Pelvic Inflammatory Disease can affect women resulting to reproductive health issues and infertility. It affects the womb, ovaries, Fallopian tubes, cervix, womb lining, and reproductive organs.

Today, many women have more than one sexual partner and this partly has been responsible for the dramatic rise in STD’s (sexually transmitted diseases), such as syphilis, gonorrhea and blocked Fallopian tubes.

What Are the Causes of PID?
Many actually, but two have been commonly identified:

- Chlamydia
- Neisseria gonorrhea.

Symptoms of PID:
- Itching, soreness, and redness around the vagina, vulva or anus.
- Smelly vaginal discharge
- Burning sensation when passing urine
- Pain when having sex

What To Do:

If you suffer from any of the above symptoms, then you should see a doctor ASAP!

Get tested for proper diagnosis and treatment option.

Natural Treatment Option for PID:

Turmeric:
An amazing herbal solution for PID, if you have itchy, painful and sore area then consider this amazing remedy and get rid of pelvic pain and associated issues.

Garlic:
Garlic is filled with powerful anti-oxidants and antibacterial properties which would help in fighting the bacteria and getting rid of other pelvic issues naturally
Castor Oil massage:
Castor oil massages over the abdomen and pelvic regions would in conjunction help to relieve pelvic pain due to P-I-D, amazingly.

Get more tips on our website: http://DocGilbert.com

mumkachi:
Many thanks @DrGil. God bless you

@mumkachi, happy it helped you.

soonest:
ood evening mamas,
DrGil and other sabi mamas pls help interprete this result. It's for a very dear friend.
*CD3 and CD21 hormonal assay
*HSG.
Thanks in anticipation

@Soonest, hormonal profile test seems okay. HSG reports hydrosalpinx (cystic fluid) within the tube and a partial Asherman's syndrome. How long have you been TTCing?

Loisemm:


Drgil, help interprete mine too pls. Mamakendra , saw ur deferring to Fvine. Thanks.
Mama Fvine no dey look our side nowadays
I understand sis. I know as ttc dey tire.

#WeAppreciateFvine

#NaOnlyGodGoBlessYou

*Make I enter peeping mode now. As I Don dey talk too much

Hello @Loisemm, according to the scan report endometrial implants was seen towards your right fallopian tube and its associated structures. This is not a specific test for diagnosing endometriosis though, you may need to do a laparoscopy. How's your menses, do you feel severe cramps when AF shows up?

mumkachi:
@DrGil, please interpret the below report. Many thanks

@Mumkachi am not a sonologist LOL, but i can help you with that with some experience.

A mass was visualized in your womb, so you might want to ask them what kind of mass that was, cyst or fibroid. Your scan also reported fluid collection in the pouch of douglas which suggests PID, please see your doctor for treatment asap to avoid any complication.

ZaraOli:
Thanks DrGil,
I have been TTC for about 2 years now and I am thinking of starting with those tests and a scan as well. Or what do you advice

Alright @ZaraOli, that is good. Go on and do those basic fertility screening tests and post it here afterwards, i will help you interpret them. Cheers

ZaraOli:
@DrGil and other mamas
Good day, pls when is the best time to go for hormonal profile. I started my period on Wednesday night. Can I do the test on Friday or Saturday morning? Thank you

ZaraOli, you didnt mention your TTC challenge, hormonal profile is generic term. FSH and LH evaluation is best done 3 days after menstruation (for lack of ovulation issues/PCOS). For Progesterone, request to do a 21-day progesterone test (for early miscarriage issues). Prolactin could be done anytime if a woman is lactating abnormally (for galactorrhea, breast milk discharge issues)

Pweetiebabe:
Gud morning mamas pls I have a question o, can clomid work in inducing ovulation even though prolactin is slightly high...My prolactin was 26 against the lab normal range of 25 and have taken bromocriptine for two months but tips is still discharging and Wat drugs can I probably use with it to reduce any side effects? My gynea place me on 50mg for 5days for my next cycle...
Can clomid be use with bromocriptine and Metformin?

Pls don't jump and pass ooo, you jump and pass I run and follow you

cc
Fvine
legendmother
4realwoman

mamakandra and all mamas of quadruplet

@Pweetiebabe, Please careful on Clomid, yes it has helped some women to conceive but it comes with side effects like cervical mucus dryness etc this hinders conception too (google it), i will first recommend you do fertility detoxification to flush out toxins which is usually the cause of hormones imbalance. And Bromocriptine, Parlodel etc. only helps with symptomatic relieve of breast milk discharge (hyperprolactinemia) and not cure.

mamakendra:

Thanks love. Guess I may just leave it till next month. And run hvs instead.

I want to run all you mentioned.

Okay @Mamakendra, FSH and LH is best done 3 days after menstruation. For Progesterone, request to do a 21-day progesterone test. Prolactin could be done anytime if a woman is lactating abnormally (galactorrhea).

Hello @Frankdoho,

I am Dr Gilbert, am quite excited with the amount of care and support here. This is actually my first comment on this thread and i'll like to contribute my experience and knowledge too. What specific hormonal test do you want to evaluate for? Progesterone, Prolactin or FSH?

saints2:


Dr. Nnaji, please can I have your permission to use in our website?

Sure, feel free but as usual remember to mention the source link and author.

Ovulation is one the important terminologies in the female reproductive health, every female partner trying to conceive must be very familiar with “the Big O” for a fast conception.

What actually is this Ovulation?

Ovulation is an event, occasioned by the release of a fully matured egg (or ovum) from the ovary of a healthy and fertile female couple, which occurs when the Graafian follicle of a reproductive functional woman ruptures and releases an egg into the fallopian tubes, for the male sperm to fertilize.

As a woman, to achieve pregnancy there is a need for you to understand the biology and dynamics of your body, especially the basics of your reproductive health systems, which is primarily the reason I gave away the Fertility 101 eBook for free to enable you to understand the workings of your fertility health. This will in so many ways help to short-circuit your period of trying to Conceive and thus increase your chances of conception.

What are the Ways to Promote a Regular Ovulation?

Reducing Stress:

In my previous articles, I dedicated an entire page on the effects of stress on your fertility health. For a couple trying to conceive getting stress out your life should be your primary motive because stress-induced infertility is difficult to even diagnose medically.

Also, stress inhibits your reproductive hormones from performing their usual routine tasks, thereby preventing you from ovulating cyclically; and denying you the full rights of motherhood.


Diet & Whole Foods:

From research, it’s been found that eating fertility foods are one of the most supportive ways to boost a regular ovulation. Foods that will help boost your ovarian health should be rich in vitamin D, B12, B6, Iron and Essential fatty acids. And you can obtain them from the following food sources listed below:

Green vegetables
Fruits
Whole grain
Moderate amount of lean meats
Seafoods
Nuts etc
Seeds and healthy fats etc.


Exercise & Fertility Massage:

Exercise also supports fertility and ovulation, such exercises that you should be familiar with are yoga, fertility massage; aerobic exercises, to perform for at least 30 minutes duration three times a week.

Note also that exercise also helps to optimize your Body Mass Index (total body fat) if you are on the weighty side, and also physiologically increasing the sensitivity of your body cells to insulin hormone absorption and metabolism of energy.

On the other hand, fertility massage which is a very effective therapy and exercise has been shown to offer tremendous results in unblocking obstructed Fallopian tubes and shrinking tumours in the pelvic organs of a woman.


Herbal Therapy:

Herbal therapy has consistently shown effectiveness and reliance in restoring fertility and curing a lot of fertility-related issues in men and women seeking for the fruit of the womb.

For instance, for a woman with Hormonal Imbalance condition, herbal therapy will support her ovarian health by first restoring hormonal balances and hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis function, by so doing creating spontaneity and balance in the process. The testimonials from the herbal therapies have been amazing in this regards, and should be considered as part of your overall ovarian health supportive therapy.

The Following Herbal Supplements Have Been Found to be Effective in Promoting a Regular Ovulation:

Vitex: Helps to support the body’s naturally ability to produce hormones (luteinizing hormone) that support ovulation.
Tribulus: Has been found to promote ovulation when used before you go into ovulation.
Saw Palmetto: Helps to stimulate ovulation in women with ovarian cysts and restores hormonal balance.
Maca: Helps to reverse hormonal imbalance; nourishes the endocrine system and even increases stamina and energy.
Dong Quai: Is rich in Iron and helps to increase blood circulation to the uterus; toning the womb and also helps to regulate reproductive hormones.


Acupuncture:

Acupuncture is a form of ancient Chinese medicine therapy used many centuries ago for healing the body from myriads of fertility-related conditions and also for achieving overall wellness.

Acupuncture, a holistic health approach works by the insertion of sterile thin needles into certain locations in the body called the Meridian channels and by stimulating these locations in the body it is believed this brings therapeutic benefits to the body, and restores hormonal balances in people suffering from anovulation and infertility, thereby helping to promote a regular ovulation.

Feel free to ask any related question or leave a comment.

Author: Dr. Gilbert Nnaji

Learn more: http://DocGilbert.com

Ovulation is one the important terminologies in the female reproductive health, every female partner trying to conceive must be very familiar with “the Big O” for a fast conception.

What actually is this Ovulation?

Ovulation is an event, occasioned by the release of a fully matured egg (or ovum) from the ovary of a healthy and fertile female couple, which occurs when the Graafian follicle of a reproductive functional woman ruptures and releases an egg into the fallopian tubes, for the male sperm to fertilize.

