Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Do I need Genetic Counseling

Many couples who become pregnant find out that they need genetic counseling. There are all kinds of blood and urine tests, family history questions, medical exams and prenatal tests that can help determine if you and your partner need genetic counseling. Genetic counseling will help you determine the health of you and your baby, protecting against and preventing certain health risks.
You and your health care provider may determine that genetic testing could help you identify certain genetic diseases and disorders that may affect your child. Genetic testing can help identify Down Syndrome, Tay-Sachs disease, cystic fibrosis, spina bifida and sickle cell disease. If you are at risk for having a child with any of these problems, then your doctor may suggest going to genetic counseling.
A genetic counselor will evaluate the health and family history of you and your partner. Based on the information collected, or lack of information available, the genetic counselor may suggest certain genetic testing. The counselor will help you decide which risks are worth taking, but the final decisions will be up to you and your partner. Genetic counselors are experienced in dealing with these types of tough decisions and delicate matters. They can help you cope with any emotional distress that you may be feeling.
Gene testing on you and your partner will help identify hereditary disorders or diseases that you may be carrying in your DNA that could be passed on to your child. This is usually done by blood tests, but sometimes requires tissue samples. Your DNA combines with your partners during conception and the baby grows, replicating the new DNA chain over and over. If certain genes or DNA sections are damaged or abnormal, then diseases or disorders can result. Keep in mind that most of the genetic disorders that your child could inherit would need to come from both parents to manifest.
Down syndrome and some other disorders are not inherited, but occur during cell division. If you have genetic counseling and malformations or errors are found, the genetic counselor will help you to understand the findings.
Birth defects are not very common and most that occur are treatable. Cleft palate and clubfoot are the two most common birth defects and are almost always surgically treatable. Standard screening tests done when you are pregnant may give you cause for concern and warrant seeking genetic counseling. Your age alone could be a factor in determining if you should have genetic counseling. Women over thirty five years of age have a higher chance of having a child with Down Syndrome. If you or your partner know of inherited diseases, disorders or birth defects in the family then you may decide to seek genetic counseling.
If you have had problems getting pregnant or sustaining a pregnancy, seeing an infertility specialist as well as a genetic counselor can be helpful.

About the Author: Dr. Eric Daiter, 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 Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Dr. Eric Daiter MD: Doctor Testimonials

Using the testimonials of other doctors and surgeons can help you make your decision about which infertility specialist to go with. When interviewing doctors, ask for referrals and testimonials from other doctors, surgeons, staff members and nurses. You can better judge which infertility specialist you want to trust by using the experiences of others. Here are some testimonials about Dr. Eric Daiter MD in New Jersey provided by doctors, anesthesiologists and surgeons that have worked closely with him. – I am an anesthesiologist in New Jersey and have worked regularly with Dr. Eric Daiter for the past eight years. We have worked together in both elective and emergency cases. As a physician in the operating room, I have a unique perspective to Dr. Daiter’s surgical performance. Dr. Eric Daiter is an excellent surgeon. He is very thorough and always has a defined plan coming into surgery. His laparoscopic technique is superior. He is calm, careful, and patient. It is a pleasure to work with such a highly skilled surgeon.
On a personal note, I see Dr. Eric Daiter speaking with his patients and their families before and after surgery. He has a wonderful bedside manner and he is genuinely concerned about his patients. In addition, Dr. Daiter has an excellent rapport with the nurses and support staff in the OR.
-I have known Dr. Eric Daiter since 1994 when he joined our medical staff as an infertility specialist. During the past ten years, we have interacted very frequently. This has evolved into a relationship of mutual respect over this period of time.
As an interventional radiologist who has been interested and involved in infertility since 1988 and among the first physicians in the country to perform fallopian tube dilatation, I have over the years been fortunate to rely upon Dr. Eric Daiter’s infertility expertise. Without qualification, I can attest that he is an extremely conscientious, capable and compassionate physician. He has excellent people skills as demonstrated by his interaction with hospital personnel as well as the staff at my private office. He is one of those individuals with a gifted sense of knowing how to organize and perform in an efficient manner. His initiative, judgment and integrity have never been questioned to my knowledge. Dr. Eric Daiter’s relationship with his patients is one of concern and he always goes the “extra mile” to fully explain procedures to his patients, as well as to immediately upon completion of his hysterosalpingograms that we have performed together, to give them their results.

About the Author: Dr. Eric Daiter, 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 Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Epididymal Obstruction

Sperm is produced in the seminiferous tubules and is transferred to the epididymis. This is a tube coiled inside of the scrotum. This duct is actually about twenty feet long, but is coiled very tightly and runs behind the testes, forming a duct. This duct is a passage for sperm to travel down as they grow and mature before they are expelled. When this duct becomes blocked, it is referred to as an epididymal obstruction.
Epididymal obstructions prevent the sperm from ever making it to the ejaculate. Obstructions can occur on one side or both sides. One sided blockages normally cause a man to have a low sperm count. A two sided blockage can cause the sperm count to be as low as zero. This condition is referred to as azoospermia.
An epididymal obstruction can sometimes be felt in a simple physical exam. Blockages can cause the epididymis to become swollen and hard. Azoospermia can be caused by the sperm not being produced or not being delivered due to an epididymal obstruction. An infertility specialist will determine which is the cause if you are experiencing azoospermia. If any sperm are being produced, then they can be manually retrieved and can be used for conception through in-vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm insertion, so a zero sperm count does not always mean that you can not father a child.
Blockages of the epididymis can usually be surgically repaired. Success rates may depend on the cause of the blockage. Some blockages are naturally occurring, some can be caused by hernia or from the repair of a hydocele.
Your infertility specialist may need to take a tissue sample from the testis to determine if sperm production is happening. If it is, then a blockage may be diagnosed. After that, you may consider surgery to bypass the blockage. This surgery is called vasoepididymostomy. This bypass connects the vas deferens to the epididymis.
Many men choose sperm retrieval for use in in-vitro fertilization or intracytopolasmic sperm insertion over surgery. Sperm can be retrieved with a needle or incision into the testis. Another option is to retrieve the sperm directly from the epididymis through a Microscopic Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA). This is a common choice because the sperm are more mature when taken from the epididymis. There is also more sperm to be retrieved from the epididymis than the testis. Sperm can be harvested and frozen for future in-vitro fertilization attempts.
About the Author: Dr. Eric Daiter, 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 Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Finding a Reproductive Endocrinologist-Dr. Eric Daiter MD

