Soy products may lower sperm count
August 7, 2011 by Cindy Ferda · Leave a Comment
According to a recent study from the Harvard School of Public Health, men who consume as little as half a serving of soy products daily may be reducing their sperm count.
photo/Kratochvil
Headed up by lead researcher Dr. Jorge Chavarro, a research fellow in the department of nutrition at the school, his results showed daily male soy consumption lead to 41 million fewer sperm per milliliter; as compared to males who do not eat soy products; in a study conducted on 99 men who participated in the collection of this data. Average sperm counts are between 80-120 million per milliliter.The correlation had an even greater impact on over-weight or obese males.
Soy products included were soy milk, tofu, tofu and soy sausages, tempeh, soy burgers, soy bacon, soy cheese, soy ice cream and yogurts as well as numerous other soy-based products.
Although still inconclusive, the culprit may lie in increased male estrogen levels/activity as a result of soy intake. Raised male estrogen levels are now believed to have a negative effect on sperm count and production, however Chavarro says these findings are preliminary and more data is necessary on the correlation.
These preliminary results are available in the Oxford Journals online under Human Reproduction.
Fertility dangers of the laptop
August 5, 2011 by Cindy Ferda · Leave a Comment
According to researchers from the Mayo Clinic, an estimated 10 percent to 15 percent of couples are classified as infertile, which means that they’ve been trying to get pregnant with frequent, unprotected intercourse for at least one year with no success. In about half the cases, male infertility is a factor.
photo credit/Alan Toniolo de Carvalho
There are of course many causes of male infertility known to the medical establishment today; however over the last twenty years, two newer potential causes are currently being examined further and believed to be associated with fertility issues in men; the laptop computer and the cell phone.
A study was done on the negative impact of laptop computer usage on 29 healthy male volunteers between the ages of 21-35 under the direction of Dr. Yefim R. Sheynkin, an Assistant Professor and Director of the Male Infertility and Microsurgery Program at Stony Brook University Hospital in New York and a summa cum laude graduate of Moscow Medical Academy.
Gradually declining sperm production has been noted in recent decades and the laptop computer may have a negative effect on fertility and sperm production.
Using 4 different brands of laptop computers, the study revealed that after one-hour of perching it atop the legs, balanced on the thighs, the bottom of a laptop rose from 88 degrees Fahrenheit to almost 104 degrees, thus causing the scrotum temperature to rise and adversely affect the health of the sperm. When scrotal temps rise by a mere 1-2 degrees Fahrenheit, sperm concentration may drop by up to 40%. This discovery is huge for laptop users!
The external pouch of skin that contains the testes is external for a reason. It allows sperm to develop at a lower temperature than the rest of the body. This is necessary for development of healthy sperm.
Fertility experts regularly advise their male patients avoid saunas, hot baths and whirlpools as well as not wear tight undergarments or shorts, as these too will increase scrotal temperatures and lead to a reduced number of viable sperm.
Copyright GetPregnant.org 2011
Cell phone and infertility dangers
August 4, 2011 by Cindy Ferda · Leave a Comment
Cell phone and infertility has become a topic of debate in recent years. As the controversy presses on over the subject of cell phones and health, many couples struggling to conceive are wondering if cell phone usage really can cause infertility.
In a study published in the medical journal, Fertility and Sterility, Dr. Ashok Agarwal, PhD, Head of the Andrology Laboratory and the Director
of Center for Reproductive Medicine at the Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, reported a link between cell phones in talk mode and their adverse affect on sperm.
The report states researchers collected semen samples from 32 subjects, including nine patients and 23 healthy donors, and divided the samples into two parts to allow for both a test group and a control group. Specimens from the test group were then placed 2.5 centimeters from an 850 MHz cell phone in talk mode for 1 hour. Researchers identified this distance as being the typical distance between the testes and pant pockets; a common place for men to store their cell phones while talking on a hands-free earpiece.