As a woman, to achieve pregnancy there is a need for you to understand the biology and dynamics of your body, especially the basics of your reproductive health systems, which is primarily the reason I gave away the Fertility 101 eBook for free to enable you to understand the workings of your fertility health. This will in so many ways help to short-circuit your period of trying to Conceive and thus increase your chances of conception.

What are the Ways to Promote a Regular Ovulation?

Reducing Stress:

In my previous articles, I dedicated an entire page on the effects of stress on your fertility health. For a couple trying to conceive getting stress out your life should be your primary motive because stress-induced infertility is difficult to even diagnose medically.

Also, stress inhibits your reproductive hormones from performing their usual routine tasks, thereby preventing you from ovulating cyclically; and denying you the full rights of motherhood.


Diet & Whole Foods:

From research, it’s been found that eating fertility foods are one of the most supportive ways to boost a regular ovulation. Foods that will help boost your ovarian health should be rich in vitamin D, B12, B6, Iron and Essential fatty acids. And you can obtain them from the following food sources listed below:

Green vegetables
Fruits
Whole grain
Moderate amount of lean meats
Seafoods
Nuts etc
Seeds and healthy fats etc.


Exercise & Fertility Massage:

Exercise also supports fertility and ovulation, such exercises that you should be familiar with are yoga, fertility massage; aerobic exercises, to perform for at least 30 minutes duration three times a week.

Note also that exercise also helps to optimize your Body Mass Index (total body fat) if you are on the weighty side, and also physiologically increasing the sensitivity of your body cells to insulin hormone absorption and metabolism of energy.

On the other hand, fertility massage which is a very effective therapy and exercise has been shown to offer tremendous results in unblocking obstructed Fallopian tubes and shrinking tumours in the pelvic organs of a woman.


Herbal Therapy:

Herbal therapy has consistently shown effectiveness and reliance in restoring fertility and curing a lot of fertility-related issues in men and women seeking for the fruit of the womb.

For instance, for a woman with Hormonal Imbalance condition, herbal therapy will support her ovarian health by first restoring hormonal balances and hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis function, by so doing creating spontaneity and balance in the process. The testimonials from the herbal therapies have been amazing in this regards, and should be considered as part of your overall ovarian health supportive therapy.

The Following Herbal Supplements Have Been Found to be Effective in Promoting a Regular Ovulation:

Vitex: Helps to support the body’s naturally ability to produce hormones (luteinizing hormone) that support ovulation.
Tribulus: Has been found to promote ovulation when used before you go into ovulation.
Saw Palmetto: Helps to stimulate ovulation in women with ovarian cysts and restores hormonal balance.
Maca: Helps to reverse hormonal imbalance; nourishes the endocrine system and even increases stamina and energy.
Dong Quai: Is rich in Iron and helps to increase blood circulation to the uterus; toning the womb and also helps to regulate reproductive hormones.


Acupuncture:

Acupuncture is a form of ancient Chinese medicine therapy used many centuries ago for healing the body from myriads of fertility-related conditions and also for achieving overall wellness.

Acupuncture, a holistic health approach works by the insertion of sterile thin needles into certain locations in the body called the Meridian channels and by stimulating these locations in the body it is believed this brings therapeutic benefits to the body, and restores hormonal balances in people suffering from anovulation and infertility, thereby helping to promote a regular ovulation.

Feel free to ask any related question or leave a comment.

Author: Dr. Gilbert Nnaji
(Medical practitioner; natural fertility therapist)

Learn more: http://DocGilbert.com

Ovulation is one the important terminologies in the female reproductive health, every female partner trying to conceive must be very familiar with “the Big O” for a fast conception.

What actually is this Ovulation?

Ovulation is the release of a fully matured egg (or ovum) from the ovary of a healthy and fertile female couple; which occurs when the Graafian follicle of a reproductive functional woman ruptures and releases an egg in the fallopian tubes, for the male sperm to fertilize.

As a woman, to achieve pregnancy there is a need for you to understand the biology and dynamics of your body, especially the basics of your reproductive health systems, which is primarily the reason I gave away the Fertility 101 eBook for free to enable you to understand the workings of your fertility health. This will in so many ways help to short-circuit your period of trying to Conceive and thus increase your chances of conception.

What are the Ways to Promote a Regular Ovulation?

Reducing Stress:

In my previous articles, I dedicated an entire page on the effects of stress on your fertility health. For a couple trying to conceive getting stress out your life should be your primary motive because stress-induced infertility is difficult to even diagnose medically.

Also, stress inhibits your reproductive hormones from performing their usual routine tasks, thereby preventing you from ovulating cyclically; and denying you the full rights of motherhood.


