Introduction
Infertility has become a common problem in today’s world, and with the rise in technology and medical advancements, fertility physicians can help diagnose and treat this issue effectively. A fertility physician is a specialist who deals with reproductive issues, helping families to conceive and have a healthy pregnancy, and addressing any fertility issues experienced by patients.
A fertility physician can offer a wide range of support and treatment options, including IVF, ICSI, IUI, and surrogacy treatments. However, before embarking on any procedures, patients should try and change their lifestyle and eating habits. Certain foods, supplements, and habits can exacerbate fertility problems, while others can help improve fertility and overall health.
Do’s and Don’ts
Before visiting a fertility physician, there are a few things that patients should be aware of regarding what to do and what not to do.
DO:
Eat a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in antioxidants and nutrients.
Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins and keep the body hydrated.
Exercise regularly, which helps regulate hormones and decreases stress levels.
Get enough rest and sleep, and try and reduce stress levels in everyday life.
Consider taking nutritional supplements, including folic acid, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve fertility.
DON’T:
Consume excessive amounts of caffeine and alcohol, which can have negative effects on fertility.
Smoke or use tobacco products, which can decrease fertility levels in both men and women.
Participate in activities that could potentially harm fertility, such as using hot tubs or saunas frequently.
Overwork or exhaust yourself, which can lead to increased stress levels.
Eat These Foods
Certain foods can help improve fertility, including:
Leafy Greens: Vegetables like spinach and kale contain minerals like zinc, calcium, and iron which can help increase fertility levels in both males and females.
Fatty fish: Fish like salmon and tuna have omega-3 fatty acids, which help boost fertility hormones.
Berries: Berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which can help improve sperm and egg quality.
Nuts: Nuts like almonds and walnuts contain vitamin E and other nutrients that can help improve sperm health.
Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables like broccoli, sweet potatoes, and carrots are excellent sources of beta-carotene which helps improve the quality of eggs.
Yogurt: Yogurt contains probiotics that can help balance hormones and overall health in pregnant women.
What is IUI?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a pregnancy treatment that involves using a catheter to place sperm directly into a woman’s uterus. The sperm are washed and concentrated first, increasing the chances of conception. This procedure is usually recommended for women with healthy reproductive systems, who are under 35 years of age.
What is IVF?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a fertility treatment where eggs are extracted and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory dish. Once fertilized, the embryos are placed in the uterus, increasing the chances of pregnancy. IVF is recommended for couples who have been struggling to conceive for a long time, have a history of fertility problems, or have undergone any fertility treatments previously.
What is ICSI?
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a type of IVF treatment used for men who have low sperm count or motility. In this procedure, a single sperm is injected into each egg, increasing the chances of fertilization.
What is Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is a fertility treatment where a woman carries a baby for another woman or a couple. Surrogacy is usually recommended for women who cannot carry a baby to term due to medical reasons such as problems with the uterus, recurrent miscarriages, or other serious health issues.
Conclusion
A fertility physician can offer a wide range of options when it comes to diagnosing and treating infertility issues. However, patients should keep in mind that their diet and lifestyle play a critical role in their fertility. Certain foods, supplements, and habits can exacerbate fertility problems, while others can help improve fertility and overall health. Patients should also be aware of the different fertility treatments available to them, such as IUI, IVF, ICSI, and surrogacy, and weigh the benefits and risks of each before making a decision.