Special equipment measured and monitored the radio-frequency electromagnetic waves emitted by the phone. Then, researchers measured the levels of reactive oxygen species (harmful free radicals), total antioxidant capacity and DNA integrity of the sperm cells, and compared them to the control group.
The findings showed that cell phone radiation increased the amount of reactive oxidative stress (or free radicals) and decreased the amount of antioxidants in semen to levels that have a negative impact on the motility and viability of sperm.
Additionally, back in 2004, the members of the research team conducted an earlier observational study and reported on 361 men who were undergoing infertility evaluations, at the median age of 31. They were divided into four test groups consistent with their daily cell phone use: group A: no use; group B: <2 h/day; group C: 2–4 h/day; and group D: >4 h/day.
According to the study, semen samples were collected by masturbation in a sterile wide-mouthed calibrated container after an abstinence period of 5 days.
After the samples’ separation into their respective category of cell phone usage; according to the test subjects themselves; analysis was performed by researchers according to World Health Organization guidelines to evaluate eight sperm parameters: volume, liquefaction time, pH, viscosity, sperm count, motility, viability, and percentage of normal morphology.
This studies’ findings also revealed that use of cell phones do in fact decrease the semen quality in men by decreasing the sperm count, motility, viability, and normal morphology by up to 40% depending upon the duration of daily exposure.
With the continued growth of cell phone usage, one thing is for sure. Dr. Agarwal and his team will continue to develop research protocols to further test their findings on the relationship of sperm and cell phones. The doctor and his team say that more research must be done to understand the full impact of this correlation.
Cologne, cosmetics, toiletries and conception
August 2, 2011 by Cindy Ferda · Leave a Comment
Before spritzing your body with seductive scents certain to capture your partners attention,
you may want to reconsider.
Scientists from Analycen Lab in Sweden (who were acquired in 2007 by Eurofins Scientific, a life sciences company operating internationally to provide a comprehensive range of analytical testing services to clients from a wide range of industries including pharmaceutical, food and environmental sectors with over 6,000 staff in more than 100 laboratories across 27 countries) discovered links between colognes and cosmetics, and reproductive health issues, especially in young males.
Analyzing 34 leading brands of cosmetics, the researchers found more than three-quarters contained diethylhexyl phthalate or other phthalates, used to prevent fragrance loss. And, according to the study, damage to the reproductive system is possible in the adult male and female as well as the male unborn child. Impairment can occur as early as the first four to eight weeks of gestation. Scientists believe the phthalates can be absorbed into woman’s bloodstream through the epidermis or inhalation, thus causing severe health issues for some.
Concerned about the rising levels of testicular cancer in young men, some researchers assert the significance of the phthalates correlation. Other genital abnormalities noted were undescended testicles and malformation of the urinary tract.
“Another researcher, Per Rosander (Health Care without Harm) reports, “They [phthalates] have been classified by the EU (European Union) as reproductive toxins.”
Professor Richard Sharpe, of The Medical Research Council’s Human Reproductive Sciences Unit in Edinburgh concluded “If you wanted to produce a list of environmental causes of the reproductive health problems in boys, phthalates would be pretty near the top of the list.”
Some of the products containing diethylhexyl phthalate or other phthalates noted in the study were the cologne Tommy Girl, Chanel No 5, Christian Dior’s Poison, Eternity from Calvin Klein and Tresor by Lancome. Other toiletry products like Impulse Body Spray, Nivea Deo Compact, Sure Ultra deodorant, Shockwaves hair mousse and hairsprays including Pantene Pro-V Extra Hold and Vidal Sassoon.
Although efforts have been made to ban the chemical additive in products worldwide, it remains unclear if this has been done anywhere other than within the European Union (EU).
So, for the sake of safety, once again, to maintain optimal reproductive health and get pregnant in the most healthful manner, it is wise to discontinue using the products mentioned above as well as read the labels of body and face lotions, aftershave products, deodorants/antiperspirants, colognes, hairspray and all cosmetics. If they contain the ingredient diethylhexyl phthalate or any other phthalate, do not use the product.
