Infertility Treatment
Dr. Eric Daiter

The Best Time to get Pregnant

2008-06-03T08:58:00.000-07:00

Determining the best time to get pregnant can be new territory for many women. The timing can vary greatly from person to person, but there are a few ways to increase your chances of timing intercourse with ovulation. Some people are able to get pregnant very quickly whether they time their ovulation or not and others need a little help.
Timing your ovulation is the key to determining the best time to get pregnant. Ovulation occurs monthly for most women. The ovary releases a mature egg from the follicle and it is sent down the fallopian tube. Within a few days, the egg is dispensed into the uterus and then expelled during menstruation. If the egg is fertilized by a sperm while in the fallopian tube, it will start developing into a fetus. The fertilized egg travels to the uterus and implants into the uterine lining. If this happens then pregnancy occurs. Timing when the egg will be in the fallopian tube can help you make sure that it encounters sperm at the right time.
Your body undergoes changes around the time of ovulation. During the four to five days before ovulation you should have sex every day if possible to increase your chances of conception. Recognizing the signs that ovulation has occurred will help your timing. Some women can actually feel pain in their ovary when they ovulate, but this is very rare. Most women are unaware that they have ovulated. Hormonal changes may cause your breasts to become tender. Your vaginal discharge will change to thin and slippery. All of these things can be used to predict ovulation, but they are sometimes undetectable and therefore unreliable.
Ovulation prediction kits are available over the counter at many pharmacies and drug stores. They are effective, but many women find them expensive and prefer the basal body temperature method of ovulation prediction. You will only need to purchase a basal thermometer which is much more accurate than conventional, mercury or digital thermometers. Take your temperature in the morning before you get out of bed. You should see a slight drop in your temperature just before ovulation and a slight rise in temperature that lasts a few days after ovulation. The change can be as little as a tenth of a degree or up to a whole degree of difference. Most women have about a half of a degree change.
Track your basal body temperature over a few months to determine when you ovulate. Most women ovulate fourteen days before their period starts. Remember that everyone is slightly different and your own body may not be totally predictable. If you are unsuccessful, consult with an infertility specialist for guidance.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

How to Tell When You are Pregnant

2008-06-03T07:18:00.001-07:00

There are many symptoms that can help you to realize when you become pregnant before you take a test. Every woman is unique and every pregnancy is unique. A woman who has been pregnant before may have totally different symptoms the second or third time around. By recognizing the signs that tell you that you could be pregnant, you will be better equipped to take care of yourself and your baby early on.
Early detection is important for preventing Neural Tube Defects in your unborn child. You should be taking a daily multivitamin containing Folic Acid before you become pregnant, ideally, or as soon as possible after becoming pregnant. You may be able to detect some symptoms of pregnancy before you actually miss your first period. You could be about two weeks pregnant before you miss your period, or you may have some spotting and not think that you are pregnant. Since Folic Acid is most important during the first thirty days of gestation, recognizing other symptoms is critical.
Many women experience morning sickness, feel nauseated and may actually experience vomitting soon after becoming pregnant. Some women do not experience morning sickness for the first few weeks or ever at all, so it is not necessarily the best way to tell if you may be pregnant. Remember that nauseation is most common in the morning, hence the name, but can occur at any time.
Some women experience swelling of the hands and feet, headache and rapid weight gain. When you become pregnant, your body quickly produces more and more blood to supply your growing uterus and placenta. This extra blood and hormonal changes can make you feel either very tired or you could experience insomnia. Your blood pressure may rise causing headaches and swelling. The extra blood flow and swelling can disrupt the normal flow of blood around your spine and cause you to experience early pregnancy backaches as well.
Many women notice a constant dull ache or even sharp shooting pains through their breasts. This is a normal reaction to the hormonal changes that your body is going through when you become pregnant. Bending over can intensify the pain because of the extra blood flow to the breasts. Another change in your breasts is areola coloration. Most women will see their areola turn from pink to brown within the first few weeks of becoming pregnant. Some women will see a slight change while others experience a dramatic darkening.
If you suspect that you may be pregnant, the best and most reliable way to find out is to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are very accurate in detecting pregnancy hormones and almost never give a false positive. They can detect pregnancy as early as a week after conception. The pregnancy hormone in your body doubles every other day in early pregnancy, so if you are not sure of the results, wait a day or two and test again. If you do get a positive reading, consult with your doctor for a blood test or ultrasound.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

The Best Time to get Pregnant

2008-06-03T07:17:00.003-07:00

The Importance of Folic Acid

2008-06-03T07:17:00.001-07:00

If you are a woman of child bearing age, you should be taking a daily multivitamin containing the B-vitamin Folic Acid. This is especially true if you are currently trying to become pregnant. Even if you are not trying to get pregnant, you should still consider taking them, just in case. About half of all pregnancies are unplanned and it is critical to a baby’s development that it receives enough Folic Acid in the first few days and weeks of its life.
Fruits and vegetables contain Folic Acid, but very few people get enough of it daily from food sources alone. A multivitamin containing Folic Acid or prenatal vitamins containing Folic Acid are the only way to ensure that you are getting enough Folic Acid to greatly reduce the risk of Neural Tube Defects.
Ideally, you should begin taking the vitamins before you get pregnant. They are essential during the first few days and weeks of the pregnancy. The Neural Tube is one of the first things to develop in your baby. The Neural Tube will become the brain and spinal cord as it develops. A properly formed Neural Tube will also produce bones and other structures around the nervous system to protect it. If the Neural Tube does not have enough Folic Acid to form correctly, then the brain, spinal cord, skull and spine may not fully form. This can cause Neural Tube Defects such as Spina Bifida and Encephalocele.
Spina Bifida occurs when there are abnormalities of the spine, the spinal cord and the surrounding tissues that protect the spinal cord. Many times the spinal cord will be exposed and underdeveloped leaving it very vulnerable to damage and injury. Paralysis, incontinence and strange skin sensations are common with Spina Bifida patients. Extensive medical care and surgeries are usually necessary.
Encephalocele babies are born with a hole in their skull. The hole will have a portion of the brain protruding from it. The brain is squeezed through the opening and can have varying degrees of damage as a result. Surgery is required to save as much of the brain as possible and minimize future damage.
We know that Folic Acid protects babies from these crippling and sometimes fatal defects. Your doctor should urge you to take a daily multivitamin containing Folic Acid if you are trying to conceive. Taking it before you become pregnant and consistently for the first thirty days is the best way to protect against Neural Tube Defects.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

What is Dilation and Curettage?

