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Tests Suggested for Men Before IVF

MD
IVF Specialist, Delhi
Tests Suggested for Men Before IVF

It is as important for the man as it is for the woman to undergo certain tests before the IVF cycle is started. Fertility is not only an issue for a woman, but it also might be for the man in question. There are certain tests that need to be conducted on men before they can gear up for IVF:

1. Semen Analysis: One of the most important tests for male infertility is semen analysis. Sometimes, a man may be completely healthy, but his sperm production could be of poor quality. Semen analysis is done to provide an accurate evaluation of sperm number, the ability to move (motility), size and shape (morphology), as well as the consistency and volume of the sample collected.

2. Binding Test: Sometimes agglutination occurs where the sperms might stick to each other by their heads or tails. Sperm antibodies might cause this problem. The IVF treatment's success might be compromised if this happens. A simple binding test is done to determine this.

3. Trial Wash: This is also known as sperm wash. It is mostly done to remove chemicals from the sperm. Not doing a sperm wash might end up affecting the later stages of the IVF treatment. In this process, the misshapen and immotile sperm is separated so a clean sample of motile and healthy sperm can be collected.

4. TUNEL Assay: Since sperms build up about half of a child's genetic makeup, a TUNEL Assay or 'sperm DNA test' is required. This test is done to measure the sperm population that have fragmented DNA. Negative impacts on genetics can hamper the success of the fertility treatment.

TUNEL Assay is usually recommended to men with:

  • Leukocytes detected by the sperm analysis
  • Age approaching 50
  • A history of diabetes II type or prostatitis
  • Exposure to chemicals or prolonged heat at workplaces

5. Screening for Infectious Diseases: This test is done for both the partners to check for diseases like AIDS, Hepatitis C, and so on.

3952 people found this helpful

Top 4 Symptoms Of Liver Cancer

Dr. Sanjaya Mishra 90% (300 ratings)
MD - Oncology, Senior Residency in Radiation Oncology, Observer at TMH, Observer
Oncologist, Bhubaneswar
Top 4 Symptoms Of Liver Cancer

If you are concerned about liver cancer, you should know that most people do not experience signs and symptoms of the cancer in the early stages. Liver cancer is a form of cancer which occurs in the cells of the liver. There are various types of cancer which can develop in the liver. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver cancer which begins in the hepatocyte, which is the main liver cell.

Symptoms-

Usually there are no specific primary stage symptoms of liver cancer. Some symptoms which may develop include the following:

  1. Unusual weight loss is observed

  2. Loss of appetite and developing food aversion

  3. Pain in the upper abdomen

  4. Nausea followed by vomiting

  5. General weakness with intense fatigue

  6. Swelling in the abdomen

  7. The skin may become yellow

  8. White and chalky stools are likely

Causes-

In most cases, the causes of liver cancer cannot be clearly determined. In some cases, the cause is known, such as chronic infection with the hepatitis virus, which may lead to liver cancer. Liver cancer occurs when the liver cells undergo changes or mutations in their DNA structure. DNA mutations lead to changes in instructions of chemical processes taking place in the body. The cells may grow out of control and develop into a cancerous tumour.

Risk Factors-

There are several factors which enhance the risk of liver cancer. They are as follows:

  1. Chronic infection with hepatitis B or hepatitis C increases the risk of liver cancer.

  2. A progressive and irreversible condition known as cirrhosis leads to scar tissue formation in the liver, increasing the risk of liver cancer.

  3. Certain inherited liver diseases such as Wilson’s disease and hemochromatosis also increase the chances of liver cancer.

  4. People with diabetes are also at a greater risk of having liver cancer.

  5. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is the accumulation of fat in the liver, also increases the chances of getting this condition.

  6. Excessive alcohol consumption is another factor which causes irreversible damage to the liver and the chances of getting liver cancer get boosted.

  7. Exposure to aflatoxins, which are poisons produced by molds growing on poorly stored crops, make you more likely to get liver cancer.

Several tests and procedures are carried out for the diagnosis of liver cancer. These include blood tests for diagnosing liver function problems, and imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan and MRI scan.

