“I’d gladly throw up for nine straight months if it meant I could have a baby.”

Resolve: The National Infertility Association has a nust-read on their website about infertility etiquette. Awareness is important.

Infertility Etiquette

By Vita Alligood

Read the article here

My friends have always been super respectful and understanding...thank you so much!

Blogs of note...

I've been reading a couple of fertility blogs....they are personal stories that inspire and give you hope as well as let you feel empathy for couples going through this same journey. I thought I would share their amazing stories of bravery and their dedication to never give up!

The first one is Sonja from Philadelphia On her second IVF she found out she was pregnant with quads...three boys (two of them identical) and one girl. She delivered her babies at 27 weeks and updates frequently about their progress.

On (In) Fertile Ground

The other blog is written by Brook  from Seattle. After one IVF and one FET she faced a tragic miscarriage but is still hopeful. My heart goes out to her and her husband.

Scifibaby

These women give me hope and help me to know that I am not alone. Thanks so much for sharing your stories!

xoxox

Nine Practical Tips...

Tips that I think need to be passed along...for you and your future babies...

From the EWG.org:

According to a new report from the President's Cancer Panel, environmental toxins play a significant and under-recognized role in cancer, causing "grievous harm" to untold numbers of people. EWG's own research has found that children are born "pre-polluted" with nearly 300 industrial chemicals, pesticides and contaminants that have been found to cause cancer in lab studies or in people.


Four of every 10 Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes, and two of every 10 will die from it. Beyond talking to your doctor about lifestyle changes that are known to make a difference -- stopping smoking, reducing drinking, losing weight, exercising and eating right -- there are things you can do to reduce your risk.

• Filter your tap water. Common carcinogens in tap water include arsenic, chromium, and chemical byproducts that form when water is disinfected. A simple carbon filter or pitcher can help reduce the levels of some of these contaminants. If your water is polluted with arsenic or chromium, a reverse osmosis filter will help. Learn about your tap water and home water filters at EWG’s National Tap Water Database. http://www.ewg.org/tap-water

• Seal outdoor wooden decks and play sets.Those built before 2005 are likely coated with an arsenic pesticide that can stick to hands and clothing. Learn more at http://www.ewg.org/reports/allhandsondeck 

• Cut down on stain- and grease-proofing chemicals. “Fluorochemicals” related to Teflon and Scotchgard are used in stain repellents on carpets and couches and in greaseproof coatings for packaged and fast foods. Some of these chemicals cause cancer in lab studies. To avoid them, skip greasy packaged foods and say no to optional stain treatments in the home. Download EWG’s Guide to PFCs here: http://www.ewg.org/Health-Tips

•  Stay safe in the sun.More than one million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. To protect your skin from the sun’s cancer-causing ultraviolet (UV) radiation, seek shade, wear protective clothing and use a safe and effective sunscreen from EWG’s sunscreen database. http://www.ewg.org/2010sunscreen

•  Cut down on fatty meat and high-fat dairy products. Long-lasting cancer-causing pollutants like dioxins and PCBs accumulate in the food chain and concentrate in animal fat. Eat EWG’s Clean 15. Many pesticides have been linked to cancer. Eating from EWG’s Clean 15 list of the least contaminated fruits and vegetables will help cut your pesticide exposures. (And for EWG’s Dirty Dozen, buy organic.) Learn more at EWG’s Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides. http://www.foodnews.org/

•  Cut your exposures to BPA. Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a synthetic estrogen found in some hard plastic water bottles, canned infant formula, and canned foods. It may increase the risk of reproductive system cancers. To avoid it, eat fewer canned foods, breast feed your baby or use powdered formula, and choose water bottles free of BPA. More at http://www.ewg.org/bpa/tipstoavoidbpa

•  Avoid carcinogens in cosmetics. Use EWG’s Skin Deep cosmetic database (http://www.cosmeticdatabase.com/ to find products free of chemicals known or suspected to cause cancer. When you’re shopping, don’t buy products that list ingredients with “PEG” or “-eth” in their name. 

• Read the warnings. Some products list warnings of cancer risks – read the label before you buy. Californians will see a “Proposition 65” warning label on products that contain chemicals the state has identified as cancer-causing.

 

 

 

Salty Salty

Natural remedies are great...I consider all of them and try most of them. Another one was sent to me today by my mum. Its about the many health benefits of Epsom salt

According to a story on Care2.com by Melissa Breyer...soaking in Epsom salt is a great way to give your body a boost.

Most of us know about the importance of iron and calcium for our bodies, but what about magnesium? It is the second most abundant element in human cells and the fourth most important positively charged ion in the body. It helps the body regulate over 325 enzymes and plays an important role in organizing many bodily functions, like muscle control, electrical impulses, energy production and the elimination of harmful toxins.

Soaking in Epson salt, which is high in magnesium, will help with many deficiencies.

According to the National Academy of Sciences, American’s magnesium deficiency helps to account for high rates of heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, arthritis and joint pain, digestive maladies, stress-related illnesses, chronic fatigue and a number of other ailments.

Studies indicate that our magnesium levels have dropped by half in the last century due to changes in agriculture and diet. While you maybe thinking that taking a magnesium supplement may be easier than soaking in a tub, studies have shown that it is not easily absorbed through the destive tract.

Researchers and physicians suggest these health benefits from proper magnesium and sulfate levels, as listed on the web site of the Epsom Salt Industry Council:


•Improved heart and circulatory health, reducing irregular heartbeats, preventing hardening of the arteries, reducing blood clots and lowering blood pressure.