Diet & Whole Foods:

From research, it’s been found that eating fertility foods are one of the most supportive ways to boost a regular ovulation. Foods that will help boost your ovarian health should be rich in vitamin D, B12, B6, Iron and Essential fatty acids. And you can obtain them from the following food sources listed below:

Green vegetables
Fruits
Whole grain
Moderate amount of lean meats
Seafoods
Nuts etc
Seeds and healthy fats etc.


Exercise & Fertility Massage:

Exercise also supports fertility and ovulation, such exercises that you should be familiar with are yoga, fertility massage; aerobic exercises, to perform for at least 30 minutes duration three times a week.

Note also that exercise also helps to optimize your Body Mass Index (total body fat) if you are on the weighty side, and also physiologically increasing the sensitivity of your body cells to insulin hormone absorption and metabolism of energy.

On the other hand, fertility massage which is a very effective therapy and exercise has been shown to offer tremendous results in unblocking obstructed Fallopian tubes and shrinking tumours in the pelvic organs of a woman.


Herbal Therapy:

Herbal therapy has consistently shown effectiveness and reliance in restoring fertility and curing a lot of fertility-related issues in men and women seeking for the fruit of the womb.

For instance, for a woman with Hormonal Imbalance condition, herbal therapy will support her ovarian health by first restoring hormonal balances and hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis function, by so doing creating spontaneity and balance in the process. The testimonials from the herbal therapies have been amazing in this regards, and should be considered as part of your overall ovarian health supportive therapy.

The Following Herbal Supplements Have Been Found to be Effective in Promoting a Regular Ovulation:

Vitex: Helps to support the body’s naturally ability to produce hormones (luteinizing hormone) that support ovulation.
Tribulus: Has been found to promote ovulation when used before you go into ovulation.
Saw Palmetto: Helps to stimulate ovulation in women with ovarian cysts and restores hormonal balance.
Maca: Helps to reverse hormonal imbalance; nourishes the endocrine system and even increases stamina and energy.
Dong Quai: Is rich in Iron and helps to increase blood circulation to the uterus; toning the womb and also helps to regulate reproductive hormones.


Acupuncture:

Acupuncture is a form of ancient Chinese medicine therapy used many centuries ago for healing the body from myriads of fertility-related conditions and also for achieving overall wellness.

Acupuncture, a holistic health approach works by the insertion of sterile thin needles into certain locations in the body called the Meridian channels and by stimulating these locations in the body it is believed this brings therapeutic benefits to the body, and restores hormonal balances in people suffering from anovulation and infertility, thereby helping to promote a regular ovulation.

Feel free to ask any related question or leave a comment.

Author: Dr. Gilbert Nnaji
(Medical practitioner; natural fertility therapist)

Learn more: http://simplestepstofertility.com.ng/blog

owen10:
Quite educating

I am glad you found it helpful.

Did you know that not eating adequate fertility foods can directly impact on your overall fertility and reproductive health and delay you from conceiving?

First off, for the couple trying to conceive, the first step towards a healthy and natural conception like I strongly emphasize on is Fertility Cleansing and Detoxification, to heal your body from the effects of the wrong food choices/diet and substances that could be limiting you and your partner from becoming pregnant.

Note, this will not only help cleanse your overall reproductive organ and system off dangerous; fertility-limiting toxins, chemicals, excess hormone, and heavy metals etc. But will also make your body a safe haven for the child you are preparing to bring into the world, yes!

What Is Fertility Food?
A fertility food is a kind of diet that contains the necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals your body requires for a healthy conception and a positive pregnancy outcome. A complete fertility diet also helps to repair your body from damages caused by environmental toxins and effects of free radicals.

Other reasons why you need to regularly eat Fertility Foods are as follows:
1. Helps to reverse certain infertility conditions like Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome and Insulin Resistance as well as Diabetes Mellitus.
2. Fertility-enriched diet helps to supply antioxidants which protect the male sperm and female ovary from oxidative stress that can lead to infertility issues.
3. Provides the body with enough vitamins and minerals for storage.
4. Provides the body with good fatty acids like Alpha Lipoic acid and Omega 3 needed for hormones production.
5. Helps to nourish your reproductive health.
6. Provides energy and vitality for your reproductive system.