When you begin your search for an infertility specialist, you may be interested in the recommendations of family and friends. Another way to ensure that you are getting the best quality of care is to look for recommendations from other doctors and surgeons that have worked closely with an infertility specialist. They can give you a unique perspective when it comes to selecting the best Reproductive Endocrinologist for you and your situation. Below are some recommendations from doctors and surgeons in the New Jersey area that have worked with Dr. Eric Daiter MD, a leading Reproductive Endocrinologist in New Jersey.
I have been a practicing physician in Monmouth County for over twenty years. I have known Dr. Eric Daiter since his arrival in New Jersey over ten years ago, and I have referred numerous patients to him for care.
In my experience with Dr. Eric Daiter, I have found him to be a caring, compassionate doctor who is extremely organized. He consistently gives concise reports, and is the only doctor I know who provides review articles and newsletters in regards to our mutual patients.
I am a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and have been in practice in New Jersey since 1993. I have worked with many colleagues during my career and few rise to the level of skill, compassion and dedication of Dr. Eric Daiter.
I first met Dr. Eric Daiter in the 1980s. Besides displaying excellent clinical skills, Eric taught the essentials of compassion and kindness as he cared for many patients with difficult socioeconomic circumstances. Dr. Eric Daiter helped patients and all members of the medical staff to experience the joy of childbirth and the joy of caring for patients in need of help.
I was fortunate to work with Dr. Eric Daiter while he was undergoing fellowship training in infertility at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Eric was always well respected and known for an exceptional and kind bedside manner and also careful and excellent surgical skill. The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania is one of the finest medical centers in the east coast. Its Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division is widely known as one of the finest in the country. Dr. Daiter fit in well with the extraordinary physicians of that department.
As a practicing physician in the State of New Jersey, from time to time I have referred patients to Dr. Eric Daiter for care. I am happy to report that a number of patients with difficult medical histories have achieved healthy pregnancies and great outcomes thanks to Dr. Daiter. Other patients have referred for laparoscopic and hysteroscopic procedures which were performed with excellence and with good results. Not only do I feel comfortable referring my patients to Dr. Eric Daiter for excellent care, I would refer family members as well.

About the Author: Dr. Eric Daiter, 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 Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Gestational Hypertension

Hypertension is more commonly known as high blood pressure. About five percent of women who are pregnant will experience gestational hypertension, or pregnancy induced hypertension.
This condition occurs when the pressure in the arteries becomes too high. This can pose a great risk to a pregnant woman and her baby. Fortunately, modern techniques can be very effective in controlling high blood pressure during pregnancy.
Your blood pressure can change all the time. Your doctor will need to get several high readings before determining that you have high blood pressure. The blood pressure cuff will be placed around your arm. Systolic and diastolic pressure will be measured. Systolic pressure refers to the pressure inside your arteries during your heart’s contraction. Diastolic pressure is the pressure reading during the resting stage of your heart, between contractions. You may be diagnosed with high blood pressure if your readings consistently show a systolic pressure of greater than 140 or a diastolic pressure of 90 or higher.
If you are diagnosed with high blood pressure before becoming pregnant or early on in the pregnancy, it is referred to as chronic hypertension. Many women may have problems conceiving if they have chronic high blood pressure. Gestational hypertension refers to high blood pressure that occurs during or after the twentieth week of pregnancy and does not subside. If you are diagnosed with chronic or gestational hypertension, you will need to be under close supervision throughout your pregnancy.
Diet, exercise, heredity and lifestyle can all contribute to high blood pressure. Certain high blood pressure medications should not be taken during pregnancy so be sure that you consult with your physician if you are on high blood pressure medication and become pregnant. High blood pressure greatly increases your chances of having a stroke or a heart attack. Pregnancy can also increase these risks, so it is extremely important to keep your blood pressure under control throughout your pregnancy.
Your doctor will closely monitor your blood pressure and also regularly check for protein in your urine. When gestational hypertension is accompanied by protein in the urine, it is referred to as preeclampsia. Preeclampsia can be a life threatening condition. If you are diagnosed with preeclampsia, you may be required to stay in the hospital or on bed rest for the remainder of your pregnancy.
Symptoms of preeclampsia include swelling of the hands and face, rapid weight gain, blurred vision, headaches, dizziness and abdominal pain on the right side. If you experience any of these symptoms you should see your doctor right away. Hypertension constricts blood vessels to the uterus and can limit the air and blood supply for the fetus. This can cause the baby not to receive the nutrients that it needs to grow and can result in low birth weight and early delivery.

