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PCOS Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
As a society, we are gaining more knowledge around Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) to understand women's reproductive health better. Women are becoming empowered to conquer conditions like these through research and education. PCOS occurs when there is a hormonal imbalance affecting the ovaries. Any woman of childbearing age can develop this condition. PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility, and several other complications like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease. Symptoms present differently for each woman, making diagnoses challenging. However, recognizing an imbalance is the best way to advocate for proper diagnosis, treatment and knowledge to
Understanding Male Infertility
Many people question a woman’s reasons for not getting pregnant. However, the pressure of getting pregnant isn’t only on women. It takes two to tango when it comes to fertility. According to a recent study, males account for approximately 50 percent of all infertility diagnoses. What is a Male Infertility? The World Health Organization (WHO) describes male infertility as a man who has been unable to get a woman pregnant after a year of trying to conceive with frequent unprotected sex. To get a handle on male infertility, you first need to know how the male body works. The testicles
Advocating for Yourself on the Fertility Path
You don’t know what you don’t know. I share my story in hopes to help guide others in finding out what questions to ask from the start and throughout your journey. One bright thing I see as a glimmer in my journey thus far - there is no lack of learning. Sharing the power of questions and how advocating for yourself on the fertility path is important. Categories of Your Fertility Journey Our reproductive endocrinologist recently told us there are three main buckets that make up the fertility journey: Medical Emotional Financial When we started this journey, like many, we
Egg Donor 101
At the age of 34 years old, I was diagnosed with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency and told that I would need to use Donor Eggs through IVF in order to conceive. While I had friends who did IVF, I didn’t know anyone who had used donor eggs. I had no idea where to start. I did a lot of research and learned so much along the way. Egg Donor 101 shares some of the greatest lessons my husband and I learned during our journey. You may not find your “twin” At first, my biggest must-have was finding someone who looked like
Nutrition for Fertility
On August 1st, we had the pleasure of hosting the "Nutrition for Fertility" educational workshop, sponsored by Vytyl and presented by Elanie Welch, the Renegade Nutritionist. The workshop provided invaluable insights into the critical role nutrition plays in fertility and overall reproductive health. You can watch the entire presentation on our YouTube Channel @hopefulmamafoundation. Here’s a recap of the key points covered: 1. Input = Output: How Nutrition Impacts Fertility and Pregnancy Elanie kicked off the workshop with a fundamental principle: "Input = Output." She emphasized how what we consume directly influences our fertility and the ability to carry a
Antioxidants for Infertility
Nutrition plays an important role in fertility, but it’s a vast topic that’s hard to cover all at once. One type of nutrient goes by the name “antioxidant." Antioxidants are always important, but they really shine when it comes to achieving and sustaining a healthy pregnancy. Antioxidants for infertility also have equal importance for both men and women. What do Antioxidants do? By definition, antioxidants help cancel out the damaging effects of free radicals or oxidative stress (anti-oxidative stress = antioxidants). Free radicals are constantly being formed in your body, but when they go unchecked, they damage sperm and egg
Donor Conception Parental Book Guide
Embarking on the journey of donor conception is a path filled with hope, anticipation, and countless questions. For many prospective parents, understanding the nuances and complexities of this process can be daunting. Hopeful Mama created a Donor Conception Parental Book Guide that is designed to offer resources and support every step of the way. Whether you're just starting to explore donor conception or are well on your way to building your family, this book guide provides invaluable insights, advice, and practical tips to help you navigate this unique journey with confidence and peace of mind. Additionally, for single mothers by
Fertility Benefits of Seeing a Dietitian
Hi, I’m Anna, a 30-year-old woman with PCOS who has struggled with infertility for over 3 years. I wanted to share my nutrition journey with you because it has profoundly changed my life. Through this journey, I was able to use food as medicine and my life has improved dramatically. My hope is to inspire someone else to take control of their health and feel better than you ever thought possible! Below, I share my health and fertility benefits of seeing a dietitian. The Hopeful Mama Foundation is supported by its audience and donors. When you purchase through links on
Infertility Children’s Books
Studies have shown the importance of early learning and understanding for children surrounding their conception. Here is a guide of Infertility Children's Books, categorized by: General Infertility IVF Egg Donation Single Parent by Choice Click on the book images to learn more/order your copy. If you are unsure where to start and would like to talk with others, consider joining one of our support groups. Check them out HERE. The Hopeful Mama Foundation is supported by its audience and donors. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission that will be used to propel