Increasing Ovulation through Food & Drink
August 1, 2011 by Cindy Ferda · Leave a Comment
One of the most important factors in optimizing your reproductive chances naturally includes adding the right foods and drinks to both you and
your partner’s diet.
When it comes to food choices and enhancing fertility, always bear in mind the old adage you are what you eat. Make quality choices.
Women should take precautionary measures when deciding what foods to consume to ramp up conception chances. Just as important as what you should eat is what you should not eat while attempting to conceive.
Although fish offers wonderful healthful low-fat omega-3 fatty acid benefits and a host of other great nutrients and vitamins like vitamin B, iron and zinc to a woman’s diet, it must be carefully monitored.
Studies have shown that in pregnancies which include fish in the diet, there is a positive impact on the reduction of fetal heart issues. Studies have also shown that consumption of fish oil capsules during pregnancy actually makes it to the developing fetus’ brain offering positive healthful results.
However, the mercury level in some fish is recognized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to name a few organizations, as too high and outweigh the omega-3 fatty acid benefits.
Water is an essential requirement for proper sperm travel within the woman’s reproductive tract. Drink approximately 10-13(8 oz.) cups each day.
FERTILITY ENHANCING FOODS & DRINKS
The following list of fertility enhancing foods and liquids for women offer a wide variety of choices and provide the necessary nutrients for ramping up and raising the chances of a healthy conception.
Water – To maintain optimal health and proper reproductive functions, one must remain optimally hydrated. Filtered and natural spring water are the safest choices. Water is known to process nutrients in a more optimal fashion while it helps develop new cells, sustains blood volume, provides a moist environment for sensitive tissues and organs and regulates the body temperature. Water is an essential requirement for proper sperm travel within the woman’s reproductive tract. Drink approximately 10-13 8 oz. cups each day.
Juicing – Juicing any fruits and vegetables rich in beta carotene or chocked-full of folic acid or antioxidants is a phenomenal healthful boost to the reproductive system for women. Carrot juice offers amazing healthy benefits however be careful not to over do it. Studies report the cleansing effects may lower the amount of good bacteria in the system and additional probiotics like acidophilus may be needed to be optimally balanced. This can be found in yogurt or taken as a supplement.
Spinach – Rich in antioxidants and full of folic acid and iron, leafy green vegetables are a vital ingredient to maintain a healthy reproductive system. Leafy green vegetables like spinach contain folic acid which is important for preventing birth defects and is a vital ingredient for producing viable eggs.
Orange & YellowVegetables- Orange and yellow vegetables contain an abundance of beta carotene, an antioxidant, which has been shown to maintain hormonal balance and ward off miscarriage. Try adding a glass of freshly made carrot juice mixed with apple to your diet each day in addition to your fresh vegetable portions with your regular meals.
Broccoli and Cabbage – Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage contain a phytonutrient called DIM that helps with estrogen metabolism. They are also known to prevent fibroids and endometriosis in women.
Carrots, Peas and SweetPotatoes- Containing beta-carotene, these veggies will help regulate a menstrual cycle, thus improving chances for conception.
Strawberries, Blueberries, Oranges, Papaya, Kiwi & Cantaloupe – Full of vitamin C and antioxidants, these fruits offer healthful reproductive benefits to women trying to conceive. The destruction of healthy cells by free radicals in the system may be significantly slowed down by increasing the amount of fruits and vegetables containing gluthione. Free radicals destroy cells in the body and lead to aging and potential disease.
Meat,chicken,fish,eggs,tofu and dairy products(Protein) – Amino acids in protein are vital for viable egg production and for making LH (luteinizing hormones) and FSH (follicle stimulating hormones) which are essential fertility hormones.
Scientific research also suggests women who get more of their protein from plants and less from animal sources have fewer overall ovulatory issues. Be certain to monitor mercury level intake from seafood as high levels can be toxic in a pregnancy.