1775 people found this helpful

10 Fruits You Must Consume Everyday

Dt. Shraddha Sahu 90% (2682 ratings)
M.sc dietitics and food service management, Diabetes educator
Dietitian/Nutritionist, Bhopal
10 Fruits You Must Consume Everyday

Fruits are a superfood category of their own. They are the powerhouse of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants and an excellent contribution to your diet. Here are ten fruits you should be eating daily:

  1. Apples: There is a reason why an apple a day keeps the doctor away. Apples are filled with antioxidants, soluble and insoluble fibre and quercetin. Antioxidants boost your immunity and the fibre provides you with energy and maintains a healthy bowel, while quercetin has anti-allergy and antihistamine (compounds which curb the effects of histamine, primarily used to treat allergies) properties.
  2. Grapes: Grapes contain an antioxidant named resveratrol, which prevents heart diseases and premature aging of your cells. In addition, they are also great sources of folate and vitamin B6, C and A which contribute to a healthier immune system.
  3. Bananas: Bananas have low sodium and high potassium levels. Thus, they are extremely beneficial in maintaining blood pressure and preventing strokes. Bananas also contain protease inhibitors, which prevent stomach ulcers (protease is a digestive enzyme that produces acid).
  4. Strawberries: Strawberries might be small, but they do pack a lot of nutrients! A handful of strawberries daily can prevent diabetes type 2, inflammations and heart disease. They are also rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
  5. PapayaPapayas contain a substance called ‘papain’ which is an incredible digestive stimulant. They also contain large amounts of folate, which helps in proper DNA repair and synthesis.
  6. Oranges: Oranges provide you with vitamin C and potassium, which are essential for enhanced muscle and digestive functions. The membrane between orange segments contains hesperidin, which has been proven to reduce cholesterol.
  7. KiwiKiwi contains more vitamin C than oranges which grants them the ability to prevent DNA damage and also helps reduce risks of developing cataracts.
  8. Blueberries: Blueberries are a great source of antioxidants which aid in fighting cancer and macular degeneration (an eye disease which results in vision loss). They also contain compounds that protect you from urinary tract infections.
  9. Lemon: Lemons contain citric acid, which effectively lowers cholesterol and cuts down on body fat. Citric acid is also an excellent digestive stimulant. Also, the refreshing scent of lemons reduces anxiety, nervousness and fatigue.
  10. Grapefruit: Grapefruit is an excellent appetite suppressant, which cuts down on your cravings. It also contains a soluble fibre named ‘pectin’, which lessens the development of atherosclerosis (build-up of cholesterol and fats on the walls of the artery). However, refrain from consuming grapefruit if you are on prescription medications. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a dietitian-nutritionist and ask a free question.
8327 people found this helpful

Autism And Epilepsy - Application Of Epigenetics For Permanent Cure!

MBBS
General Physician, Chennai
Autism And Epilepsy - Application Of Epigenetics For Permanent Cure!

In some people, autism and epilepsy go hand in hand. But with new tools and techniques, it has become possible to cure such people. Cure for autism means the disappearance of the limiting symptom that is unique for each person. Cure for epilepsy means complete disappearance of seizure and no medication for epilepsy. 

Therefore, how autism with epilepsy can be cured is a point of consideration here.

Reasons for Epilepsy in Autistic People - 

People with epilepsy often experience seizures, which means that they have a temporary disturbance of mental functioning. It manifests due to Energy Disturbance in the energy fields of the autistic person. But, the trigger of the energy disturbance in such a person is the energy disturbance in the parents’ or caregivers’ energy field. The energy disturbance in the physical environment around the autistic person can also be a trigger. 

The energy fields get disturbed as autistic people are born as energy sensitivity being and they have poor energy boundaries. 

How Applied Intentional Epigenetics is Beneficial in Curing the Symptoms in Autism Along with Epilepsy?

Applied Intentional Epigenetics is a Biotechnology tool, which enables the reversing of symptoms in autism presented along with epilepsy. 

Applied Intentional Epigenetics is the science and art of utilizing methods and techniques using the power of Intention in any way that helps epigenetic transformations in a person. It brings these transformations at the genes and DNA level of the person. 

