Path to Parenthood - The Fertility Blog

Discover how sleep disorders and poor sleep quality can affect fertility in both men and women. Learn why sleep is essential for reproductive health and how improving sleep patterns can boost your chances of conception.

Join us in welcoming Dr. Marika Raff, the newest Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) physician at Caperton Fertility Institute! After 20 years away, Dr. Raff is excited to return to Albuquerque, the place she calls home. With a wealth of experience gained across the Midwest—from medical school at the University of Michigan to her OBGYN residency in Chicago, where she met her wife, and a fellowship in Iowa—Dr. Raff brings a deep passion for helping families grow. Learn more about her journey and why she’s thrilled to be serving the New Mexico community alongside her wife, a fellow OBGYN. Discover how Dr. Raff and the team at Caperton Fertility Institute are dedicated to making family-building dreams a reality.

Impact on Ovarian Function Suppression of Ovulation: Testosterone therapy generally suppresses ovulation, which can reduce the likelihood of spontaneous conception while on hormone therapy. Read more about ovulation suppression. Ovarian Reserve: There is some evidence that long-term testosterone use may impact the ovarian reserve (the number of viable eggs). However, the exact degree of this impact is not fully understood. Some studies suggest that testosterone may cause changes in ovarian morphology and function, potentially reducing fertility over time. Read more about ovarian function and testosterone. 2. Reversibility Potential for Reversibility: While testosterone can suppress ovulation and alter ovarian function, some studies have shown that fertility may return if testosterone is stopped. The extent to which fertility can be fully restored varies from person to person and depends on factors like age, duration of testosterone therapy, and overall reproductive health. Explore the potential for reversibility. Egg Freezing Before Transition: Because the long-term impact of testosterone on fertility is not fully predictable, some transgender men choose to freeze their eggs before starting hormone therapy. This option is often recommended by healthcare providers to preserve future fertility potential. 3. Pregnancy after Testosterone Therapy Pregnancy Outcomes: There have been cases where transgender men have successfully conceived after discontinuing testosterone therapy. However, it may take some time for ovulation to resume, and overall fertility may be lower compared to pre-therapy levels. 4. Research Gaps Limited Long-term Data: There is a lack of long-term studies specifically assessing the fertility outcomes of transgender men after prolonged testosterone therapy. Most available data come from small studies or case reports, so generalizing findings can be challenging. Testosterone therapy in transgender men can suppress ovarian function and potentially impact long-term fertility. While there is some potential for fertility to return after discontinuing testosterone, this is not guaranteed, and the degree of reversibility varies. Therefore, transgender men who may want to have biological children in the future should consider fertility preservation options like egg freezing before starting hormone therapy. For more detailed information and references, please see the studies and articles linked throughout this blog.

At Caperton Fertility Institute, we believe that a holistic approach to fertility treatments can significantly improve your chances of success. Here, we explore the role of nutrition and lifestyle in enhancing fertility and offer practical tips to help you make positive changes. Nutrition and Fertility: Building the Foundation 1. Eat a Balanced Diet A well-rounded diet is vital for overall health and fertility. Focus on consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This ensures you get essential vitamins and minerals, such as folic acid, iron, zinc, and vitamin C, which are critical for reproductive health. 2. Include Antioxidant-Rich Foods Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, nuts, and leafy greens, help combat oxidative stress that can damage reproductive cells. Incorporating these into your daily diet can protect your eggs and sperm, enhancing fertility. 3. Opt for Healthy Fats Healthy fats found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil support hormone production and balance. Avoid trans fats and limit saturated fats, which can negatively impact fertility. 4. Prioritize Protein Sources Choose high-quality protein sources like lean meats, fish, eggs, and plant-based options such as beans and lentils. These provide the building blocks necessary for hormone production and reproductive health. 5. Limit Processed Foods and Sugars Processed foods and high-sugar diets can lead to insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods to maintain stable blood sugar levels and support reproductive health. Lifestyle Changes: Creating a Fertile Ground 1. Maintain a Healthy Weight Both underweight and overweight conditions can affect fertility. Aim for a healthy BMI through a balanced diet and regular exercise. If you need guidance, our nutrition experts at Caperton Fertility Institute can help you create a personalized plan. 2. Stay Active Regular physical activity promotes blood flow, reduces stress, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities like walking, swimming, and yoga are excellent choices. 3. Manage Stress High stress levels can interfere with hormone production and ovulation. Incorporate stress-reducing practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness into your daily routine. 4. Get Enough Sleep Adequate sleep is essential for hormone regulation. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to improve sleep quality. 5. Avoid Harmful Substances Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol, and avoid smoking and recreational drugs. These substances can negatively impact both male and female fertility. Male Fertility: Specific Considerations While nutrition and lifestyle changes benefit everyone, certain tips are particularly crucial for male fertility: Zinc and Selenium: Essential for healthy sperm production, these minerals can be found in foods like nuts, seeds, and seafood. Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant, protecting sperm from damage. Sources include nuts, seeds, and leafy greens. Stay Cool: Avoiding excessive heat exposure, such as hot tubs and saunas, can protect sperm quality. Personalized Support at Caperton Fertility Institute At Caperton Fertility Institute, we understand that every individual's fertility journey is unique. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized care and support, including nutritional counseling and lifestyle guidance tailored to your specific needs. By making informed choices about your diet and lifestyle, you can create a fertile foundation that supports your reproductive health. Whether you're just starting your fertility journey or looking to optimize your chances of success, our comprehensive approach at Caperton Fertility Institute ensures you receive the best possible care. Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can support you on your path to parenthood.