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  • How Does Advanced Ultrasound Technology Improved Patient Outcomes?

    How Does Advanced Ultrasound Technology Improved Patient Outcomes?

    Advanced Ultrasound Technology

    When it comes to taking care of pregnancies that face higher risks, the use of advanced ultrasound technology has brought about remarkable advancements in the field of obstetrics and maternal-fetal medicine. At Rosh Maternal-Fetal Medicine, we are dedicated to staying at the forefront of quality of care by incorporating state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment. We explore the incredible benefits of ultrasound for high-risk pregnancies and emphasize the importance of cutting-edge technology in detecting potential issues early and monitoring them closely.

    Thorough Assessments

    Ultrasound technology has transformed the way we care for expectant mothers facing higher risks during their pregnancies. By using advanced ultrasound equipment, our medical professionals can conduct thorough assessments, allowing them to detect potential complications and provide timely interventions. High-risk pregnancies can involve factors like the mother’s age, existing medical conditions, carrying multiple babies, or previous pregnancy difficulties. Ultrasound becomes a crucial tool in such cases, enabling us to closely monitor the development of the baby, identify possible abnormalities, and ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby.

    Case Study on Ultrasound Use

    A peer-reviewed journal study has shown that fetuses with true knots are four times more likely to experience stillbirth. A groundbreaking case study showed that using traditional two-dimensional ultrasounds found at most practices does not produce a good enough image or data to detect the formation of a true knot early on. The case study showed that a four-dimensional ultrasound enabled the provider to diagnose the formation of the true knot, potentially saving the life of the fetus. At RoshMFM, we have expertly trained sonographers using the most advanced ultrasound equipment so we can best treat our patients. We believe early detection and personalized treatment can improve patient outcomes.

    Precise Monitoring

    Cutting-edge ultrasound technology plays a vital role in early detection and continuous monitoring of potential complications in high-risk pregnancies. Our commitment to using state-of-the-art equipment empowers our medical team to identify subtle indicators of risk in the early stages of pregnancy. With exceptional image quality, precision, and advanced features, we can accurately observe fetal growth, organ development, blood flow patterns, and other critical factors. This level of detail allows us to recognize potential issues early on, giving us the opportunity to implement interventions tailored to each specific situation and improve the chances of positive outcomes.

    Additionally, state-of-the-art ultrasound technology enables comprehensive monitoring throughout the entire pregnancy journey. Regular ultrasound examinations help us closely track the baby’s growth, monitor amniotic fluid levels, assess the health of the placenta, and identify any emerging issues. This ongoing monitoring allows us to promptly identify any changes or deviations from the norm, leading to personalized care plans and interventions designed to address the unique needs of each high-risk pregnancy.

    Nurturing Healthy Pregnancies

    In the field of obstetrics and maternal-fetal medicine, the use of state-of-the-art ultrasound technology is revolutionizing the care provided to expectant mothers facing higher risks during their pregnancies. By embracing cutting-edge technology and thought leadership, our practice focuses on detecting potential complications early and monitoring them closely, aiming to achieve the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby. We invite those seeking expert care for high-risk pregnancies to explore the remarkable benefits of ultrasound technology and to connect with our compassionate medical team. Together, we embark on a journey towards nurturing healthy pregnancies, driven by innovation and expertise.

    Ultrasound Services Offered on RoshMFM Sites

    Ultrasound technology has revolutionized the field of obstetrics and gynecology, offering a wide range of applications that enhance patient care and diagnostic capabilities. From prenatal care to gynecologic evaluations, ultrasound serves as a versatile tool for healthcare providers. It enables thorough assessments of fetal development, including evaluating fetal anatomy, determining gestational age, and monitoring blood flow through Doppler ultrasound. Additionally, ultrasound plays a crucial role in assessing amniotic fluid levels, evaluating the placenta, and screening for genetic abnormalities. In cases of multiple gestations, ultrasound allows for individual monitoring of each baby. It also guides procedures such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, ensuring accuracy and minimizing risks.