Whole grains – Try to consume natural unrefined whole grain bread products. Unfortunately, the refining process removes more than 15 key nutrients from grains such as B vitamins and iron. Opt for making your own whole grain breads and pancakes. They will be chocked-full of fertility enhancing goodness.
Oysters – With an abundant amount of zinc, oysters are known fertility enhancer, however high mercury levels from seafood have been linked to miscarriage. Think moderation.
Tofu and soy – With careful use, tofu and soy are excellent sources of protein. Some studies suggest however, high levels of soy foods containing plant-derived estrogen called phytoestrogens may in fact decrease fertility. A study was conducted back in 2005 linking isoflavone Genistein with fertility issues. Think moderation.
FertiliTea – Try adding a cup of FertiliTea to your routine each day. Studies show that women who have issues with fertile quality cervical fluid may increase their chances of conception after consuming this all natural or- ganic herbal tea. Available on-line or at specialty markets, the one month supply runs about $20. The natural ingredients like chasteberry helps to normalize a woman’s cycle and encourages more fertile quality cervical fluid production.
Studies indicate the benefits of maintaining an optimum weight while trying to conceive is of the utmost importance. Women who are overweight reduce their chances of conception because the additional fat tissue may lead to the additional production of estrogen. Excess estrogen is known to cause a hor- monal imbalance that may affect ovulation.
It is important to find the right balance. Women who are under weight are also prone to ovulatory issues as well.
Remember, you and your partner are in training. This is the most important marathon of your life. The outcome will effect your family deeply, thus it is imperative you make the decision to optimize your health with optimal food choices.
The hidden dangers of food packaging
July 25, 2011 by Cindy Ferda · Leave a Comment
Can plastic food packaging and plastic containers really be harmful to reproductive organs and possibly lead to miscarriage? 
Bisphenol-A (BPA), an industrial chemical that makes plastics hard and transparent has been linked recently to recurrent miscarriages in a report released by scientists in Japan.
Interestingly enough and not surprising, women with a history of recurrent miscarriages were tested and found to have a higher level of the [food packaging] compound bisphenol-A in their bodies.
Although the information is based on a small preliminary study, it warrant serious cause for concern not only for a couple trying to conceive but for the health and safety of the unborn child.
Evidence in the study suggests the compound leaches into food products and when consumed by the human body it is absorbed into the bloodstream and organs in low concentrations and may prove to be toxic for some.
Additionally, in a study conducted by Harvard University and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), drinking water from plastic bottles made with the chemical bisphenol-A increases levels of the chemical found in the body by a whopping 70 percent! This is a great reason to switch to a non-plastic water container.
“Evidence in the study suggests the [BPA] compound leaches into food products and when consumedby the human body it is absorbed into the bloodstream and organs in low concentrations and mayprove to be toxic for some”.
New study links higher sperm count to vitamin
March 2, 2010 by Cindy Ferda · 1 Comment
Troubled with low sperm count, viability, motility or morphology? A recent study published in the Journal of Andrology from the American Society of Andrology cites FertilAid supplements for men may improve sperm dynamics for some men.
Recently, a 90 day blind study was conducted to determine if treatment with FertilAid improved sperm quality in men. Funded (only in part) by the makers of FertilAid for Men, 14 subjects who met the parameters of low sperm count, low percentage of motility or low percentage of normal morphology as well as those who had not taken any vitamins for at least one month were chosen to participate.
Initially, these subjects provided 2 baseline semen samples before being randomly selected to either receive the vitamin, FertilAid or be given a placebo for the following 90 days.
Under the World Health Organization guidelines, routine semen analysis was performed by the same lab at the on-set of the study and then again at the conclusion of the 90 day analysis.
After 90 days the randomly selected 8 recipients of the vitamin showed an improvement in sperm quality; specifically with the number of normally-shaped motile sperm produced; versus the 6 who consumed the placebo and showed no signs of improvement.
