June 15, 2015

My Two Dads: Gay Fatherhood This Father’s Day

Over 64.3 million fathers will be honored and celebrated on June 21st for their support, guidance, love, and commitment to enriching their children’s lives. In honor of this special day, we wanted to acknowledge all of the fathers out there!


We also wanted to showcase a very small, special segment of gay fathers, estimated at 1.5 - 3 million. Gay fatherhood is has grown in current times, with Fertility Centers of Illinois seeing a 25% increase in the number of gay and lesbian patients over the past few years, and the Family Law division of The American Bar Association estimating there are currently 4 million gay and lesbian parents raising 8 - 10 million children throughout the country.

We support patients of all backgrounds, and we feel grateful that we can help patients become parents. FCI has guided many gay and lesbian couples through the fertility process in an attempt to achieve their parenting dreams. To learn more about gay parenting, check out the interesting statistics below:
  • Gay and lesbian parents are raising 4% (65,500) of all adopted children in the U.S.
  • An estimated 3% (14,100) foster children are living with lesbian or gay parents within the U. S.
  • An estimated two million GLB people are interested in adopting.
  • There were an estimated 300,000 to 500,000 gay and lesbian biological parents in 1976.
On behalf of everyone here at FCI, we celebrate and honor ALL fathers for this coming Father’s Day. Thank you for all that you do! A very happy Father’s Day to all, we hope you enjoy it!

June 1, 2015

June 2015 Patient Education Events!

If you are interested in participating in any of our complimentary education sessions, you may register online by following the "LEARN MORE" links after each event.  Many events require registration & spots fill up fast -- so sign up as soon as you can!



6/3 Trying Again After A Loss | Online Webinar | 6 PM LEARN MORE

6/7 Egg Donation as Your Path to Parenthood | Glenview | 2 PM | LEARN MORE

6/9 Egg Donation: Your Journey Starts Here | Online Webinar | 5 PM | LEARN MORE

6/11 | Holistic Fertility Open House with Pulling Down the Moon | Highland Park | 9 AM | LEARN MORE

6/22 Egg Donation: Your Journey Starts Here | Online Webinar | 12 PM | LEARN MORE

6/22 How To Talk So Your Partner Will Listen & Listen So Your Partner Will Talk | Chicago | 7 PM | LEARN MORE


All FCI Patient Education Programs are open to the community. We continue to support your fertility journey by offering a selection of  complimentary patient education seminars, holistic healing seminars, and support groups. If you have any questions or comments please contact us at (877) 324-4483.

May 15, 2015

Boosting Fertility Through Natural Treatment

If the stress of trying to conceive is bringing you down, natural treatment options can give you a boost. Fertility Centers of Illinois works in conjunction with Pulling Down the Moon to offer a wide array of options.

Not only can natural treatment options decrease stress – they can help you get pregnant. In a Harvard study, 55 percent of women who participated in mind and body programs got pregnant, compared to 20 percent who did not.

5 Benefits of Natural Treatment:
  1. Increases blood flow to the uterus and ovaries
  2. Strengthens uterine lining
  3. Equalizes stress hormones
  4. Improves sperm count, motility and morphology
  5. Encourages relaxation, mental clarity and mindfulness  

Natural treatment options can come in many forms:

Acupuncture
Not only is acupuncture known to increase blood flow to the ovaries and uterus, it can also thicken uterine lining. Acupuncture can also decrease pelvic pain and provide relief from bloating. For those who become pregnant, acupuncture can lessen symptoms of nausea.  Relaxation and normalization of stress hormones are also proven benefits of acupuncture.


Chinese Diet Therapy
Changing diet can boost energy and wellbeing, and also help cut down extra weight. Research shows that a 5 percent decrease in weight loss for those who are overweight can help regulate menstrual cycles, aid in ovulation, and decrease the risk of gestational diabetes and hypertension during pregnancy. Chinese Dietary Therapy includes the use of a variety of new inclusions in dietary patterns as well as the elimination of some foods that are more prevalent in Western diets. Among the additions might be herbal teas and non-processed fruits and vegetables. The exclusions are foods like refined sugar and flour as well as highly processed foods or foods with high sodium content.


Chinese Herbal Medicine
While patients are never given herbal supplements leading up to or during an IVF cycle, these supplements can lessen the stress and symptoms associated with fertility treatment. Herbalists conduct a comprehensive exam then prescribe a formula. Herbalists consider 400 herbs that can come in the form of flowers, roots, or berries, when prescribing a formula. Formulas can come in the form of a tea, pills, tincture, granules or topical solutions such as lotions and poultices.