    Beyond prenatal care, ultrasound assists in gynecologic evaluations, facilitating the diagnosis of conditions like fibroids, ovarian cysts, and uterine abnormalities. It aids in the evaluation of reproductive organs, contributing to infertility assessments and early detection of gynecologic cancers. With its broad spectrum of applications, ultrasound technology continues to shape and improve the quality of care provided in the field of obstetrics and gynecology, supporting the well-being of both mothers and their babies.

    Book your appointment with Rosh MFM today!

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is meant for educational purposes and to encourage thought and discussion. It is not intended as medical advice or a replacement for personalized healthcare guidance. For specific medical concerns and individualized care, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional.

  • Can You Drink Wine While Pregnant?

    Can You Drink Wine While Pregnant?

    The Sobering Truth: The Impact of Alcohol on Pregnant Women and Their Unborn Babies

     

    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: A Looming Threat

    Pregnancy is a magical time, filled with anticipation and joy. However, it also comes with a list of do’s and don’ts, and one of the most crucial no-nos is alcohol consumption. The age-old question persists: does indulging in a glass of wine really harm your baby? We consulted Dr. Roshan, a respected OBGYN, to shed light on this matter and emphasize why he vehemently advises against alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

     

    The Risks and Repercussions of FASD

    The risks associated with drinking during pregnancy are far-reaching, with a term that strikes fear into the hearts of expectant mothers: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Dr. Roshan explains, “Continuing alcohol intake during pregnancy significantly raises the risk of FASD, encompassing everything from mild to severe craniofacial malformations, preterm delivery, spontaneous abortion, to neurodevelopmental delays and behavioral issues.” It’s evident that this choice isn’t just unsafe; it could label your child with a lifelong condition.

     

    The Danger Persists: Wine and Alcohol’s Impact Throughout Pregnancy

    But why is alcohol so dangerous for the developing fetus? The risks are multifold. First and foremost, there’s the alarming possibility of miscarriage or stillbirth. Dr. Roshan emphasizes, “Consuming alcohol, even in small quantities, heightens these risks significantly. The more you drink, the higher the chances become.” Even if the baby is born, it might suffer from FASD, leading to low birth weight, central nervous system problems, and lifelong behavioral and learning challenges.

     

    Timing Matters: The Critical First Three Trimesters of Pregnancy

    The impact of alcohol consumption is particularly severe during the first three trimesters, leading to abnormal facial features in the baby. Beyond this period, the danger doesn’t dissipate. Alcohol is absorbed by the fetus and lingers in its system, causing significant damage, especially to the nervous system.

     

    Choosing a Brighter Future

    It’s essential to ponder the worth of a few moments of indulgence against a lifetime of challenges for your child. Is the temporary pleasure of sipping wine worth subjecting your baby to a myriad of health issues? The answer, unequivocally, is no.

     

    Raising Awareness for a Healthier Tomorrow

    In the end, the message is clear: don’t let the temptation of a glass of wine overshadow the well-being of your unborn child. While it might be challenging, the reward of a healthy, happy baby is immeasurable. So, let’s raise a glass – not of wine, but of awareness, to ensure a brighter, healthier future for our little ones.

     

    Have Questions? Call Rosh MFM in NYC

    You can count on the extensive experience of the doctors at Rosh Maternal & Fetal Medicine to identify the cause and effectively treat extreme PMS symptoms that change you during your menstrual cycle. If you have any questions about your menstrual periods, call their office in the Midtown East area of New York City, or schedule an appointment online.

  • Over The Counter Birth Control: Easier Access, but Right Choices?

    Over The Counter Birth Control: Easier Access, but Right Choices?

    Is over-the-counter BC the right form of contraception for you?

    Opill, a long-prescribed form of birth control, has made its debut on American shelves as an over-the-counter birth control. This new option marks a significant milestone for those who lack access to birth control without insurance. With over 100 countries already embracing this change, 2024 brings the United States into this transformative global movement, impacting the lives of countless American women. 

    Yes, this is an option now, but is it the right option for you? Let’s dive deeper into the differences between this over-the-counter choice and the many prescribed options. For expert insights, 21ninety asked Dr. Daniel Roshan, a world-renowned NYC high-risk maternal-fetal OBGYN to give us his perspective.

     

    Understanding The Difference

    According to Dr. Roshan, “The over-the-counter birth control pill is a progesterone-only pill, whereas the prescribed birth control pills are combinations of estrogen and progesterone. They can regulate the cycle based on the dose and strength of the hormones they contain.”

     

    Here, we discover a key distinction: the over-the-counter pill may potentially disrupt your menstrual cycle and render it irregular. If you’re seeking birth control to regulate your period, it’s essential to recognize that this may not be the ideal choice for you. Dr. Roshan advises individuals who are already on a prescribed pill that’s working well for their body to stick with it. As he emphasizes, “If a pill is effective, there’s generally no need to change it.”

     

    Right Option or Just Accessible? 

    While the over-the-counter option provides accessibility for those without insurance, Dr. Roshan concludes with a crucial reminder: “It should not replace consulting a doctor and receiving proper counseling on all available options and potential side effects.” Prioritizing informed decisions and your unique health needs should always remain paramount.

     

    Book an appointment with RoshMFM today!

  • New OBGYN MFM office in Williamsburg

    New OBGYN MFM office in Williamsburg

    Williamsburg Office

    We are thrilled to announce the opening of a new office for Rosh Maternal-Fetal-Medicine in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Dr. Daniel Roshan, MD FACOG FACS, has been providing exceptional OBGYN and MFM care to the Orthodox Jewish community for years, and our new office represents our continued commitment to serving this community where they are.

    With specialized services tailored to the unique needs and values of the Orthodox Jewish community, we are excited to provide the highest quality care to our patients. Our new location at 670 Flushing Avenue is fully equipped with the latest medical technology and staffed by a team of experienced medical professionals, ensuring that our patients receive the best possible care. We look forward to continuing to strengthen our relationship with the Orthodox Jewish community and providing compassionate care to all of our patients. 

    Our new office is located at 670 Flushing Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11206. The location was carefully chosen to provide easy access to our patients, as well as convenient parking options. The office is fully equipped with the latest medical technology and staffed by a team of experienced medical professionals. The phone number to book an appointment at any office is (212)725-0123 and specifically for the Williamsburg office you can call (718)785-0528. The office is open for business starting April 1st, 2023. 

     

    OBGYN and MFM Services Available

    At Rosh MFM, we specialize in high-risk obstetrics, which means we provide care for women who have medical conditions or other factors that increase the likelihood of complications during pregnancy. Our services include prenatal care, fetal monitoring, ultrasounds, genetic counseling, and more. We work closely with our patients and their referring physicians to ensure the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby.

    One of the primary services we offer is prenatal care. Prenatal care involves regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to ensure that the mother and baby are healthy throughout the pregnancy. We monitor the mother’s blood pressure, weight, and overall health, as well as the baby’s growth and development. Regular prenatal care can help identify and treat any potential problems early on, which can improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy and delivery.

    Fetal monitoring is another essential service we provide. Fetal monitoring involves tracking the baby’s heart rate and other vital signs during pregnancy and labor. This information can help us detect any potential problems with the baby’s health and make necessary interventions to ensure a safe delivery.

    Ultrasounds are also a critical part of our services. Ultrasounds use sound waves to create images of the developing baby in the womb. We use ultrasounds to monitor the baby’s growth and development and to detect any potential problems early on.

    We also provide genetic counseling. Genetic counseling involves assessing the risk of genetic conditions in the family and providing information about these conditions. This information can help patients make informed decisions about their pregnancy and their future health.

    You can see all of the services we offer on our services page.

    Commitment to our Community

    At Rosh MFM, we understand the unique needs and values of the Orthodox Jewish community, and we are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care to all of our patients. We are excited to open our new office in Williamsburg and look forward to serving this community.

    If you are an Orthodox Jewish woman seeking high-risk obstetric care, we encourage you to contact Rosh MFM. Our new office is located at 670 Flushing Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11206, and our experienced team is ready to provide you with the care and support you need. 

  • New Great Neck Office for OBGYN Care

    New Great Neck Office for OBGYN Care

    Rosh MFM is proud to announce the opening of its newest location in Great Neck, NY, specializing in high-risk pregnancy care. Our state-of-the-art OBGYN office offers expectant mothers on Long Island the convenience of receiving Manhattan-level care in a comfortable and accessible location.

     

    At Rosh MFM, we understand the importance of ensuring the health and safety of both mother and baby during pregnancy, especially in high-risk cases. That’s why our team of expert OBGYNs is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care and support to each of our patients.

    Our Great Neck location offers a wide range of services to meet the needs of expectant mothers, including:
    – Comprehensive prenatal care
    – High-risk pregnancy management
    – Advanced ultrasound services
    – Genetic counseling and testing
    – Maternal-fetal medicine consultation
    – Annual gynecological exams and pap tests
    – Family planning
    – Infertility evaluation and treatment

    We believe that expectant mothers deserve the best possible care during this special time, and our Great Neck location is designed to provide just that. Our spacious and welcoming facilities, combined with our advanced medical technology and expertise, ensure that our patients receive the highest level of care possible.

    Don’t miss out on the opportunity to receive the best high-risk pregnancy care on Long Island. Book your appointment with Rosh MFM today and take the first step towards a healthy and successful pregnancy.

  • Choosing Between Fresh vs. Frozen Donor Eggs

    Choosing Between Fresh vs. Frozen Donor Eggs

    When it comes to IVF (in vitro fertilization), you have a choice of fresh or frozen donor eggs. To make the best decision, you need to give this a lot of thought. First of all, using a donor egg in itself can be a time-consuming and difficult decision. It can involve a lot of painful realizations, and you need time to think through it. Once you have made the decision, you’ll be pleased to know that it has a very high success rate in comparison to other reproduction-assisted technology. Then you need to choose between fresh or frozen eggs. To help you make that decision, here are some pros and cons for each type:

    Fresh or Frozen Donor Eggs, What’s the Difference?

    When you are working with fresh eggs, the eggs that have been retrieved from the donor are fertilized immediately with the sperm of the donor or the father. The embryos are then transferred to a surrogate or the mother. They may even be frozen for use at a later date. When it comes to frozen donor eggs, they are put into cryopreservation straight away, starlight after being retrieved – prior to the fertilization process. When they are going to be used, they are thawed out and then fertilized to create embryos. A decade ago, in 2013, as many as 20% of all couples used frozen donor eggs. This figure has grown exponentially since technology is getting more and more advanced. However, the frozen egg survival rate is still not as high as fresh eggs.   

    Using Fresh Donor Eggs the Pros and Cons 

    Pros:

    • Higher success rates consistently – in 2017, there was a study comparing fresh and frozen egg success rates, and fresh eggs were found to have a success rate 19% higher than frozen eggs. 
    • Multiple embryos – intended parents are entitled to have all the eggs retrieved from the donor in fresh egg cycles. Due to the fact that fresh eggs generally result in more viable embryos, it is likely that the parents have more embryos to implant. It gives you more of a chance of a live birth. It also means that you can freeze some embryos if you choose. Meaning you can have a sibling for your baby.  

    Cons:

    • The unknown – a fresh donor egg cycle can be rather unpredictable. Somwerthgn may prevent the procedure from happening. Potentially the donor may react differently to the medications than what was expected. This could force a restart or even a cancellation. Although there is an extremely in-depth screening process along with regular monitoring, sometimes things go wrong.
    • Lack of coordination – when you work with a reputable clinic this is a non-issue. However, a fresh donor cycle may mean that you are trying to coordinate cycles with someone you never contact, which can cause some serious issues. 

    Pros and cons of frozen donor eggs

    Pros

    • Very little waiting time – as the egg is frozen, you do not have to wait the three months for a typical fresh egg cycle. You don’t need to sync cycles, for example.
    • Usually, it is more affordable – Generally speaking, it tends to be cheaper working with frozen donor eggs. However, you need to research clinics to ensure that you are getting the best rates and the highest success ratios. 