•Improved ability for the body to use insulin, reducing the incidence or severity of diabetes.

•Flushed toxins and heavy metals from the cells, easing muscle pain and helping the body to eliminate harmful substances.

•Improved nerve function by electrolyte regulation. Also, calcium is the main conductor for electrical current in the body, and magnesium is necessary to maintain proper calcium levels in the blood.

•Relieved stress. Excess adrenaline and stress are believed to drain magnesium, a natural stress reliever, from the body. Magnesium is necessary for the body to bind adequate amounts of serotonin, a mood-elevating chemical within the brain that creates a feeling of well being and relaxation.

•Reduced inflammation to relieve pain and muscle cramps.

•Improved oxygen use.

•Improved absorption of nutrients.

•Improved formation of joint proteins, brain tissue and mucin proteins.

•Prevention or easing of migraine headaches.

Now I know that all of you could use some de-stressing ...so go out and get a tub of salt and make a night of it. Happy Bathing!

xoxo

More On Sunscreen....

More about sunscreen and what the FDA is not telling you. Chuck Shumer (D-NY) is pushing the FDA's buttons and telling the truth.

Check out the story here

What You Can Do:
Keep using sunscreen, but know what SPF really means, and buy products that don't contain questionable chemicals like vitamin A.

PSA Time....Listen Up!

My dear blog readers...I don't want to be preachy but I am going to be. I must pass this story along. The video below is my friend Pam. She was hit by a truck while riding her bike and survived because she was wearing her helmet. We thank god she is alive today to tell us about it.

There are two lessons  here...First, obviously, if you or a family member, friend, dog, whoever are riding a bike, rollerblading, on a tri-cycle, motorcycle, scooter...wear your helmet!! Second (and Oprah would second this) DO NOT TEXT while driving. Pam doesn't mention it here but the teenager who hit her and dragged her down the street under his truck was texting his girlfriend at the time of the accident and wasn't paying attention.



If you are so inclined...be a part of Oprah's No Phone Zone!

Hurry Up and Wait...

I like instant gratification and my patience has been wearing thin on this whole baby thing. So when I went to see my doctor today and he laid out a plan for me and my hubby, I was hopeful again.

We have been on an extended break from trying to get pregnant (with the help of a doctor anyway). But it was time to revisit the doctor and it was interesting. I've done a few immunity tests recently and some flags were raised about my immunity and what role that is playing in my trouble conceiving. So at least I got some answers instead of the same old "unexplained" one.

But back to my instant gratification issues....I am ready to plow ahead with the doctors orders. But our life (the hubby and me) is a little crazy at the moment...moving to another state, working on contract without benefits, good insurance plan running out next month, owning a Mini Cooper with virtually no back seat for a baby....yada yada yada.

I know the smart thing to do is wait...save some money...plan it out better and wait a few more months. I would really have to rush and get things moving if June was a month to start it all. But I want it all and I want it NOW.

My husband was the voice of reason today and although I snapped at him like a kid being told I couldn't have something (sorry baby!), he was right.

So I am back on the wagon (or off) not sure if the wagon would be the one with fertility drugs in the trunk...in any case, I am back on the break after momentarily thinking I was no longer on a break while in a card store today.

Recently I told a friend (who holds a special place in my heart) that the thought of "what if I never get pregnant" has been creeping into my mind lately. But at least now the thought leaves my head faster. She has the same thoughts too and the same reaction but also wondered if it was more about her giving up in some way. It's incredible how this process makes you really question yourself.

So I am sending a big F-U to the fertility gods today.....can you help a homie out please????

Throw some fertile eggs, etc OUR way please.

I don't think there are too many people more dedicated and motivated than those of us trying to have babies. It just becomes exhausting. So if you are reading this and feel discouraged, just keep your chin up! Know you are not the only one on this roller coaster ride although I would like to get off of it in the next year or so :)

One great thing I learned from yoga meditation is that when thoughts enter your head just recognize them and then let them float by. Thoughts don't define you or your life and are not a crystal ball into the future.

So let it float by.....and have some fun this weekend! I've been requested to make jello shots for a party this weekend (I know what you are thinking and yes, people still make them who are not in college). So I will be walking around with a blue tongue...which I will be sticking out at those damn fertility gods this weekend!

Summer is here!!!! Check your Sunscreen

As I sit here writing this, there is a good old-fashioned crazy thunderstorm hitting my area. The kind that only happens when its humid and hot in the summertime. In a few short weeks I will be leaving the country-side of PA and heading back to Long Island. The storms on LI are good but the ones in PA (when you live on 17-acres with no one else around) are something else!!

But I digress....my point today, my beloved blog readers, is that summer is here and it's that time when we head to the beach and slop on tons of sunscreen (well most of us anyway) and try to get a tan without burning. You may have been hearing the news lately about the damage that sunscreen - which is supposed to protect you - is now doing to us.

This just hit my inbox today from the Environmental Working Group. It is a list of the best and worst of the sunscreens on the market and it is worth taking the time to look at.

Of the 500 beach and sports sunscreens that EWG analyzed for our 2010 Sunscreen Guide, we can only recommend 8 percent. Between the false sense of security from sunscreens with an SPF of 50 or higher, and new data linking vitamin A to accelerated development of skin tumors and lesions, most products don't live up to their hype. In fact, EWG found that wearing a hat and shirt in the sun should be your first line of defense, then using an EWG recommended sunscreen.