Fertility Foods That Are Rich in Nutrients

Here I have listed the exact foods your body actually requires for conception:
1. Nuts and Seeds:
These are essential to fertility and conception. Nuts particularly are rich in Omega 3, Zinc, vitamin E, proteins and you can get them from food sources like:
• Walnut
• Pumpkin seeds
• Sesame seeds
• Almonds
• Flax seeds
Altogether they can help you fight against free radicals and boost your immunity.
2. Eggs:
Eggs provide you with Vitamin D, B 12 and protein which are necessary for hormones production, and for a healthy fetal development in the womb.
3. Grass-reared or raised Meats:
Meats derived from free-ranging animals (not the factory-raised animals that are constantly fed with hormones and antibiotics) supply you with adequate Omega 3, vitamin 12 and protein; altogether will help reduce the chances of miscarriage and help in the synthesis of hormones.
4. Green Vegetables:
Dark-leafy vegetables provide you with essential nutrients and vitamins such as folic acid, iron, vitamin B12 and vitamin E that are essential to your fertility, and you can get these from food sources like:
• Spinach
• Cabbage
• Broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• Kale etc
5. Fruits:

Fruits add tremendous benefits to your fertility, and provide you with enough antioxidants that will help to mop up free radicals in your body; protecting your eggs and sperm, and also optimize your overall reproductive well-being.

You can obtain them from food sources like:
• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Watermelon
• Papaya (pawpaw)
• Grapefruits
• Apples etc.

Now, that’s about the foods you can freely consume for conception.

What about the foods that are unhealthy for the sake of fertility and conception?

Here they are:
1. Sweetened foods/Artificial/Refined Sugars:
They are very bad for your reproductive health. Throws your body into hormonal imbalances and also reduces your immunity. You don’t need them at all. For the place of refined sugar, you can opt for honey as an alternative.
2. Soy Foods:
Other scientific researchers have repeatedly advised against the consumption of soy-related foods, like soymilk, soya beans, soya chips, soy cheese, in fact, any soya-derived foods have been found to contain exogenous estrogen that mimics your own body’s estrogen, and eating such can affect your endocrine system.
3. Coffee/Caffeine:
Coffee consumption from findings has been linked with miscarriages and prevents ovulation as a result, thus has been implicated in causing hormones imbalance.

Other foods you must also avoid include:
• Cakes, biscuits, cookies.
• Frozen bakery products
• Frozen meats and fishes
• Margarines
• Microwave popcorns
• Etc.

Feel free to comment or ask any related question if you are TTC


Author: Dr Gilbert Nnaji

Check out the link below for more:
http://simplestepstofertility.com.ng/blog

Did you know that not eating fertility foods can directly impact on your fertility and overall reproductive health and halt you from conceiving?

First off, for the couple trying to conceive, the first step towards a healthy and natural conception like I strongly emphasize on is Fertility Cleansing and Detoxification, to heal your body from the effects of the wrong food choices/diet and substances that could be limiting you and your partner from becoming pregnant.

Note, this will not only help cleanse your overall reproductive organ and system off dangerous; fertility-limiting toxins, chemicals, excess hormone, and heavy metals etc. But will also make your body a safe haven for the child you are preparing to bring into the world, yes!

What Is Fertility Food?
A fertility food is a kind of diet that contains the necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals your body requires for a healthy conception and a positive pregnancy outcome. A complete fertility diet also helps to repair your body from damages caused by environmental toxins and effects of free radicals.

Other reasons why you need to regularly eat Fertility Foods are as follows:
1. Helps to reverse certain infertility conditions like Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome and Insulin Resistance as well as Diabetes Mellitus.
2. Fertility-enriched diet helps to supply antioxidants which protect the male sperm and female ovary from oxidative stress that can lead to infertility issues.
3. Provides the body with enough vitamins and minerals for storage.
4. Provides the body with good fatty acids like Alpha Lipoic acid and Omega 3 needed for hormones production.
5. Helps to nourish your reproductive health.
6. Provides energy and vitality for your reproductive system.

Fertility Foods That Are Rich in Nutrients

Here I have listed the exact foods your body actually requires for conception:
1. Nuts and Seeds:
These are essential to fertility and conception. Nuts particularly are rich in Omega 3, Zinc, vitamin E, proteins and you can get them from food sources like:
• Walnut
• Pumpkin seeds
• Sesame seeds
• Almonds
• Flax seeds
Altogether they can help you fight against free radicals and boost your immunity.
2. Eggs:
Eggs provide you with Vitamin D, B 12 and protein which are necessary for hormones production, and for a healthy fetal development in the womb.
3. Grass-reared or raised Meats:
Meats derived from free-ranging animals (not the factory-raised animals that are constantly fed with hormones and antibiotics) supply you with adequate Omega 3, vitamin 12 and protein; altogether will help reduce the chances of miscarriage and help in the synthesis of hormones.
4. Green Vegetables:
Dark-leafy vegetables provide you with essential nutrients and vitamins such as folic acid, iron, vitamin B12 and vitamin E that are essential to your fertility, and you can get these from food sources like:
• Spinach
• Cabbage
• Broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• Kale etc
5. Fruits:

Fruits add tremendous benefits to your fertility, and provide you with enough antioxidants that will help to mop up free radicals in your body; protecting your eggs and sperm, and also optimize your overall reproductive well-being.

You can obtain them from food sources like:
• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Watermelon
• Papaya (pawpaw)
• Grapefruits
• Apples etc.