Meditation & Breathing Techniques
Utilizing calming breathing techniques calms down the sympathetic nervous system and increases blood flow to the uterus. Even small amounts of meditation, such as 10 minutes per day, gives the mind space and provides clarity, calm, and mindfulness.


Massage
Tui Na massage dates back 4700 years, making it the forefather of all forms of massage and body work that exist today. Unlike other forms of massage, Tui Na treats specific internal illnesses, making it the most effective form of massage for infertility.


Yoga
Taking time to build a yoga practice releases tension and stress, strengthens the body, encourages hormone production and increases blood flow. Specific poses, such as the lotus pose, child’s pose, reclining hero and seated forward bend can specifically help boost fertility by targeting specific parts of the body or calming the body and mind.

Natural treatment options and medical treatment options are detailed in this YouTube video.



May 1, 2015

May 2015 Patient Education Events!

If you are interested in participating in any of our complimentary education sessions, you may register online by following the "LEARN MORE" links after each event.  Many events require registration & spots fill up fast -- so sign up as soon as you can!



5/4 Egg Donation: Your Journey Starts Here | Online Webinar | 12 PM| LEARN MORE

5/5 Yoga, Meditation, & Conception | Online Webinar | 6 PM | LEARN MORE

5/14 | Egg Donation: Your Journey Starts Here | Online Webinar | 7 AM | LEARN MORE

5/14 Holistic Fertility Open House in River North | Chicago | 9 AM | LEARN MORE

5/18 Cracking the Door to Adoption | Chicago | 7 PM | LEARN MORE

5/28 Ladies Night Out! A Conversation about Fertility Preservation | Chicago | 6 PM | LEARN MORE


All FCI Patient Education Programs are open to the community. We continue to support your fertility journey by offering a selection of  complimentary patient education seminars, holistic healing seminars, and support groups. If you have any questions or comments please contact us at (877) 324-4483.

April 21, 2015

National Infertility Awareness Week: 10 Things Patients Wish You Knew

With 7.4 million women experiencing infertility — approximately 286,861 in Illinois — infertility is a national issue that affects one in eight couples, regardless of age or race.

For those who long for a child, an infertility diagnosis is devastating, and going through fertility treatment can prove a challenge physically, emotionally, and financially.

In honor of National Infertility Awareness Week on April 19-25, we asked patients what they wish others knew about infertility, and received the following responses. I have also provided medical insight to each below.

1. "Infertility is a medical condition like diabetes, a disease like cancer.”

Infertility is a disease and is medically recognized as such by the World Health Organization, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Infertility is defined as being unable to achieve a pregnancy after one year of trying to conceive if a woman is under 35 years of age, or after six months if a woman is over 35 years of age.

2. “Insurance companies usually don’t cover fertility treatments.”

State law requiring insurance companies to cover fertility treatments, and the quantity and details of that coverage, varies across the country. In Illinois, we have an insurance mandate that requires insurance to cover fertility treatments, but there are mandate exceptions. Religious employers, employers with fewer than 25 employees, and employers who self-insure are not required to provide infertility coverage. The insurance mandate covers up to four egg retrievals with a lifetime max of six egg retrievals. To learn more about coverage in your state, visit the RESOLVE Fertility Scorecard.

3. “It takes a toll on you and all of your relationships.”

One study found that couples were three times more likely to break up after unsuccessful fertility treatment. Research has shown anxiety and depression levels in women with infertility are the same as women with cancer, heart disease and HIV+ status. There is no doubt that infertility treatment can cause a strain in personal health and relationships, and many couples choose to see a fertility counselor for treatment and perspective.

4. “Getting pregnant isn’t always as easy as you think.”

It takes most couples six months to become pregnant. The odds of pregnancy in any given month are roughly 15% for women in their early 30s, then decline to 10 percent after age 35 and 5 percent over age 40.

5. “It’s more common than you realize.”
  
     According to RESOLVE, approximately 1 in 8 couples have difficulty conceiving. In Illinois, 286,861 women in Illinois have experienced “physical difficulty in getting pregnant or carrying a pregnancy to live birth.”

      6. “It’s an emotional roller coaster.”

Going through infertility is stressful and can be very difficult emotionally, and there are studies documenting this fact. A scientific study found that women whose enzyme alpha-amylase levels, a stress-related substance, were in the highest third had more than double the risk of infertility. The good news is that participating in stress reduction techniques can help significantly. In a Harvard Medical School study with women who had fertility problems, 55 percent of women who completed a 10-week course of relaxation training and stress reduction were pregnant within a year, compared to 20 percent of the group who did not take the course.