The EWG has compiled a list of the "top-rated" sunscreens and the "hall of shame."  I looked at the hall of shame and I own some of them. But since they are known as "hormone disruptors" they are hitting the bottom of my trash can now!

I urge you all to do the same. Take a look, see if you own any of these and see it as an opportunity to lessen your load and clean out your cabinet.

We don't want any hormones being disrupted so you know what to do next! Check out the list of safe ones and head to the store before the holiday weekend to get some.

If you think your store won't carry it, trying DrugStore.com They have a lot of good products.

So have some really, really safe fun in the sun this weekend. Remember, your skin is the largest organ in your body so be nice to it and treat it well.

And as an FYI about the EWG:

The mission of the Environmental Working Group (EWG) is to use the power of public information to protect public health and the environment. EWG is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, founded in 1993 by Ken Cook and Richard Wiles.

Here is a link to info about the EWG's funding and where it comes from: http://www.ewg.org/about/funding

FOR REAL.....

To all of my readers....most of you know me personally so this isn't directed towards you but to any others who happen to come upon this site for information or anything else, I just wanted to ensure you that this is my first-person account of everything related to my experience with infertility.

One commenter recently questioned the validity of this blog...suggesting that it's a scam and was run by the Sher Institute for Reproductive Medicine (SIRM). I just wanted to assure you that it is not run by SIRM in any way and it is just my account of MY experiences.

If you have any questions about that, just send me an email at Fertilegroundblog@gmail.com

Thanks for reading!

LeeCee
xoxo

The hubby & me at our June 2005 wedding in Easton, Pa!

National Infertility Awareness Week

National statistics indicate that as many 4 million of an estimated 35 million cohabiting heterosexual couples in the United States are infertile (i.e. unable to conceive within a year of trying). Saturday, April 24th, marked the start of National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW), which is intended to make aspiring parents aware of their vulnerability when it comes to fertility and the need to take charge of their reproductive options.

My goal of this week (although I am at the tail-end of it) is to help one infertile person/couple find hope. This journey is a very lonesome one and it always helps to know that you are NOT alone. You are supported and loved and not judged!
 
So tonight I will be raising a glass (or two - it's been a long week) to all my fellow travelers on their strange journey to parenthood! I salute you and your resolve to not give up and keep moving forward.


Cheers!
XOXO

P.S. If you need more info...a great place to search is RESOLVE - The National Infertility Association. If you are looking for women just like you, they even offer local group meetings.

Let's Talk About Food...

Well hello stranger….sorry it’s been so long! I’ve been commuting and it’s been long days and nights and I no longer want to look at a computer after 6 PM. But I have things to talk about….I’ve been making mental notes for my blog so I am going to pile it on.

First up…you are what you eat. I am sure I’ve said that before on this blog and I will reiterate it! I am sure most of you have heard of the documentary Food Inc. I bought it a few months ago and finally sat down to watch it a few weeks ago.

I knew what I was in store for and I had to be in the right frame of mind to deal with what was coming at me. But it was an eye-opener. Although I knew some things, I wasn’t’ aware of a lot of them.

Trying to get pregnant and the thought of bringing new life to this planet is an exciting yet scary thought. I changed the way I ate over the past three years. It was a progression that moved to the forefront of my mind as time elapsed and I still was not pregnant. I stopped eating most meat (except fish) and felt better although my doctors and acupuncturists, etc have asked me again and again to just eat a nice piece of organic, free range chicken or beef once in a while.

In the last few months I started doing just that. I feel good and I know where my meat is coming from. I am not buying it at the supermarket; I go directly to the farm. I am fortunate enough to live near great farms. I talk to the farmers and see their animals and what they are eating and how they are living. This isn’t mass produced meat where animals live in terrible conditions and have high levels of bacteria in them like E-coli that ends up in the meat case at the super market.

Here is one large piece of info you need to know the next time you are looking at meat at your local supermarket. It may look nicely cut and clean but most likely; it did not come from a pretty place. Most cows nowadays are given hormones and antibiotics along with food that consists of mainly GMO-corn - that means it’s genetically modified and that all gets passed to you.

What is happening is that since these cows are not grass-fed, like they should be because that is their natural way, they are developing a situation where they cannot fend off bacteria like E-Coli. More of the bacteria is being passed onto consumers.

And here is how the beef industry is attempting to counteract that – not by changing the ways they feed these animals but by adding filler to your ground beef that has been washed in ammonia. Sounds appetizing doesn’t it?

This isn’t just a documentary – it’s a wake up call. If you don’t want to see it because it will “ruin” the way you eat and your next dinner, then you shouldn’t read on. This is about knowledge and getting a better understanding of how the world works. This will affect you and your children and grandchildren and their children.

So think about it. Watch it. Being better informed is a good thing so you can make decisions based on that.

The movie is hard to shake, you will continue to think about your food and where is came from. If you don’t know what the ingredients are….maybe next time you will pass up a cookie with unpronounceable ingredients and go for something that your grandmother or great-grandmother can pronounce like apple or pear!

Yes, one person can make a difference and set in motion of chain of events that make an even bigger difference.

