clinical symptoms of thyroid disease

women with elevated thyroid antibodies or goiter

women after thyroid surgery

women treated with levothyroxine

women over 30 years of age

family history of thyroid disease

women with type 1 diabetes mellitus or other autoimmune disease

women with a previous abortion or premature birth

multiple pregnancy

obesity (BMI> 40 kg / m2)

administration of Amiodarone, Lithium, iodine-containing X-ray contrast agents in the last weeks before pregnancy

women from iodine deficient regions

What are the normal reference values for TSH in pregnant women?

• first trimester: 0.1 – 2.5 mIU / L;
• second trimester: 0.2 – 3.0 mIU / L;
• third trimester: 0.3 – 3.0 mIU / L.

Explicit hypothyroidism in pregnant women is associated with an increased risk of complications: • premature birth • miscarriage • preeclampsia • gestational hypertension • gestational diabetes • low birth weight • adverse effects on neuro-cognitive development of the fetus • low IQ of the offspring

Subclinical hypothyroidism during pregnancy may also lead to an increased risk of preterm birth, miscarriage, preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, impaired cognitive function of the newborn

Untreated hyperthyroidism during pregnancy can lead to: • miscarriage • premature birth • low birth weight • preeclampsia • thyrotoxic crisis

It can cause various changes in the fetus, such as congenital malformations, delayed intrauterine growth, low birth weight, tachycardia, goiter, fetal death and more.

HOW DOES HASHIMOTO’S THYROIDITIS AFFECT YOUR WEIGHT AND YOUR CHANCES OF CONCEIVING?

EMOTIONS AND STRESS DURING IVF TREATMENT

By the time your doctor recommends in vitro fertilization (IVF), you may have already experienced the years of stress and anxiety that often accompany infertility.

In vitro fertilization can be an emotionally, physically, and financially exhausting experience. In fact, patients rated IVF exposure as more stressful or almost as stressful as any other major life event, including the death of a family member and divorce.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF STRESS DURING IN VITRO FERTILIZATION?

Most often, stress and negative emotions are associated with possible side effects of the used medications, as well as the fear of failure. Despite the options for funding of the procedure (by the Center for Assisted Reproduction or municipal funds), paying for your IVF could raise concern.

TIPS FOR DEALING WITH STRESS DURING IVF

1. Many couples are afraid of the procedure itself (whether there will be pain, potential side effects, success rates, etc.). Use the time you are at your doctor’s office to ask all your questions. We assure you that you will not look stupid. Information from a competent person can greatly prepare you for the upcoming procedures and reduce the fear of the unknown.
2. Talk to couples who have already undergone in vitro fertilization. Of course, remember that each experience is unique and individual.
3. Create a plan with your partner for the future. How many times would you try to get pregnant through assisted reproduction? What would you like to happen to unused eggs or embryos?
4. Simplify your life as much as possible. Do not burden yourself with other important events unless necessary.
5. Make time for sports, hobbies and any other activities that give you happiness.

Emotions and stress are often an inevitable part of in vitro fertilization. They are completely normal and expected, if they do not interfere with other aspects of your daily life. If you feel that your emotional state is deteriorating too rapidly, we advise you to consult a psychologist with experience in couples with reproductive problems.

WHAT CAUSES INFERTILITY IN MEN?

If you have diabetes and you are planning to have a child, you should try to normalize your blood sugar levels before you become pregnant.

High blood sugar can harm your baby during the first weeks of pregnancy, even before you know you are pregnant. If you have diabetes and you are already pregnant, you have to visit your doctor as soon as possible to make a plan to control your diabetes.

How can diabetes affect my baby?

The baby’s organs, such as the brain, heart, kidneys and lungs, begin to form during the first 8 weeks of pregnancy. High blood glucose levels can be harmful at this early stage and can increase your baby’s chances of having birth defects, such as cardiovascular disease or abnormalities in the brain and spine. High blood sugar levels during pregnancy can also increase the chance of your baby being born too early, weighing too little, having breathing problems or having low blood sugar levels immediately after birth. High blood sugar in diabetes increases the chance of miscarriage.

How can my diabetes affect me during pregnancy?

Hormonal and other changes in your body during pregnancy affect your blood sugar levels, so you may need to change the way you control your diabetes. Even if you have had diabetes for years, you may need to change your diet, to make routine exercise, and take medications. If you have been taking an oral medicine for diabetes, you may need to switch to insulin. As the term approaches, the disease`s control may change again.

What health problems can I develop during pregnancy due to my diabetes?

Pregnancy can make some long-term problems with diabetes worse, such as eye problems and kidney disease, especially if the blood sugar levels are too high.

In addition, you are more likely to develop preeclampsia, also called toxemia, when you have high blood pressure and too much protein in your urine in the second half of the pregnancy. Preeclampsia can cause serious or life-threatening problems for you and your baby. The only cure for preeclampsia is childbirth. If you have preeclampsia and you have reached 37 weeks of pregnancy, your doctor may want to give birth to your baby earlier. At the very beginning, you and your doctor may consider other options to help your baby better development before he or she is born.

How can I prepare for pregnancy if I have diabetes?

If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar as close to normal as possible before and during pregnancy is important to stay healthy and have a healthy baby. Examinations before and during pregnancy, adherence to a diabetic diet, physical activity, physical activity and medication, if necessary, will help you control the disease. Quitting smoking and taking vitamins can also help you and your baby stay healthy.

What do I need to know about blood sugar testing before and during pregnancy?

You can often check your blood sugar levels, as it is important to know that they can change during pregnancy. You may need to check them even more often than you do normally. Ask your doctor how often you should check it for better health analysis.

SHOPPING DURING PREGNANCY

Congratulations, you are having a baby! We know that you cannot wait to visit all baby stores. However, we recommend you first treat yourself to some new additions that can make your pregnancy a tad more comfortable.

SHOPPING LIST FOR MOMS-TO-BE

Comfortable clothes and shoes. Whether you choose maternity wear, or standard clothing in a bigger size, depends entirely on you. One smart idea is if you don’t want to say goodbye to your favorite jeans yet, you can look for special maternity bands that can give you extra room around your belly.

Cosmetics suitable for pregnant women. Some ingredients such as retinoids must not be used during pregnancy. On the other hand, your skin will most likely undergo some changes during these 9 months. It can become more dry or oily, or you might develop acne. This means you’ll have to make some changes into your beauty routine.

Pregnancy body pillow. The more advanced your pregnancy is, the more difficult sleep becomes. A pregnancy body pillow can give you much needed belly support, which means fewer sleepless nights. You can even use it during breastfeeding after the baby is born.

A soft toothbrush and dental floss. Hormones during pregnancy make gums more sensitive. It is possible to develop bleeding or inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), which means you should put even more effort into your dental hygiene. Electric toothbrushes are amazing for this purpose but do not fit into everyone’s budget. Instead, look for a soft toothbrush that won’t irritate your gums, and at the same time gives you a thorough cleaning.

When to start shopping for the baby?

 Today, everything can be purchased online and arrive home in a matter of days. Therefore, you do not need to rush to the shops the moment you see your positive pregnancy test. Many future parents wait until the second trimester when you typically learn your baby’s sex. It is advisable to try in store some items such as strollers. Therefore, listen to your body and choose a time when you feel most comfortable for shopping.

COVID-19 AND SHOPPING

So far, we know that pregnant women are at risk for severe COVID-19 infection. We would like to remind you that vaccination, personal hygiene (wearing your mask correctly and washing your hands) and social distance are crucial for disease prevention. If possible, avoid large crowds. Shop during the weekdays or early in the morning on weekends when stores are not so busy.

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