About the Author: Dr. Eric Daiter, 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 Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Healthy Body-Healthy Sperm

There are a lot of myths surrounding sperm count and sperm health. The truth is that your sperm count can vary from day to day and can be affected by many things. If you are interested in increasing your sperm health or sperm count, there are a few things that you can do to help improve your chances of having healthy sperm.
Take your vitamins. A daily multivitamin can help your body to become a good environment for sperm production. Zinc and Folic Acid have been shown to help in sperm production and increase sperm count for a lot of men. Keeping your body healthy can have a direct connection with keeping your sperm healthy.
Diet can have an impact on your sperm as well. Try eating lots of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. In today’s society, we tend to eat a lot of processed foods loaded with additives and little nutrition. Become label conscious and try to eat a more balanced diet. Healthy fats can help with sperm production. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in salmon, eggs, flax and avocados.
Refrain from damaging recreations such as smoking, drinking alcoholic beverages and drugs. All of these things will hinder sperm production. Cigarettes and drugs are loaded with toxins that are not compatible with sperm growth and development. Stay away from these things if you are trying to conceive.
Toxins in your environment can also damage sperm. If you are exposed to toxins daily, such as pesticides or paint fumes, then it may be affecting your sperm count. Wear gloves when exposing your skin to household cleaners. Wear a ventilation mask if you are around any fumes that could be inhaled. Shower often to help your body rid itself of toxins that could be in your system.
Heat can hinder sperm production. Choose warm showers over hot baths. Avoid hot tubs. Switch from briefs to boxers. Your testes naturally drop to get away from your body when they get too hot and contract closer to your abdomen if they need to warm up. Changing your underwear from briefs to boxers will allow your testes to function as they were designed.
Talk to an infertility specialist. Certain medications and illnesses can impact your sperm production. Make sure that you are not taking any medications that could thwart your efforts. Work with your doctor to figure out what could be causing your low sperm count. It could be your environment, lifestyle, habits or an underlying medical condition. Be patient and do what you can to help improve your chances of a healthy sperm count.

About the Author: Dr. Eric Daiter, 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 Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Many women are affected by pelvic inflammatory disease. This condition affects the reproductive organs and can cause problems with fertility if it is not treated promptly. Pelvic inflammatory disease occurs when bacteria travels through the cervix, into the uterine cavity and into the fallopian tubes.
Gonorrhea and Chlamydia are common sexually transmitted diseases that can lead to the infection that causes pelvic inflammatory disease. This can cause the reproductive organs to combat the infection by scarring over. This scarring effect is what can give women problems with fertility. Fallopian tubes can be blocked by scar tissue making it difficult or impossible for eggs to travel to the uterus. Many times eggs are fertilized in the fallopian tubes and the result can be an ectopic pregnancy.
Ectopic pregnancies are pregnancies that occur outside of the uterus. An egg implanted in a fallopian tube can be a dangerous, even life threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Scarring inside the fallopian tubes and uterus can happen very quickly, so you should be aware of the signs and symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease, particularly if you are of a reproductive age.
Symptoms to be aware of are fever, pain during intercourse or urination, foul smelling vaginal discharge, and irregular periods. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor right away. Sometimes symptoms are severe and obvious. Many times the symptoms are so mild that they are ignored. Even if you are experiencing mild symptoms, damage can easily occur if the pelvic inflammatory disease bacteria and inflammation are present. Delaying treatment can jeopardize your fertility or even your life.
If you suspect PID, you should immediately see your doctor. Your doctor will need to perform some tests to determine if you have PID. You will most likely be tested for Gonorrhea and Chlamydia. Your doctor may also need to perform an ultrasound to see if your reproductive organs are swollen. Inflammation and swelling can be a good indicator of an infection. Your body will continue to swell and scar in an attempt to stop the infection from spreading.
If you are diagnosed with PID, then you will need to immediately begin treatment to stop the infection. Antibiotics are administered to start battling the infection. Further treatments may be necessary if you have significant scarring. This is especially true if you plan on having a baby. Laparoscopic surgery is usually an option for women of reproductive age. You may wish to go to an experienced and skilled Reproductive Endocrinologist for this procedure to increase your chances of success.

About the Author: Dr. Eric Daiter, 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 Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Male Factor Infertility: Semen Analysis

Nearly half of all infertility problems are attributed to the male half of the couple. Therefore, it is extremely common and necessary to test both partners when trying to determine the possible causes of infertility.

You may be surprised when you see an infertility specialist and they ask to test the man first. Some see this as unfair and feel as if the finger is being pointed unjustly at them. This is a normal reaction, but you must understand that there is a good reason for testing the man first. The tests performed through a semen analysis are a lot less invasive than the tests involved in diagnosing a female patient.

A semen analysis can tell your infertility doctor a lot about your semen and your sperm. First, your semen will be analyzed. When you look at the results, you may have questions.

Viscosity refers to the liquidity of the semen. The semen will be checked for thickening after ejaculation. If it does not stay liquid, then sperm can have trouble maneuvering through it to fertilize an egg, or the sperm may actually be killed. This could indicate an infection.

The fructose levels of the sample will also be checked. Low levels could make for slow, motionless or stalemate sperm. The sperm need fructose for energy to give themselves the forward momentum and speed necessary for fertilizing an egg.

The pH balance of the semen should be alkaline. This protects it from the acidic vaginal fluids that it will come in contact with.

The sperm is the next thing to be examined in your semen analysis. Sperm is analyzed for motility, morphology, clumping and volume.

Volume refers to how many sperm are present in your semen sample. A sperm count is considered low if it is below 20 million sperm per milliliter. If there are no sperm present at all, then you may be diagnosed as azoospermic. Sperm count is affected by many factors and more than one sample may be needed to determine that it is actually the cause of infertility.

Clumping occurs when sperm sticks together and is rendered immobile. If there is no way for the sperm to break free and become mobile, then it can not fertilize an egg.

Motility measures how well your sperm can move and produce a forward motion. Ideally, a good portion of your sperm should be able to swim fast in a forward motion. Some may swim in a sideways or irregular pattern. Some may have no forward motion at all, even though they appear active. Inactive sperm are unable to move at all.

The morphology of the sperm refers to its shape. The shape of the sperm should consist of an oval head, a defined mid-piece and a long tail. All semen samples have some irregular sperm with two tails, round heads, no tails, no mid-piece or other deformity. If there are too many irregular sperm, then conception may be difficult.