2008-06-03T07:14:00.000-07:00

Dilation and Curettage is commonly referred to as a D&C. A D&C is a surgical procedure that helps doctors to determine if the uterine lining cells are abnormal. This procedure is usually performed in an attempt to diagnose abnormal menstrual bleeding. It can also be used to help determine the presence of or severity of endometrium cancer. A D&C can also be used to remove scar tissue, polyps or other growths inside of the uterus.
A D&C is almost always performed under general anesthesia. The surgery itself does not take very long and you can usually go home soon after the procedure is over. General anesthesia is used because it is essential that you do not move during the surgery. Some women prefer to have an epidural, spinal block or local anesthetic. Talk with your doctor and anesthesiologist about which options are available and make your decision based on your doctor’s advice.
You will be placed in the stirrups, much like you are for a gynecological exam. The surgeon will go in vaginally and dilate your cervix with a tube that will give access to your uterus. A metal instrument called a curette will be inserted through the cervix. The curette is a metal handle with a loop at the end. The loop is used to scrape cells from the uterine lining. Tissue is removed from the endometrium and sent to the lab for examination. If there are polyps, scar tissue or other growths present, the surgeon may be able to remove them at this time. An ultrasound may be used to identify tissues that might be removed.
Risks are generally minimal with the D&C procedure. The uterine lining usually heals itself with little complication. There is a chance of bleeding and infection. Risks are higher if there is already an infection present in the uterus or if you have undergone any other previous uterine surgeries. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if you are in a higher risk category.
The D&C procedure is not as commonly performed as it used to be. Advances in medicine and hormone treatment have reduced the number of D&C’s necessary to manage abnormal bleeding. Smaller plastic curettes are commonly used to get uterine lining samples during office visits. You need to talk to your doctor about the risks and all of your options. Make sure that you ask all of your questions and choose the procedure that best suits your needs.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

What Causes Endometriosis?

2008-06-03T07:11:00.000-07:00

The true cause of endometriosis is unknown, but there are a few widely accepted theories. If you have been diagnosed with endometriosis, then you may have some questions about its causes, problems, and symptoms.
Endometriosis is common for many women of childbearing age. It is usually found when a woman has problems conceiving and seeks the help of an infertility specialist. Endometriosis occurs when cells and tissues similar to your uterine lining grows outside of the uterus. The cells and implants can grow on your uterus, ovaries, inside of your abdominal cavity, and on surrounding organs. Endometriosis can cause serious, even life-threatening problems when it is left untreated.
Symptoms of endometriosis include pain, from mild to severe, abnormal bleeding, and infertility. Some women have undetectable symptoms and the endometriosis goes undiagnosed and untreated until it is discovered through infertility treatments. The only way for endometriosis to be definitively diagnosed is through a laparoscopic surgery.
Laproscopy involves a small laparoscope being inserted through a small incision in your belly. The scope is a long tube that allows your doctor to look around your abdominal cavity. Your reproductive organs will be inspected and biopsies may be taken for study in the lab. Laparoscopic surgery is also used to remove endometrial implants, cysts and scar tissue.
Endometrial tissues are the same types of cells that your uterine lining is composed of. Therefore, the endometriosis reacts to hormones in much the same way that your uterus does. As hormonal signals tell your uterus to grow a lining, the endometriosis also grows. When hormonal changes cause the lining to shed, such as in menstruation, the endometriosis also sheds. This can cause considerable pain and even the pooling of blood. Implants can grow and interupt the function of the organs that are near it.
The most common consensus among experts concerning the cause of endometriosis is that uterine lining cells when shed, travelled up through the fallopian tubes instead of out through the cervix. The cells were expelled from the fallopian tubes into the abdominal cavity, where they implanted and grew. Most endometriosis implants are usually located on the outside of the fallopian tubes, ovaries and uterus.
No matter what the cause, endometriosis is a serious condition that should not be ignored. It is a progressive disease that only gets worse until menopause. It will not get better on its own. Pain is not an indicator of how severe endometriosis is. Mild pain can occur with severe endometriosis while severe pain can occur with mild endometriosis. If you suspect that you may have endometriosis, do not hesitate to get a diagnosis and immediately begin treatment.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

What is an Incompetent Cervix?

2008-04-27T20:02:00.000-07:00

An incompetent cervix is when the cervix is too weak to support a pregnancy. The weight and pressure of the uterus on the weakened cervix can cause it to prematurely open. This can cause an early delivery or a miscarriage.

Having an incompetent cervix is a fairly rare condition. It can be caused by previous damage to the cervix, either through miscarriage, birth, abortion or surgery. It could also be a deformity present since birth. No matter what the cause, if you have been diagnosed with an incompetent cervix, then there are some precautions that you and your doctor can take to help increase your chances of carrying a baby full-term.

If you have been diagnosed, then you have probably had a miscarriage before. If you have not, then your doctor may still want to check for incompetent cervix early in your pregnancy. This could be the case if you have had any kind of surgery or even a difficult delivery before.

They can check your cervix through a pelvic exam, but may want to examine your cervix more thoroughly. This is usually done by ultrasound. This will help your doctor determine if your cervix is open more than it should be. They will also be able to tell if the cervix is too thin.

Your doctor may recommend a cervical cerclage to hold the cervix shut. This is basically stitching the cervix closed during the pregnancy. It is usually done during the third month of pregnancy and helps the cervix withstand the pressure of the growing baby and uterus.

If the cervix shortens and starts to open later in the pregnancy, then an emergent cerclage may be placed later than the third month. Bed rest may be recommended instead if you are far along or if the cervix has already opened too much for the procedure to be performed.

You will most likely be under general anesthesia during the procedure. Spinal blocks and epidurals are also commonly used. A special thread will be stitched around your cervix and then cinched shut. You may experience cramping, light bleeding and pain after the procedure. You may be required to stay overnight after the procedure.

Your doctor may prescribe medication to help stop preterm labor. Other medications may be used to control pain and prevent infection. Your symptoms should cease after a few days. If they do not, then you need to contact your doctor. Fever, contractions, painful cramping, lower back pain, nausea, vomiting, bleeding, water leakage or foul smelling discharge should be immediately brought to your doctor’s attention.

Cervical cerclage is an infertility treatment that can help many women carry their babies to term. Talk to your doctor about all of the risks and what you can do to prepare and take care of yourself afterward.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Treating Endometriosis with Medication

2008-04-27T20:00:00.001-07:00

Endometriosis can cause many uncomfortable and painful symptoms. Endometriosis occurs when tissues similar to the uterine lining grow outside of the uterus. Many women with endometriosis may not even know it until they experience severe symptoms or go in for diagnostic infertility treatments.

Endometriosis can be severe and exhibit no symptoms. On the other hand, it can be mild and cause extreme pain. You can not tell how extensive endometriosis is judging by the symptoms you experience. Symptoms often cause chronic lower back pain and pelvic pain. Menstrual cramps and period pain can be severe as well. Many symptoms get worse over time, considering that endometriosis is a progressive disease. Heavy periods, irregular bleeding, pain during urination or bowel movements and infertility are common symptoms of endometriosis.

If you have been diagnosed with endometriosis, your doctor may prescribe medications to help manage your pain. If you are trying to conceive, you may elect to have laparoscopic surgery to remove as much of the endometriosis as possible. Talk with your doctor and infertility specialist about what options may be best for you.

Medications are generally not used for women trying to conceive because the medications themselves will keep you from ovulating. If you are only looking for pain management, then pain medications and hormone therapies may be effective for you, especially if symptoms are mild.

Pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen. If not, then your doctor may prescribe a stronger pain reliever for you. If pain continues, then hormone therapy is the next step.

Endometriosis builds up and breaks down with your menstrual cycle just like your uterine lining does. This can cause blood and tissue to pool up inside of your abdomen and cause pain. Birth control pills are a common hormone treatment because they keep the body from building up and shedding these types of cells. Most birth control pills contain progestin and estrogen, and can relieve a lot of the pain caused by endometriosis. Keep in mind that symptoms could quickly return if you stop taking them. If you have problems with estrogen, your doctor can prescribe a birth control pill that only has progestin.

Gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists (GnRH agonists) can stop or slow down the growth of endometrial tissue. GnRH agonists reduce the amount of estrogen that your body produces. This can really help with pain and other symptoms. GnRH agonists can lower your estrogen production so low that you may need to take some estrogen with it to prevent osteoporosis. Like birth control pills, symptoms can quickly return when you stop taking them.

Talk with your doctor about every option before taking medications to relieve your endometriosis symptoms.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Laparoscopy: Endometriosis Infertility Treatment

2008-04-27T19:57:00.000-07:00

Laparoscopy is the most common treatment for endometriosis. Laparoscopy can be minimally invasive and can improve your chances of conception.

Endometriosis occurs when tissues similar to the lining of the uterus grow outside of the uterus. Endometriosis can affect many organs surrounding the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. This sometimes includes the bladder and bowels. Endometriosis can interfere with conception and be a factor in infertility.

Many women are unaware of their endometriosis until they seek infertility treatment. A laparoscopic procedure is necessary to accurately diagnose endometriosis. Endometriosis symptoms can usually be controlled with medications, but if endometriosis is causing you to have fertility problems, then a laparoscopic surgery may be necessary to improve your chances of regaining your fertility.

When diagnosing endometriosis with a laparoscope, the surgeon will need to make a small incision in your abdomen. The laparoscope is a tiny lighted tube that allows the surgeon to get a good look at the outside of your uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Biopsies of suspicious tissues are often taken at this time to properly diagnose endometriosis.

When laparoscopy is used for diagnosis, it is minimally invasive. When it is used for treatment, it can be minimally invasive as well, depending on how advanced your condition is. Endometrial implants can be removed with the use of a laser, electrical current or excised during a laparoscopic treatment.

Laparoscopic surgery used to treat endometriosis is generally fairly easy to get over with many patients recovering in just a few days. During the surgery, your surgeon will remove as much endometrial tissue as possible. Any cysts that are seen will most likely be drained and treated as well. Furthermore, adhesions and scar tissue may be cut loose.

Surgery is often performed over the use of drug therapies for women trying to conceive. This is because the treatments that relieve the pain and suppress the growth of the endometrial implants also cause ovulation to cease. Some women elect to try surgery over other treatments because of the recurring nature of endometriosis. It is a progressive disease and can grow back over time. Removing as much of it as possible can give you a window of opportunity to conceive. This is not to say that having this treatment will definitely improve your chances of conception, but it has had a positive outcome for many women.

The outcome of your surgery could be directly related to the experience and expertise of your surgeon. If you are considering having your endometriosis treated by laparoscopic surgery, be sure to find a skilled surgeon with extensive experience in laparoscopy endometriosis treatment.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

2008-04-27T19:53:00.000-07:00

Pelvic inflammatory disease affects the reproductive organs of many women. It is an infection that can be caused by many different sexually transmitted diseases, including gonorrhea and Chlamydia. Pelvic inflammatory disease can lead to infertility.

Pelvic inflammatory disease can infect and seriously damage the fallopian tubes, uterus and ovaries. Ectopic pregnancies and infertility are common effects of pelvic inflammatory disease.

Women under twenty-five are the most susceptible to this type of infection because the cervix is not completely developed until this age and bacteria can more easily travel into the uterus and fallopian tubes. Women who douche are also more at risk. Douching can wash away helpful flora around the cervix and in the vagina that would normally help protect you from harmful bacteria. Douching can also help facilitate and force bacteria into the cervix, uterus and fallopian tubes.

In many cases, symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease may be undetectable or only slightly noticed. Many women go undiagnosed for this reason. Symptoms may include painful urination or intercourse, irregular menstrual periods, foul smelling vaginal discharge or fever. Without treatment or with delayed treatment, the effects of pelvic inflammatory disease can get much worse.

Permanent damage to the reproductive organs can occur when healthy tissues are infected. The organs will try to fight off the bacteria, thus forming scar tissues. This scar tissue can block the fallopian tubes. The fallopian tubes are responsible for transporting the egg to the uterus where it can implant if fertilized. Scarring in the fallopian tubes can cause the egg to be trapped and unable to travel. It can also cause sperm to never be able to reach an egg. If an egg is fertilized, then it can be trapped in the fallopian tube, resulting in an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies can cause fallopian tubes to burst, cause internal bleeding and possibly death.

Pelvic inflammatory disease is usually diagnosed when chlamydia or gonorrhea is found. An ultrasound can show if the fallopian tubes are swollen or enlarged to help diagnose pelvic inflammatory disease. Laparoscopy can also be used to inspect the reproductive organs and diagnose PID.

PID can usually be treated with antibiotics. If it is caught early enough, damage to reproductive organs can be minimal. If damage has occurred, then you may need to be seen by a Reproductive Endocrinologist or infertility specialist highly trained in laparoscopic surgery to start infertility treatment.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

2008-04-21T20:28:00.001-07:00

Pelvic congestion refers to a malfunction in the veins of the pelvic area. Blood should normally flow from the pelvic area to the heart. There are valves in these veins that keep the blood from retreating back. If the valves malfunction, then blood can flow backward and settle down in the pelvic area. This can cause many different symptoms and ultimately pelvic congestion syndrome.

Pelvic congestion syndrome has many symptoms. They include painful periods, vaginal discharge, back pain, pain during and long after intercourse, ovary tenderness and pain, and can even affect the bladder. Because these symptoms closely resemble other disorders, pelvic congestion syndrome can be misdiagnosed or overlooked. Uterine fibroids, endometriosis and other disorders have many of the same symptoms. In pelvic congestion syndrome, the affected veins bulge and stretch causing a lot of pain. Specific tests are needed to get an accurate diagnosis of pelvic congestion syndrome and it is not usually discovered until the patient seeks treatment for infertility.

Diagnostic laparoscopic surgery is commonly used to diagnose endometriosis and pelvic congestion syndrome. With laparoscopy, the doctor can visually inspect the outside of the uterus, ovaries and other pelvic features that may be affected. An MRI may also be used to aid in the diagnosis of pelvic congestion syndrome. The veins affected by pelvic congestion syndrome look like varicose veins. They are essentially the same thing, bulging stretching veins whose valves are not working right.

Occasionally, women will have varicose vein treatment in their legs and experience no relief of symptoms. Sometimes this is because the problem is stemming from pelvic congestion disorder. A tipped or prolapsed uterus can put you at a higher risk for this disorder. Multiple pregnancies may also put you at a higher risk due to the strain that it has on your uterus and surrounding organs.

Hormonal therapy and other drugs can be used to constrict the veins that are affected. Sometimes the veins will actually need to be blocked to help. This can be done surgically or by injection of an embolic agent. Your treatment will depend on the severity of your actual condition. If your uterus is folded or tipped, your doctor might recommend an internal sling which suspends the uterus in the right position. This can help relieve symptoms and get the blood flowing in the right direction and minimize pooling and stretching.

If all else fails then you may need a hysterectomy. This should really be the last thing that you try, as it is a much more invasive surgery and can take a long time to recover from. If infertility treatment is needed, you should seek the help of an experienced and skilled infertility specialist.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Hydrosalpinx: Blocked Fallopian Tube

2008-04-21T20:25:00.001-07:00

A blocked tube or tubes can be a common cause of infertility in women. A blocked fallopian tube can be caused by pelvic inflammation, endometriosis or other conditions affecting the pelvic area. Pelvic inflammatory disease is the most common cause of tubal blockage.

A hydrosalpinx is a term referring to a fallopian tube that is blocked and filled with fluid. This fluid can cause the fallopian tube to swell up and dilate to a larger size than it was meant to be. Removal of the blockage can be necessary to save the fallopian tube and possibly restore fertility.

Many women are unaware that they may have a hydrosalpinx until they seek infertility treatment by an infertility specialist. In the diagnostic phase of infertility treatment, a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) test or ultrasound can show the hydrosalpinx. Laparoscopy is also used for many infertility problems and a hydrosalpinx may be discovered during an unrelated or exploratory laparoscopic procedure.

Neosalpingostomy is the type of surgery used to repair a blocked tube or tubes. It is common for a blocked fallopian tube to be adhered to an ovary or other surrounding organs with scar tissue or adhesions. Neosalpingostomy is a laparoscopic procedure and can be used to free the tube. Blockages may also be removed using the laparoscope. If the surgery is a success, then fertility can be restored. This is, of course, if the hydrosalpinx is the only cause of infertility.

This is a delicate surgery and it needs to be performed by an experienced and skilled surgeon. Inquire about success rates and experience before you decide on an infertility specialist or Reproductive Endocrinologist to perform your neosalpingostomy.

If the fallopian tube or tubes need to be removed, there is still a high pregnancy success rate by the use of in vitro fertilization (IVF). Leaving the hydrosalpinx in place could compromise your IVF efforts. Some believe that the fluid in the tube can leak into the uterine cavity having some effect on the pregnancy. The affected tube or tubes are sometimes completely removed or cut free from the uterus to improve the success rates of IVF attempts.

Tubal infertility is treatable and the treatments have come a long way. In vitro fertilization success rates vary from center to center, so in addition to inquiring about laparoscopic surgery and tubal blockage success rates, you may also want to research IVF success rates. These two things can increase your chances of choosing an infertility specialist that is right for you with the experience and expertise in this area to help you be on your way to the best infertility treatment available.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Treating Endometriosis with Surgery

2008-04-07T06:51:00.000-07:00

If you have been diagnosed with endometriosis then you probably are wondering about your treatment options. Treatment options can vary from person to person. This usually depends on whether or not infertility is a factor. Symptoms can sometimes be controlled with over-the-counter pain killers and anti-inflammatory medications. Birth control pills can be effective at controlling the growth of endometrial implants. But, if endometriosis is severe or has affected surrounding organs, then surgery may be the only option for you.
Surgery is sometimes recommended if medications fail to control the endometriosis. Sometimes medicines are not an option. For example, if you are trying to conceive, then you may not want to take birth control pills or other hormonal treatments. Surgery might be one of your only options.
If endometriosis is found to be obstructing the bowels or distorting other organs then surgery may be immediately necessary. Removal of the uterus and/or ovaries may be necessary. If you are trying to conceive, then talk to your infertility specialist about treatment options that will allow you to have children. Many surgical procedures do result in restored fertility and preserved ovaries and uterus. Find a surgeon that is skilled and experienced in endometriosis removal. Ask your infertility specialist about experience and success rates.
Endometriosis may cause infertility in a few different ways. It is believed that the endometrial implants can throw off your hormonal balance. This can affect ovulation, fertilization and implantation. Endometriosis around the ovaries and fallopian tubes can cause scar tissue to grow inhibiting the release of eggs or blocking the fallopian tubes. Endometriosis can even distort the anatomy of the uterus.
Many women with endometriosis do not have trouble with fertility and it is really a more common problem for women with more severe cases of endometriosis. Unfortunately, endometriosis sometimes goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years before it is discovered. This is because it can only definitively diagnosed through a laparoscopic surgery. Many women only have this procedure done when they see an infertility specialist about fertility issues.
Laparoscopic surgery is the surgical method most often used to remove endometrial implants. It is generally minimally invasive and performed under a general anesthesia. Implants can be destroyed by laser or electrical current. They are sometimes cut out, or excised. The surgeon may need to make other small incisions to insert surgical instruments that allow more complex procedures. Larger incisions are rare and are usually only used for major surgeries involving more organs affected by endometriosis.
Talk to your surgeon about your procedure. Discuss the goals of surgery and ask what you can expect. Follow the advice of your surgeon when it comes to preparation for the surgery as well as how to care for yourself when you get home. Many women need ongoing management of their endometriosis even after surgery. Laparoscopy endometriosis treatment can vary from person to person, so it is important to talk to your doctor about what is right for you.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Could My Symptoms Be Endometriosis?

2008-04-07T06:44:00.001-07:00

If you are experiencing some symptoms that seem to be getting progressively worse each month then it could be endometriosis. Endometriosis can cause infertility and severe abdominal pain. Sometimes there are no symptoms at all and it is only discovered when you experience infertility and go for a diagnosis.
Usually pelvic pain is the number one complaint among women with endometriosis. Pain generally worsens as menstruation approaches and lessens when it is over. Pain can be severe or mild and the pain level is not a good indicator of how severe or widespread the endometriosis is. Many women say that they have extreme pain during pelvic exams or intercourse. Endometriosis is a progressive disease and symptoms generally get worse and more noticeable over time.
Irregular or heavy periods are common with endometriosis patients. Back pain is also a common complaint. If the endometrial implants are near nerves or cause scar tissue to grow, then pain can become severe. Some other symptoms of endometriosis include constipation, diarrhea, and blood in the urine. If endometriosis spreads to the lungs or brain, then severe headaches, seizures and coughing up blood are possible signs. It is rare for endometriosis to spread this far. It is normally localized in the lower abdomen and affects the ovaries and uterus.
If you are having any symptoms of endometriosis it is important to see your doctor right away. This is especially true if fertility is a concern. If you are having trouble getting pregnant, it could be very important to see an infertility specialist as soon as possible. Since endometriosis is a progressive disease, there can be little time to waste. Consider immediate diagnosis and treatment if you plan on having children.
The only way for endometriosis to be definitively diagnosed is through a laparoscopic exploratory surgery. Laparoscopy is minimally invasive and can give your doctor a clear view of your uterus, ovaries and surrounding abdominal cavity. They can also take biopsies of suspicious tissues during this procedure.
Laparoscopy is usually performed under general anesthesia and is done through a very small opening in your belly. First, the doctor will inflate your abdomen with carbon dioxide. This gives them a lot of room to look around. The laparoscope is a long thin tube that allows the surgeon to look for implants and take biopsies.
If endometriosis is found, then medications may be prescribed or surgery may need to be performed. Treatment can depend on whether or not infertility is a concern.
Do not delay seeking treatment if you suspect endometriosis. No one should ever ignore endometriosis symptoms or assume that they are normal menstrual pains.
About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT.

Tubal Blockage Infertility Treatment

2008-03-30T19:49:00.000-07:00

Blocked fallopian tubes are the cause for nearly one quarter of all infertility cases. This is something that infertility specialists deal with a lot. Surgical removal of blockages is a common treatment option. In Vitro Fertilization, IVF, is another option for bypassing the problem.
Tubal blockage can include one or both fallopian tubes. Tubal scarring is one thing that can cause tubes to become blocked. Endometriosis can cause endometrial implants to grow inside the fallopian tubes and inhibit an egg from passing through. Sometimes infection, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, is the cause of tubal blockages.
When infertility causes are being diagnosed, your infertility specialist may order a test called a hysterosalpingogram. For this procedure, a dye will be injected vaginally into the uterine cavity through the cervix. The dye makes the uterus and fallopian tubes visible on an x-ray. If there is no blockage in the fallopian tubes, then the dye should travel up through the uterus, into the fallopian tubes and out into the abdominal cavity. If there is a blockage, then the dye will stop at the blocked site. This will tell your infertility specialist if there is a blockage near the entrance to the tube from your uterus, or if it is further down the tube. This can be very helpful when suggesting treatment options.
A hysterosalpingogram is also useful for helping your doctor spot other problems. Uterine abnormalities, polyps, defects in the fallopian tubes, tumors, scar tissue and fibroids can all be more clearly seen on a hysterosalpingogram.
One common cause of tubal blockage infertility is actually due to a tubal ligation. Many women change their minds after they have had this procedure and decide that they want to become pregnant again. Tubal reversal surgery can be attempted and sometimes accomplished by laparotomy. This is a major surgery requiring a large incision and considerable recovery time, so weigh all of your options before you commit.
One option for any woman experiencing tubal blockage, either caused by infection, scarring or tubal ligation, is In Vitro Fertilization. IVF is not an invasive surgery and has high success rated for women with tubal blockage problems. Results are usually known in under two weeks rather than waiting up to a year after surgery to see if the tubal blockage surgery worked.
Make sure that other factors of infertility, such as sperm motility and quality, have also been explored before you determine that tubal blockage is your only cause of infertility. Talk with your infertility specialist about risks of each procedure and chances of success. Discuss all the details with your partner before proceeding. Consider egg quality and quantity as well. There is a lot to consider, so ask a lot of questions before you choose your infertility treatment.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: ICSI

2008-03-30T19:43:00.000-07:00

Male factor infertility can have many causes and treatments. Men can experience low sperm count, limited or nonexistent sperm motility or problems with sperm function. Any of these male factors can inhibit the sperm from ever fertilizing an egg. Before the introduction of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, ICSI, in 1992, many men with infertility issues were left with very few options. Many were simply told to give up, adopt or use a sperm donor. Modern advances have made it possible even for men with little or no sperm present in their ejaculate to father their own biological children.
The first step in the ICSI process is egg retrieval from the female. Usually, hormones will be administered in order to mature the egg follicles and ensure that a few viable eggs are present for retrieval. An infertility specialist will then retrieve the eggs from the follicles. This egg will be used in the ICSI attempt.
The next step is to find a healthy sperm. Ejaculate is preferred, but if there are no sperm present in the ejaculate, sperm cells may be taken directly from the testicle. This sperm is collected with a small needle and then injected into the waiting egg, previously harvested. The great thing about ICSI is that only one single sperm is really needed for fertilization to occur, thus increasing the chances of success. Furthermore, the egg is always fertilized in the lab. Here, it can be monitored for normal growth and development. Then, the best fertilized eggs most likely to survive will be implanted into the uterus through In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
ICSI is a part of the IVF treatment. It is not always necessary for couples attempting IVF to accompany it with ICSI. If sperm motility, sperm count, low number of healthy sperm or no sperm present is a problem for you, then ICSI along with your IVF treatment can increase your chances of success. Your doctor may suggest ICSI if you have had unexplained unsuccessful IVF attempts. If testicular cancer is a concern, sperm can be retrieved and frozen before treatment. This frozen semen can be used later in an ICSI treatment.
Male factor infertility is something that should always be discussed with an infertility specialist. Consider all of your options with your partner before you proceed. Make sure that all of your questions have been answered and you understand how each procedure will work. Keep the lines of communication open with your partner and infertility specialist. If you are having problems coping with your infertility or infertility treatment, ask your infertility specialist for a referral to someone that can help.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

PCOS and Ovarian Drilling

2008-03-22T21:22:00.000-07:00

Experiencing infertility can be a challenging time for many couples. Seeking the help of an experienced and skilled infertility specialist or Reproductive Endocrinologist can be very helpful in helping you overcome infertility. The majority of couples that seek treatment have positive results. In some cases, it is determined that Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a possible cause of female infertility. PCOS generally is not diagnosed until infertility problems arise. It can be difficult to diagnose due to its illusive nature. It usually has widely varying symptoms and can easily go undiagnosed because the symptoms so closely resemble that of other afflictions, or they are dismissed as normal menstrual fluctuations. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects approximately ten percent of women of reproductive age. Symptoms of PCOS include irregular menstrual periods, weight gain, infertility due to lack of ovulation, acne, and increased body hair. Diabetes and insulin resistance have also been associated with PCOS. PCOS means that cysts form on the ovaries, sometimes in clusters. This occurs when a woman produces more male hormones than normal. This usually causes irregular or nonexistent periods. The excess male hormones cause the eggs produced by the ovaries not to fully mature and be released. This is why infertility is a common symptom of PCOS. Ovarian Drilling is a treatment used to restart ovulation in women diagnosed with the PCOS disorder. Most women diagnosed with PCOS are initially treated using fertility medicines in conjunction with a weight loss routine. If these initial treatments of PCOS fail, Ovarian Drilling can be a logical next course of action to begin ovulation again and therefore increase fertility chances. Ovarian Drilling is performed during laparoscopy. The surgeon makes a small incision in the abdomen and punctures each ovary multiple times using an electrosurgical needle. The desired effect is to dramatically reduce the level of male hormones generated by the ovaries. After a patient has undergone an ovarian drilling procedure, it is possible that the fertility medications she had been taking will become more effective. Speak with your infertility specialist extensively about all of your options before undergoing any infertility treatment. Make sure that you fully understand risks, side effects and possible outcomes of the procedure before proceeding. If Ovarian Drilling seems like the best option for you, make sure that your infertility specialist is highly trained in this area. Experience and skill can come highly into play when you are undergoing a surgical procedure as an infertility treatment. Consider all of your options and go with what you and your doctor feel will have the greatest chances of success with the least amount of complications. You should always be comfortable with your infertility specialist as well as your infertility treatment.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT.