Now, that’s about the foods you can freely consume for conception.

What about the foods that are unhealthy for the sake of fertility and conception?

Here they are:
1. Sweetened foods/Artificial/Refined Sugars:
They are very bad for your reproductive health. Throws your body into hormonal imbalances and also reduces your immunity. You don’t need them at all. For the place of refined sugar, you can opt for honey as an alternative.
2. Soy Foods:
Other scientific researchers have repeatedly advised against the consumption of soy-related foods, like soymilk, soya beans, soya chips, soy cheese, in fact, any soya-derived foods have been found to contain exogenous estrogen that mimics your own body’s estrogen, and eating such can affect your endocrine system.
3. Coffee/Caffeine:
Coffee consumption from findings has been linked with miscarriages and prevents ovulation as a result, thus has been implicated in causing hormones imbalance.

Other foods you must also avoid include:
• Cakes, biscuits, cookies.
• Frozen bakery products
• Frozen meats and fishes
• Margarines
• Microwave popcorns
• Etc.

Author: Dr Gilbert Nnaji,

Check out the link below for more:
http://DocGilbert.com

If the cattarh is that unbearable then see a doctor. But for temp relief u may do the following home remedy therapy:

Boil hot water

Empty it into a bowl

Then inhale the steam to loosen up the hardened intranasal mucous

Best wishes

Infertility is a global epidemic as seen today with a wide margin affecting 20% - 30% of married couples seen in Gynaecology clinics, especially in Nigeria.

And according to statistics it's been found that 1 out of every 4 couples in developing countries is directly affected by infertility as reported by World Health Organization (WHO).

And there are certain underlying factors, in both male and female found to be responsible for preventing couples from becoming pregnant.

What really is infertility?

Infertility (primary infertility) is a disease of the reproductive system resulting to failure to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.

Whereas, secondary infertility is as a result of a couple's inability to conceive and carry a pregnancy to full term, after already having one or two babies in the past.

Previously, infertility was generally viewed as solely the female partner's problem; hence she bears the shame and agony of being labeled a "barren woman." This is a big misconception and completely wrong.

The underlying causes of infertility amongst couples

It has been estimated that the female contributes 40% causes of infertility (female factor), whereas the male (male factor) also contributes 40% causes of infertility, and the remaining underlying causes were traced directly from both the male and female.

Below, the causes of infertility in the female:

1. Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Blocked tube (or tubal blockage) occurs when the fallopian tube that receives the mature egg after ovulation becomes blocked, either due to scar tissue formation, resulting from ascending genital infection through the vagina up the pelvic organs.

Or due to a scar tissue formation (adhesion) from past surgery; thereby impeding the movement of the mature egg, down the tract of the fallopian tube and frustrating the forward movement of the male sperm from the meeting the mature female egg along the mid-part of the fallopian tube (ampulla), and thus hindering fertilization.

It will interest you to know that this is one of commonest causes of infertility in Nigeria.

Other conditions that can block the fallopian tubes are:

- Hydrosalpinx (collection of fluid within the wall of the fallopian tube)
- Uterine fibroids
- Bilateral tubal ligation (surgical tying of the fallopian tubes)
- Inflammation, after a tubal surgery (adhesions)

2. Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids are benign tumours (non-cancerous) of the uterus that are commonly seen in black women in their reproductive years.

Fibroids depend on the female estrogen hormone for their growth and survival, and have been known to distort the architecture of the uterus, thereby preventing a fertilized egg from implanting into the wall of the womb, leading to infertility.

3. Hormonal Imbalance

Hormones are chemical messengers in the body that travels in the bloodstream to the target organs and tissues where they are needed, and these hormones are responsible for the maturation of the ovarian follicles, and the release of a ripened egg (ovulation).

Many things can go wrong if the female sex hormones go out of balance, particularly the Follicular Stimulating Hormone (FSH); Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and the Progesterone hormone.

And the deficiency of the above sex hormones will wreck havoc on the female reproductive health; leading to infertility.

Features of hormonal imbalances:

- Dysfunctional uterine bleeding ("heavy flow" or excessive menstruation)
- Amenorrhea (lack of menstruation)
- Hyperprolactinemia (milkish secretion from the breasts)
- Luteal phase defect (low progesterone production)
- Miscarriages
- Endometriosis
- Poly cystic ovarian syndrome etc.

4. Asherman's Syndrome (Post-abortion complication)

Asherman's syndrome (or uterine synechia) is characterized by scar tissue formation of the lining of the uterus (womb) due to over-zealous scrapping of the interior of the womb (D&C) using a hard instrument; and as a result traumatizing the wall of the uterus in the process leading to scar tissue formation, and in most cases infertility ensues.