Below is a list of 10 simple things YOU can do to change our food system:

1. Stop drinking sodas and other sweetened beverages.
2. Eat at home instead of eating out.
3. Support the passage of laws requiring chain restaurants to post calorie information on menus and menu boards.
4. Tell schools to stop selling sodas, junk food, and sports drinks.
5. Meatless Mondays—Go without meat one day a week. (An estimated 70% of all antibiotics used in the United States are given to farm animals.)
6. Buy organic or sustainable food with little or no pesticides.
7. Protect family farms; visit your local farmer's market.
8. Make a point to know where your food comes from—READ LABELS.
9. Tell Congress that food safety is important to you.
10. Demand job protections for farm workers and food processors, ensuring fair wages and other protections.

For more info visit: http://www.foodincmovie.com/

99 Balloons...

One thing that keeps me going through all of this is the thought that I will cherish my kids more than I would have if I had gotten pregnant right off the bat. Not that I would have loved them less but when you have to fight for something and put all you have into it....you understand how delicate life is and how precious a gift it is to become a parent. It really is a gift.

I am sure many of you have seen this...it is hard to watch and will make you cry. But you will understand even more about how precious life is and how waking up in the middle of the night to feed your baby is another gift - one you should look forward to.

This isn't just about having a baby; it's about cherishing all moments in your life. Be present, be in the moment and love it!

99 Balloons from Igniter Media on Vimeo.

The Second (and Third) Opinion...Sher Institute

I am going to be completely honest here. I do not trust most doctors. Yes, they have more schooling than me and know more than I do. But they are not god and they do not know everything. It doesn't mean I don't like them or respect some of them but I go into their offices knowing that they do not know it all.

I've been through two Reproductive Endocrinologist offices in the past two years and also two OBGYNs and I have pretty much gotten the same answers from all of them, which is that they don't know why I am not getting pregnant.

All the tests (for the most part) have been done on me and I have come out with no issues or abnormalities. The same goes for my husband. So what gives?

With the diagnosis of "unexplained infertility" the doctors I have seen take a "one-size fits all" approach to infertility and just move me onto the next level of treatment. It becomes a shot in the dark for them but that isn't Ok with me because this is their "specialty" and they should know more and I am not a guinea pig.

I haven't had any treatments in 6 months and have been on a break from all of it. It's been a nice break because I've had time to calm my anxiety and just be in the moment instead of always looking one month ahead.

But over the weekend I had a chance to meet three men, one in particular who really, really impressed me with his knowledge, thoughtfulness and just general empathy for infertile couples. Up to this point, I really have not felt that way about any doctor - ever!

They were the doctors at the Sher Institute for Reproductive Medicine (SIRM). The man who started the group is Dr. Geoffrey Sher and he spoke to a room full of infertile couples on Saturday about his love of reproductive medicine and all that he knows about it.

My husband is the ultimate critic when it comes to the doctors we have met thus far and even he was  impressed.

Dr. Sher's approach is that he doesn't stop at the basic tests and he doesn't take the easy way out. He was the first to open private fertility clinics in the U.S. in the early 1980's and he studied under the men who pioneered IVF. Dr. Sher is a pioneer himself and takes to treating the cause of infertility rather than the symptom.

What I learned at this seminar is that he likely knows more about reproductive medicine than most doctors anywhere. He wasn't obnoxious about his knowledge or a "know it all" but rather he showed great compassion.

He talked about issues that you wouldn't hear your everyday RE doctor talk to you about. It is beyond some of them and sometimes people don't want to expand upon what they already do and how they treat it. But the sense you get from the doctors at SIRM is that they are always thinking ahead and beyond.

They are pushed to think outside the box and they know that not everyone is the same when it comes to infertility.

Here are some of the things I gathered from the seminar:

1. The uterus has to be receptive to the embryo for implantation and pregnancy to occur. If it is not, then continued miscarriages can occur. What this means is that if the uterus and embryo are too close genetically then the body can reject it. This is where the doctors at SIRM have pioneered tests for immune issues causing infertility. The explanation below is from Dr. Sher's fertility blog, IVFAuthority, and explains these immune issues.

There are two (2) forms of immunologic implantation dysfunction. The first and by far the most common is autoimmune implantation dysfunction. This variety is usually easily and successfully remedied through treatment with heparinoids (e.g., Lovenox, Clexane), Intralipid (IL), and corticosteroids. The second variety which is often ignored or overlooked is alloimmune implantation dysfunction.

Autoimmune implantation dysfunction is by far the most common variety. It is believed to be implicated in >90% of cases of immunologic implantation dysfunction and occurs when an immunologic reaction is produced by the individual, to his/her body’s own cellular components. Aloimmune implantation dysfunction on the other hand, arises through the reaction of the uterus to an embryo that shares certain genetic (genotypic) similarities (DQa and other HLA genes)with the recipient’s uterus causing immune cells known as natural killer (NK) cells that populate the uterine lining, to start over-producing “ toxins” known as TH-1 cytokines (TNFa and Interferon gamma). Such activated NK cells (NKa+) attack the cells of the embryo’s “root system” (the trophoblast) damaging it and so compromising implantation. Alloimmune implantation dysfunction, while far less common than the autoimmune variety is considerably more complex, much more poorly understood (even by most RE’s) and far more difficult to treat successfully. It involves a reaction by an otherwise normal uterus to the intrusion of one or more embryos that through the contribution of sperm DNA share certain immunogenetic (genotypic) similarities with the recipient.

2. This issue that arises when the uterus and embryo are too close in generic makeup leads to a "natural killer cell" issue. The good news is that in most cases this issue can be resolved with medication called Intralipid.