    Cons: 

    • Not as many embryos – most of the time, you are working with fewer embryos. You are limited in terms of embryos, unlike fresh egg donation. To get the best price, some people share the egg cohort with other intended parents. Again this reduces the number of eggs you can work with.
    • Limited range of options -it is a hard decision to choose an egg from the donors out there. Doing this means you need to choose another person, i.e., not you, not your genetics, to create another human being. At least one parent is not going to be biologically related to their child. Conducting as wide a search as possible makes you feel as if you are taking back a little control in this. When you are working with the frozen egg stock, at there moment, there are fewer options. 

    Cost Comparison

    If you are concerned about the price, then using, a frozen egg is the least expensive option. 

    There are generally six to eight mature eggs in a cohort, and the price of these can set you back between $13,000 to $16,000 or more. This cost is minus any of the IVF-related fees. A fresh cycle is more like $20,000, and that is prior to any of the other associated costs. 

  • What Is The IVF Journey?

    What Is The IVF Journey?

    In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a series of medical steps that help you conceive a child. Just under 50 million couples in the US and 190 million worldwide experience infertility. Treatment involves taking drugs that stimulate your body to produce eggs. Eggs and sperm can come from a couple looking to have a baby or a pre-screened donor. IVF is one of the world’s most successful ways of assisted conception. This article will examine the IVF journey and what to expect from the process.

    Initial Consultation

    Your fertility doctor may recommend you for IVF if you:

     

    • Have blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
    • Have decreased sperm motility (sperm swimming speed and movement) or low sperm count
    • Have or are a carrier of certain genetic disorders 
    • Are a same-sex or intended single parent
    • Have unexplained fertility issues

     

    If you decide to proceed with IVF, you will begin an IVF treatment cycle. Your fertility doctor will tell you what to expect from the process.

     

    IVF Testing

    At the start of your IVF testing, couples will have a series of blood tests, ultrasounds, and samples to help tailor the IVF. Women may have hormone tests, ultrasounds or X-rays to ensure there are no blockages or issues that would prevent IVF success. A physician will also check the number of eggs in their body to help estimate how their ovaries will respond to IVF treatment. Men may have semen samples to test sperm quality, motility and volume. 

     

    Couples or donors going through IVF will also have screenings for conditions like HIV or thalassemia. If you have an egg donor, you should ensure that all eggs are screened before insemination. Other tests may be required depending on your location and the clinic. 

     

    Fertility Medications

    Fertility medications help to stimulate egg production and increase the chances of IVF being effective. Women take these medications orally or via an injection they give themselves after training. Women may also take hormones that help to suppress their natural menstrual cycle, making fertility medications more effective. Some women are exempt from taking certain hormones due to preexisting medical conditions.

     

    Monitoring & Egg Maturing 

    A consultant will use a vaginal ultrasound test to assess how the medication has helped the eggs mature. Before eggs are retrieved, women will have a hormone injection that helps their eggs develop even further. Once the consultant has decided that the eggs have matured sufficiently, they will move on to the next stage of IVF, which involves egg retrieval.

     

    Egg Retrieval & Fertilization

    Egg retrieval is when the eggs are collected for IVF while the woman is under a general anesthetic. The eggs will be collected using a needle inserted through the vagina and into the ovary. The eggs are placed into a test tube and passed to a doctor who mixes eggs with the donor or partner’s sperm.

     

    Embryo Testing & Transfer

    An embryologist can assess how many embryos have formed and screen them for genetic conditions. Embryos will be frozen and stored or transferred to the uterus. The consultant will assess each embryo and decide on the appropriate number of eggs to transfer depending on the woman’s age and the embryo’s condition. 

     

    The transfer occurs while the individual is awake via a thin catheter inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. The physician uses an ultrasound to help place the embryos at the top of the cervix.

     

    Pregnancy Test

    Approximately two weeks after the embryo transfer, a pregnancy test will determine whether the IVF has been successful. These two weeks can be difficult, so it is recommended to make plans for after the transfer and live life as normally as possible. Your clinic may ask you to come in for a pregnancy test or ask you to take one at home.

     

    If your IVF round is successful, the clinic may send you back to your normal consultant after around six weeks. If the IVF is not successful, you may be able to try again, but it is advised to take some time after treatment.

     

    How Long Does IVF Take?