Some women with this kind of problem find it difficult to conceive because the endometrial layer (womb) where normally the embryo should attach and grow is found disoriented due to the scar formation, either from quackery or inexperienced hands.

5. Stress

Stress is often the most ignored factor when it comes to infertility. It counts as a major underlying cause of infertility in women up to 40 percent.

In our world today, we have become accustomed to living a stressful life especially in this part of the world where many have become used to multi-tasking or doing multiple jobs, and then finding little time for relaxation; giving less attention to their emotional and physical health.

In the body, there are certain hormones called stressors. These hormones are protective in their way of triggering fright or flight defensive mechanism, so to warn us from an impending danger.

Adrenaline and glucocorticoid (cortisol) are examples of such hormones, however their long-term effect creates hormonal imbalance, thereby throwing the body into infertility.

6. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a disease in which the endometrial tissues of the uterus are seen growing outside the uterine cavity (womb) and forming adhesions in the process.

Endometriosis occurring at certain sites in the reproductive organs leads to infertility, especially within the fallopian tubes and on the ovaries; and they present with the following symptoms:

- Cyclical bleeding (heavy bleeding)
- Painful intercourse
- Low abdominal pain
- Vomiting

7. Thyroid Diseases:

Thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped organ surrounding the wind pipe, located in-front of your throat.

If you are trying to get pregnant and you suspect you have a thyroid issue, then I suggest you see your physician at once and get tested to find out your thyroid hormonal level.

Often this is neglected and has been shown to impact conception, negatively.

Hypothyroidism, occurs when the thyroid gland is producing very little thyroid hormones; triiodothyronine and thyroxine (T3 & T4), leading to amenorrhea and infertility.

While on the other hand, Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland is producing too much thyroid hormones, resulting to debilitating physical symptoms as listed below:

- Weight loss
- Excessive sweating
- Irritability
- Sleeping problems
- Muscle weakness
- Heat intolerance
- Fast heart rate
- Diarrhea
- Enlargement of the thyroid gland
- Menstrual irregularity
- Hyperprolactinemia
- Infertility

If you notice you have any of such symptoms, then do well and see your physician as soon as possible for thyroid gland screening

Author: Dr. Gilbert Nnaji

Learn more: http://DocGilbert.com

It's called Right Iliac Fossa pain and symptomatic of Acute Appendicitis. Go for abdominal scan or see ur doctor ASAP

In recent years, the problem of low sperm count and poor motility have become so prevalent and have led to unhappy homes and unfulfilled hopes seemingly due to a myriad of often-ignored factors like environmental toxins; lifestyle factors etc. which have all otherwise enormously affected fertility in men, and their inability to get a woman pregnant.


According to WHO, in other for a couple to achieve a healthy pregnancy the male partner's sperm will have to satisfy the data below:

--Normal sperm count > 20 million sperm cells/mL
--Sperm motility > 50%
--Morphology (size and shape) of about 30%

The female partner also on her part must “ovulate” a healthy egg (ovum) from either of her ovaries in a copulation-timely fashion, for fertilization and conception to be achieved.

Ideally abnormalities of the male spermatozoa could be described under the following headings:

-Oligospermia (low sperm count): This accounts for about 10 -15% cases of male factor infertility.

-Asthenospermia (poor sperm motility): This is often associated with DNA fragmentation and increase the risk of transferring a genetic disease.

-Teratospermia (abnormal sperm morphology): This refers to the shape and structure of the sperm.

The above sperm abnormalities can morbidly hinder a couple’s efforts at getting pregnant, hence early diagnosis usually will save you a lot of time, so you can seek the right solution.

Sadly, a lot of men especially in this part of the world are reluctant, and exhibit pride towards undergoing a sperm health checkup (seminal fluid analysis) in other to pinpoint a predisposing infertility problem. This attitude however, is changing as health education continues to reach out on the web.

12 Common Risk Factors Associated With Low Sperm Count/Male Infertility:

Like I earlier said, the problem of male infertility and low sperm count became prevalent as a result of our changing lifestyle, environmental degradation amongst others.

“A recent report by Dr. Cecil Jacobson of Reproductive Genetic Center, Vienna, Virginia USA stated that sperm count has not declined over the past 4 decades. The study used dates of 1951 for the first comparison study. 1951 was well after the introduction of large amounts of chemicals into society and was a year in which vehicle emissions contained both high levels of lead and large amounts of toxic hydrocarbon and solvent combustion products. Also, by 1951 pesticides use was making its way into consumer use.”

The following are the leading risk factors of Low Sperm Count in the tropics:

Cigarette Smoking:
Smoking lowers a couple’s chances of conception up to 20%, according findings, by reducing the male sperm production and also damaging the DNA structure (genetic material) of the sperm. Smoking also can affect sperm quality and overall male fertility health, hindering conception.