7. “Infertility affects young couples too.”

While age and diminishing fertility rates are common knowledge, it is important to note that infertility happens to young couples as well. In the latest data provided by the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, there were 174,962 cycles in 2013, and 21% (36,958) were couples under the age of 35.

8. “Support from family and friends means a lot.”

Sadly, some patients are unable to share their journey with loved ones due to the religious or personal beliefs of family and friends. To protect themselves and their future children, they stay silent. Having a support network is critical for any patient with infertility. They need someone to take a call and listen after hearing bad news, and someone to offer hope and love when times are tough. There are infertility support groups as well as classes and seminars that can help patients if they do not have the support they need.

9. “PCOS is a silent fertility disease. It can affect skinny or fat women.”

Studies have shown that 70 percent of women diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome have infertility, a health issue that affects as many as five million women in the United States. Infertility, irregular or absent periods and weight gain are three of the most common symptoms of PCOS, but not all women with PCOS are overweight. Through diet and exercise, symptoms of PCOS can be greatly lessened.

10.  “It's ok to talk about it. We're not looking for answers, just a shoulder to cry on.”

Many patients always emphasize how alone and isolated they feel while they are going through treatment. They often stay silent to protect themselves from hurtful comments, insensitive statements and harsh judgment.  The best thing to do to help someone going through infertility is to listen and ask what you can do to show your support.

What do you wish others knew about infertility? Please let us know in the comments below.

Author Bio: Dr. Jane Nani, Fertility Centers of Illinois

Dr. Nani is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI), and has been practicing medicine since 1996. Dr. Nani completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Cook County Hospital in Chicago in 1994, followed by a fellowship in REI at Beth Israel Hospital/Harvard Medical School in Boston. She has presented numerous scientific papers at national meetings and gave the Presidential Plenary Talk at the Society for Gynecologic Investigation. She is passionate about helping couples and individuals achieve their dream of parenthood, and has a specific interest in third party reproduction. Her professional interests also include Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and hysteroscopic surgery.

April 14, 2015

National Infertility Awareness Week 2015 Events

Join our physicians, staff, patients, partners, friends, and family as we bring awareness about infertility during National Infertility Awareness Week.  Together we will educate others about the fertility journey and the challenges it brings.  

Although each journey is different,  its impact is equally compelling and presents its own challenges. Through media events, patient education, and community involvement, we will empower you.  Together we will share the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions about your future family building options. You are not alone on this journey to parenthood; let us help! 



4/14 Shared Stories: A panel of women share their stories of infertility and find hope | Shine Fertility, Chicago | 6:30 PM | LEARN MORE

4/19 Dr. Angeline Beltsos will discuss infertility myths and misconceptions | WGN - Living Healthy Chicago | 11:30 AM | LEARN MORE

4/20 Cupcakes, Coffee, & Conversation | Fertility for Colored Girls and FCI, Chicago | 6:30 PM | LEARN MORE

4/20 Egg Donation: Your Journey Starts Here | Online Webinar | 12 PM | LEARN MORE

4/21 Dr. Edward Marut discusses misconceptions about infertility | FOX Good Day Chicago | 6:45 AM | LEARN MORE

4/21 Fertility Awareness & The Importance of Knowing Your Fertility Status | Fertility for Colored Girls, Online Webinar | 7 PM | LEARN MORE

4/21 Dr. Angeline Beltsos will discuss what infertility patients wish others knew about infertility | WGN - Midday Show | Midday Show | LEARN MORE

4/21 Special NIAW discount for the Kevin J Lederer Life Foundation's "Run for Life" | Early Bird Registration | LEARN MORE

4/23 Have you had your Fertility Awareness Check Up? | Online Webinar | 7 PM | LEARN MORE

4/24 You Can Freeze Your Biological Clock!  Learn about the Latest Advances in Fertility Preservation | Online Webinar | 7 PM | LEARN MORE

4/25 Support RESOLVE's efforts to change laws regarding fertility treatments LEARN MORE

4/25 Join a community organization that supports your fertility journey! | LEARN MORE

4/26 How To Speak So Your Partner Will Listen & How To Listen So Your Partner Will Speak | Glenview | 2 PM | LEARN MORE

4/27 Egg Donation as Your Path to Parenthood | Chicago | 7 PM | LEARN MORE

All FCI Patient Education Programs are open to the community. We continue to support your fertility journey by offering a selection of  complimentary patient education seminars, holistic healing seminars, and support groups. If you have any questions or comments please contact us at (877) 324-4483.