On the other hand, the Biotechnology tool involves using living organisms to make products through technological applications for a specific use. Epigenetics means to control the above genes. Biotechnology and epigenetics are connected through Intent or Intention. And the combination of two is for helping people with autism and epilepsy. It is also known as an intent healing which means healing using the power of Intention. It brings about the realignment in the energy fields of such people by rewiring the neural network in the brain and gut, reprogramming the DNA and erasing faulty cellular memories.

Result of Using the Intent Healing Tool -

People with autism along with epilepsy have shown positive results with the help of the intent healing process. These people have recovered completely from all the limiting symptoms of autism as well as symptoms of epilepsy. They were soon off the medicines once the healing session started. The entire process is done along with parents or caretakers under medical supervision. The process involves the healing of parents first and then the autistic child. 

Conclusion -

Where earlier people thought that autism along with epilepsy had no solution or only medication is the solution, now, with new discovery, they have understood that Intent Healing is the solution. Such healing has a permanent solution to the problem. The invention of such a healing process is a sigh of relief for children and families.

2170 people found this helpful

Hodgkin lymphoma: Causes, Symptoms, Risk Factors and Treatment

MBBS, DNB Radiation Oncology, Fellowship in Radiation Oncology
Oncologist, Mumbai
Hodgkin lymphoma: Causes, Symptoms, Risk Factors and Treatment

Immune system in the body is also made by a system called the lymphatic system. This system fights with germ near tissue in the body and also it penetrates deep to defend the body. A certain type of cancer called hodgkin lymphoma affects the whole lymphatic system. 

When Hodgkin lymphoma happens to the body the lymphocytes also known as white blood cells increase in number so excessively like a cancer growth. This increase in number causes the lymph nodes  to swell all over the body and there are many other growth all over the body due to it.   

There are two types of  lymphoma called  hodgkin lymphoma and non-hodgkin lymphoma . Hodgkin lymphoma is known by another name called Hodgkin's disease.

Medical advances in diagnosis and treatment  and medicines have helped the people to recover fully from this hodgkin disease. Some who do not recover fully show promising progress.

Symptoms:

There are some Signs and symptoms of Hodgkin's lymphoma: 

  • There is swelling of the lymph nodes found in the neck, armpits,groin. This swelling is painless.
  • The body will feel  tired all the time.
  •  There will be a fever.
  • There will be Night sweats while sleeping.
  • There will be weight loss.
  • There will be itching in the body.
  • When you drink alcohol, pain starts in the lymph nodes.

When to see a doctor :

When you find any symptoms in the body as given below you must rush to the doctor for this is a very serious disease. The following symptoms are:

  • There is swelling of the lymph nodes found in the neck, armpits,groin. This swelling is painless.
  • The body will feel  tired all the time.
  •  There will be a fever.
  • There will be Night sweats while sleeping.
  • There will be weight loss.
  • There will be itching in the body.
  • When you drink alcohol, pain starts in the lymph nodes.

Causes:

After much research , researchers and doctors do not know the cause of hodgkin lymphoma. There is only some information like lymphoma begins only when these defense cells, white blood cells develop any change in their DNA. This DNA tells them to increase their number and cause other problems. It feels like some infection or germs or virus have infected the white blood cell for their control.

The DNA contains the instructions for all cells and each cell has their own DNA. Infected DNA tells the WHITE BLOOD CELls  to multiply and increase in number as well as to not to die like other normal cells do. As white blood cells are the part of the immune system, it has got a defense from other healthy defensive cells in the body. This defense protects the mutated white blood cells and helps them to grow in number. When there is a high number of cells they crowd at the storage of defense cells that are at lymph nodes and make them swell and behave in healthy ways.

There are many types of hodgkin lymphoma . Each type has its own characteristics because each cell with different mutations gives different behavior. These different types have characteristics that determine the type of treatment should be given.