Talk to your infertility specialist about any questions you may have concerning your semen analysis. This information is provided by Dr. Eric Daiter MD.


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

When Do I Ovulate?

Ovulation refers to the time when an egg is released from its mature follicle. Many women are interested in timing their ovulation. This can be either for birth control purposes, or conception timing.

The ovaries produce your eggs. Follicles are formed and mature throughout your menstrual cycle. Follicles are like little caves where eggs are kept. The follicle grows and fills up with fluid. The egg stays attached to the side of the follicle until ovulation occurs. Ovulation occurs when the follicle becomes full of fluid and burst open.

When the follicle releases its fluid, the egg releases and goes with it. The fluid helps the egg to travel. The egg and fluid enter the fallopian tube and travel down towards the uterus. During this time, the egg is ready to be fertilized. I it encounters sperm and one of the sperm enter it, then the egg will try to implant inside of the uterus.

Most women have about a twenty eight day menstrual cycle. Ovulation occurs around day fourteen. Start counting the days of your cycle when menstrual bleeding begins. The first day of your period is day one of your cycle. Therefore, most women ovulate two weeks after their period starts.

If your cycle is irregular, shorter or longer than twenty eight days, then you may get a more accurate ovulation prediction by counting back fourteen days before the first day of your period. The time between ovulation and menstrual bleeding is almost always fourteen days, regardless of the length of your cycle.

If you ovulate irregularly, then it can be difficult to predict the best times to get pregnant, or it could even be an infertility concern if ovulation only happens every few months. This is called anovulation. Some women never ovulate at all.

Many women are not aware of ovulation problems until they try to get pregnant. There are a number of treatments that can help you ovulate, so you should begin treatment with an infertility specialist if you suspect that you are not ovulating regularly. Medications can help to mature your eggs and facilitate their release, increasing the number of times per year that you ovulate. This can greatly improve your chances of conception if anovulation is the main cause of your infertility.

There are ovulation prediction kits available over the counter if you are interested in tracking your ovulation. Basal body temperature thermometers are also helpful in tracking ovulation. Talk with your doctor about any concerns that you may have concerning your problems with conception.

This information is brought to you by Dr. Eric Daiter MD.


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

The Stages of Endometriosis

Endometriosis symptoms can vary greatly from one person to the next. Symptoms can be severe while the endometriosis itself is mild. Mild symptoms can be present or even undetectable and endometriosis can be very advanced. The endometriosis symptoms you experience could have no correlation at all to the extent or severity of the endometriosis itself.

Endometriosis tissue is much like the lining of your uterus. It reacts hormonally the same as the uterine lining. It grows and sheds along with your menstrual cycle. It is widely believed that in some cases, when the uterine lining is shed, it does not leave the body as it is supposed to. Instead, it travels up the fallopian tubes and into the abdominal cavity. Here, it infests the reproductive organs, surrounding tissues and even the nearby organs.

Endometriosis is a progressive disease and can get worse over time. It can spread to the lower back, bowels, kidneys, lungs and other organs, inhibiting organ function. This is why it is particularly important to treat endometriosis even if you do not have infertility concerns.

Symptoms can be mild or severe. They include heavy, painful or irregular periods. Lower back pain and kidney problems are also not uncommon. Many women are not diagnosed with endometriosis until they experience infertility. Endometriosis is usually discovered during a diagnostic laparoscopic surgery while an infertility specialist is looking for infertility causes. A laparoscopic endometriosis treatment may be necessary to restore fertility. Laparoscopy is the only way to definitively diagnose endometriosis.

Endometriosis severity is measured in stages. Stage 1 is referred to as minimal endometriosis and may or may not have an effect on fertility. Stage 1 endometriosis is usually treated with medications unless you are trying to conceive. If you are having trouble conceiving, then even minimal amounts of endometrial implants and lesions may need to be surgically removed. Another reason to treat stage 1 endometriosis is because it is progressive and can lead to dangerous organ damage down the line.

Stage 2 endometriosis is mild, but more than just the occasional lesion or implant is visible. Stage 2 endometriosis usually means that at least one of the ovaries has endometriosis present. This can lead to your fallopian tubes being blocked by scar tissues or the ovaries themselves being compromised by the present implants.

Stage 3 endometriosis is considered moderate. Stage 3 is used to describe endometriosis, usually on both ovaries as well as the uterus. Implants and lesions may be deeper and take up more area than stage 2 implants and lesions. Surgical treatment of stage 3 and stage 4 endometriosis historically has had the greatest impact on fertility associated with endometriosis.

Stage 4 is the most severe. Stage 4 is used to describe endometriosis that is prominent in the abdominal cavity. Stage 4 endometriosis can affect many surrounding organs and be very dangerous. This is the stage most commonly associated with infertility.

If you are experiencing any endometriosis symptoms and are having trouble conceiving, then you could have an advanced level of endometriosis. You should never ignore endometriosis symptoms or prolong treatment.

This information is brought to you by Dr. Eric Daiter MD.


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

Your First Visit with a Reproductive Endocrinologist

Getting ready for your first appointment with an infertility specialist can be a stressful experience. Many couples are nervous about this first visit. It may be hard to admit that there is a problem and going to that first appointment can cause a range of emotions to surface. Just remember that whatever you are feeling is completely normal and experienced and caring infertility specialists can help you through this difficult time.

The majority of couples are able to conceive after receiving infertility treatments. The numbers just keep increasing as this field of medicine advances. Try to keep a positive outlook through this likely trying experience. You and your partner should form a unified front when it comes to dealing with what may lie ahead. You need to support each other wholly. Respect each others wishes when it comes to talking or not talking about certain aspects of your treatment.

Both of you should be prepared going in. Many couples have an idea about whether their problems lie with the man or the woman. This is not a blame game, and statistically, it could be either one of you, or both, with the infertility problem. The man will likely be tested first, as male testing is much less invasive.

Consider this your first active step towards having a child together. This can be an exciting time. Choose an experienced Reproductive Endocrinologist that you can really connect with on a personal level. This can be very important through the course of your treatment. You will certainly have a lot of questions and you may not know where to begin.

Write down questions in the days leading up to your appointment. You will likely forget something important if you are nervous or emotional during your appointment. Having your questions written down along with space for the answers will not only give you something concrete to focus on, but also ensure that you do not forget something that you wanted to ask.

Inquire about office hours and how extra questions are handled. Some treatments may require you to come into the office multiple times per week. You will need a Reproductive Endocrinologist that is near your home or work. The office hours need to work with your schedule.

Ask about success rates. This may be something that you want to revisit once you have your possible causes of infertility narrowed down. Discuss what certain treatments cost and what you are willing to spend. Try to figure out how aggressively you want to tackle your infertility. Once you have settled on a course of action and a doctor that you trust, you will feel more confident and empowered to handle whatever may come your way.

This information is provided by Dr. Eric Daiter MD.

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

Spermatogenesis

A certain series of events needs to occur for sperm cells to mature into viable sperm ready for fertilization. This process is controlled by the man’s endocrine system and is referred to as spermatogenesis.

Spermatogenesis is controlled by the hypothalamus in the brain. This is a very small section of the brain that helps maintain and regulate metabolic processes. The hypothalamus secretes gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone stimulates the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain and is part of the endocrine system. Luteinizing hormone stimulates the Leydig cells in the testicles to produce testosterone.

The sperm cells mature when testosterone combines with follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). Follicle stimulating hormone is critical in spermatogenesis because it aids in the production of androgen-binding proteins necessary for maturation.

All of these processes need to work properly for spermatogenesis to occur, so it is no surprise that many men have problems with infertility. Nearly half of all infertility cases are male-factor.

Many things can interfere with spermatogenesis. Alcohol use, high stress, poor diet, medications, lifestyle, disease and illness are only a few of the things that can interfere with sperm cell maturation. The process of spermatogenesis takes about seventy two days. Therefore, sperm cells can be affected for a long time after an illness or other disruptive trigger.

Because of the sensitive nature of spermatogenesis, multiple semen analysis may be necessary to diagnose a problem. It can take some time to get an accurate idea of what the problem is. Most people are familiar with sperm count.

Sperm count refers to the number of millions of sperm per milliliter of ejaculate. A normal range is between forty million and three hundred million sperm. Sperm count is considered low if it is under twenty million. But, keep in mind that in many cases, low sperm count is temporary and reversible.

Obstructions in the male reproductive system can cause a sperm count to be zero. This is referred to as azoospermia. In these cases, infertility treatments can help. There are several ways for sperm to be retrieved from the testes and reproductive tract. Once the sperm is retrieved, then it can be inserted into an egg outside of the body in the lab through a process called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Another option is in vitro fertilization (IVF), where the sperm and egg are combined in a laboratory and fertilization is allowed to occur. Your Reproductive Endocrinologist will help you decide which method has the greatest chance of success for you.

This information is provided by Dr. Eric Daiter MD.


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

Monday, April 21, 2008

Uterine Fibroids and Infertility: Dr. Eric Daiter MD

Uterine fibroids are very common occurrences in women. They are also known as myoma or leiomyoma. Uterine fibroids can cause infertility, but not all of the time. Uterine fibroids are benign tumors affecting the uterine muscle tissue. Uterine fibroids are not cancerous tumors, but they can affect fertility, nonetheless.

There are three types of uterine fibroids. Subserosal fibroids grow on the outside of the uterus. They can cause little or no symptoms unless they are severe. They give the uterus a bumpy appearance. Tumors can grow on stalks and they are referred to as pedunculated subserosal fibroids. They can cause back pain, pelvic pain, frequent urination and cramping. If the fibroids grow large, they can affect the kidneys and other surrounding organs. Subserosal fibroids should not cause any infertility issues. However, if they grow large, they can put pressure on fallopian tubes and ovaries, inhibiting their function.

Intramural fibroids are found in the muscle of the uterus. They are usually round in shape and can vary in size from microscopic to enormous. Some can get up to 50 pounds. Intramural fibroids can cause the size of the uterus to enlarge. Intramural fibroids can cause excessive menstrual bleeding, cramping, pelvic and back pain, and prolonged periods. Again, intramural fibroids may not cause any recognizable symptoms and may only be discovered during a vaginal exam or during infertility treatment. Intramural fibroids can cause problems with conception. They can cause problems with implantation or miscarriage.

The submucous fibroid causes the most problems with fertility. They can grow inside of the uterus. They commonly interfere with the uterine lining development and placement. This can cause miscarriage and difficulty with implantation. It can also cause painful periods and excessive bleeding. The submucous fibroid can develop a stalk and the mass can protrude from the stalk into the uterus. The stalk can allow the submucous fibroid to move further into the uterus and sometimes through the cervix and into the vagina. If the tumor grows large, then the uterus may recognize it as a foreign body and contract to expel it. If this happens it can cause severe pain similar to labor pains.

Fibroids are sometimes found during routine examinations but they can not always be detected this way. They are commonly found during ultrasound or during surgery. If fibroids are severe, then you may need to seek treatment. A myomectomy is a surgical procedure where fibroids are removed one at a time and the uterus is hopefully spared. This is the common treatment for women who still want to have children. Hysterectomy is the other option where the uterus is removed. Talk with your infertility specialist about what options there are for you and your treatment.

This information is provided by Dr. Eric Daiter MD.