    IVF can take between two-six weeks. For women unable or not required to take certain medications or hormones, the process takes between two to four weeks, while women needing drugs before treatment may see IVF taking from four to six weeks.

     

    Final Thoughts

    The IVF journey has several steps designed to increase the chances of success. Initial tests and drugs help the eggs mature as much as possible and ensure IVF is a viable treatment path. Embryos are carefully assessed and graded before implantation to improve the embryo’s chances of becoming a viable pregnancy. 

     

    While IVF has no guarantees, it is one of the fertility treatments with the highest success rates. Preparing yourself for the IVF journey can help you manage the different stages of the cycle and understand what to expect from each step of the process.

  • What Is Secondary Infertility?

    Nothing can cause a more emotive response from a parent than something related to their children. The inability to have children can be heartbreaking, even if you already have one child. The pain that you can experience from not being able to have a second one is just as powerful. Secondary infertility is the name given to this scenario. It is where you are unable to conceive or carry a baby to term for a second time after, i.e., after having a previous successful pregnancy. This form of infertility is very similar to other types of infertility and can be due to either the man or the woman. The good news is that there are treatments available to help you have that second baby.     

    What are the Causes of Secondary Infertility

    Secondary infertility is a problem that is attributed to either partner or both. Approximately a third of these cases stem from women and another third from the man. The final third is an issue that is due to a combination of factors. Many things can affect the fertility of men and women after already conceiving a child. Here are a few of them:

    • Age – Women over 35 years old may have issues with the quality and quantity of their eggs. Women are born with a finite supply of eggs. So the older you are, the fewer eggs you have left.
    • The fallopian tubes, which carry the egg from the ovary to the uterus, can become damaged.
    • Endometriosis – a condition where the lining of the womb grows in the wrong place.
    • Reduced or impaired sperm count.
    • Uterine problems, such as scarring of the uterus. 
    • Polycystic ovary syndrome, which impairs the ovaries.
    • Obesity or too much weight gain.
    • Certain lifestyle choices, like too much alcohol and smoking. 
    • Medications.
    • A low testosterone level
    • Diabetes
    • Tumors
    • Urinary tract infections

    There are so many causes that can affect fertility, and secondary infertility may well have an unexplained causation. Approximately 20% of cases are unexplained. 

    What to do if you Suspect Secondary Infertility?

    As soon as you begin to suspect that you have a secondary fertility issue, then you need to get in touch with a health care provider. Early intervention is the best to resolve the issue. So, schedule a secondary infertility examination with either a urologist, a woman’s health provider, or a reproductive endocrinologist. The sooner you book the appointment, the sooner you will get your results. Once your secondary infertility issue has been highlighted then, you can begin the right treatment. 

    As part of your examination, your doctor will go through all your medical notes to discover whether or not something has changed since the last time you were pregnant. You will be questioned about your periods and how regular, heavy, etc., they are. It is important to know if you are ovulating and producing eggs still. Men will need to disclose if they have a history of conditions such as cancer, thyroid disease, or any other age-related issues. All of these can affect sperm production and its quality.

    It may be necessary to do other tests, so you will have this discussion with your doctor. In some cases, an X-ray of the uterus is necessary. This is called a hysterosalpingogram and is used to determine if there are any abnormalities or scarring. The semen will likely be analyzed too. 

    What Treatments are Available for Secondary Infertility?

    Most of the treatments for secondary infertility are the same as primary infertility. Here is a list of some of the treatments available:

    • Medication – this is sought to help women ovulate if they have an ovulatory disorder, for example. Drugs include letrozole and clomiphene. 
    • Supplements – things like anti-aging pills or anti-oxidants are great at increasing fertility in men. Anti-oxidants reduce free radicals in the body – free radicals are unstable molecules that lead to illnesses like cancer. By reducing things like free radicals, sperm quality is increased.  
    • Surgery – often, surgery is conducted to fix uterine problems. The surgeons will conduct structural issues like removing polyps, fibroids, and scar tissue. Surgery can also be used to fix things like testicular varicocele.
    • IUI, intrauterine insemination – this is where sperm is surgically placed into the uterus.
    • IVF, in vitro fertilization – this is where you are given daily injections designed to stimulator your ovaries; there is a procedure to retrieve your eggs; in a lab, your eggs will go through a fertilization procedure to produce embryos, then the embryos will be grown, and eventually transferred tot he uterus.