3. There are tests that can easily be done to find the natural killers cells and to see if you are and your partner are a DQ match. The excerpt below is from Dr. Sher's blog:

For some reason, there is a tendency to consider all couples with alloimmune implantation dysfunction (who share DQa similarities) to be incapable of achieving a viable full term pregnancy. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Let me explain: Each individual has two (DQa’s), one is derived from their mother and the other from their father. The fact that many individuals carry identical DQa's (i.e. both are the same), of necessity means their parents must of necessity have had “matching” DQa’s and yet they were born healthy and normal. The reason is that it is not the “matching” DQa that matters. It is whether upon arriving in the uterus, a DQa “matching” embryo encounters activated uterine natural killer cells (NKa+). These NKa+ release large amounts of TH-1 cytokines that attack and damage the cells of the embryo’s “root system” (trophoblast).It is the extent of such trophoblastic damage that will determine whether such an embryo will immediately “die on the vine” (implantation failure) or “limp along” for some time only to be aborted a few weeks later.

4. The SIRM doesn't just accept an "unexplained" reason for you not getting pregnant. This was the biggest factor that made me get up at the seminar and make an appt to see Dr. Peters (one of the docs at the Lehigh Valley office) tomorrow (March 30). Read below for Dr. Sher's insight:

Unexplained Infertility: True Diagnosis or Cop Out?

For about 10% of all infertile couples, the cause of the infertility cannot be readily determined using conventional diagnostic methods. Such cases are often referred to as "unexplained infertility." The truth, however, is that in most such cases, this diagnosis is in fact “presumptive” because a more in-depth evaluation would have revealed a cause.

I feel very strongly that most RE doctor's are not really looking at individual patients and their needs and are just trying what they can because it may have worked for someone else. Many patients go to the Sher Institute because they have exhausted all other possibilities. They specialize in IVF but don't be deterred if you are not at the point yet, emotionally or financially.

I am going into my appt tomorrow with an open mind. This may or may not be the answer for me but at least I am following my gut to a place where I might get more answers.

Even if you are happy with your current RE - take a look at Dr. Sher's blog. It is a wealth of knowledge and insight and you can search for any topic.

A Baby or Your Money Back...Sher Institutes

I was looking through the RESOLVE website and came across a thread on the message board about the Sher Institutes For Reproductive Medicine. I wanted to pass it along to my readers  - in case you are looking for a new fertility clinic. From what I've read so far, the Sher Institutes (there are several around the country including NYC, LA, Dallas and the Lehigh Valley Area) offer more cutting edge and thorough treatments. Not a "one-size fits all" treatment like other RE's but they look at other aspects including a woman's immune system and how that could be causing  "unexplained infertility."

I looked up the office closest to me and found this description of the doctor in charge.

The office is led by Dr. Albert Peters, a board certified Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist). Dr. Peters has a unique approach to treatment, incorporating various eastern philosophies such as acupuncture, massage, yoga, tai chi and herbology into traditional reproductive medicine. His patients rave about his compassionate, personalized approach to treatment.

I like the way this sounds so my hubby and I will be checking out a free seminar given by the Sher Institutes'  founder Geoffrey Sher and Dr. Peters later this month!

I also found a 2003 article published on CNN.com that talked about Dr. Sher's motivations and his unique take on fertility treatments.

The best-known of Sher's innovations is what he calls the "outcome-based" plan. He guarantees that a couple will have a baby within three rounds of IVF, or he will refund as much as half the cost, depending on the woman's age (one of the major factors that affect conception). When he initiated this concept in 1995, he encountered criticism from both members and officials of the American Medical Association. The idea of basing a fee on outcome is anathema to most physicians. The standard argument: How does one know cancer will remain in remission? But in fertility science, as Sher points out, there is a clearly defined outcome: a baby. Because only 15% of patients have insurance coverage for IVF, the outcome-based plan has also provided a canny competitive edge. About 50 U.S. clinics have emulated Sher and started offering similar plans.

Sher also pioneered research linking failed pregnancies to overly thin uterine linings and found that viagra (Yes, viagra!) helped the issue.

Years ago Sher used nitroglycerine patches as a therapy for women with that problem. But in 1999 he started recommending Viagra. That opened another chapter in the drug's twisted life: Viagra was originally designed as a heart medication, but men participating in clinical trials found that it had some interesting side effects, and then Sher discovered that it could help infertile women by increasing the blood flow to the uterus and thereby thickening the lining. Sher is the doctor behind the world's first "Viagra baby," prompting jokes from Jay Leno. Sher also receives regular potshots from fellow IVF practitioners, who say he is over-hasty and irresponsible about introducing new therapies. "If they don't agree with my practices, why are they so quick to adopt them?" says Sher, unfazed.

To read the full article click here.

To Facebook or Not To Facebook...

Recently, I've started a few sentences, as I was talking to my husband that began something like this, "so I was on Facebook the other day..." They usually end with me saying that I feel like crap. And he then replies by telling me to delete my account.


Oh dreaded Facebook...you can love it and hate it. My little dog, Ruby, loves to chase her tail and run in circles. I always say that her tail is her best friend and worst enemy. She loves it and hates it at the same time.

Facebook is my tail. I love keeping up with friends and extended family...seeing their photos, etc. But I hate it for how easily I can make myself (I blame no one but me) feel like crap by reading updates of friends, etc.

That damn tail!!