About the Author: Dr. Eric Daiter MD, 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 Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization: Dr. Eric Daiter MD

There are three major types of uterine fibroids; subserosal, intramural and submucous. If you have been diagnosed with any type of uterine fibroids, the treatment options may be limited depending on your symptoms and whether or not any other organs are being affected by the fibroids.

Hormonal suppression and other medications that help with pain are generally temporary fixes for the symptoms that uterine fibroids can cause. If your uterine fibroids are not severe and are not affecting surrounding organs, then you may be able to treat the fibroids with medication.

A myomectomy is a surgical procedure that refers to the removal of tumors one by one from the uterus. This procedure is usually recommended for women who have fibroids that need to be removed surgically. A myomectomy is preferred over a hysterectomy, where the entire uterus is removed, if the woman is still of a reproductive age and there is a possibility of having children in her future. Fibroids can grow back after removal and more procedures may be necessary after the first one. Multiple surgeries can compromise fertility. Scar tissue can adhere the uterine walls together and other problems may occur after surgery.

Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is an alternative treatment to surgery. It is a minimally invasive non-surgical procedure. Uterine fibroids need a blood supply to grow and thrive. Uterine artery embolization is performed through the arterial system. The doctor will identify uterine arteries, usually through x-ray, and inject tiny particles into the arteries supplying the fibroids.

The injected particles will hinder or stop the flow of blood to the fibroids. This can stop excessive bleeding and also cause the fibroid to shrink in size over time. Uterine fibroid embolization is becoming more popular and is generally tried before major surgery unless symptoms are threatening to the patient.

Uterine fibroid embolization is minimally invasive and you will most likely only be given a sedative before the procedure. A small needle is inserted and a catheter is used for the procedure. There should not be any scarring visible on the skin afterward. Although you will not have any large incisions, the pain afterward can be severe. The pain is caused by the dying cells’ release of toxins. An overnight stay may be required after the procedure for pain management. Usually medications can be taken at home and the pain should subside in a few days.

Talk with your infertility specialist or OB/GYN if you have questions about your uterine fibroid treatment.

This information about uterine fibroid embolization has been provided by Dr. Eric Daiter MD.

About the Author: Dr. Eric Daiter MD, 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 Eric Daiter please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Endometriosis: Causes and Symptoms Dr. Eric Daiter MD

Endometriosis is a condition that affects the reproductive system of some women. Your uterus normally has a lining called the endometrium. If this lining grows or becomes implanted outside of your uterus, then it is called endometriosis.
Endometriosis is usually a painful disorder. It can afflict your fallopian tubes, ovaries or it can grow onto other structures within your pelvic area. Your endometrium normally thickens due to a hormonal response in your body. This is a normal preparation for fetal implantation or menstruation. The lining of the uterus is shed in menstruation if there is no pregnancy. Endometriosis tissue growing outside of your uterus also thickens and sheds with the hormonal changes of your body. The blood from the shedding tissues outside of your uterus can pool up and be very painful and irritating inside of your body. Adhesions and scar tissue can form often causing fertility problems.
The causes of endometriosis aren’t entirely clear. Some believe that there is a genetic predisposition to have endometrial cells outside of the uterus, or that the cells remained present after the formation of the female reproductive organs during fetal development. Others believe that the cells somehow traveled outside of the uterus, such as through the bloodstream or through the fallopian tubes. The causes aren’t exactly known at this time.
Some cases of endometriosis are mild and aren’t even discovered unless the woman has some type of surgery where the surgeon discovers it. Others have painful symptoms and abnormally heavy bleeding during menstruation. The pain is generally in the form of excessively painful menstrual cramps that last for days. The pelvic and associated back pain is tremendous as well. Similar pain or sharp cramps can occur during ovulation, intercourse, urination or defecation as well. Another symptom of endometriosis is infertility. If the fallopian tubes become scarred with endometrial tissue or adhesions, then eggs can not pass to the uterus for implantation. The uterus itself or the ovaries can also become damaged and cause fertility problems.
Endometriosis will generally get worse over time. It tends to be worse and more common in women who have not had children. Since the endometrial tissue grows and sheds with your menstrual cycle, it tends to cause more and more problems over time. This is also why it stops growing and shedding if you become pregnant or menopausal. Your body is no longer sending it the hormonal signal to grow and shed.
Endometriosis can be difficult to diagnose. The symptoms mimic that of other disorders and infections. Sometimes it can look like irritable bowel syndrome or pelvic inflammatory disease. It often is accompanied by these two disorders as well and can often be overlooked. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms speak with your doctor. Getting early treatment can help you avoid years of pain and possible scarring of your reproductive organs or pelvic area. If infertility is a concern, then talk to your doctor as soon as possible for advice.

This information is brought to you by Dr. Eric Daiter MD.