Natural Family Planning: Basal Body Temperature

2008-03-22T21:16:00.000-07:00

Monitoring your basal body temperature can help you determine when your chances of becoming pregnant, or not becoming pregnant, are at their peak. Tracking your basal body temperature needs to be done daily and you may need to keep records for several months in order to accurately determine how your body reacts to ovulation.
If you are trying to become pregnant, you will want to increase your chances by having sex during the five days before ovulation and on the day that you ovulate. To begin, you will need a basal body temperature thermometer. A basal body temperature thermometer measures your body temperature by tenths of degrees, much more accurate than typical thermometers. Since you will be looking for very slight variations in temperature, the basal body temperature thermometer is a must.
Basal body temperature refers to the temperature of your body when you are at rest. Therefore, you need to take your temperature in the morning before you get out of bed. Record your daily temperature on a chart. When your temperature rises by as little as 0.4 degrees Fahrenheit and stays there for a few days, then you can assume that ovulation has occurred. Some women experience a full degree of difference, but many women only have a slight change in temperature.
You may notice your temperature decrease slightly just before ovulation. Your hormone levels should change when ovulation occurs and cause your basal body temperature to increase the day after ovulation and stay elevated for a few days. If your menstrual cycles are fairly consistent, then you should be able to determine fairly accurately when you are about to ovulate.
If you are trying to avoid pregnancy, then you want to consider that after ovulation, your egg can survive and be fertile anywhere from a few hours to a full day after ovulation. It may be best when monitoring your basal body temperature to abstain from sexual activity for a few days after ovulation to increase your chances of avoiding pregnancy. Keep in mind that any fluctuation in your menstrual cycle can cause things to change and estimating your ovulation day is not the most reliable method of birth control. Factors such as stress, diet, weight gain or loss, and medications can change things with little or no indication on a basal body temperature thermometer.
If you are trying to conceive, starting with a basal body temperature chart is a good place to begin. It can help you determine the best times to attempt to conceive. If you are having problems conceiving, then you should see an infertility specialist. Your diligent attempts at keeping an accurate record of your basal body temperature could prove to be a valuable asset when determining what infertility treatment may be right for you.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT.

Ovarian Cysts: Dr. Daiter, Eric, MD

2008-03-02T20:05:00.000-08:00

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacks on or within the ovaries. Many women, especially of reproductive age, have ovarian cysts at one time or another. Most ovarian cysts are harmless and painless and they require no treatment. Functional non-threatening cysts such as these dissipate on their own in a matter of months. Though many ovarian cysts cause no pain or symptoms, there are several symptoms to watch out for that can indicate ovarian cysts of a more serious nature. Ruptured ovarian cysts can lead to palpable and sometimes serious symptoms. There is a range of possible ovarian cyst symptoms and many of them are similar to those symptoms of other conditions such as, ectopic pregnancy, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease. One common symptom of ovarian cysts is a dull aching in the abdominal area. Other symptoms include abdominal pain or pressure caused by a ruptured cyst, pain during sexual intercourse, painful or delayed periods, tender breasts, nausea, or pain during bowel movements. There are a few different types of ovarian cysts. A functional cyst is formed during ovulation as a result of egg production. This is the type of cyst typically goes away on its own. A dermoid cyst is filled with tissues that include skin or hair. An endometrioma cyst forms when tissue similar to the uteral lining attaches to the ovaries. Cystadenoma cysts occur on the cells on the outside of the ovaries. Polycystic ovarian disease can occur when several cysts cause the ovaries to swell and produce a substantial outer covering on the ovaries that can cause infertility issues as it can prevent ovulation altogether. Women who are on oral contraceptives rarely have functional cysts due to the fact that this method of contraception stops ovulation. For this reason, doctors sometimes prescribe oral contraceptives to shrink functional ovarian cysts. Ovarian cysts that do not respond to hormonal treatment may require surgery. Early detection of ovarian cysts can be key in resolving the issue with less extensive and invasive treatments. Women that have had ovarian cysts before are more likely to develop cysts again. Ovarian cysts coupled with endometriosis can sometimes lead to the necessary removal of the ovaries. Ovarian cysts in post menopausal women are more likely to have malignancies. Regular pelvic exams will help with the early detection of ovarian cysts. If you experience sudden intense pelvic or abdominal pain especially if it is accompanied by fever and vomiting, please seek immediate medical attention.

About the Author: Dr. Eric Daiter (Daiter, Eric), the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Daiter, Eric please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Endometriosis and Infertility

2008-03-02T20:02:00.000-08:00

Millions of women in the United States suffer from endometriosis. Many go untreated or undiagnosed. The outcome of untreated endometriosis can be very serious, including infertility, progressive pain and organ damage.
Women who suffer the effects of endometriosis often experience debilitating pain and discomfort. Some end up losing their jobs or even dropping out of school to try and cope with the pain. The problem is, many women think that they are just experiencing normal period pain, such as cramping, abdominal pain and back pain. Endometriosis is a progressive disease and gets worse over time. Delaying treatment can cause infertility and severe organ damage.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of endometriosis, you need to see your doctor right away. This is not something that should be put off, due to the escalating nature of the disorder. Symptoms may be very mild and sometimes go completely unnoticed by some women. This does not mean that the endometriosis is not severe. Endometriosis tends to be illusive due to the fact that symptoms can be anywhere from not noticeable to extreme. Also, the diagnosis is difficult because endometriosis symptoms mimic many other diseases and disorders.
If symptoms are noticeable, they can include pelvic pain, menstrual cramps that can be severe, and/or cramping during intercourse, urination or bowel movements. Symptoms generally get progressively worse over time, but they can vary a lot from woman to woman. Some women have varying degrees of pain and some experience more relief over time. It is very hard to pinpoint endometriosis symptoms and it is often dismissed as part of the menstrual cycle. The one thing that generally triggers women to seek diagnosis and treatment is infertility.
Endometriosis is only properly diagnosed through laparoscopy. Laparoscopy gives the doctor a clear view inside of the pelvis and abdomen. Biopsies of tissues can be taken during the laparoscopic treatment to help produce an accurate diagnosis. Laparoscopy is usually performed under general anesthesia and is considered a minor surgery. The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide to give the surgeon room to look around. A laparoscope is inserted through a small incision and patients usually go home the same day after the procedure.
Women who have endometriosis are not always infertile, but many are. About a quarter of women seeking infertility treatment discover, through exploratory laparoscopy, that endometriosis is the cause of their infertility. Many women are able to regain their fertility after a laparoscopic surgery. Be sure that you select a skilled and experienced infertility specialist, or reproductive endocrinologist to perform your laparoscopy endometriosis treatment.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Endometriosis Symptoms