I've been logging onto RESOLVE (The National Infertility Association). They have lots of discussion groups on there and I've read quite a few and so many are about Facebook and how hard it is to read all the updates of friends who are having babies. The simple answer is: stop going on Facebook! But we are all a glutton for punishment and I am no different.

So why do we subject ourselves to it? To be in the know? To have a reason to feel like crap? I don't know. I really don't.

What I do know is that these updates, for me, don't sting as much as they used to. If I give into my dark side that wants me to run away and hide whenever I hear baby news I wouldn't see the light of any day for its real beauty. You can't live your life in darkness.

When two of my friends were pregnant and I was invited to the showers I forced myself to go. Despite the cringing I felt inside and wanting to run away and cry, I went. I had to...they would be there for me and I had to be there for them. It was a pivotal moment in their lives and I am a friend first before I am "someone trying to conceive." I know, it’s quite a hurdle to jump over and it may not happen but at least you tried.

And if you need a good laugh or are just fed up with the posts of some parents, you can always take a stroll through the STFU Parents site. (As in Shut The F*ck Up). It's for parents who over share on FB. It’s funny when you see the actual parents respond and owe up to it.

http://stfuparents.tumblr.com/

You have to laugh at yourself first, before anyone else can!

Laughter is like mercy; it heals. When you can laugh at yourself, you are free.

The Birthday Blues...

I have always been super-duper excited about my birthday. I loved having a reason for my friends and family to get together. It's always been fun.

I embraced getting a year older....30 did not faze me in the least 'cause I really don't look 30 and I really feel like I am 21 :)

But moving into my 30's was stranger than I anticipated. And really you can't complain because there is always someone older than you saying "wait till your 40 - that's really rough."

Although when you hit a certain age...it’s like whatever! My 92-year old Grammy never said to me "wait till you hit 90 - it's a bitch." I just think she was so amazed to still be around!

Ok so back to my topic....the age of 35 is daunting for a woman who is trying to conceive. It's like you reached old age already and it's creepy. The more you read the more freaked out you get as you approach 35. By now your eggs are getting old and that is the age where you are high risk...yada yada yada.

On Monday I am turning 32. I picture the day ending much like the Tom Petty video above :) I don't feel excited or particularly want to celebrate unless it comes in the form of a positive pregnancy test. Yes, ladies and gents, I would now like to have a plastic stick that was peed on for my Bday. Oh how things have changed!

I know, I have three years to go before 35 but I've already been trying for almost three years so how much longer is the process going to take??? Ok, I changed my mind. I would like a crystal ball for my birthday.

But within all this madness I had to take a step back and stop getting so freaked out about being one step closer to 35. I am also one step closer to having a full head of gray hair and major wrinkles but I am not freaking out about that so I need to calm down.

So I am going to embrace the power and beauty of the goddess and revere the vulnerable sensitivity of Mother Nature. You cannot change certain things so you must embrace them and that is what I am going to do.

I have the best mom – she is always opening my eyes to new ways of thinking and viewing what is going on in my life. She gave me her Tibetan Buddhist Pop-Up Goddess Altar.

You open to the page of the goddess of your choice, recite the mantra, or enlightened speech and vividly image yourself in the form of the deity while reciting the mantra repeatedly and mediating on the deity’s divine qualities leading to purification of all aspects of your body (actions), speech (words) and mind (thoughts).

My altar is set up to the goddess Vasudhara (see photo below) who is the goddess of prosperity, fertility, abundance and happiness. I am going to mediate on that for a while and be in a moment where I enjoy my day, be thankful I am here to live another year and know that good things are ahead for me.

So if you are feeling down about your "fertility" age...connect with nature, meditate or just plain relax. I order everyone go get a massage this weekend. I am getting mine on Friday - Happy Birthday to me!

Fertility-Boosting Herbs and Supplements

I am a strong believer in taking your vitamins. If you are trying to get pregnant or even if you are not - taking your vitamins is essential.

It took me a while to get to that place and take them every day but I am there and it's worth it! I've been around the block with vitamins and supplements so below is what I've tried and what I take now on a daily basis.  I started with fertility boosting herbs, etc.

-Evening Primrose Oil - is natural source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). GLA, an essential fatty acid, helps maintain hormonal balance and may support healthy growth of hair, skin and nails.
-Red Raspberry Leaf Tea (loose tea) - tones the uterus, improves contractions and decreases constipation. You can buy it in a tea bag but loose tea is said to work better, which you can get at any health food store.
-False Unicorn Root - It was used in a variety of ways in traditional Native American medication, particularly among tribes located in the Eastern United States. It also has long been part of herbal medicine to treat a variety of conditions, most of them having to do with disorders affecting the uterus and ovaries, and a woman’s menstrual cycle.
-Women's Health Tonic - Supports Healthy Function of the Female Reproductive System

I went to a chiropractor who put me on a "fertility-boost" vitamin regime through Standard Process -
which are top quality vitamins made from whole foods which are easily digestible. The difference between vitamins like this and ones you buy at the grocery store like Centrum is quality. Centrum has fillers and synthetic ingredients meaning it is not absorbed well in your system.

Standard Process can only be bought through suppliers like doctors or chiropractors. You can, however, buy them online at http://www.naturamart.com/.