The conclusion is that in spite of the small size of the study, significant improvements were found in men taking FertilAid and that larger studies should be conducted to confirm the results seen within this study.
An expert in the field of optimizing reproductive health for couples trying to conceive, Cindy Ferda offers conception solutions to those experiencing fertility issues. She is the author of How to Get Pregnant Quickly & Naturally and CEO of GetPregnant.org
How to raise sperm count
February 24, 2010 by Cindy Ferda · 2 Comments
The average male sperm count ranges between 20 million to more than 100 million sperm per milliliter of semen.
According to the Mayo Clinic, less than half the men with sperm counts between 12.5 and 25 million sperm per milliliter are able to get their partner pregnant and less than one-quarter with sperm counts less than 12.5 end up impregnating their partners.
The good news however is, there are treatments available to remedy low sperm count.
If you and your partner have been trying to get pregnant for 6 months (for those over 35) to one year (for those under 35), consider scheduling an appointment with your doctor, urologist, reproductive endocrinologist or an infertility specialist to have your sperm analyzed and begin a treatment plan if deemed necessary. It is also advisable the female see her doctor or OB/GYN to check for fertility issues as well. Boosting female fertility can sometimes compensate for a lower sperm production level.
Generally, to achieve pregnancy in a partner, the hypothalamus or pituitary glands in a man’s brain must produce normal hormonal levels. If your doctor finds your levels are too low, he may recommend gonadotropin injections. For some men, normal levels may be achieved within a month or two, for others, it can take up to a year of injections. These levels can be diagnosed by simple in-office blood work.
A common cause of male infertility is varicoceles. This is a swollen vein or veins in the scrotum. This may cause only slight discomfort, if any, but can affect fertility. A varicocele can lower sperm count and is sometimes responsible for abnormally shaped sperm. A simple surgical correction can often remedy this setback. Testing for this issue is often detected by use of an ultra-sound.
An infection of the male reproductive tract can be identified with a simple blood test. High numbers of white blood cells may be a sign of an infection within the reproductive tract. A dose of antibiotics may cure the infection and restore normalcy.
Lack of zinc and folic acid in a man’s diet can lead to lower sperm count. A Danish study revealed men who added both a zinc and folic acid supplement to their diets increased their chances for impregnating their partners.
To maintain or achieve a higher healthy sperm count, doctors also advise men not smoke, avoid excessive drinking, exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight, avoid hot baths and saunas, avoid tight clothing restricting the scrotal region, remove the cell phone from the front pocket and not put the laptop computer on the lap as it causes an increase in scrotal temperature.
It is also advisable to keep environmental toxins at bay. Exposure to toxic chemicals like bleach and paints or pesticides can reduce sperm count or even change the morphology of the sperm.
How to Get Pregnant – The Top 3 eBooks
February 21, 2010 by C. A. Schwartz · 1 Comment
Shelves at the local Barnes & Noble and Borders stores are overflowing with paperbacks and guides on how to get 
pregnant but many women are turning to a quicker more convenient way to obtain the same information in the form of eBooks online, sometimes at 1/2 the cost.
While Google, Bing and Yahoo search engines have all but replaced encyclopedias and dictionaries, eBooks are today’s convenient way of obtaining all kinds of literary material including pregnancy related books immediately from the Internet.
With the simple click of a mouse these eBooks can be downloaded right away, then you as the buyer have the option of printing it out and (or) keeping it conveniently on your computer or laptop for easy instant access.
When browsing through the shelves of the local bookstore it can be difficult deciding which book best suits your specific needs, so after evaluating and critiquing several of the eBooks relating to conception and pregnancy that are currently available on-line, we narrowed our search for the cream of the crop to the following three eBooks.
These best-sellers were created by reputable authors and true experts in the field and the prices ranged from $14.95 to $39 which is a small price to pay when you consider the thousands of dollars you could spend on unnecessary fertility specialists.