     

  • Picking a Fertility Clinic

    Picking a Fertility Clinic

    Choosing a fertility clinic is an essential step when it comes to seeking fertility care, and you need to be sure that you choose the right clinic that suits your needs but also makes you feel comfortable throughout the entire process. When it comes to picking a fertility clinic, you may wish to consider the following:

    Conduct Detailed Research 

    You need to think about the things that you need throughout the entire process. You will need to narrow down a list of clinics or doctors. 

    Additionally, you can speak to current or former patients, have a conversation with a clinic representative, or interview your potential doctor.

    Picking the Right Doctor for You

    When looking for fertility clinics, they are only as good as the doctors who work there. Depending on how the clinic operates, you may be assigned one doctor or a number of different ones on a rotation. 

    When choosing a doctor, it’s important to consider some of the following:

    • Where and when they were trained. For example, if they are members of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM).
    • If the clinic has other types of doctors on-site. For example, a reproductive surgeon may be necessary if you have a condition like endometriosis. 
    • How long the doctor has been with the clinic? This is a surefire sign that the clinic is a reputable one, as the doctor will have been there for longer.

    Understanding Your Financial Options

    As part of the research process, you should understand what your medical insurance covers, and the overall costs of fertility treatment. Most states do not have coverage for infertility procedures so you should look at additional factors that will impact the overall cost, for example, payment plans. You should also bear in mind some of the following: 

    • If the clinic accepts insurance, and if not, will they give you the paperwork to find coverage for yourself? 
    • If they have a payment program, and if you need to pay anything in advance.
    • There are other aspects to consider, for example, if a cycle is canceled before you go through the IVF procedure of egg retrieval. 

    Understand the Procedures They Offer

    When you are undertaking research for a fertility clinic, there are things you should understand prior to undergoing treatment. Gaining an insight into the procedures, tests, and the laboratory itself can give you a better insight into if this is the right fertility clinic for you. It’s important to bear in mind some of the following: 

    • If the clinic has an on-site lab or is far away from the clinic.
    • If there are surrogacy or donor options available. 
    • If the clinic is a member of the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) or the lab is accredited by the College of American Pathologists or the Joint Commission.

    Many people are so desperate to get on the waiting list for treatment they don’t consider the bigger picture. When it comes to procedures and tests, it is essential for you to bear these things in mind, especially if there is a cut-off age for treatments you haven’t factored in before your research.

    What You Should Expect from the Clinic

    The clinic should be of a certain standard, not just in terms of complying with necessary rules and regulations, but should make you feel more comfortable in the process. Here are a few things you should expect of the clinic and the staff themselves: 

    • A personal touch. It may be essential for the staff to be more personable with you, especially given the very emotional nature of what can occur. 
    • The additional services. For example, if they offer acupuncture or counseling. 
    • The location and hours of operation can be essential if you have to drive far for a fertility appointment.

    When it comes to picking a fertility clinic, there are a lot of things to bear in mind. Many people find that a fertility clinic is their last attempt at having a child, but that doesn’t mean you should settle for a fertility clinic that is below par. The right fertility clinic should always exceed your expectations.

  • 10 Healthy Snacks for Pregnancy Cravings

    10 Healthy Snacks for Pregnancy Cravings

    When you first find out that you’re pregnant, there are probably a lot of questions running through your mind. Among those questions, you’re starting to think about what needs to be cleared out of the pantry, and what bland foods will be replacing delicious snacks for the next nine months. Well, fear not. Maintaining a healthy diet during your pregnancy is not as worrisome as some may think, but there are a few things to always keep in mind.