My regime included:
-Ovex - ovary support
-Promaline Iodine - helps support women with thyroid issues. While an under active thyroid can have many causes, one of the primary causes is an iodine deficiency.
-Cataplex C - is an important antioxidant and has long been recognized as an important nutritional compound essential for supporting the immune, cardiovascular, endocrine, musculoskeletal, and hematopoietic systems.
-Catalyn - is a multiple vitamin, mineral, and trace mineral concentrate
-Diaplex - is formulated to support the healthy function of the pancreas and the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. Chromium is an essential trace mineral that helps to maintain normal levels of blood sugar and fat in the body.
-For Til B-Complex - For-Til B12 is a ‘fortified’ tillandsia product combined with the vitamin B12 complex.
-Omega Plus - provides omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in a ratio designed to create a healthful balance of these essential fatty acids in the body.

I was taking all of these three times a day. There are some others I might have forgotten but those are the bulk. I was feeling better and had more energy but then I feel like I just reached a plateau.

I also didn’t get pregnant after what this certain chiropractor said was a "chemical imbalance" in my system. He was so sure of that and told me that he was going to get me pregnant. But there is a point when you have to become your own doctor. Listen to that voice inside and go with it!

I was always one to get sick a few times during the year! Last year I only got sick once...this year I have not gotten sick yet (knock on wood or touch wood as the brits say :)

Aside from trying to get pregnant, I needed to boost my immune system and taking vitamins has absolutely helped that. So if you are feeling tired or weak or get sick a lot...you need to get on this band wagon!

From suggestions from holistic doctors and acupuncturists and herbalists below is what I take now everyday!


-Catalyn - is a multiple vitamin, mineral, and trace mineral concentrate.
-Nordic Naturals - Cod Liver Oil with D - yes, its liquid but it is one of the best things you can take daily. They have flavors so it is not as bad as you think! It doenst taste like fish.
-Folic Acid B-12 - this is super important if you are trying to get pregnant! Folic acid and vitamin B12, taken together work to prevent birth defects of the central nervous system, and help to mature and strengthen red blood cells. Folic acid has also been shown to have protective cardiovascular benefits. Folic Acid B12 is also essential in the important processes of DNA formation and genetic replication
-Borage Oil - which is much like evening primrose oil, contains gamma linolenic acid, or GLA, a fatty acid that the body converts to a hormone-like substance called prostaglandin that has anti-inflammatory properties and may also act as a blood thinner and blood vessel dilator.
-For Til B-Complex - For-Til B12 is a ‘fortified’ tillandsia product combined with the vitamin B12 complex.
-Maca Root - is a nutritional supplement from the Andes in Peru, that has been called a 'superfood". Maca has long been considered the ginseng of the Andes, supporting energy, stamina and vitality it has also been associated with promoting healthy female sexual interest and healthy reproductive system function.
-B6-Niacinamide -  helps the cardiovascular, digestive, endocrine, circulatory, and central nervous systems at the cellular level.
-Probiotics - I take one everyday after I eat dinner. These are very important. Click here for more info on why probiotics are important from the Mayo Clinic. They help promote good digestion, treat diarrhea, especially following treatment with certain antibiotics, prevent and treat vaginal yeast infections and urinary tract infections among other things.
I also take liquid iron from time to time to boost energy but sometimes that gives me a headache. I also take zinc as well which is also very important for men!

The Healing Power of Hado Water

Hado water, discovered by Dr. Masaru Emoto, is water treated with the intrinsic electromagnetic vibrations of healing words like "love", "gratitude" and prayer.

Emoto claims that if human speech or thoughts are directed at water droplets before they are frozen, images of the resulting water crystals will be beautiful or ugly depending upon whether the words or thoughts were positive or negative. This water is used to heal health problems and since more than 70% of our bodies are water this technique could be key to living happier and healthier.

Emoto has written several books on this topic and documented the different water crystals that formed when positive and negative energies were used.

                                                                     

Mozart Symphony

Heavy Metal Music

To see more evidence of Emoto's work visit: http://www.hado.net/index.php

Here are some steps you can take to prepare and drink the HADO water  (from the EMR Labs website)

Buy some mineral water. If you can find some in a glass container, that's best. The plastic containers leach plasticizers into the water that pollute it. Tap water is hard to purify because the chlorine seems to affect the structure even after the chlorine evaporates according to Dr. Emoto's research.

Keep a gallon or two of mineral water in front of a music source where you can play purifying water music. In Dr. Emoto's two books, you can find out the names of various symphonies and songs that produce great crystals. Some of these musical sources of HADO include Beethoven's Ninth, John Lennon's Imagine, and Amazing Grace.

Prepare a HADO bottle of water. This process is highly individual.

--Start with a clear glass jar. One that holds about a quart is fine. Peel off any labels and clean the outside of the jar.

--Cut out small pieces of paper (about 3" by 5").

--Write messages on the pieces of paper.

--One message should be "Love and Gratitude".

--If you have some illness or pain you want to go away, another message can be "[Name of pain or illness] Has Gone".

--A third message should be "The eternal power of the universe has gathered itself to create a world with true and grand harmony".

--I also suggest you put a message on another sheet of paper with the name of your religion.

--Tape these messages onto the outside of the container so that they face inward towards the water.

--Put them in different places on the outside so that no message obscures any other message in facing the water inside.

--Keep this HADO jar full of mineral water that has been in front of your speakers that have been vibrating with high HADO music.

--Keep the water away from microwaves, televisions, computers and cell phones. All of those energy sources harm the structure of water as shown in Dr. Emoto's photographs.