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

Fertility after Vasectomy: Dr. Eric Daiter MD

Vasectomy is a route that many families decide to take when they decide that it is time for a permanent birth control solution. A vasectomy is the permanent sterilization of a man. In comparison to female sterilization, the vasectomy is historically less complicated and has less long-term complications. It is performed under a local anesthetic, where a female tubal ligation is a more complicated surgery performed under a general anesthetic.
There are many different reasons that couples choose to have a vasectomy in the first place. The most common reason to get a vasectomy reversal is the decision to have a child. If you’ve had a vasectomy and are now considering having a reversal, there are a few things that you should expect. First, you should know that sperm in the semen doesn’t necessarily return immediately following a reversal procedure. It can take up to a year to have a good healthy sperm count, so if you’re considering having another child, don’t wait too long.
Restoring your fertility can be a wonderful thing. Your doctor will want to make sure that you and your partner are otherwise fertile before attempting a reversal. A vasectomy reversal doesn’t always work, but can sometimes be reattempted if the first time isn’t a success. It can be a little costly and generally isn’t covered by insurance. Choose your doctor wisely. A reproductive endocrinologist or urologist may have a lot more experience in this area than your regular family practitioner. Ask about the procedure and the success rates of each doctor. After choosing your doctor, ask about the risks and possible complications. Make sure that all of your questions are answered before going through any medical procedure.
Your doctor should give you instructions to follow for the weeks before and after the procedure. You should be instructed not to take certain medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin for at least a couple of weeks leading up the procedure. Your doctor will most likely use a general anesthetic for this procedure, and you can expect to have an overnight stay in the hospital or clinic following the surgery.
If the vasectomy reversal is a success, you may be able to get your partner pregnant within a few months, but it could take up to a year or two. About half of vasectomy reversals are successful. Your semen can be analyzed to determine if any sperm are present to determine the success of the procedure. Vasectomy reversal is a very delicate microsurgical procedure. Talk with your doctor or infertility specialist about what you can expect and you could be on your way back to fertility.
This information is provided on behalf of Dr. Eric Daiter MD. Occasionally patients, doctors and nurses have offered kind words through their testimonials about their experiences with Dr. Eric Daiter MD. Here is a patient testimonial that shows the type of doctor you might consider when you make your decision about the infertility specialist that’s right for you:

Being a good doctor isn’t just about technical skill, which in my opinion he more than satisfies; it must also encompass optimism and a belief in the successful outcome of the patient’s goals. It was Dr Eric Daiter’s continual expression of optimism and belief in a positive outcome that enabled me to keep moving forward in my goal to be a parent and to eventually broaden my horizons to include adoption.
Next month my son will be four years old, and these have been the best four years of my life. I am grateful and appreciative to Dr. Eric Daiter for the optimism, compassion, skill, and professionalism that he brought to me during a challenging time in my life.

Dr. Eric Daiter MD offers a complete range of MALE INFERTILITY AND FEMALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT. For more information on The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine and Eric Daiter, please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Endometriosis and Infertility: Dr. Eric Daiter MD

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. Dr. Eric Daiter MD 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 MD, please visit www.drericdaitermd.com

Monday, March 31, 2008

When to See an Infertility Specialist: Dr. Eric Daiter MD

If you have been trying to get pregnant and have been unsuccessful, then you may be wondering when it is the right time to seek professional help. It is not unusual to feel apprehensive about seeing an infertility specialist. For some couples, it feels like the first step in admitting that something may be wrong with them. This should not be how you feel going in. If you do need help, then it may not be wise to put it off. With modern advances in diagnostics and treatment, you should consider taking that first step into the infertility specialist’s office the first step towards starting your family.
It is very common to need a little help conceiving and you are not alone. Most people start out tracking their ovulation with an ovulation prediction kit or basal body temperature. If you have been trying unsuccessfully to conceive for six months, then it may be time to seek professional help. If you are under the age of thirty-five, then you may be able to wait for up to a year, but it is not recommended.
There are certain circumstances where you should not even wait the initial six months and should consult an infertility specialist as soon as you can. The main reason would be the woman’s age. If the woman is over thirty-five, then fertility can be rapidly decreasing and you should not prolong seeking help. Another reason not to wait is if you have had miscarriages or tubal pregnancies in the past. Endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome and pelvic inflammatory disease are other reasons to immediately seek help in conceiving.
Most women start out by telling their OB/GYN that they are trying to conceive. Most OB/GYN’s have some experience in initial infertility evaluation and may be able to give you some good information to start with. They can usually perform simple procedures to see if you have a tubal blockage, the most common cause of infertility in women. However, a real infertility specialist, or Reproductive Endocrinologist, has many more years experience and expertise in the field of infertility treatment.
A Reproductive Endocrinologist is an OB/GYN that has gone through about three extra years of training in fertility and infertility treatment. A skilled infertility specialist can diagnose probable causes of your inability to conceive on your own, whether it be male, female or both partners with the problem. Many problems are easily corrected through laparoscopic surgery, fertility drugs or other common forms of infertility treatment. Do not be nervous about seeking help. Once you learn what your problem may be and how to remedy the situation, you will be a lot more relaxed. Because age is a factor, the sooner you get started the better. We encourage you to seek the help of an infertility specialist if you have any concern at all about your fertility.

This information has been provided by Dr. Eric Daiter MD.

About the Author: Dr. Eric Daiter MD, the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER. Dr. Eric Daiter MD 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 MD, please visit www.drericdaitermd.com.

Anovulation and Infertility Dr. Eric Daiter MD

Many women have abnormal or irregular periods. If infertility becomes an issue, then these irregular periods may be a sign that you are not ovulating normally. If you are not ovulating at all, it is referred to as anovulation.
Many things can affect your ovulation ability. Certain diseases such as diabetes and liver disease can stop you from ovulating. There are also a number of glandular disorders that can halt ovulation. There may be adhesions or other complications with the ovaries themselves. Whatever the reason, it is important to work closely with an infertility specialist to rule out certain disorders before continuing with hormonal treatments for anovulation.
Fertility drugs such as clomid are fairly effective in stimulating ovulation. The purpose of fertility drugs like clomid is to block the effects of estrogen in the body. When estrogen is blocked, it simulates the natural drop in estrogen that should be occurring, but may not be, in your body. When estrogen drops, your body produces luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones stimulate the ovaries into ovulating.
Multiple ovulations are common and sometimes multiple births can be expected. Your doctor will monitor the effects of the fertility drugs and adjust the dosage to best suit your needs. Generally, you will start out low and increase over six months until you become pregnant. Different medications may be prescribed if the first one does not seem to be effective.
Some fertility drugs stimulate the ovaries and others actually mature the egg so that it can be released. When given in combination with each other, these can be very effective. Most fertility drugs are administered by injection, sometimes daily, and some are taken orally. Your infertility doctor will take regular blood tests and perform many ultrasounds to monitor your egg development.
Some problems that can occur include bloating and fatigue, irritability and headaches. Sometimes infertility drugs can alter cervical mucus and actually make it a hostile environment for sperm. In this case, artificial insemination can be used to bypass the cervix and fertilize the egg in utero. Intrauterine Insemination, IUI, is the most common form of artificial insemination. This is where sperm is introduced directly into the uterine cavity or fallopian tubes, bypassing any cervical problems that may be present.
In the case of polycystic ovary syndrome, the body produces too much testosterone and develops an insulin resistance. This causes ovulation not to happen. Your doctor may provide fertility drugs to combat these effects and start ovulation again.
The goal of using fertility drugs to combat anovulation is to get your cycle back on track and get ovulation started. Talk to your infertility specialist about what options may be available to you.