2008-02-24T20:12:00.000-08:00

Endometriosis is one of the most common health issues for women. Endometriosis occurs when a tissue similar to the lining of the uterus is found outside of the uterus. Endometriosis can occur in several areas of the female pelvic region including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the pelvic sidewall, on the bowels or bladder. The most commonly reported symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. The pain will often coincide with the menstrual cycle, but can also manifest itself at other times as well. Due to the fact that endometriosis can be located in various areas of the pelvis, the pain associated with endometriosis can also be triggered in different areas as well. The abdominal area and lower back are two other common complaint areas that can be attributed to endometriosis. The amount of pain felt by a woman with endometriosis does not correlate to the scale of the disease within. It is possible for a woman experiencing little or no pain to have endometriosis implants affecting large areas. On the other hand, it is also possible for a woman experiencing severe pain to have a small level of endometriosis. Endometriosis is a progressive condition that can cause menstrual cramps to intensify and grow more severe over time. Endometriosis can also cause pain during ovulation. Pain, during or after sexual intercourse, can also be associated with endometriosis. Diarrhea or constipation, usually in correlation with menstruation, is another symptom of endometriosis. Endometriosis can also cause heavy or long menstrual periods and spotting between periods. Fatigue is also associated with endometriosis. A key symptom that affects roughly one third of women with endometriosis is infertility. A woman who started her period at an early age, has long, irregular and/or heavy periods, or that is related to someone who has had endometriosis, will have increased chances of getting the disease themselves. The pain associated with endometriosis for many women is severe enough to start affecting their lives. It can affect productivity, her personal relationships, and of course, her fertility. If you believe you might have endometriosis, consult your obstetrician/gynecologist. Your doctor may use ultrasound or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to search for endometriosis growths. A laparoscopy surgery is the best way to find out definitively if you have endometriosis. During a laparoscopy, the doctor makes a small incision in the abdomen, so that a small scope can be inserted to look for endometriosis growths. Tissue samples are also sometimes taken and a biopsy performed on them to reach the correct diagnosis. If you are concerned about possible endometriosis symptoms, please consult your doctor or infertility specialist. There is not a cure for endometriosis, but there are treatments available to counter the endometriosis symptoms including infertility and pain relief. Endometriosis is progressive and can become dangerous, so do not delay your treatment.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Ovulation Induction: Advanced Infertility Treatment

2008-02-24T20:02:00.000-08:00

Many women having trouble conceiving turn to an infertility specialist, or Reproductive Endocrinologist for help. If you are in this situation and have been diagnosed with ovulatory problems, then your infertility specialist may have suggested ovulation induction as a possible solution. Ovulation induction can be very effective for women who do not ovulate or who have irregular ovulation patterns.
Ovulation induction is a treatment that stimulates your ovaries into ovulating. There are a few medications that are commonly used to induce ovulation. Your infertility specialist will work with you in determining which medications will help you reach your goals. Careful monitoring is essential to improving your odds of conception. Working with an experienced and skilled infertility specialist could prove invaluable on your quest to achieve pregnancy.
There are a few different types of ovulation induction therapies that your doctor will discuss with you. Having a basic understanding of each one should help you make an informed decision about how to proceed with your ovulation induction. Drugs that stimulate the ovary and help to produce mature eggs include injectable gonadotropins, clomiphene citrate, gonadotropin releasing hormone, among others.
Clomiphene citrate is commonly used to treat women experiencing ovulatory problems. This is usually the first step that you will take in trying to make your ovaries release one or more eggs. Most women experiencing little or no ovulation have only a slight rise, or no rise in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and/or luteinizing hormone (LH). Clomiphene citrate lowers or blocks estrogen receptors in the body. Your pituitary gland should produce more FSH and LH to try and bring the estrogen levels back up. In a normal menstrual cycle, the estrogen drops, FSH and LH stimulate the ovarian follicles to mature and release eggs until the estrogen levels are brought back to a normal level. By blocking estrogen receptors, clomiphene citrate tricks the body into releasing additional FSH and LH.
Occasionally, the clomiphene citrate will not produce a high enough or long enough FSH level to encourage ovulation. If this is the case with you, then injectable gonadotropins may be recommended by your infertility specialist. Basically, injectable gonadotropins are injections of FSH. This can help you keep the levels of FSH in your body higher and for longer periods of time. Your doctor will monitor you to determine the correct amount of stimulation that you need without over-stimulating your ovaries into the production of many eggs.
When your doctor says that the eggs have matured in the follicles of your ovaries and are ready to be released, an HCG injection may be administered, which acts like LH in the ovaries. An LH surge usually happens naturally in a menstrual cycle to release an egg. It usually does not happen in an ovulation induction treatment and your doctor may choose to do the HCG injection.
All of this information should be used for familiarizing yourself with ovulation induction treatments and should not replace advice given by your infertility specialist. Ovulatory problems should be dealt with by a professional, experienced Reproductive Endocrinologist. Ovulation success rates are fairly high for these types of treatments, but not all will conceive. Other problems could be affecting your infertility, so find an infertility specialist that is willing to work with you to find your best infertility treatment options.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit http://www.drericdaitermd.com/.