--Drink as often as possible from the HADO jar and refill it. Drink the amount of water that's healthy for you. But try to get as much of that water as possible from this jar. You can carry some of the water with you when you are away from your source.

--Be thankful as you drink the water.

Dr. Emoto's experiments suggest that you will further purify the water if you say or think the following thoughts as you drink the water:

--"We love you, water."
--"Thank you, water."
--"We will take care of you, water."

Also thank God and the Angels for the water and ask them to bless it as you drink it.

Notice any changes that occur after you begin drinking HADO water and eating high HADO foods.

You may notice no changes . . . or you may notice quite a few. Finding some improvement is essential to seeing whether this approach is for you.

The Good, The Bad and The Smelly...Natural Deodorant Scorecard

Here is the down-low on natural deodorants....most do not work as well as the regular stuff (in terms of keeping you dry and smelling nice) but those deemed "all-natural" are without the harmful chemicals that are known to cause disease and hormonal imbalances.

The problem is that finding the right one for you might cost you...its trial and error.


Deodorants that are said to be "pure" don't contain parabens, PEGs, synthetic ingredients including hormone-disrupting fragrance and antibacterials, petrochemicals, or aluminum compounds.

The Environmental Working Group - is a non-profit group that uses the power of public information to protect public health says...

Our research brings to light unsettling facts that you have a right to know. It shames and shakes up polluters and their lobbyists. It rattles politicians and shapes policy. It persuades bureaucracies to rethink science and strengthen regulation. It provides practical information you can use to protect your family and community.

The EWG runs a Skin Deep Database which is a free way to find out how safe your personal care products are and how they rate.

My experience with natural deodorants is a work-in-progress. I've tried many and am still not fully satisfied.

First ones I went for were Tom's of Maine and Jason. I wasn't impressed with either. Not much in the line of odor eliminators or anything else for that matter.

Next I bought, Burt's Bees Herbal Deodorant spray which mixes sage, lemon, and lavender to "minimize and neutralize odor while still allowing your body to sweat - a natural toxin-eliminating process." Yeah I did sweat naturally and it did not smell pleasant.

I also took a stab at Nature's Gate and found it to be like the others I already tried. Then I found one that really really worked well.

Crystal!

I thought I hit the jackpot on this one and I was super excited. It is all-natural mineral salts that prevent body odor from occurring - naturally. The deodorant is hypoallergenic, contains no aluminum chlorohydrate, and is paraben free, alcohol-free, non-sticky, and non-staining.

I used it for a long time and it was great. I bought it for my family and suggested to my friends. Then last year my underarms were uncontrollable itchy and wouldn't stop until I stopped using Crystal. So that was the end of that.

It seems to me that some of the most popular deodorants that work the best are the salt crystal ones. It works for A LOT of people so if you are looking for one I would try this out. It's completely affordable!

But I had to move on because it was not working for me any longer.

Next I tried Lafe. Here is what they have to say about their company and organic deodorant:

Lafe's deodorants are a healthy alternative to antiperspirants. Antiperspirants plug up the pores of the skin, which is an unhealthy process, as perspiration in a healthy process allowing toxins to be released from the body. We believe, as do many others, that long-term use of antiperspirants may contribute to breast cancer and other diseases common in the western world. Lafe's deodorant line does not contain any parabens, propylene glycol, synthetic preservatives, artificial fragrances, or petroleum-based chemicals.

I did like this one and might give it another shot. I wasn't completely satisfied but it comes in second so far after my beloved Crystal!

So I am in NY for the week and that means I can spend an hour in the beauty/vitamin isle at Whole Foods!! I took a poll of the ladies in the beauty isle the other day and bought my next one:

Aubrey Organics E-Plus High C roll-on. I cannot get past the smell to see how this one works. I am ultra sensitive to smell and mostly use a fragrance-free one. This 3 oz. bottle was over $8 and I will be returning it today.

I was not happy with my last purchase so I went back and bought Naturally Fresh roll-on. It is a crystal deodorant much like my fave but it hasn't lived up to the hype...yet. I think I need to give it another chance.

So I am going to try some others...one that is raved about (if you want to spend the money $20+) is Dr. Hauschka. The ingredients are pure and it comes in fresh and floral scents. Apparently Martha Stewart swears by it. Even the packaging is environmentally friendly.

I think I may run over to Sephora and check it out! I will give you an update on my testing.

Anyone have a good suggestion?? Leave me a comment and let me know what works for you and what doesn't!

Listen Up Ladies...The Bible!!

If you are looking for one book that will help you create physical and emotional health and healing...go to your nearest bookstore and pick up: "Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom" by Christiane Northup, MD.

This is the bible for all women that speaks to the mind-body connection. In it you can find tons and tons of info and really find out more about your body and how it works.

My mom gave me this book years ago and I really didn't read it until the last year or so. But it really is something to consider. It is a large, thick book but you can skim to your section of interest and really find out more about  your body and its connection to your thoughts and actions.

Internationally known for her empowering approach to women’s health and wellness, Dr. Northrup is a leading proponent of medicine and healing that acknowledges the unity of the mind and body, as well as the powerful role of the human spirit in creating health. Following a career as a practicing physician in obstetrics and gynecology for over 25 years, Dr. Northrup has dedicated her lifework to helping women (and the men who love them) learn how to flourish on all levels by creating health, prosperity, and pleasure in their lives.

To find out more visit http://www.drnorthrup.com/