Information provided by Dr. Eric Daiter MD.

About the Author: Dr. Eric Daiter MD, the medical director of The NJ Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, LLC, a leading NEW JERSEY INFERTILITY CENTER. Dr. Eric Daiter MD 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.drericdaiter.com.

Sunday, March 30, 2008

Post-Coital Testing: Dr. Eric Daiter, MD

Infertility diagnostic procedures can be extensive. Your Reproductive Endocrinologist may order a number of tests to more accurately diagnose possible causes of your failed attempts at having a child. One test that may be ordered is called a post-coital test. This test is designed to check cervical mucus after intercourse to determine whether or not the sperm cells present are capable of moving and traveling normally.
Generally, cervical mucus is at its thinnest a couple of days before ovulation. This is most likely the best time to perform a post-coital test. During this time, the sperm should have its best chance of moving easily through the mucus. This is when most people trying to get pregnant are the most successful.
Post-coital testing is usually only recommended when other factors of infertility have been ruled out. If your fallopian tubes are not blocked and you are able to ovulate normally, then your mucus may be tested for certain problems that could hinder you from becoming pregnant. Still, this testing is not done until the male partner has also been evaluated for male factor infertility.
Antisperm antibodies present in your system could be one problem discovered through post-coital testing. Antisperm antibodies are produced by your immune system and can attack sperm when it is present. This condition is very rare. Sperm is normally protected by being kept separate from the immune system.
There are treatments and insemination techniques that can help you bypass the cervical mucus if there are antisperm antibodies present. Medications called corticosteroids can help reduce the amount of antisperm antibodies in your system. There could be side effects, so consult with your Reproductive Endocrinologist before going forward. Another option is In-Vitro Fertilization. In this procedure, sperm can be injected directly into the egg. Since the sperm never actually travels through the cervix or uterus, In-Vitro Fertilization can be very effective. Intrauterine Insemination is another way for sperm to bypass cervical mucus. Discuss all of your options, possible side effects and chances of success with your infertility specialist before proceeding with any procedure.
Preparing for the post-coital test will involve a urine test to determine your luteinizing hormone levels. This will tell you when you are getting ready to ovulate. Once you determine that you are about to ovulate, you will need to have intercourse with your partner four to eight hours before your appointment for the test. Do not use any type of lubricant, douche or cleansers, as sperm needs to be present and your cervical mucus unaltered for the test.
The test will seem like a simple gynecological exam, similar to a pap smear procedure. Results generally come back within a day or two. Your doctor will go over the results concerning the consistency of your mucus, the absence or presence of antisperm antibodies, and whether or not the sperm present was able to move normally through the cervical mucus. Discuss with your Reproductive Endocrinologist the possible infertility treatment options available to you depending on your results.

This information is provided by Dr. Eric Daiter MD.

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

ZIFT or GIFT? Dr. Eric Daiter MD

Zygote intrafallopian transfer, or ZIFT, is an infertility treatment method whereby an egg is fertilized outside of the body and then transferred into the fallopian tubes of a woman. ZIFT is considered an advanced infertility treatment. Normally, you will try other forms of treatment before you consider a ZIFT treatment.
Many doctors recommend ZIFT to patients who have problems ovulating. The fallopian tubes must be open for this method to be utilized. ZIFT may also be considered if the male partner has a low sperm count. If the sperm count is extremely low, you may have better luck with ICSI, Intracytoplasmic sperm injection. In ICSI, the sperm is injected directly into the egg. ICSI is sometimes used in conjunction with ZIFT.
Another similar treatment is called GIFT. GIFT refers to gamete intrafallopian transfer. In this method, the egg is not fertilized outside of the body. The sperm is injected into the fallopian tube where it will hopefully fertilize an egg. GIFT is usually used for women who have problems ovulating. Therefore, you will be given fertility drugs and you will be closely monitored by your infertility specialist to determine when your eggs or mature. Then the eggs will be collected with a small needle, mixed with your partner’s sperm and then immediately injected into your fallopian tubes. Extra eggs can be fertilized in vitro and these embryos can be frozen for future attempts.
Fertility drugs are also used in the ZIFT procedure. Eggs are retrieved in the same manner as the GIFT treatment. They are mixed with sperm outside of the body and monitored for fertilization. Fertilized eggs are then transplanted into the fallopian tubes where they will hopefully move to the uterus and implant at the proper stage of development.
In Vitro Fertilization, IVF, is used more often than GIFT or ZIFT. In an IVF treatment, your eggs will be retrieved after a round of fertility drugs. Then, your eggs will be combined with your partner’s sperm in the laboratory. This is where your eggs will be monitored for about three to five days. At the proper stage, the fertilized eggs will be injected into your uterus for implantation. IVF accounts for almost all of all assisted pregnancies, partly because fallopian tubes do not have to be open for this procedure.
Talk to your infertility specialist about what procedures will best fit your situation and your goals. You may end up trying a few different procedures before you find which one is right for you. Make sure that you ask plenty of questions so that you feel comfortable about each step that you take towards building your family.

This information is provided by Dr. Eric Daiter MD.

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