The most common nowadays is the Classical Hodgkin's lymphoma. People who suffer from this on analyzing their nodes researchers find out that this type of lymphoma have very large white blood cells in their nodes called Reed-Sternberg cells. There are Subtypes of this  classical Hodgkin's lymphoma. Their names are :

  • Nodular sclerosis- Hodgkin's lymphoma
  • Mixed cellularity- Hodgkin's lymphoma
  • Lymphocyte-depleted Hodgkin's lymphoma
  • Lymphocyte-rich Hodgkin's lymphoma

Nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin's lymphoma is the rare type of Hodgkin lymphoma. In this lymphoma white blood cells look like popcorn and white blood cells are called popcorn cells in this lymphoma due to their appearance. This is usually at an early stage for a long time and easily diagnosed. This also requires less intensive  treatment. 

Risk factors:

There are some factors which can trigger the occurrence of Hodgkin lymphoma. Such factor are:

  • Your age:  Hodgkin's lymphoma always occurs to people who are aged 20 to 30 years or people at 60 years. 
  • A family chart of lymphoma: if your family members had Hodgkin's lymphoma, your coming generation may have this lymphoma at their 60 years. So we should check it at the early years of our child or relative.
  • Being male: females are protected against this lymphoma somehow but male are not because they are more likely to have lymphoma.
  • Past Epstein-Barr infection:epstein-barr virus  causes people to have illnesses such as infectious mononucleosis. People who have suffered from this virus are more likely to have hodgkin lymphoma than people who do have epstein-barr virus infections. 
  • HIV infection: these  patients have a failed immune system, which increases the risk of Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Treatment:

People with Hodgkin lymphoma are given chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or when needed bone marrow transplant. There are many drugs which are given to control the birth rate of lymphocytes.

Conclusion:

Hodgkin lymphoma is rare but people are there who suffer from this. Treatment can cause them to have full recovery. But people can avoid it by having many fruits which are able to prevent cancer. For more information please visit the doctor.

1 person found this helpful

Autism Cure - Everything You Should Know!

MBBS Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
General Physician, Chennai
Autism Cure - Everything You Should Know!

Autism Spectrum Disorder or Autism is a group of neurological and developmental disorders. In this type of disorder, a person faces problems in social interaction and sometimes even in communication. These problems are usually seen in children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates in 2014, nearly 1 in 59 children suffers from Autism disorder.

People often think that there is no “cure” for Autism. One can only nullify the symptoms of Autism by using therapies like behavioural therapy, occupational therapy, play therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, massages, weighted blankets and clothing, and meditation techniques. Modern medicine for a long time has been focusing on finding reasons for Autism to cure it.

In reality, the cure for Autism has already been discovered.

Most of the researches that focus on autism tend to focus on physical factors, while the cause and cure are primarily physiological.

Today, this article presents the understanding of the solution for this disorder and how one can “cure” Autism.

Research has been done to approach Autism from a holistic perspective. In that research, it has come out that consciousness plays an indispensable role in Autism.

Recent researches have established the connection between Brain - Gut - Energy Fields with consciousness quartet with autism. This perspective also presents a practical approach of understanding the actual results of Autism cures and limiting the symptoms permanently.

Brain-Gut-Energy Fields Triad:

Before coming on the “how” part, let us explore these terms individually to detangle the confusion that might have developed till now:

  1. First Brain (i.e. brain in the skull): The main function of this brain is transmitting and receiving signals from one part of the body to other parts.

  2. Second Brain (i.e. Gut brain): This brain should be the primary brain. It is a gut brain that first senses the energy frequencies and signals in the form of emotions and then transfers it to the brain to translate it as thoughts.

  3. Third Brain: The third brain is interdimensional which contains energy frequencies and their information. It connects to the neural network system of the skull and gut.

  4. Energy Fields: The energy fields consist of the meridians, chakras, and other refined subtle energies which help to connect these three brains.

What Actually Autism Cure Is?

Many people or theories misunderstand the term “cure”. In the case of “Autism cure”, there are theories and treatments that limit the symptoms of autism. But, in reality, the autism cure should work on limiting all the symptoms that a person is experiencing. For example, the actual autism cure should enable a nonverbal child to speak coherently.

So, Autism cure needs to focus on filling the missing piece in a child to treat autism and limit all the symptoms.

However, the question arises, what exactly is this "missing piece"?

Consciousness: The Missing Piece

The missing piece is nothing but Consciousness. According to the Applied Energy Medicine and Applied Intentional Epigenetics, consciousness is an authentic autism cure that is already showing the results in the field of treating autism.

It is interesting to know how consciousness glues the Brain - Gut - Energy Fields triad together as a coherent unit.

Human DNA is programmed inherently to respond to language. For “clear communication," DNA requires the correct frequency. People with developed consciousness may create a conscious channel for the communication with DNA.

With development in the Psychiatry field, it is being accepted that the “mind” is not confined to the brain in the skull. The human mind extends beyond the physical selves. It is not just the part inside our head, but also the human perception of their experiences and those experiences themselves.

According to research in the field of Neuro gastroenterology, human Gut functions like a Brain, and in many aspects even controls the operations of the brain in the skull. The cells that are released from the brain in the skull are also present in the Gut of the human being.

So, it is the consciousness which is the most tangible for energy sensing, seeing, or feeling and acts as a thread to connect all four of them together.

Take Away

Consciousness smoothens the functioning of the human brain through energy. According to quantum theory, everything in this universe is made up of energy, and it is no exception for the actual result of Autism cure.

4888 people found this helpful

Is Your Shampoo Leading to Hairfall

Dr. Surjeet Kaur Bava 92% (616 ratings)
MD - Ayurveda, Diploma In Trichology, Skin Aesthetics and Cosmetology, Diploma In skin aesthetics, Diploma In cosmetology, Diploma In Trichology, Diploma In Nutrition & Diet Planning, Bachelor of Ayurveda, Medicine and Surgery (BAMS)
Trichologist, Mumbai
Is Your Shampoo Leading to Hairfall

Normally you shed 50 to 100 hair stands all day but hair grows back all the time to cover for this loss. If you shed more than this then it may be a cause for worry. Hair fall can occur because of many factors and shampoo is one of them. Here's how:

  1. Ammonium chloride: Many shampoos that do not contain sodium chloride usually use surfactants like ammonium chloride. This can also have a similar effect as its sodium chloride counterpart, as it leads to various symptoms like itching and dryness in the scalp.
  2. Formaldehyde: This substance has disinfectant-like qualities which can cause a lot of damage to the dna. Excessive and constant use can lead to indiscriminate hair loss due to the harsh properties of this substance. It is generally a low-cost option that can be used as a preservative in shampoos and conditioners.
  3. Sulfate: Sodium lauryl sulfate or sls, and ammonium lauryl sulfate or als, are surfactants that are usually used by shampoo manufacturers to create extra foam which makes for a luxurious, yet harmful wash. This is usually the case with cheap shampoos. These substances are irritants that can cause hair loss in patches.
  4. Sodium chloride: Your standard table salt is also one of the culprits that can lead to a lot of hair loss. Many popular shampoos and conditioners contain this substance which can make the scalp itchy and dry. This leads to hair fall.
  5. Polyethylene glycol: This substance is used as a thickening agent that can take the moisture away from the hair and lead to severe hair loss. The use of alcohol and greasers in shampoos can also have a similar effect on the hair.
4340 people found this helpful

IVF Failure - Reasons You must Know!

Dr. Sonali Tawde 92% (280 ratings)
MBBS, MS - Obstetrics & Gynaecology & Fellowship In Fertility ( IVf Specialist ), Dnb - Obstetrics & Gynaecology, MRCOG - Part 1, PGDMLS, MNAMS (Membership of the National Academy) - Obstetrics & Gynecology, Masters in Reproductive Medicine(UK)
Gynaecologist, Mumbai

IVF have the success of 40-50% across the globe, varies from case to case as per underlying etiology. It is the best treatment available giving maximum pregnancy rates amongst all options, but it may fail due to the following reasons:

  1. Poor quality of oocyte (female egg) - Age is the best indicator of oocyte quality. More the age of the female partner, poorer is oocyte quality. It also depends upon associated pelvic pathology, endometriosis, smoking.
  2. Abnormal semen report - Increased number of sperms with abnormal morphology (>96%), high DNA fragmentation are indicators of genetically abnormal sperms. It is usually the case in males with obesity, diabetes, smoking, genital infections, exposure to chemicals/ radiation, varicocele.
  3. Poor quality embryos resulting from abnormal oocyte or sperm have very low pregnancy potential.
  4. Thin endometrium - If endometrial thickness is less than 7mm, it reduces endometrial receptivity and implantation rate of embryos. Thin endometrium could be the result of kochs endometritis, asherman's syndrome causing poor vascularity.
  5. Luteal phase insufficiency -  Post transfer, embryos need optimum luteal phase support in the form of progesterone & HCG for implantation and further growth. Any deficiency in luteal support can result in negative pregnancy report.

These are broadly main factors leading to IVF failure. It is advisable to evaluate them before beginning treatment.

5 people found this helpful

5 Super Healthy Foods You Must Consume!

Dt. Lokendra Tomar 91% (10504 ratings)
Diploma in Diet and Nutrition, B.Pharma, MD - Alternate Medicine
Dietitian/Nutritionist, Gurgaon
5 Super Healthy Foods You Must Consume!

Be it measures for weight loss or a fit physique, in modern times, people are beginning to grow more health conscious. If you've already made the transition from burgers to broccoli, then you're possibly on the right path. Yet, following such stringent dietary measures can be a troublesome task. Considering such, the following foods that are mentioned tend to break the monotony of your daily diet and push you further into your quest for a healthier life. They are:

  1. Spaghetti squash: If you're a connoisseur of pasta, then take note. Spaghetti squash is a healthy vegetable that comes along with its very own noodles. It comprises of a wide variety of nutrients which include Vitamin C and A, along with being highly rich in potassium and calcium. Moreover, it also adequately provides your daily fiber requirement.
  2. Azuki beansAzuki beans, commonly known as red beans, are rich sources of iron, magnesium and zinc. Along with such nutrients, it also overflows with folic acid which facilitates the body in producing new cells and also aids in preventing DNA changes which can result in cancer.
  3. Dandelion greens: Dandelion greens are packed with bunch of calcium, vitamins and proteins and can be usually used in smoothies and salads.
  4. Purple potatoes: All kinds of potatoes are packed with nutrients like vitamin C and potassium but these delectable taters contain almost four times the quantity of antioxidants as normal potatoes. Furthermore, a study concluded that two helpings of purple potato can decrease your blood pressure by nearly 4% and can also decrease the risk of heart diseases.
  5. Chia seedsThese seeds which are entirely grown for eating are packed with fiber, proteins and calcium. They are also rich in omega 3 fatty acids which lead to improved cardiovascular health. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a Dietitian/Nutritionist.
7284 people found this helpful

Zinc - How It Can Affect Your Sexual Life?

Dr. Jiva Ayurveda 91% (326 ratings)
Bachelor of Ayurveda, Medicine and Surgery (BAMS)
Ayurvedic Doctor, Kanpur
Zinc - How It Can Affect Your Sexual Life?

Erectile dysfunction is a man's inability to achieve a penetrable erection. It is one of the most common sexual problems faced by men of all ages. Zinc helps the body to produce testosterone and thus the levels of zinc in a person's body may affect erectile dysfunction. And, Zinc is a naturally occurring metallic element. Certain types of vegetable, meats and seafood are rich in zinc.

A host of factors ranging from nutritional deficiency to clinical depression can lead to the condition. In recent years, deficiency of zinc has been found to be the cause of ed. Apart from producing testosterone, zinc is used for metabolism purposes, DNA and protein production and cell division.

Most studies related to male infertility show a clear concise relationship between zinc and ed. During a study some young men were given a diet which included very little amounts of zinc and thus they developed a zinc deficiency. When testosterone levels were measured after 20 weeks of low-zinc diet it was found that the level of the hormone had drastically reduced. The study also found that in elderly men, with an increase in the uptake of zinc, testosterone levels nearly doubled.


Research on animals established the fact that relationship rats who were given 5 milligrams of zinc supplement a day, were found to be sexually active to a greater extent. It concluded that zinc had an impact in the arousal and maintaining of an erection in men.

Zinc deficiency can also reduce the sense of smell in person. A sense of smell is vital to libido, especially more in young men. Thus, it can cause a person to lose the ability to detect certain chemicals that stimulate arousal. In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!

8126 people found this helpful