Male Hypogonadism vs. Male Hypergonadism

2008-02-15T11:05:00.000-08:00

Male infertility analysis can reveal hypogonadism or hypergonadism. If you’ve received a diagnosis of either of these, then you might have questions about their meaning and how they can affect your fertility. Talk to your infertility specialist about your specific and unique results. Hormone tests and semen analyses may be performed to get a true diagnosis of either hypogonadism or hypergonadism.
Male hypogonadism refers to a lack of function of the gonads. Basically, this term is used when the testes produce little or no hormones. When being tested for hypogonadism, your testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels will be evaluated. Most forms of hypogonadism are treatable.
Male hypogonadism can affect growth and development during puberty. Hypogonadism can be caused by infection or injury. You can also just be born with it. The treatment can depend on when you started being affected by hypogonadism. Males born with hypogonadism can have underdeveloped sex organs and treatment options may be limited. If hypogonadism was developed at puberty, other symptoms may be observed. Symptoms can include reduced muscle development, sparse or no beard growth, development of breast tissue and/or a lack of voice deepening. If onset occurs as an adult, symptoms would include erectile dysfunction, decrease in body hair and facial hair growth, increase in body fat, decrease in muscle mass, infertility problems and/or development of breast tissue. Hypogonadism developed during puberty or adulthood is treatable by hormone therapy.
Treatment of male hypogonadism depends on whether or not fertility is an issue. If it is not, then testosterone replacement therapy may be recommended by your doctor. If it is, then talk to an infertility specialist about what treatments can help you increase your chances of increasing your fertility odds.
Male hypergonadism is basically the opposite of hypogonadism. In hypergonadism, there are higher than normal hormone levels present. Like hypogonadism, hypergonadism can occur during puberty, later in life, or you can be born with it. Hypergonadism is very rare. Symptoms include early puberty, acne, excessive muscle mass and mood swings. Breast tissue growth and unusual body hair growth are other signs of hypergonadism.
The treatment of hypergonadism is more difficult than treating hypogonadism and you should seek the help of an endocrinologist when treating it. It is more difficult to lower hormone levels than to increase them, so getting all of the hormones to the correct levels can be a more intensive process.
Hormone therapies are common when treating male hypogonadism and hypergonadism. If fertility is a concern, then you should consult a reproductive endocrinologist before proceeding with any type of hormone therapy. An infertility specialist, or reproductive endocrinologist, can help you determine the best course of action for your infertility treatment.

Semen Analysis Report Explained

2008-02-15T11:03:00.000-08:00

Couples battling infertility may go through a borage of tests to determine what their course of action should be. In the initial diagnostic phase, the male and female will be tested for infertility factors. Many couples have questions about the male diagnostic procedure and their semen analysis report.
Testing for male infertility includes a history evaluation, physical exam, hormone tests and a semen analysis. The semen analysis measures the volume of semen, sperm count, sperm motility and the number of normal shaped sperm. Many things can affect the results of the semen analysis. Your medical history, medications, birth defects and your environment can all affect your sperm quality.
If you receive a semen analysis and have questions about the results, talk to your infertility specialist. Keep in mind that semen analysis results can vary greatly from day to day, and if you receive an abnormal report, then your doctor will retest you within a week or two of the first analysis. Sperm can take about three months to fully form in your body. Illness, medication and environmental hazards that you were exposed to up to three months ago can affect your results. Retesting at varying time intervals helps your doctor properly diagnose semen abnormalities.
The semen analysis is conducted to determine if the sperm is capable of fertilizing a human egg. If you have been able to achieve pregnancy before, either naturally or by In Vitro Fertilization, then you have a good indication that the sperm will be able to fertilize an egg. If you’ve had a semen analysis, then you may have questions about the terminology used in the report and what the results really mean. Normal results can include a high number of abnormal sperm, a low number of viable sperm and other seemingly dismal results. Don’t despair if your initial results look bad.
Sperm motility refers to the sperms ability to move through the seminal fluid. Movement and forward progression is necessary for the sperm to travel to the egg. This variable of the semen analysis will be expressed as a percentage of the total number of sperm that are mobile. There may also be a subcategory of sperm that has movement, but may have some limited mobility, no forward progression, or irregular movements.
Your semen analysis will also include a percentage of sperm that has a normal shape. This is referred to as morphology, and identifies the percentage of sperm that is most likely to have fertilization capabilities. A normally shaped sperm should have an oval head, defined midsection and a long tail. A sperm is considered abnormal if it has a large or pointed head, round head, two heads, no tail, double tail, and so on. Anything that doesn’t strictly adhere to the norm will be considered abnormal in the morphology report. Numbers of abnormal sperm can be very high in an acceptable semen sample, so don’t be discouraged if the percentage of normal sperm seems low. Talk with your infertility specialist about what percentage is considered acceptable.
Sperm concentration and sperm count are also evaluated for the report. There can be huge variations from one analysis to the next depending on when the sample was taken. Be patient and keep in mind that one semen analysis is not enough to determine the cause of your fertility problems. Don’t try to interpret results on your own. A caring infertility specialist will discuss your results in depth with you and make sure that all of your questions are answered before you move on to treatment options.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Laparoscopy Endometriosis Treatment

2008-01-28T11:04:00.000-08:00

Your infertility specialist may recommend laparoscopy to diagnose and treat endometriosis. Laparoscopy is a relatively non-invasive procedure, especially in the diagnostic phase of your infertility treatment. It can be a lot more invasive, and can be considered a major surgery when it is used to treat endometriosis.
To perform a laparoscopic procedure, your doctor will make a small incision near your navel. Your abdomen will be filled with carbon dioxide to inflate it. This allows the doctor to then insert the laparoscope and inspect your reproductive organs and abdominal cavity. The inflation gives the doctor plenty of room to look around. Your body may be tilted back during the procedure so that your intestines and other organs will shift higher up into your body. This gives the surgeon a more clear view of your reproductive organs.
The laparoscope itself is like a tiny, long telescope. It projects a light into your body so that the surgeon can look around. Your doctor may need to make a second incision near your pubic bone to insert other surgical tools. Endometriosis may be quite visible, but sometimes it is not visible to the naked eye. Your surgeon may take biopsies of tissue from your body during the laparoscopic procedure. The tissues will be examined under a microscope to confirm or deny the presence of endometriosis.
Endometriosis is a condition that causes the endometrium, normally lining your uterus, to grow outside of the uterus and attach itself to surrounding structures and organs. Adhesions and scar tissue can form inside of your abdominal and pelvic regions, causing a lot of pain, discomfort and fertility problems. Endometriosis can be mild and may not be discovered until a laparoscopic procedure is performed. If endometriosis affects your ovaries or fallopian tubes, then it can keep eggs from passing through to your uterus for implantation. Endometriosis is a progressive condition and can get worse over time.
Symptoms of endometriosis include abnormally heavy bleeding during menstruation, extremely painful menstrual cramps that last for days, back pain, painful intercourse, urination or defecation. These symptoms can be very similar to other infections or disorders. Therefore, endometriosis may be overlooked until infertility is a concern.
If endometriosis is discovered, your infertility specialist can use laparoscopy as part of the surgical treatment. A pelvis afflicted by endometriosis can also include adhesions, cysts, scar tissue and endometrial implants. Your surgeon will attempt to remove endometrial implants, drain cysts, separate and loosen adhesions and scar tissue. Laser treatment may be used to cut away adhesions, scar tissue and cysts.
Laparoscopy used to treat endometriosis is considered a major surgical procedure, but because of the small incisions made and the state of the art techniques used, there is generally a fast recovery with minimal discomfort after the procedure. Talk to your doctor and discover if laparoscopy endometriosis treatment can help you be on your way to fertility.

About the Author: Eric Daiter is the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER that offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

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