Drug/Substance Abuse:
Recreational drugs like cocaine, marijuana can temporarily reduce sperm count and quality, affecting a couple’s chance of conception greatly by hindering the testicular capacity to create adequate sperm. And the use of anabolic steroids have also been linked to low sperm production.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs):
Bacterial organisms like Chlamydia Trachomatis and Gonorrhea are the commonest known causes of infertility related infections in men, even in sexually active women. This group of microorganisms in men spread to the testis and epididymis (a tube that conveys sperm from the testicles) hindering the passage of sperm due to blockage caused by inflammation as a result of the ensuing infection.

Environmental Factors:
Occupational or prolonged exposure to toxins and chemicals (eg; pesticides, herbicides, insecticides etc) are otherwise identified as Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC) by environmental toxicologists. Studies have shown that the above chemicals reduce sperm production in male by hindering the function of testosterone (male hormone) that creates new sperm.

Physical or Mental Stress:
Stress has been linked to reduction in sperm production in male, as a result of hormonal imbalance created by stress hormones in the body (cortisol and adrenaline), and indirectly affecting the function of testosterone.

Overheating the Testicles:
The testicles (or testis) anatomically is located outside the body. By the Creator’s design, this is an indication that sperm production requires a subnormal body temperature (<37 C) for formation. And so, using hot bath tubs, wearing tight silk boxers; prolonged placing of laptops on your thighs could potentially reduce the counts of your swimmers thereby affecting your chances of getting your partner pregnant.

Obesity:
Obesity could affect your fertility health negatively by creating hormonal imbalance in your physiology, reducing your testosterone level and subsequently affecting sperm production. Maintaining an optimum BMI within 20 – 24 kg/m2 (body mass index) is ideal when preparing for conception.

Bicycle Riding:
In recent times, some comparative studies have revealed that cycling for a long time (more than 5 hours per week) can affect sperm quality and lower a man’s odds at getting a woman pregnant. It is believed that pressure from the bike’s seat could potentially injure blood vessels and nerves responsible for erection in the perineum (a region between the anus and genitals). And so, the male partner is advised against cycling when actively trying to get his partner pregnant.

Age:
Age has been associated with male infertility and low sperm production. As a man advances in age (70 – 80 years), the longer it will take him to get his partner pregnant, compared to when he is young and sexually active.

Electromagnetic Field Radiation:
There is growing evidence that excessive exposure to EMF radiation could affect male fertility and also reduce sperm count in the process. Hence, reducing your exposure to X-rays and use of mobile devices anywhere around your genitals is highly advocated.

Erectile Dysfunction:
Erectile dysfunction or weak erection in layman’s understanding is the inability of the penis to maintain and sustain an erection necessary for penetration. Many men suffer from this sexual health dysfunction, and this has often been linked to reduced testosterone activity in men leading to low sperm production.

Varicocele:
This condition is one of the commonest causes of infertility in men. It is characterized by abnormal enlargement and twisting of the veins that drain "de-oxygenated" blood from the testicles. Research shows that it affects 15 out of 100 men. Theoritically, varicocele impacts male fertility negatively by raising the temperature of the testicles, or through excessive pooling of blood in the vein carrying blood from the testicles resulting to reduced sperm production.

How To Assess Your Overall Sperm Health -- Total Sperm Check-Up:

The standard laboratory test for analyzing sperm health medically is called Seminal Fluid Analysis. Here are the guidelines, steps and what to expect from your doctor or lab scientist during this evaluation procedure:

Step 1:

You will be counseled and asked to abstain from sexual intercourse for a maximum of 3 days before the test is done, to ensure adequate collection of your semen.

Step 2:

On the said third day: You will be mandated to either ejaculate into a sterile plastic container via masturbation or through Withdrawal Method with your partner, and hurriedly send the collection to the Lab within 30 minutes. I usually recommend the first option to avoid delays.

Step 3:

Therein at the Lab your semen will be stored at a suitable temperature or analyzed at once, for findings. Ideally, this test should be repeated at least 3 times over several months.



How To Prevent Low Sperm Count Condition – What To Do:

As long as you are concerned, preventing low sperm count condition primarily will require a disciplinary and proactive approach on your part. Hence, I strongly recommend you get an accountability partner, your woman preferably to help you stay focused and track your efforts and progress.

Here Are Things To Stay Clear Off:

-Avoid smoking
-Aim to maintain an optimal Body Mass Index of <25kg/m2
-Abstain from alcohol
-Reduce exposure to environmental toxins, chemicals, heavy metals at your home and workplace
-Learn to manage stress
-Limit or avoid self-medication. And always consult your healthcare provider for the right drug prescription.

Free to comment or ask any related questions.

Author: Dr. Gilbert Nnaji

Learn more: http://http://docgilbert.com/low-sperm-count-causes/