April 1, 2015

April 2015 Patient Education Events!

If you are interested in participating in any of our complimentary education sessions, you may register online by following the "LEARN MORE" links after each event.  Many events require registration & spots fill up fast -- so sign up as soon as you can!



4/2 Egg Donation: Your Journey Starts Here | Online Webinar | 7 AM | LEARN MORE

4/14 Egg Donation: Your Journey Starts Here | Online Webinar | 5 PM | LEARN MORE

4/20 | NIAW - Egg Donation: Your Journey Starts Here | Online Webinar | 12 PM | LEARN MORE

4/26 | How To Talk So Your Partner Will Listen & Listen So Your Partner Will Talk | Glenview, IL| 2 PM | LEARN MORE

4/27 | Egg Donation as Your Path to Parenthood | Chicago, IL | 7 PM | LEARN MORE


All FCI Patient Education Programs are open to the community. We continue to support your fertility journey by offering a selection of  complimentary patient education seminars, holistic healing seminars, and support groups. If you have any questions or comments please contact us at (877) 324-4483.

March 18, 2015

Assessing Fertility Potential with a Fertility Awareness Checkup

Infertility affects some 15% of the reproductive age population, which is currently estimated at 7.5 million people. Because of the high prevalence of this disease, as well as media and online attention to the problem, young women and men are becoming more aware and educated regarding their own fertility potential. A Fertility Awareness Checkup can be an easy and beneficial next step in helping couples understand their current fertility potential.

At Fertility Centers of Illinois, our Fertility Awareness Checkup is a simple combination of four tests to check for ovarian reserve and semen quality. The cost is $90, and a nurse will call with results within one week. If the patient decides to further consult with a physician, the fee is credited towards future treatment services.

The Fertility Awareness checkup includes three different tests for women and semen analysis for men.  

Testing for Women

The single most important factor in predicting pregnancy is the age of the female partner. It is commonly known that as age increases, the chance of pregnancy decreases. At the same time, the rate of spontaneous miscarriage and chance of having a child with chromosomal abnormality increases as a woman ages.

Women today are waiting longer to get married and to have children. A recent study by the CDC showed that women in the U.S. and other developed countries are waiting significantly longer before becoming pregnant than women of a generation ago. The average age of first-time mothers in the U.S. jumped from 21.4 in 1970 to 25 in 2009. The average age of marriage has similarly increased from 23 in 1970 to 28.2 in 2010. As women choose to delay marriage and childbearing, the likelihood of future infertility increases. The monthly chance of achieving pregnancy gradually but significantly begins to decline at age 32 and decreases more rapidly after age 37.

During your Fertility Awareness checkup, we will look at your ovarian reserve. Your ovarian reserve refers to the ability of your ovary to provide egg cells that are capable of fertilization, resulting in a healthy and successful pregnancy.

There are several methods to test for ovarian reserve.

“Day 3” FSH
This blood test can be done between day 2 and day 4 of your menstrual cycle. The “Day 3” FSH blood test measures ovarian function and correlates to fertility potential. FSH is the acronym for Follicle-Stimulating hormone. This hormone is released from the brain and stimulates the ovary to mature an egg. FSH levels increase as your supply of eggs decreases.

Estradiol
Your Estradiol level helps validate the FSH level. The best time to have these tests performed is between day 2 and 4 of the menstrual cycle.

Ultrasound
During your same visit, we will also perform a vaginal ultrasound which will help measure the ovaries, uterus and number of follicles on the ovary through an antral follicle count
(AFC).

Testing for Men
Since male infertility comprises approximately 40% of all couples with difficulty achieving pregnancy, a semen analysis is an important step in assessing male factor fertility. In order to get accurate results, men must abstain from sexual activity between 2 to 5 days before producing the specimen. An abnormal test will most likely result in a recommendation to repeat the semen analysis with further follow up as indicated.

These tests can provide an overview of your fertility potential, and will assist us in creating a treatment plan that will help you achieve your dream of parenthood.

Author Bio: Dr. Meike Uhler is board certified in both Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, and she has been practicing medicine since 1992. She completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwestern University in Chicago, followed by a fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at University of California, Los Angeles. Most recently, Dr. Uhler was Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology on the faculty at Loyola University School of Medicine. Her research interests and scientific publications focus on the evaluation and treatment of female and male infertility.