    First, it’s important to understand why there is a heavy emphasis on a healthy diet during pregnancy. Getting the right amount of vitamins, minerals, and proteins is linked to good brain development and a healthy birth weight for your baby and can reduce the risk of birth defects. While there are many foods that contain the sustenance you need to stay healthy during pregnancy and to make sure you have a healthy baby, there are several foods that you should definitely avoid. Namely, avoid high mercury fish (swordfish, tuna, or tilefish, for example), undercooked fish or other meats, raw eggs, caffeine, unwashed produce, junk foods, raw sprouts, unpasteurized milk, cheese and fruit juice, and alcohol. You can read more about what foods to avoid during pregnancy, but in this article we will talk about the good stuff. Here are ten healthy snacks that you can eat while you are pregnant:

    Healthy Snacks to eat while you’re pregnant

    1. Whole grain toast with scrambled eggs

    This is a great option for breakfast or lunch or even a midday snack. The toast will give you a long lasting energy and will provide you with plenty of fibers. The scrambled eggs provide protein and plenty of vitamins and minerals, such as choline, which will help with your baby’s brain development. Make sure not to eat raw or undercooked eggs, though, as they can be contaminated with Salmonella.

    2. Hummus, veggies, and pita

    This snack will give you plenty of protein and healthy fats from the chickpeas in the hummus, and carbs from the pita bread. If you want to add some more sustenance, some raw veggies will complement this snack nicely! Veggies are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote health during pregnancy.

    3. Sorbet with fresh berries

    This delicious dessert is a great option when you want to consume healthy calories while also satisfying your sweet tooth. The fruit will give you the extra nutrition you need like vitamin C, potassium, folate, and fiber. Include some raspberries in there as well for some additional iron. Maintaining iron levels in your body is important for preventing anemia during pregnancy and relieving any symptoms that it can cause.

    4. Banana and peanut butter

    A delicious and healthy way to get your protein and potassium which will improve blood pressure control amongst other things. Bananas are high in potassium and also contain other vitamins and minerals, while peanut butter provides a high amount of proteins and fibers as well as magnesium. All of these things are essential for you and your baby to stay healthy, which is why this is a great, easy snack!

    5. Non-buttered popcorn

    Popcorn is a great option whether you’re on the go, or having a nice movie night. The fiber-rich nature of popcorn can help with the constipation that women may get from prenatal vitamins. Try to avoid overly buttered or salted popcorn, though.

    6. Oatmeal

    Another great option for breakfast, lunch, or a midday snack! A cup of oatmeal will contribute to your daily recommended fiber and iron intake, and will help keep you full longer and decrease constipation. A cup of oatmeal will also contribute about 30 percent of your daily recommended magnesium intake.

    7. Avocado toast

    Again, whole-grain toast is a great and healthy option to get your fibers in, and pairing it with avocados will help you get rid of those annoying leg cramps you might’ve experienced. Leg cramps can come from a lack of potassium, and avocados are full of potassium. Avocados also contain a lot of healthy fats, which help build the skin, brain, and tissues of your baby.

    8. Homemade trail mix

    Throw some walnuts, dried fruits like mango or coconut, and cashews into a bowl and mix it all up! Of course, there are infinite options when making your own trail mix, but getting a good combination of nuts and fruits will give you vitamin D,  calcium, and mineral magnesium which helps to build your baby’s bones and teeth. Plus, you can snack on trail mix really at any time of the day making it a great option to get quality, healthy calories.

    9. Yogurt parfait with nuts and fruit

    Eating a delicious yogurt parfait is an easy way to get your protein and calcium with the added benefit of probiotics that could relieve constipation that you may experience during pregnancy. Greek yogurt specifically will provide you with more protein, and famously pairs great with fruit, nuts, or granola!

    10. Cold watermelon on a warm day

    And lastly, some delicious watermelon. Watermelons are 92% water, so it’s a great way to stay hydrated while also noshing on a delicious fruit. Even better, a cup of watermelon contains about 170 mg of potassium, and is low in calories. Watermelon also eases heartburn and reduces swelling, and relieves morning sickness from the fruit sugars.

    …and the list goes on!

    There are countless more options for healthy and delicious snacks that you can either buy in stores or make at home with inexpensive ingredients. Hopefully this list gave you some ideas and inspiration to get you started on a healthy diet! At the end of the day, the most important thing is to make sure you are getting the recommended amount of nutrients during your pregnancy to make sure you and your baby can be healthy.