$39 eBook ‘Pregnancy Miracle’ by Lisa Olson – This top-selling author sheds light on getting pregnant naturally with her successful program. An alternative health and nutrition specialist, health consultant and Chinese medicine researcher, Lisa Olson teaches couples how to reverse infertility and get pregnant within 2 Months.
This eBook snagged our attention because of the quality of the content and the fact Olson guarantees her method with a 60-day money back guarantee. This book is available for $39 on her site here and it’s definitely worth a strong consideration.
$14.95 eBook ‘Get Pregnant Quickly & Naturally’ by Cindy Ferda – At $14.95 this is clearly the best bargain we could find anywhere on the net; it sells elsewhere for $29.95. This no-nonsense material offers the nuts and bolts necessary to conceive naturally while concentrating on providing the best health environment for your baby.
A national columnist for The Examiner’s Family and Parenting Pregnancy division, Cindy Ferda combines years of gynecological and obstetrical information from experts in the fields of reproductive medicine and holistic practices and presents them in this eBook.
‘How to Get Pregnant Quickly & Naturally’ contains great health tips as well as the newest secrets of conception and strategies for getting pregnant.
The book also includes an in-depth look at the advantages of fertility diets that not only are proven to increase a woman’s chances of getting pregnant, but also decreases the chances of a fetus having neural tube defects and other potential deformities.
Utilizing this same information the author conceived naturally at 44 and is now offering to share her knowledge and personal experience in conception, fertility issues, fertility enhancing foods and keys to improving sperm count and sperm motility naturally.
$29.59 ‘The Full Embrace Pregnancy Success Program’ by Diana Farrell, M.A. – This eBook reveals secrets about the most powerful and rare health treatments you can do yourself at home for FREE that will vastly increase your chances of conception within 8-12 weeks. To date the information in this book has helped thousands of couples beat infertility and achieve pregnancy.
We hope you find this information helpful and please comment back to this section to let us know how these eBooks have helped your quest to fertility so we can share your success with our other readers.
Maca Root may be cure for conception difficulties
February 21, 2010 by Cindy Ferda · Leave a Comment
Maca Root is grown at high altitudes in the mountains of the Andes and has been used by both male and female native Peruvians for hundreds of years to facilitate conception.
With claims of successfully increasing fertility both then and now; the wonder supplement; in its organic state is a root vegetable shaped like a turnip and grows bountifully at 12,000 feet above sea level.
Far from the maca fields in the Andes, many women are turning to a prescription drug called Prometrium to help maintain optimal progesterone levels and ward off miscarriage.
An essential element in carrying a healthy pregnancy to term, progesterone levels must be balanced throughout pregnancy.
However the jury is still out on the efficacy and safety of the drug Prometrium.
The all-natural and organic alternative that is receiving high accolades is a maca root supplement also known as “lepidium meyenii”.
This works for women by attempting to control estrogen levels from becoming too high, thus causing progesterone levels to plummet and possibly lead to miscarriage.
Peruvian Maca Root in its organic state
As for the male, numerous studies have been conducted on the use of maca and its affect on sperm. One study included nine men who received maca tablets (between 1500 and 3000 mg/day) for 4 months depending upon their weight and size. Their levels were measured before and after treatment.
After using a maca supplement for four months, their seminal volume increased as did their sperm count per ejaculation. Sperm motility showed positive response as well.
For couples struggling with fertility issues and looking to create optimal reproductive health environments, they may want to look into the Peruvian favorite. It comes in the form of a tablet or powder and continues to receive rave reviews for its healing power.
Available at most vitamin stores as well as on-line, the cost of 100 tablets runs approximately $25 and a bit less for the powder.
How to Get Pregnant Quickly & Naturally is Cindy Ferda’s most recently published book. An expert in the field of optimizing reproductive health for women and men, her mission is to help inform couples of the importance of optimal reproductive health and provide solutions to their fertility dilemmas.
