June is National Men’s Health Month. According to the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, infertility affects both men and women equally. However, when it comes to diagnosis and treatment, women undergo a far more extensive process.
For women, there are blood tests, internal exams, and discussions that delve into the personal and private details of their sex life. This is all just part of the diagnostic process that’s done prior to determining a treatment path that will require regimented dedication, and may include more invasive procedures.
For men, when it comes time for testing and treatment, the process is painless. Most of the time, it involves providing a semen specimen twice – once for diagnosis, and a second time as part of the treatment plan. But this doesn’t tell the whole story, as men are often left wondering what more they can do to support their partners.
It’s a Team Sport
Infertility should always be viewed as a team sport. After 12 years of practicing fertility medicine in Fairfield County, I am still humbled almost daily by my patients. To me, the most impressive feats occur when couples take charge of their lifestyle habits, together. It’s about being a good teammate, and recognizing when to encourage, motivate, and support your partner.
Reproductive endocrinology, which is the field of medicine that studies the hormones connected with our fertility and reproductive health, is affected by diet, sleep habits and vices. In just 90 days, men and women can vastly change their overall health, their fertility and even the future health of their children. Making healthy choices is not always easy, but it can be easier if couples do it together. As the days continue to grow longer, and the weather continues to warm, there is no better time to carry out a few positive lifestyle choices!
In honor of National Men’s Health Month, here are 6 simple lifestyle changes that any couple can accomplish together this June:
- Sleep. While you are sleeping, your body is busy recovering from the day’s physical and emotional wear and tear. Sleep is also instrumental in regulating hormones, including testosterone and other factors for sperm production. Encourage each other to go to bed an hour earlier. Even one more hour of sleep can have an impact.
- Focus On Your Diet. A plate of fresh fish and roasted vegetables can be delicious and is a great alternative to a plate of pasta or some other temptation. Try to make smart eating choices together, and perhaps even cook the meal together.
- Cut Back on Drinking. Alcohol is an added stress to the body that should be consumed in moderation. No more than 1-2 servings per day should be consumed.
- Quit Smoking. This is not about moderation. Smoking damages women’s eggs, men’s sperm and even has long-lasting health implications for the children you are hoping to conceive.
- Limit Caffeine Intake. It seems counter intuitive, but caffeine robs energy and diminishes the quality of sleep. Limit caffeine to 300 mg per day, which is about two regular cups of coffee, and do not consume it less than six hours before bedtime.
- Exercise. Low impact exercise can be a great time to reconnect, as well as an enjoyable method for releasing good-mood endorphins and managing weight. I encourage my patients to take a walk together.
Here are a few bonus tips that are key to maintaining a healthy relationship while navigating the waters of fertility treatment. Remember, you are in it to win it, together!
Share a Laugh
There’s no denying that infertility treatment will have its highs and lows. Remembering to laugh or at least smile together will make the tough times more bearable. Couples should do something together that they enjoy, something that they would have done even before trying to have a child. For example, go to a movie or enjoy a lazy Sunday morning.
Talk. Talk. Talk.
Communication is important throughout fertility treatment. Couples should talk about what they envision for their family, what treatments they are willing to do (and which ones they are not) and how they are feeling about the experience. Even when couples cannot express themselves, it is important for husbands and wives to say they are having trouble pinpointing their emotions. At RMACT, we have two licensed clinical social workers on staff who work with patients as individuals and as couples. We also offer support groups to give patients a network of people going through similar situations.
It is O.K. to Stumble
Every now and then, even rocks crumble. When couples are striving to make smart decisions and be supportive of each other, there are bound to be moments when the goal is too lofty. Couples should be honest about how they are feeling.
The strength and love of a couple can be tested by infertility. This experience is not simply a hardship; it is also an opportunity to grow as a couple. When couples support each other and share the experience, they are more likely to find success for their relationship and for their family.
Dr. Mark P. Leondires, medical director and lead physician with Reproductive Medicine Associates of Connecticut (RMACT), is board certified in both Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility.