http://www.theafa.org/blog/ Wed, 22 Feb 2012 17:29:41 GMT en-us Copyright 2012 The American Fertility Association TheAfaBloghttp://feedburner.google.com http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/ZN955x1ObgA/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/international-adoption-update/ Wed, 22 Feb 2012 17:29:41 GMT By Susan Orban While rewarding for children and families, inter-country adoption also has its challenges. For the adoptive family, each country has its own set of eligibility requirements, timelines, policies and procedures – and all ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/ZN955x1ObgA" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/international-adoption-update/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/_eOX-cuVZVc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/inside-the-art-laboratory-reducing-multiple-pregnancy/ Tue, 21 Feb 2012 20:16:41 GMT by Judy E.  Stern, PhD, HCLD, ELD   It has long been recognized that the success of assisted reproductive technology (ART: this term is used to include in vitro fertilization (IVF) and related techniques), depends on the quality ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/_eOX-cuVZVc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/inside-the-art-laboratory-reducing-multiple-pregnancy/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/_pu3uwGVjxs/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/what-is-hydrosalpinx/ Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:18:58 GMT by Corey Whelan Hydrosalpinx is an accumulation of fluid in a fallopian tube.  This build-up of clear, watery liquid causes the tube to become enlarged, damaged and blocked.  The blockage prohibits the joining of sperm and egg, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/_pu3uwGVjxs" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/what-is-hydrosalpinx/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/nlvcPgNh6ow/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/new-needle-free-saliva-test-revolutionizes-infertility-treatment/ Wed, 15 Feb 2012 21:26:24 GMT by Corey Whelan For women undergoing in vitro fertilization, the stress and discomfort of daily blood tests become a way of life.  This may be about to change.  Cutting-edge medical practice, Boston IVF, recently introduced the ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/nlvcPgNh6ow" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/new-needle-free-saliva-test-revolutionizes-infertility-treatment/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/BJqNJiT_0eA/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-vitamin-d-levels-relate-to-fertility-and-prostate-cancer/ Mon, 13 Feb 2012 22:00:49 GMT by Mark L. Fuerst If you want to conceive a child, just take a holiday in the sun since sunlight boosts fertility in both men and women by increasing their levels of vitamin D. That’s how the media in the United States and Britain ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/BJqNJiT_0eA" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-vitamin-d-levels-relate-to-fertility-and-prostate-cancer/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/kaWtid2YX2s/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/upgrading-fertility-status-with-varicocele-repair/ Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:15:16 GMT  By Marc Goldstein, MD   The most common identifiable cause of infertility in men is a varicocele. Approximately one third of infertile men who have never fathered a child have a varicocele, and up to 80% of men who were once ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/kaWtid2YX2s" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/upgrading-fertility-status-with-varicocele-repair/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/5DayGO9mRdg/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/webinar-family-buidling-options-for-gay-men/ Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:42:31 GMT <img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/5DayGO9mRdg" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/webinar-family-buidling-options-for-gay-men/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/0A2PHyI-nas/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/handy-dandy-fertility-tips/ Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:39:49 GMT by Corey Whelan Over 7,000,000 American women will face some kind of difficulty getting pregnant when they are ready to have a baby.  While much infertility cannot be avoided, there are some simple steps that you can take today that may ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/0A2PHyI-nas" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/handy-dandy-fertility-tips/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/xksiwHLNxiQ/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/politicizing-healthcare/ Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:03:12 GMT by Iris Waichler, L.C.S.W.              The recent decision by the Susan G. Komen foundation to stop funding Planned Parenthood really caught my interest. The Komen Foundation ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/xksiwHLNxiQ" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/politicizing-healthcare/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/687nf7DlUBU/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-american-fertility-association-stands-with-planned-parenthood/ Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:26:31 GMT   Did you hear that the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation stopped funding breast cancer screenings at Planned Parenthood health centers because of pressure from anti-choice groups? It's completely outrageous, and we've had enough. ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/687nf7DlUBU" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-american-fertility-association-stands-with-planned-parenthood/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/AHs6OemudBg/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/older-mothers-who-is-too-old-and-dr-oz/ Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:35:56 GMT   by Iris Waichler, L.C.S.W.             I was channel surfing this week and landed on the Dr. Oz show.  The topic of the show was “When are you too old to become a ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/AHs6OemudBg" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/older-mothers-who-is-too-old-and-dr-oz/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/qUc27tkA2h0/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-love-of-two-grandmothers/ Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:08:24 GMT by Dawn Smith-Pliner Awestruck by the birth of her first grandbaby, one grandmother was shocked when she realized her tears were not those of joy, but of sadness.  Realizing her grandbaby looked nothing like her brought back all of the ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/qUc27tkA2h0" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-love-of-two-grandmothers/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/NDSEH6hiE8w/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/flame-retardants-versus-fire-can-you-keep-your-family-safe-from-both/ Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:20:14 GMT by Corey WhelanI'm as organic as a single mother on a budget can be.  We buy little to no canned food because of BPA, opt for organic dry cleaning and natural fibers and, well, do the best we can to avoid the avoidable junk in our ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/NDSEH6hiE8w" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/flame-retardants-versus-fire-can-you-keep-your-family-safe-from-both/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/iapIfXWq8mM/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/beyonce-and-jay-zs-message-of-hope/ Tue, 24 Jan 2012 20:26:20 GMT by Corey Whelan The world welcomed the birth of Beyonce and Jay-Z's daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, on the last day of 2011.  Nine days later we learned that this very public couple had kept a very private secret - the loss of an earlier ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/iapIfXWq8mM" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/beyonce-and-jay-zs-message-of-hope/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/OvsvYeOj4EY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/breast-cancer-and-your-fertility-options/ Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:22:41 GMT by Eden Rauch, M.D. Women who are recently diagnosed with breast cancer may now have new options to preserve their fertility and conceive after their treatment for breast cancer is completed. The state of NJ has mandated coverage of fertility ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/OvsvYeOj4EY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/breast-cancer-and-your-fertility-options/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/WMA2_I-9QBs/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/what-does-reproductive-freedom-really-mean/ Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:41:57 GMT by Iris Waichler, L.C.S.W.            We all are going to be hearing from all the potential presidential candidates about a variety of topics in the upcoming election year.  Among the ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/WMA2_I-9QBs" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/what-does-reproductive-freedom-really-mean/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/VlYf0jAH0_c/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/youre-invited-to-a-free-telephone-coaching-support-group-on-january-25/ Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:30:57 GMT The Ins and Outs of Egg Donation   Preparing to parent with a child conceived by egg donation involves many decisions. Often, the complexity of these choices are overlooked or down played by many recipients (and helping ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/VlYf0jAH0_c" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/youre-invited-to-a-free-telephone-coaching-support-group-on-january-25/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/ZPprhJWBCjk/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/engaging-in-third-party-reproduction-the-importance-of-an-estate-plan/ Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:54:47 GMT by Heather E. Ross, Esq. You may know well before your child is born how and when you plan to talk  about how he/she was conceived.  You may intend to wait until the child reaches a certain age, and may have specific ideas on what ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/ZPprhJWBCjk" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/engaging-in-third-party-reproduction-the-importance-of-an-estate-plan/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/S7fVWRknDmc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/are-you-at-risk-for-hyperstimulation-syndrome/ Tue, 17 Jan 2012 17:11:48 GMT by Daniel Potter, M.D. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome or OHSS is a common complication in vitro fertilization (IVF).  In its mild form consisting of bloating and mild abdominal distension, OHSS can be identified up to 33% of IVF ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/S7fVWRknDmc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/are-you-at-risk-for-hyperstimulation-syndrome/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/i7HXAQabfSs/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/cdc-reports-on-twin-birth-epidemic/ Thu, 12 Jan 2012 21:16:27 GMT by Corey Whelan A new report  issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control indicates a significant increase in the number of twins born to American women over the last thirty years.  ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/i7HXAQabfSs" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/cdc-reports-on-twin-birth-epidemic/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/WfVUtYFsNGA/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/graduating-from-clomid-an-overview-of-infertility-medications/ Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:59:45 GMT by Corey Whelan Clomid is an oral medication which is typically prescribed as a first line of defense for women who are experiencing difficulties with ovulation and conception.  Typically, if a woman is going to respond to Clomid she ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/WfVUtYFsNGA" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/graduating-from-clomid-an-overview-of-infertility-medications/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/qqkbwYyRB4o/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-adoption-home-study-for-same-sex-couples/ Tue, 10 Jan 2012 22:04:53 GMT by Carolyn Berger, L.C.S.W. Stories about couples readying themselves for their adoption home study are legion. Couples have been known to repaint their apartments, scrub between the bathroom tiles with an old toothbrush, and make sure ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/qqkbwYyRB4o" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-adoption-home-study-for-same-sex-couples/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/akQmNbuO4i0/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/can-your-retirement-account-fund-your-ivf-treatment/ Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:26:37 GMT by Mindy Berkson, Lotus Blossom Consulting With more and more restrictions and lifetime limits being added to health insurance policies, the necessity to finance medical treatment has dramatically increased.  Paying for medical costs that ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/akQmNbuO4i0" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/can-your-retirement-account-fund-your-ivf-treatment/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/JwCN7rRLYFw/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/catch-some-zzzs-raise-your-testosterone/ Fri, 06 Jan 2012 15:37:47 GMT By Harry Fisch, MD There are a lot of good reasons to get enough sleep at night (meaning 7-9 hours for adults). Being sleep-deprived impairs daytime alertness and memory; it leads to mood problems such as anxiety or sadness; it impairs ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/JwCN7rRLYFw" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/catch-some-zzzs-raise-your-testosterone/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/XCcxO60OzH0/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-to-have-an-empowered-pregnancy/ Wed, 04 Jan 2012 19:21:14 GMT By Megan Davidson, Ph.D. To be empowered is to have the knowledge needed to make choices, the power and authority to have those choices respected, and the confidence in your own capacities to realize your desires. Having an empowered pregnancy ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/XCcxO60OzH0" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-to-have-an-empowered-pregnancy/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/Q0MMrZpwQ-0/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/please-take-secondary-infertility-seriously/ Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:34:19 GMT   by Iris Waichler, L.C.S.W.      Secondary infertility is a diagnosis that many people don’t take seriously.  It is often an overlooked part of the infertility journey that people take as they attempt to ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/Q0MMrZpwQ-0" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/please-take-secondary-infertility-seriously/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/zCcwbxGPXz8/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-american-fertility-associations-top-ten-fertility-myths/ Mon, 02 Jan 2012 14:34:40 GMT by Patricia Mendell, L.C.S.W. As a psychotherapist working in the field of reproductive medicine I have counseled hundreds of women and men about fertility-related issues, from preserving one’s fertility and contraception to problems ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/zCcwbxGPXz8" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-american-fertility-associations-top-ten-fertility-myths/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/-JhTjVX94n4/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/happy-holidays/ Fri, 23 Dec 2011 13:44:35 GMT The American Fertility Association thanks everyone who made possible the work of The AFA in 2011.  We couldn't have done it without you.  Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for a ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/-JhTjVX94n4" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/happy-holidays/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/OV_ub8ykvwg/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/go-to-the-bathroom-less-frequently-another-reason-to-quit-smoking/ Thu, 22 Dec 2011 17:43:25 GMT By Harry Fisch, MD When most people think of the health hazards of smoking, they naturally think of consequences like lung cancer. But smoking does a lot of other bad things to your body, some of which are directly related to things that ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/OV_ub8ykvwg" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/go-to-the-bathroom-less-frequently-another-reason-to-quit-smoking/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/bhF0gtMbbQQ/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/your-infertility-arsenal-for-2012/ Wed, 21 Dec 2011 14:12:51 GMT by Corey Whelan A new year, a new you.  Easier said than felt, particularly for women who have spent the last year (or longer) trying to get pregnant, without success. Let's face it, we often experience Infertility as a powerful enemy.. ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/bhF0gtMbbQQ" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/your-infertility-arsenal-for-2012/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/QkUELsRZC_8/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-choice-of-a-lifetime/ Mon, 19 Dec 2011 17:22:43 GMT   by Iris Waichler, L.C.S.W.             A close friend and I were talking about something that affects many of us who have experienced infertility.  She has moved from infertility into ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/QkUELsRZC_8" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-choice-of-a-lifetime/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/-e6fvGe3cQY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/spotting-and-other-variations-in-bleeding/ Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:41:59 GMT by Fred Licciardi, M.D. Spotting. Really frustrating. Where does it come from? We first look for an anatomical reason (a problem due to some sort of growth that we can see usually with the ultrasound). The most common reason is that there ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/-e6fvGe3cQY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/spotting-and-other-variations-in-bleeding/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/ulmnJ0iw360/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-male-biological-clock/ Tue, 13 Dec 2011 21:10:53 GMT by Harry Fisch, M.D. Say “biological clock” and most people think of women. Most people know that a woman’s ovaries stop producing eggs at some point and that natural fertility ends with menopause. But most people ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/ulmnJ0iw360" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-male-biological-clock/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/7nj2YMw5DFU/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/single-motherhood-the-choice/ Thu, 08 Dec 2011 05:00:03 GMT by Mikki Morrissette A month before my 35th birthday, I told my boyfriend that I wanted to have children. So…. he broke up with me the day after my birthday. Devastated – far more than the relatively short-lived relationship ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/7nj2YMw5DFU" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/single-motherhood-the-choice/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/S3b5bsWIVXY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/im-christian-unless-youre-gay/ Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:09:19 GMT Today I want to write about something that has bothered me for the better part of a decade. I’ve carved out no fewer than a dozen drafts of this post, all strangely unalike, all ultimately failing to accomplish the job I’ve set ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/S3b5bsWIVXY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/im-christian-unless-youre-gay/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/g_PSI2A5IfI/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/adoption-getting-on-the-same-page-with-your-partner/ Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:28:53 GMT  By Joni S. Mantell, L.C.S.W.  For many, the decision to pursue adoption comes after years of struggling with infertility. Letting go of the dream for a biological child and embracing your deepest wish - to become a parent - usually ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/g_PSI2A5IfI" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/adoption-getting-on-the-same-page-with-your-partner/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/l6FXLpZlJjk/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/world-aids-day-2011/ Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:56:33 GMT World AIDS Day December 1st, 2011   Photo, courtesy of Ken ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/l6FXLpZlJjk" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/world-aids-day-2011/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/9GOGhxIVw9s/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/massachusetts-fertility-specialist-to-present-webinar-for-gay-male-couples/ Tue, 29 Nov 2011 18:35:50 GMT I'm a Sam Pang fan.  I first met Dr. Pang in Massachusetts when I went up to direct him in The AFA video, "Reproductive Options for Gay Women."  Since then, I have gotten to know Dr. Pang and continue to be impressed with his ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/9GOGhxIVw9s" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/massachusetts-fertility-specialist-to-present-webinar-for-gay-male-couples/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/JYqQaUQAIe0/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-do-we-define-our-family/ Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:03:56 GMT By Iris Waicher, L.C.S.W. Dr. Joann Paley Gaist, Ph.D. did a wonderful post offering good suggestions on how to handle the holidays with family.  I have been thinking a lot about family and holidays in recent weeks.  More specifically ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/JYqQaUQAIe0" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-do-we-define-our-family/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/PvXYROS_UNc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/handling-the-holidays/ Wed, 23 Nov 2011 16:42:00 GMT by Joann Galst, Ph.D. No matter how you slice it, the holiday season can be tough. Expectations often outweigh the reality, old family dynamics can re-emerge, and the focus on kids can be extremely painful for those experiencing their ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/PvXYROS_UNc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/handling-the-holidays/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/n7JnYCBt5wA/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/adoption-and-collaboration-reproduction-which-path-is-right-for-you/ Tue, 22 Nov 2011 16:35:37 GMT By Denise Seidelman, Esq.              Both adoption and collaborative reproduction (fertility options that involve third parties, such as gamete donors and gestational surrogates) ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/n7JnYCBt5wA" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/adoption-and-collaboration-reproduction-which-path-is-right-for-you/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/7Pk0IXgloGc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/secret-chemicals-revealed-in-common-household-cleaners-ngos-lawmakers-scientists-call-for-safer-policies/ Thu, 17 Nov 2011 18:10:10 GMT MISSOULA, Mont. – New independent lab testing on 20 top household cleaning products reveals that top-selling cleaning products and detergents, including Tide Free & Gentle, Pine-Sol and Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner, contain toxic ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/7Pk0IXgloGc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/secret-chemicals-revealed-in-common-household-cleaners-ngos-lawmakers-scientists-call-for-safer-policies/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/t-3iu5JkFAs/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/unadoptable-is-unacceptable/ Wed, 16 Nov 2011 18:43:15 GMT by Rita Soronen, President & CEO, Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption Unadoptable. This is a word that I have heard attributed to some children in the foster care system, but this way of thinking is unacceptable. No child is too old, too ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/t-3iu5JkFAs" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/unadoptable-is-unacceptable/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/RqN3Q_mRBOY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/fat-the-biggest-infertility-issue/ Tue, 15 Nov 2011 19:40:07 GMT    by Serena H. Chen, M.D. There is a big debate among physicians who specialize in treating infertile people all around the world today:   Should we treat people who are severely overweight?  Or should we require them ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/RqN3Q_mRBOY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/fat-the-biggest-infertility-issue/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/aZ8tsqbu6KA/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/decent-kind-families-under-attack/ Fri, 11 Nov 2011 21:11:53 GMT The leaves are falling off the trees now. My street looks like it's paved in flame, it's so beautiful in the morning walking the dogs. I've always loved this time of year. I live on a typical street, at least by Brooklyn standards.  It's a ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/aZ8tsqbu6KA" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/decent-kind-families-under-attack/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/MQMKPT1M-2s/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/mississippi-rules/ Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:29:26 GMT What constitutes a person anyway?  I know full grown folks who don't deserve the label. Look, I don't mean to make light of this, believe me.  Last night waiting for the vote to come down, I really couldn't breathe.  The long term ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/MQMKPT1M-2s" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/mississippi-rules/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/jFD9e38MT0Y/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/legal-battle-in-illinois-fighting-for-prospective-parents/ Tue, 08 Nov 2011 15:22:30 GMT  by Iris Waichler, L.C.S.W. There is legal battle that has been brewing in Illinois that may interest others who live out of state.  In July of this year the state of Illinois decided not to renew its $30.6 million foster care and ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/jFD9e38MT0Y" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/legal-battle-in-illinois-fighting-for-prospective-parents/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/wBOBHg3PEUU/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/are-you-caught-in-the-clomid-over-prescription-cycle/ Mon, 07 Nov 2011 21:48:02 GMT  by Corey Whelan For many women who are having trouble getting pregnant, the first medication prescribed for them will be an oral pill known as clomiphene citrate, known most commonly under its brand name, Clomid.  While this ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/wBOBHg3PEUU" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/are-you-caught-in-the-clomid-over-prescription-cycle/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/4GkfRL2s8Oo/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/mississippi-initiative-26-personhood-amendment-what-you-need-to-know/ Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:22:01 GMT by Melissa Brisman, Esq. On Election Day, November 8, 2011, residents of Mississippi will vote on Initiative 26, a so called "Personhood Amendment" that if enacted will change how a "person" is defined in the Mississippi Constitution. The ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/4GkfRL2s8Oo" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/mississippi-initiative-26-personhood-amendment-what-you-need-to-know/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/kwwSHFYYK4Y/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/stopping-infertility-treatment-and-moving-on-to-other-options/ Wed, 02 Nov 2011 15:42:02 GMT by Andrea Braverman, Ph.D. When is enough, enough?  This question creeps in at different moments as you pursue infertility treatment.  Enough is a judgment that is weighed individually but has common thoughts and feelings.  For ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/kwwSHFYYK4Y" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/stopping-infertility-treatment-and-moving-on-to-other-options/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/xhlQYWKXqwE/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/sperm-killers/ Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:25:42 GMT Most guys assume that they’re not shooting blanks. In other words, they assume they’re fertile. But the fact is that every year, about six million couples have problems conceiving a child – and the source of those ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/xhlQYWKXqwE" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/sperm-killers/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/RxcEwFEpego/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/clomid-vs-letrozol/ Mon, 31 Oct 2011 11:44:38 GMT by Fred Licciardi, M.D. Hello everyone, today we will discuss the differences between Clomid and Letrozol. This one is a little medical, but I think I can get everyone through it just fine. I'll start by saying both do the same thing, they ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/RxcEwFEpego" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/clomid-vs-letrozol/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/y_WIgchGxsg/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/tumors-of-low-malignant-potential/ Thu, 27 Oct 2011 11:37:44 GMT A new study out of the Netherlands and published in Human Reproduction is making the news today. It is entitled "Risk of borderline and invasive ovarian tumours after ovarian stimulation for in vitro fertilization in a large Dutch cohort".  ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/y_WIgchGxsg" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/tumors-of-low-malignant-potential/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/fF98F9sxf4A/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/i-am-my-own-candy-halloween-tips-for-the-ttc/ Wed, 26 Oct 2011 16:06:17 GMT Halloween marks the beginning of the holiday season. For many, this is a wondrous time of year, filled with family, fun, crisp autumn weather, and lots of candy.  For others, particularly those who are desperate to conceive and unable ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/fF98F9sxf4A" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/i-am-my-own-candy-halloween-tips-for-the-ttc/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/Sk-ZFsvJTE0/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/whose-treatment-is-it-anyway-lessons-from-the-disciplinary-proceedings-against-nadya-sulemans-doctor/ Wed, 26 Oct 2011 15:31:27 GMT by Deborah L. Forman, Esq. In January 2009, Nadya Suleman made headlines around the world by giving birth to octuplets, conceived by in vitro fertilization.  While initially greeted with amazement, the birth of the octuplets quickly led to ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/Sk-ZFsvJTE0" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/whose-treatment-is-it-anyway-lessons-from-the-disciplinary-proceedings-against-nadya-sulemans-doctor/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/nRReGd489Yg/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/free-isnt-always-a-bargain/ Tue, 25 Oct 2011 19:17:36 GMT by Iris Waichler, L.C.S.W. There seem to be more stories in magazines and the news about collaborative or third party reproduction.  Newsweek recently did a cover story entitled “You Got Your Sperm Where? How to Get Pregnant Fast, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/nRReGd489Yg" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/free-isnt-always-a-bargain/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/G8-oQt1HzfQ/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/aiming-to-increase-families-for-waiting-children-institute-releases-new-research-on-gaylesbian-adoption-and-recommends-best-practices/ Mon, 24 Oct 2011 18:46:47 GMT NEW YORK, October 20, 2011 – Despite laws in some states that impede the practice, a growing number of lesbians and gay men are adopting children in the United States – at least half of them providing families for boys and girls from ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/G8-oQt1HzfQ" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/aiming-to-increase-families-for-waiting-children-institute-releases-new-research-on-gaylesbian-adoption-and-recommends-best-practices/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/S0ZEUz0M7us/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-ashermans-syndrome-causes-infertility-or-miscarriages/ Fri, 21 Oct 2011 13:38:15 GMT Asherman’s syndrome (AS) can lead infertility in a number of ways. No two cases are identical and it can manifest as infertility according to how and which parts of the reproductive anatomy is affected. AS is characterized by intrauterine ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/S0ZEUz0M7us" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-ashermans-syndrome-causes-infertility-or-miscarriages/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/usI3uhU7c3A/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/for-giuliana-and-all-the-women-in-our-lives/ Thu, 20 Oct 2011 14:24:49 GMT by Corey Whelan Despite my love of Halloween and the changing seasons, I dread October.  October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, also known as Corey's Procrastination Month becaue I don't want to make that call, booking my annual ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/usI3uhU7c3A" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/for-giuliana-and-all-the-women-in-our-lives/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/_uC7m93IBus/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/dave-thomas-foundation-for-adoption-names-americas-100-best-adoption-friendly-workplaces/ Fri, 14 Oct 2011 14:30:44 GMT Yesterday, the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption announced the fifth annual 100 Best Adoption-Friendly Workplaces list recognizing organizations nationwide for their adoption benefits. The Wendy's Company is No. 1 on this year's list, with a ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/_uC7m93IBus" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/dave-thomas-foundation-for-adoption-names-americas-100-best-adoption-friendly-workplaces/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/X3i4FgtdW7c/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/can-tubal-factor-infertility-be-avoided/ Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:33:55 GMT by Corey Whelan The Way It Should Be - Normal Tubal Function The fallopian tubes are two conduits on either side of the uterus which extend down to the surface of each ovary. They are lined with actively motile ciliary cells, and a thin layer ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/X3i4FgtdW7c" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/can-tubal-factor-infertility-be-avoided/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/o2HJSr-5iyM/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/growing-concerns-about-non-regulation-of-donors-really/ Tue, 11 Oct 2011 13:31:31 GMT By Stuart Bell I am writing in response to Iris Wachler’s recent blog entitled “Growing Concerns about Non Regulation of Donors.”  Now, let me disclose a few things: I usually really like Iris’s pieces and so ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/o2HJSr-5iyM" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/growing-concerns-about-non-regulation-of-donors-really/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/Mojdn7nw3Zw/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/growing-concerns-about-non-regulation-of-donors/ Thu, 06 Oct 2011 19:51:19 GMT by Iris Waichler, LCSW              I heard the term “accidental incest” for the first time last week.  I was with a couple of friends who also had kids through egg ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/Mojdn7nw3Zw" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/growing-concerns-about-non-regulation-of-donors/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/2XzhyogjBFo/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/what-is-icsi/ Wed, 05 Oct 2011 13:35:49 GMT by Corey Whelan  Intracytoplasmic sperm injection, or ICSI, is a twenty year old procedure originally designed to combat severe male factor infertility.  Performed as part of an In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) protocol, this fertility ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/2XzhyogjBFo" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/what-is-icsi/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/a3-nkjB8Xko/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/increasing-a-mans-testosterone-production/ Thu, 29 Sep 2011 14:27:47 GMT By Harry Fisch, MD The problems caused by abnormally low testosterone – a condition called hypogonadism – have been getting a lot of press in recent years, primarily because there are now several companies selling ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/a3-nkjB8Xko" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/increasing-a-mans-testosterone-production/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/RUksKUdkE8o/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/unexplained-does-not-mean-untreatable-a-primer-for-infertility-patients/ Wed, 28 Sep 2011 20:19:26 GMT by Corey Whelan Imagine sitting in a doctor’s office and hearing the words, “We can find nothing wrong.” If the doctor was a cardiologist or oncologist you would probably go weak in the knees with giddy relief.  But, if ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/RUksKUdkE8o" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/unexplained-does-not-mean-untreatable-a-primer-for-infertility-patients/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/GPZqGD9Q-Bc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-complexity-of-surrogacy/ Tue, 27 Sep 2011 16:27:03 GMT   by Iris Waichler, L.C.S.W.             There was a recent article in the news about a surrogate, Cathleen Hachey, who lives in Canada.  She had made an informal agreement with a ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/GPZqGD9Q-Bc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-complexity-of-surrogacy/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/0Yrjy_44vcY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/in-consideration-of-adopting-from-the-phillipines/ Mon, 26 Sep 2011 18:48:50 GMT By Leonette Boiarski, ACSW, LSW Even with the large number of adoption information requests made by individuals interested in foreign adoption made during this past year, most queries came from families searching for viable options in an ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/0Yrjy_44vcY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/in-consideration-of-adopting-from-the-phillipines/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/A83n4Pi3LTY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/infertility-questions-from-readers/ Thu, 22 Sep 2011 16:38:10 GMT by Fred Licciardi, M.D. Today I have answered the more interesting questions over the past few months. What do I think about cervical mucus? This is tricky question. I would not make any treatment plans based on cervical mucus. Some women ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/A83n4Pi3LTY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/infertility-questions-from-readers/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/51q4m-0Va24/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/coping-with-premature-ovarian-failure/ Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:34:08 GMT   Premature Ovarian Failure (POF) refers to a loss of ovarian function in women under the age of 40.  POF, also known as Primary Ovarian Insufficiency, is marked by an elevation in follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and low ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/51q4m-0Va24" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/coping-with-premature-ovarian-failure/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/5KbMdMApfYg/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/blended-families-what-you-need-to-know/ Mon, 19 Sep 2011 14:50:03 GMT By Carolyn Berger, LCSW, with Lisa Schuman, LCSW The blended family, one that’s created through birth and adoption, has been a part of the adoption landscape for a long time.  There are different types of blended families—those ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/5KbMdMApfYg" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/blended-families-what-you-need-to-know/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/kwxJiqchf5I/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/circumcision-to-snip-or-not-to-snip/ Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:53:37 GMT By Harry Fisch, MD Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis. It is part of religious custom for Jews and many Muslims, for reasons that have been lost to history. The popularity of circumcision in other groups of ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/kwxJiqchf5I" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/circumcision-to-snip-or-not-to-snip/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/U03ffvd3yjQ/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/transitioning-from-ivf-to-a-donor-egg-cycle/ Tue, 13 Sep 2011 14:08:08 GMT by Corey Whelan The decision to move on from In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to a donor egg IVF cycle is a very personal one.  You may see your funds running out, with no clear understanding of why IVF is not working for you.  Some women ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/U03ffvd3yjQ" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/transitioning-from-ivf-to-a-donor-egg-cycle/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/GvWTEcMNOXQ/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/september-12th-2011-or-frig-the-grinch/ Mon, 12 Sep 2011 23:15:41 GMT by Corey Whelan I'm not afraid.  I'm done with that.  I'm not worried, I'm not anxious, I'm over it.  The terrorists lost.  We won.  The good guys.  The white hats.  I got that yesterday for the first time, in ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/GvWTEcMNOXQ" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/september-12th-2011-or-frig-the-grinch/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/c-TUfJ3pB6Q/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/through-the-eyes-of-a-child/ Fri, 09 Sep 2011 19:12:10 GMT Beautiful, teenaged Melissa Ashley Van Ness, daughter of The AFA's Director of Development Lisa Van Ness, interviewed me yesterday about the events of September 11, 2001.  This was for a school project requested of students in North ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/c-TUfJ3pB6Q" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/through-the-eyes-of-a-child/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/w8HdDChaaRI/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/lgbt-legal-advocates-re-release-guide-for-fair-practices-in-parenting-and-custody-agreements/ Thu, 08 Sep 2011 14:10:15 GMT Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) and NCLR’s National Family Law Advisory Council are pleased to announce the release of a revised version of the groundbreaking publication ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/w8HdDChaaRI" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/lgbt-legal-advocates-re-release-guide-for-fair-practices-in-parenting-and-custody-agreements/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/LvPNpIGvIY4/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-challenges-of-living-with-fertile-friends-and-family/ Wed, 07 Sep 2011 18:34:22 GMT By Iris Waichler, MSW, LCSW              I did a radio show last week discussing the transition from infertility to adoption.  I was talking about the challenges of experiencing ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/LvPNpIGvIY4" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-challenges-of-living-with-fertile-friends-and-family/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/wDfQkOwrl-g/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/september-is-pcos-awareness-month/ Thu, 01 Sep 2011 15:03:57 GMT by Corey Whelan It's hard to believe that today is September 1st.  Usually, September marks a return to post Labor Day real life and an end to the lazy days of summer.  This year instead, we find a late to come Labor Day and a ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/wDfQkOwrl-g" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/september-is-pcos-awareness-month/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/A_Rm7siWeHQ/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/reproductive-options-for-gay-women/ Tue, 30 Aug 2011 17:51:57 GMT by Corey Whelan For lesbians, there are a number of viable routes that can be considered when achieving motherhood is the goal.  Some women will explore the concept of at home insemination versus intrauterine insemination performed in a ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/A_Rm7siWeHQ" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/reproductive-options-for-gay-women/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/HZZSkNxQ1uk/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-dilemma-of-multifetal-reduction/ Mon, 29 Aug 2011 19:06:38 GMT by Patricia Mendell, LCSW, AFA Mental Health Advisory Council How could I now be “too pregnant”? My husband and I had discussed our IVF plan ahead of time. We would not transfer back more than two embryos, maybe even just one. ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/HZZSkNxQ1uk" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-dilemma-of-multifetal-reduction/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/76c6RK-97aA/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/thirty-something-and-the-clock-is-ticking/ Thu, 25 Aug 2011 20:28:41 GMT A Book Review by Maria Portella 'Thirty-something and the clock is ticking' by Kasey Edwards I came across this book completely by chance - I had previoulsy ignored an article about it in one of those trashy gossip style magazines dismissing ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/76c6RK-97aA" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/thirty-something-and-the-clock-is-ticking/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/kPIKzg97LhU/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-and-when-do-you-decide-to-continue-to-build-your-family/ Wed, 24 Aug 2011 14:40:24 GMT by Iris Waichler, LCSW  I recently read a blog by actress Elisabeth Rohm.  She is known for her role as attorney Serena Southerlyn on Law and Order.  She became a mother after in vitro fertilization.  Since then she has ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/kPIKzg97LhU" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-and-when-do-you-decide-to-continue-to-build-your-family/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/Uj0Ftz8T_zg/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/acupuncture-and-its-role-in-in-vitro-fertilization/ Tue, 23 Aug 2011 16:17:19 GMT by Corey Whelan For many women who are struggling to conceive a baby, the practice of acupuncture, a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has proven to be a successful enhancement to Western reproductive protocols.  While not ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/Uj0Ftz8T_zg" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/acupuncture-and-its-role-in-in-vitro-fertilization/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/2CkHNya_e9g/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/in-a-blink-of-an-eye/ Mon, 22 Aug 2011 20:15:53 GMT by Jamie Schenk DeWitt I had just gotten home from an evening out with my girlfriends.  A glass of wine and some salmon and grilled vegetables later I walked into my house to a voicemail message waiting for me on the answering machine. We ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/2CkHNya_e9g" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/in-a-blink-of-an-eye/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/cXveYUPInKY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/taking-baby-steps-saying-goodbye-to-your-infertility-team-and-hello-to-your-obstetrician/ Thu, 18 Aug 2011 19:56:51 GMT Current statistics show that around 60,000 babies are born as a result of assisted reproductive technology every year in the United States alone. We know that most of The AFA's readership is comprised of the men and women who are currently knee ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/cXveYUPInKY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/taking-baby-steps-saying-goodbye-to-your-infertility-team-and-hello-to-your-obstetrician/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/Y2uDHe5Ykx8/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/same-as-it-ever-was-a-history-of-exploitation-power-and-scandal/ Wed, 17 Aug 2011 14:40:09 GMT by Jean Benward, L.C.S.W. In part, this story is about infertile couples, with apparently good intent, who engaged in surrogacy outside the boundaries of good practice. This is about trusted professionals who were able to take advantage of ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/Y2uDHe5Ykx8" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/same-as-it-ever-was-a-history-of-exploitation-power-and-scandal/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/CZfTFixDBAc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/desperate-measures-the-afas-co-chairs-respond-to-recent-headlines/ Tue, 16 Aug 2011 22:11:41 GMT This has been an unsettling week in the world of assisted reproduction, and most especially, surrogacy.  As two professionals who have worked in this field for many, many years and who have created our respective families through assisted ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/CZfTFixDBAc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/desperate-measures-the-afas-co-chairs-respond-to-recent-headlines/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/-KzkW5PphHk/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/bpa-ivf/ Thu, 11 Aug 2011 15:00:35 GMT by Karin Russ MS, RN We hear a lot about bisphenol A (BPA) in the news lately.  While the federal government calls for further study of BPA, state legislatures are taking action to ban the substance in children’s ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/-KzkW5PphHk" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/bpa-ivf/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/L2e-H9JNFtE/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-delicate-balance-between-infertility-and-friendship/ Wed, 10 Aug 2011 18:34:43 GMT  by Iris Waichler, LCSW             People who are struggling with infertility face a mine field of emotions that can erupt and retreat countless times a day.  These emotional ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/L2e-H9JNFtE" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-delicate-balance-between-infertility-and-friendship/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/nyW-_2hixDs/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/recurrent-pregnancy-loss/ Tue, 09 Aug 2011 15:39:44 GMT By Corey Whelan  One of the most heartbreaking experiences that a woman can experience is recurrent pregnancy loss, or miscarriage.  Unfortunately, recurrent pregnancy loss is common..  As many as twenty five percent of all ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/nyW-_2hixDs" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/recurrent-pregnancy-loss/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/5Qc1Ua0CEt0/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/sisterhood/ Mon, 08 Aug 2011 17:34:06 GMT By Jamie Schenk DeWitt "For there is no friend like a sister – In calm or stormy weather.” Alexander Muir   Sadly, I have just learned about two couples who suddenly and tragically lost their unborn babies.  Both couples ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/5Qc1Ua0CEt0" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/sisterhood/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/_BxnjPSmaxE/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-hidden-testosterone-killer/ Thu, 04 Aug 2011 14:53:10 GMT By Harry Fisch, MD Testosterone gels and other ways of boosting a man’s testosterone levels are all the rage at the moment. For the right man with the right condition – meaning a verified below-normal testosterone level ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/_BxnjPSmaxE" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-hidden-testosterone-killer/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/B_1WJX3ayAY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/breastfeeding-after-infertility/ Wed, 03 Aug 2011 20:14:16 GMT by Corey Whelan August 1-7 marks the celebration of World Breastfeeding Week. For many infertile women, being able to nurse may feel like a distant dream.  I know it did to me when I was in the throes of TTC.  When I was trying to get ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/B_1WJX3ayAY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/breastfeeding-after-infertility/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/wBOBHg3PEUU/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/are-you-caught-in-the-clomid-over-prescription-cycle/ Tue, 02 Aug 2011 23:46:51 GMT by Corey Whelan First Steps and Next Steps For many women who are having trouble getting pregnant, the first medication prescribed for them will be an oral pill known as clomiphene citrate, known most commonly under its brand name, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/wBOBHg3PEUU" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/are-you-caught-in-the-clomid-over-prescription-cycle/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/a8JID5fF8xs/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-day-the-earth-shook-my-ovaries/ Mon, 01 Aug 2011 14:06:31 GMT by Jamie Schenk DeWitt As I slowly regained consciousness from my second egg retrieval surgery, a 4.9 earthquake shook the recovery room.  I turned to my right and there was my husband’s tender loving face just the way I had left ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/a8JID5fF8xs" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-day-the-earth-shook-my-ovaries/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/LhtUvtlb37M/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/happy-birthday-jackie-o/ Thu, 28 Jul 2011 15:29:10 GMT by Corey Whelan Today would have marked the 82nd birthday of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.  I have always been fascinated with Jackie O – I’ve had two Jackie sightings in my life.  One, on a beach in Negril (1975, wearing a ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/LhtUvtlb37M" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/happy-birthday-jackie-o/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/az6Hfvzbjaw/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/acupuncture-stress-and-in-vitro-fertilization/ Tue, 26 Jul 2011 18:47:31 GMT For many women who are struggling to conceive a baby, the practice of acupuncture, a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has proven to be a successful enhancement to Western reproductive protocols.  While not universally accepted, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/az6Hfvzbjaw" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/acupuncture-stress-and-in-vitro-fertilization/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/XPBfFY_nZzo/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/in-the-bicycle-saddle-safely/ Mon, 25 Jul 2011 16:03:45 GMT By Harry Fisch, MD Bike riding is the ultimate healthy sport, right? Easy on the knees, great for cardio and strength-building, and relatively inexpensive. Well...yes..all true. But there's one downside to bike riding that has only recently ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/XPBfFY_nZzo" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/in-the-bicycle-saddle-safely/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/iejm-7PjWO8/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/whats-a-hormone/ Thu, 21 Jul 2011 14:31:46 GMT by Fred Licciardi, M.D. And how do they help us ovulate? Hormones are chemicals that are made in one part of the body and act in another part of the body. For example, estrogen, our favorite hormone, is made in the ovaries and acts in the ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/iejm-7PjWO8" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/whats-a-hormone/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/YGh60_EDwxM/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-battle-of-the-bachmanns-bull-were-all-culture-warriors-now/ Wed, 20 Jul 2011 14:54:04 GMT by Todd Essig Both history and legend track a significant throng of eager spectators following the Union army from Washington DC towards Manassas in Prince William County, Virginia to watch the Battle of Bull Run. They fully expected July ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/YGh60_EDwxM" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-battle-of-the-bachmanns-bull-were-all-culture-warriors-now/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/LWcQtNx-7Ig/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/birthfather-fear/ Tue, 19 Jul 2011 15:48:15 GMT By Carolyn N. Berger, LCSW The first thing you notice when looking through the literature on birthfathers is how little there actually is.  When we think about the “adoption triangle,” those people who play pivotal roles in an ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/LWcQtNx-7Ig" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/birthfather-fear/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/-e6fvGe3cQY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/spotting-and-other-variations-in-bleeding/ Mon, 18 Jul 2011 15:12:21 GMT By Fred Licciardi, M.D. Spotting. Really frustrating. Where does it come from? We first look for an anatomical reason (a problem due to some sort of growth that we can see usually with the ultrasound). The most common reason is that there is ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/-e6fvGe3cQY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/spotting-and-other-variations-in-bleeding/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/x4C-8CdlBhY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/in-memoriam-leiby-kletzky/ Thu, 14 Jul 2011 17:13:09 GMT by Corey Whelan Could the news coming out of Brooklyn be any more devastating?  Little 8 year old Leiby Kletzky was murdered two blocks from my own home.  I've walked that block with my children many times.  They had friends who ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/x4C-8CdlBhY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/in-memoriam-leiby-kletzky/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/PBMJzhcr_y0/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/grafting-a-new-branch-onto-the-family-tree-lets-begin-with-language/ Wed, 13 Jul 2011 19:30:51 GMT By Ellen Glazer, LICSW, AFA Mental Health Advisory Council  Words are powerful. Anyone who has ever had a friend or family member adopt a child knows how important it is to use what is commonly known as  “Positive Adoption ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/PBMJzhcr_y0" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/grafting-a-new-branch-onto-the-family-tree-lets-begin-with-language/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/lbi6UpsZrvs/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/you-know-about-the-national-lottery-and-euromillions-but-have-you-heard-of-the-ivf-lottery/ Tue, 12 Jul 2011 12:52:13 GMT by Lisa Marsh, The AFA's London Correspondent   We are used to hearing about how the National Lottery or Euromillions has changed someone’s life, but have you ever contemplated a lottery that can actually result in new life? The UK ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/lbi6UpsZrvs" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/you-know-about-the-national-lottery-and-euromillions-but-have-you-heard-of-the-ivf-lottery/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/M2jaj9r8ES4/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/goldilocks-and-the-three-reproductive-endocrinologists/ Wed, 06 Jul 2011 18:54:58 GMT By Jamie Schenk DeWitt I was overwhelmed with stress and anxiety.  I didn’t know if I could have a baby.  And so my way of dealing with the uncertainty of not knowing was to take immediate action.  I would find a doctor ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/M2jaj9r8ES4" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/goldilocks-and-the-three-reproductive-endocrinologists/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/ryrIvszAiWA/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/youve-found-your-egg-donor-now-what/ Tue, 05 Jul 2011 17:31:20 GMT by Heather E. Ross, Esq. Your search for an egg donor is complete.  You have located a donor who has agreed to help you in your family building efforts. Now what?  One of your first steps should be to enter into a written agreement ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/ryrIvszAiWA" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/youve-found-your-egg-donor-now-what/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/lknblodQFZM/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/your-ovaries-do-not-know-that-its-julyaugust-8-tips-to-get-you-through-the-summer/ Thu, 30 Jun 2011 15:10:31 GMT by Lisa Marsh, The AFA's London Correspondent What is it about summer that makes everything slow down or grind to a halt? I have had quite a few people tell me that they want to put a new project "on hold," deal with a health issue later, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/lknblodQFZM" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/your-ovaries-do-not-know-that-its-julyaugust-8-tips-to-get-you-through-the-summer/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/XqyxySiytbw/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-our-infertility-affects-us-as-parents/ Tue, 28 Jun 2011 16:22:42 GMT by Iris WaichlerWe had a beautiful fall day this week and my husband, daughter, and I went for a walk in the woods. We came across a huge oak tree that was down over a river. It was the perfect bridge and my Stanford Gymnast husband and ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/XqyxySiytbw" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-our-infertility-affects-us-as-parents/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/kCdU-0Dns7I/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-babies-manger-how-were-you-conceived/ Mon, 27 Jun 2011 18:14:45 GMT By Jamie Schenk DeWitt Last weekend I had dinner with four of my closest friends. We all met almost thirteen months ago at a local "Mommy and Me" class when our babies were three months old. At first we bonded while sitting around in a circle ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/kCdU-0Dns7I" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-babies-manger-how-were-you-conceived/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/HbeXNyUM64g/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/polycystic-ovaries-and-insulin-resistance/ Wed, 22 Jun 2011 20:38:04 GMT I would like to address the very important issue concerning insulin resistance and PCO. I need to start by saying that, as with many things in medicine, we though we had this figured out but in the end, we may be a little off the mark. What is ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/HbeXNyUM64g" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/polycystic-ovaries-and-insulin-resistance/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/l8p9qUe-3J4/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/iui-vrs-ivf-a-patients-guide/ Tue, 21 Jun 2011 18:28:16 GMT by Daniel Shapiro M.D. When a couple present themselves for fertility care, their obvious goal is to leave the care of their physician with a healthy pregnancy. For most couples where the woman is under 40, pregnancy is the ultimate outcome, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/l8p9qUe-3J4" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/iui-vrs-ivf-a-patients-guide/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/2s6ScCZ9PJo/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/for-fathers-day-hidden-dangers-at-the-hardware-store/ Fri, 17 Jun 2011 14:55:06 GMT by Danielle Ohlemacher, Reproductive Health Technologies Project As a child, one of my favorite father-daughter activities was trips to Home Depot on Saturday mornings to pick out supplies for around the house projects. We’d buy wood, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/2s6ScCZ9PJo" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/for-fathers-day-hidden-dangers-at-the-hardware-store/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/J1uJueVYG_w/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-wake-up-call-for-men/ Fri, 17 Jun 2011 13:39:40 GMT by Ken Mosesian In addition to being Gay Pride Month, June is also Men's Health Month. Why talk about men's health? Because there is a not so quiet crisis going on. As noted on the Men's Health Network (MHN) website www.menshealthnetwork.org/ ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/J1uJueVYG_w" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-wake-up-call-for-men/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/9DG_44Dc_kc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/to-my-dad/ Thu, 16 Jun 2011 15:30:28 GMT by Merry Armentrout This Father’s Day I thought I would share some advice with all of you from my own amazing father who is fighting his own personal battle right now.  My dad’s mantra is “never quit”.  ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/9DG_44Dc_kc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/to-my-dad/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/0586LrvxqSU/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/happy-birth-fathers-day/ Tue, 14 Jun 2011 15:38:31 GMT by Carolyn Berger, L.C.S.W.  Father’s Day is fast approaching and with it comes quick trips to the stationery store to find the perfect card for Dad.   This year I’ve been reading and thinking about the role of birth ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/0586LrvxqSU" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/happy-birth-fathers-day/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/pZHi1JyIJfE/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/infertility-is-not-your-whole-identity/ Mon, 13 Jun 2011 20:16:42 GMT by Iris Waichler, L.C.S.W.              I just finished reading an article about a woman who is battling breast cancer.  Thirty seven year old Alaina Giordano lost primary custody ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/pZHi1JyIJfE" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/infertility-is-not-your-whole-identity/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/XMqInx4qeP8/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/single-dad-alert-breasts-bras-and-boys/ Fri, 10 Jun 2011 14:06:38 GMT by Lisa Marsh Part of a sereies on Single Fathers Raising, Caring For and Talking To Pre-teen Daughters About Their Bodies Way before breasts begin to appear, like little soft hills on the flat landscape of a girl's flat chest, she will ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/XMqInx4qeP8" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/single-dad-alert-breasts-bras-and-boys/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/ZEl8ubO3MSM/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/is-it-unexplained-infertility-or-is-it-celiac-disease/ Thu, 09 Jun 2011 13:45:20 GMT by Corey Whelan You've gone through a full infertility work up, done all the tests and still no conclusive reason for your inability to conceive can be found.  Unexplained Infertility is a diagnosis that up to 25% of couples attempting to ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/ZEl8ubO3MSM" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/is-it-unexplained-infertility-or-is-it-celiac-disease/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/KJ7b-CR9Ouo/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/sex--alcohol-unpredictable-bedfellows/ Wed, 08 Jun 2011 14:24:03 GMT by Harry Fisch, M.D. A lot of research suggests that alcohol should be bad for sex. Scientists have measured how alcohol affects penile swelling, vaginal engorgement, time required to achieve orgasm (both during intercourse and masturbation) ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/KJ7b-CR9Ouo" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/sex--alcohol-unpredictable-bedfellows/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/y3m5r5Zi2xc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/perfluorochemicals-if-it-doesnt-stick-to-the-pan-what-does-it-do-in-our-bodies/ Tue, 07 Jun 2011 14:15:34 GMT By Karin Russ, MS, RN Fertility can be affected by many factors: age, health, genetics, and stress to name a few. Studies in recent years have found relationships between chemicals in our homes and environment and the ability of a couple to ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/y3m5r5Zi2xc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/perfluorochemicals-if-it-doesnt-stick-to-the-pan-what-does-it-do-in-our-bodies/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/g24xndqye5E/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/getting-gardasil/ Fri, 03 Jun 2011 16:40:41 GMT by Carolyn Berger, LCSW I’m a single mom and until recently I thought I had done a pretty good job of educating my two teenage sons, ages 18 and 21, about sex and sexual health. We never sat down for “big talks” about these ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/g24xndqye5E" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/getting-gardasil/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/jt3FUFqz7BU/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/are-there-any-men-listening/ Thu, 02 Jun 2011 15:50:24 GMT by Bob Bamman, LCSW When I was asked by The AFA to author a blog in recognition of National Men’s Health Month I immediately thought what a wonderful idea – to reach out, during this month that promotes male physical and mental ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/jt3FUFqz7BU" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/are-there-any-men-listening/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/9Xmp7-ZNujs/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/summer-conundrum--sun-screens-and-fertility/ Wed, 01 Jun 2011 11:31:34 GMT The Dilemma I care about my skin; after all being an actress makes you more aware of sun damage (haven’t you noticed the flawless complexions of Cate Blanchett and Meryl Streep?).  I want to know what kind of sunscreen they ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/9Xmp7-ZNujs" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/summer-conundrum--sun-screens-and-fertility/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/gaQpReGZnFc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/keep-smiling-daddy/ Tue, 31 May 2011 12:12:09 GMT by Lisa Van Ness I don’t get to see my father very often.  I knew this would be the case when we moved 900 miles away from what used to be a five minute drive to my parent’s house.  Now we rely on telephone calls, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/gaQpReGZnFc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/keep-smiling-daddy/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/7Hj9X3A_THY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/it-takes-a-village-to-have-a-child-and-then-some/ Thu, 26 May 2011 17:13:52 GMT by Ken Mosesian So you want to have children? Great! LGBT persons have more options than ever before, such as third-party reproduction, including surrogacy and egg donation, Intra Uterine Insemination (IUI), In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/7Hj9X3A_THY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/it-takes-a-village-to-have-a-child-and-then-some/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/sH4yFrsyxuM/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/join-jessica-alba-demand-congressional-leadership-and-strong-protections-from-toxic-chemicals/ Wed, 25 May 2011 18:13:22 GMT The American Fertility Association is a proud member of the Safer Chemicals Healthy Families Coalition.  We applaud Jessica Alba for her work on Capital Hill, and urge you to join us in showing Congress that Americans care about the toxins ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/sH4yFrsyxuM" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/join-jessica-alba-demand-congressional-leadership-and-strong-protections-from-toxic-chemicals/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/E4ZTgUQJ2oE/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/transitions-and-infertility/ Tue, 24 May 2011 13:03:02 GMT   The media has been in overdrive reporting on the life transitions of Oprah Winfrey and Maria Shriver. Oprah chose to end her 25 year reign as the queen of television.  Maria Shriver did not choose to be in the middle of a scandal ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/E4ZTgUQJ2oE" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/transitions-and-infertility/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/1j5wRBnSeEo/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/pregnancy-interrupted--a-journey-towards-healing-and-hope/ Fri, 20 May 2011 18:29:59 GMT by Emily Laitmon, L.C.S.W. “I’m sorry; we don’t have good news.  Your pregnancy test from the IVF is negative.” “Please call regarding your Amnio results.  There’s a problem we need to ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/1j5wRBnSeEo" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/pregnancy-interrupted--a-journey-towards-healing-and-hope/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/1bsExl4mKak/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/when-hot-tubs-arent-such-a-hot-idea/ Wed, 18 May 2011 13:50:10 GMT By Harry Fisch, MD Hot tubs can be great…relaxing, soothing, and sometimes romantic. If all a man cares about is sex, then a hot tub can be a perfect aphrodisiac and no harm done. But if he’s interested in having sex ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/1bsExl4mKak" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/when-hot-tubs-arent-such-a-hot-idea/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/FsSL4wfvepc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/chemicals-in-umbilical-cord-blood/ Tue, 17 May 2011 12:56:45 GMT by Jackie Lombardo Moms, and moms-to-be, take note - another new study shows the chemicals you retain in your body get passed to your fetus. The good news? You can minimize your exposure to harmful chemicals like pesticides, mercury and BPA, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/FsSL4wfvepc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/chemicals-in-umbilical-cord-blood/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/zozt-Jgr30o/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/what-about-tubes-that-are-blocked-at-the-other-end-near-the-ovary/ Mon, 16 May 2011 15:13:26 GMT by Fred Licciardi, M.D.   This we call “distal occlusion” and it can take a few forms. The most obvious and severe is what’s called a hydrosaplinx (or hydro for short), or bilateral hydrosalpinges when both are ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/zozt-Jgr30o" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/what-about-tubes-that-are-blocked-at-the-other-end-near-the-ovary/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/CnnOa8wPjQQ/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/dancing-in-the-street/ Thu, 12 May 2011 10:58:34 GMT by Corey Whelan I so feel like myself again! I told you guys I would keep you apprised of my recuperation.  Well, the stitches are out and the cane is in the basement, collecting dust, where it belongs.  The doctor says I lost about ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/CnnOa8wPjQQ" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/dancing-in-the-street/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/h8ABce5b2ps/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/can-you-be-a-poor-responder-and-get-pregnant-on-your-own/ Thu, 12 May 2011 10:38:48 GMT by Fred Licciardi, M.D. So a little story about a couple I saw recently. She was a poor responder with borderline FSH levels, normal tubes and a favorable age. He had low sperm counts. They had been through IVF. I suggested that he see a ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/h8ABce5b2ps" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/can-you-be-a-poor-responder-and-get-pregnant-on-your-own/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/Bq85L77X6l0/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/single-fathers-raising-caring-for-and-talking-to-pre-teen-daughters-about-their-bodies/ Wed, 11 May 2011 13:27:21 GMT by Lisa Marsh, The AFA's  London Correspondent If you are a single father, raising an adolescent or teenage daughter on your own, having a talk with her about her body can be really difficult.  It's hard to know when is the right ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/Bq85L77X6l0" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/single-fathers-raising-caring-for-and-talking-to-pre-teen-daughters-about-their-bodies/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/2SMnDNmFPZ4/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/lupus-infertility-and-pregnancy/ Tue, 10 May 2011 11:43:19 GMT by Corey Whelan Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease, which can damage any part of the body.  While teenagers and men are sometimes diagnosed with lupus, women of child bearing age comprise the largest statistical group ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/2SMnDNmFPZ4" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/lupus-infertility-and-pregnancy/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/WYNMWclVoUQ/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-royal-surgery/ Mon, 09 May 2011 13:40:57 GMT You guys may remember the blog post I wrote, recapping my experiences at a Congressional briefing on toxins and reproductive health.  To tell you the truth, I, um, left out a minor detail about that day.  It was gorgeous weather ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/WYNMWclVoUQ" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-royal-surgery/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/HUlSxW-Ctyw/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/gay-dads-and-lesbian-moms-and-the-transition-to-parenthood/ Thu, 05 May 2011 16:32:32 GMT by Kim Bergman, Ph.D. After 14 attempts over 18 months of donor insemination I was finally pregnant--something I had wished for and wanted for years. That's why I was so surprised at my reaction when at 8 months pregnant I visited my friend ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/HUlSxW-Ctyw" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/gay-dads-and-lesbian-moms-and-the-transition-to-parenthood/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/Oqy71cUuysE/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/survivng-mothers-and-fathers-day/ Tue, 03 May 2011 20:07:40 GMT by Judith Kottick, LCSW  Mother’s and Father’s Day may be holidays invented by the Hallmark Card Company, but it doesn’t mean this commemoration of parenthood doesn’t still have meaning.  For many of us, the ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/Oqy71cUuysE" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/survivng-mothers-and-fathers-day/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/HOyvbNz5_Is/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/finding-faith-this-easter/ Tue, 19 Apr 2011 20:00:56 GMT For Christians, Easter is a time of celebration.  I always look forward to the church service on Easter Sunday because I know the pulpit will be filled with beautiful flowers, the hymns will have a festive tone and a huge brunch will ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/HOyvbNz5_Is" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/finding-faith-this-easter/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/fW_vivmXUOM/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/passover-and-pcos-a-guide-to-healthy-eating/ Mon, 18 Apr 2011 20:20:59 GMT by Corey Whelan Tonight, Jewish families and their friends will be gathering around Passover seder tables, to tell the story of Moses and the exodus of the Jewish slaves from Egypt, centuries ago.  Like most holidays, this one will ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/fW_vivmXUOM" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/passover-and-pcos-a-guide-to-healthy-eating/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/rEX1w2Lbpss/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/update-on-the-safe-chemicals-act-some-good-news-from-capital-hill/ Thu, 14 Apr 2011 20:10:08 GMT by Kimberly Inez McGuire A bit of good news for reproductive health today coming from Congress! Signaling their clear intention to protect families from toxic chemicals in everyday products, Senators Frank Lautenberg, Barbara Boxer, Amy ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/rEX1w2Lbpss" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/update-on-the-safe-chemicals-act-some-good-news-from-capital-hill/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/K87p9bzV_xo/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/sugar-and-fertility-what-the-heck-do-they-have-in-common/ Wed, 13 Apr 2011 20:28:18 GMT by Kavita Jhaveri-Patel Calling all you soda, candy, doughnut, cookie loving people.  I have a couple of questions for you. When you are feeling hungry and/or tired and in need of an energy boost at 3 or 4 pm, what do you do? Do you ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/K87p9bzV_xo" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/sugar-and-fertility-what-the-heck-do-they-have-in-common/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/nilAXopQnU4/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-does-internet-support-help-women-with-infertility-drexel-university-researchers-seek-to-find-out-in-a-new-survey-study/ Tue, 12 Apr 2011 20:28:47 GMT by Alexandra Nelson, M.S. The Internet has emerged as an increasingly available and popular source of social interaction and support for women struggling to manage stress and concerns about their fertility.  Online forums and message ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/nilAXopQnU4" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-does-internet-support-help-women-with-infertility-drexel-university-researchers-seek-to-find-out-in-a-new-survey-study/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/enWRoRtbQ_0/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/surviving-the-guilt-of-infertility/ Mon, 11 Apr 2011 20:29:22 GMT By Iris Waichler, M.S.W., L.C.S.W.              In a blog I recently read the author described her “survivor’s guilt”.  She  experienced two pregnancy ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/enWRoRtbQ_0" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/surviving-the-guilt-of-infertility/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/8f2E2QhS630/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/protecting-reproductive-health-from-dangerous-chemicals/ Tue, 05 Apr 2011 20:15:04 GMT by Corey Whelan I was privileged to attend a Congressional briefing in Washington, D.C. yesterday, specific to toxic chemical exposure and reproductive health.  The briefing was coordinated through the Reproductive Health Technologies ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/8f2E2QhS630" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/protecting-reproductive-health-from-dangerous-chemicals/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/-Wri5JvKPiI/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-world-on-fire/ Sun, 03 Apr 2011 20:30:23 GMT by Corey Whelan It feels like the whole world is on fire right now.  Civil unrest and natural disasters have been nudging the stressometer up notch by notch in our collective unconsciousness for awhile now, I think.  I remember ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/-Wri5JvKPiI" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-world-on-fire/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/00BXfLi6NtE/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/food-packaging-significant-source-of-bpa-exposure-new-study-finds/ Wed, 30 Mar 2011 20:14:10 GMT The American Fertility Association congratulates allied non profit organization, The Breast Cancer Fund and the Silent Spring Institute on their groundbreaking new study on BPA exposure and women's health.  The AFA has been sounding the ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/00BXfLi6NtE" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/food-packaging-significant-source-of-bpa-exposure-new-study-finds/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/1qThFMd3ulw/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-chemical-blowout-frizz-formaldehyde-and-infertility/ Tue, 22 Mar 2011 20:17:40 GMT By Kimberly Inez McGuire The first whispers of summer are in the air, foretelling sunny days, sultry nights, and trips to the beach. For better or worse, it also means that many women crowd into salons and spas in a frenzy of pre-summer ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/1qThFMd3ulw" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-chemical-blowout-frizz-formaldehyde-and-infertility/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/uXQT74tqIrE/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/introducing-mombian/ Tue, 15 Mar 2011 20:31:41 GMT by Dana Rudolph I'm very pleased to be joining the many voices here on the AFA Blog. I've been a parent for nearly eight years now, and have been writing about being a lesbian mom for almost six of those, ever since I launched my blog, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/uXQT74tqIrE" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/introducing-mombian/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/lxUXRSe4Yiw/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/endometriosis-and-food/ Mon, 14 Mar 2011 20:32:53 GMT by Corey Whelan More than five million women in America have been diagnosed with  endometriosis, a leading cause of infertility. Endometriosis occurs when the endometrial tissue that lines the inside of the uterus finds its way outside ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/lxUXRSe4Yiw" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/endometriosis-and-food/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/a9uGPcBfImk/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/music-from-the-adopted-heart/ Thu, 10 Mar 2011 20:18:48 GMT by Corey Whelan We as human beings, universally, seem to share so many commonalities.  We all bleed, both literally and figuratively.  We all need to feel a solidarity of some kind in order to get through our lives.  For many, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/a9uGPcBfImk" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/music-from-the-adopted-heart/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/lDqu8Cf58m8/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/this-is-your-brain-this-is-your-brain-on-clomid/ Tue, 08 Mar 2011 20:23:17 GMT by Fred Licciardi, M.D. Thanks for reading yesterday's post.  Here is a little more about Clomid.  Clomid, also known as Serophene, is a very valuable medication, but it can be associated with some nasty side effects. Believe it ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/lDqu8Cf58m8" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/this-is-your-brain-this-is-your-brain-on-clomid/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/ShT6jIf5jMw/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-clomid-death-sentence/ Mon, 07 Mar 2011 20:22:44 GMT by Fred Licciardi, M.D. A few years ago I was visiting another hospital. When touring the OBGYN department, I ran across a very busy obstetrician in the middle of office hours. He was running form room to room and had a pile of charts ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/ShT6jIf5jMw" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-clomid-death-sentence/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/x_NxQWD02Lc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/mercury-and-toxic-pollution-hall-of-shame-meet-the-members-of-congress-that-sided-with-corporate-polluters-over-children-and-your-health/ Mon, 28 Feb 2011 20:26:20 GMT by John Walke For the first time in the forty-year history of the Clean Air Act, a majority of the House of Representatives has voted to block EPA from implementing and enforcing standards to sharply reduce mercury and other toxic air ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/x_NxQWD02Lc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/mercury-and-toxic-pollution-hall-of-shame-meet-the-members-of-congress-that-sided-with-corporate-polluters-over-children-and-your-health/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/R0aBwE8eIl8/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/ovarian-hyperstimulation/ Wed, 16 Feb 2011 20:25:24 GMT by Fred Licciardi, M.D. Hello again to everyone, today I am bringing to you the topic of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). Here you will read about the definition of OHSS, the causes and risks. You will see why OHS is what every ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/R0aBwE8eIl8" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/ovarian-hyperstimulation/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/EfclsD7vmLs/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/international-adoption-legal-considerations-for-after-your-child-is-home/ Tue, 15 Feb 2011 20:19:41 GMT written by Sam Wojnilower As International Program Coordinator for Adoptions From The Heart, almost every month I receive phone calls from parents who previously adopted children from abroad. These parents are calling the agency to inquire ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/EfclsD7vmLs" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/international-adoption-legal-considerations-for-after-your-child-is-home/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/GeUc2Un2kMo/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-night-with-jodi-picoult/ Tue, 08 Feb 2011 20:34:05 GMT by Merry Armentrout I think I've met my soul mate.  Before my husband goes on a jealous rampage, I should mention this soul mate is a happily married woman with three children- so no competition Brian, I promise.  This is important ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/GeUc2Un2kMo" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-night-with-jodi-picoult/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/RRbQ80IThgA/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-unsung-heroes-behind-surrogacy/ Sun, 06 Feb 2011 20:37:34 GMT by Iris Waichler, MSW, LCSW The recent birth of Nicole Kidman’s daughter has brought surrogacy back into the spotlight.  Surrogacy is a treatment option for women who are unable to successfully maintain a pregnancy and have a ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/RRbQ80IThgA" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-unsung-heroes-behind-surrogacy/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/H0p0QepYb0g/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/bacon-cheeseburgers-and-other-health-foods/ Wed, 26 Jan 2011 20:35:29 GMT By Harry Fisch, MD Okay, I’m not totally serious. I’m not recommending bacon cheeseburgers on a daily basis.  I’m using this icon of fatty food to make a point: foods high in fat are not the enemy.   The past ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/H0p0QepYb0g" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/bacon-cheeseburgers-and-other-health-foods/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/VWttDMPOuqw/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/january-is-thyroid-awareness-month-if-you-cant-get-pregnant-should-you-care/ Tue, 18 Jan 2011 20:38:35 GMT by Corey Whelan Your thyroid, that little gland at the base of your neck, is the master glad of your metabolism, and plays a significant role in many areas of a woman's reproductive life, from conception through to delivery.  ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/VWttDMPOuqw" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/january-is-thyroid-awareness-month-if-you-cant-get-pregnant-should-you-care/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/iitWFieVcs4/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/keeping-your-package-safe/ Wed, 12 Jan 2011 20:12:21 GMT By Harry Fisch, MD As every guy knows, the penis and testicles are not very well protected from the vagaries of life. If the testicles didn’t have to be cooled to below body temperature for maximum efficiency, nature surely would ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/iitWFieVcs4" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/keeping-your-package-safe/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/5RtUrnVadzM/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/nurturing-the-nature-of-my-child/ Wed, 05 Jan 2011 20:40:42 GMT by Iris Waichler, MSW, LCSW            Many of us have been exposed to the argument about what shapes the personality of children, nature or nurture. Nature represents heredity and nurture ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/5RtUrnVadzM" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/nurturing-the-nature-of-my-child/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/NlEnnJ5EK7c/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/your-infertility-arsenal-for-2011/ Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:41:17 GMT by Corey Whelan A new year, a new you.  Easier said than felt, particularly for women who have spent the last year (or longer) trying to get pregnant, without success. Let's face it, we often experience Infertility as a powerful enemy.. ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/NlEnnJ5EK7c" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/your-infertility-arsenal-for-2011/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/r8yQDKzLFSY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/it-was-a-very-good-year/ Wed, 29 Dec 2010 20:41:48 GMT by Corey Whelan I'm snow bound.  Two feet of snow in NYC and not a plow in sight.  Truth be told I've been enjoying these forcibly slowed down days, just me, the kids and the dogs.  Of course Cabo (my three legged nut job) is ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/r8yQDKzLFSY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/it-was-a-very-good-year/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/UPAiW7wEp0A/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-life-of-grace/ Mon, 27 Dec 2010 04:15:36 GMT by Ken Mosesian "You all know that I have been sustained throughout my life by three saving graces – my family, my friends, and a faith in the power of resilience and hope. These graces have carried me through difficult times and ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/UPAiW7wEp0A" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/a-life-of-grace/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/wW3fV2VT1ss/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/new-years-resolutions/ Sun, 26 Dec 2010 04:20:22 GMT by Merry Armentrout I've noticed a pattern in my New Year's Resolutions- they're always the same. Eat healthier, lose weight and exercise.  I'm already justifying my bad eating habits over the holidays with the promise for a new year, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/wW3fV2VT1ss" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/new-years-resolutions/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/GH-7Sasvt-g/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/filling-the-loneliness-of-my-only-child/ Thu, 16 Dec 2010 18:14:22 GMT by  Irish Waichler, MSW, LCSW            Can I have a dog?  That is a question my 10 year old daughter asks me frequently.  I am sure many of you have gotten this ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/GH-7Sasvt-g" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/filling-the-loneliness-of-my-only-child/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/9Oae-C2aD74/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-gift-of-the-present-moment/ Wed, 15 Dec 2010 04:30:08 GMT By Brenda Strong I have a confession to make.  I have been stressed out lately.  Yes, even yoga teachers can let life circumstances get the best of them. The Holidays can be a challenging time for most of us.  We all long for ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/9Oae-C2aD74" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-gift-of-the-present-moment/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/fHeYX4HOibo/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/miscarriage-and-the-sense-of-personal-failure/ Tue, 14 Dec 2010 04:35:29 GMT by Kim Kluger-Bell, MA, LMFT Lisa Ling, the former View host, revealed this week that following a miscarriage at 7 weeks into her first pregnancy she felt like a failure, and that she also felt very isolated and alone because no one talked ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/fHeYX4HOibo" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/miscarriage-and-the-sense-of-personal-failure/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/LMVIy0J-s2k/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/five-honest-just-five-simple-steps-to-decreased-weight-and-increased-fertility/ Sun, 12 Dec 2010 04:38:12 GMT by Kavita Jhaveri-Patel There is a significant correlation between infertility and obesity. A study led by Dr. Van der Steeg, a medical researcher at the Academic Medical Center in The Netherlands, shows that even women who regularly ovulate ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/LMVIy0J-s2k" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/five-honest-just-five-simple-steps-to-decreased-weight-and-increased-fertility/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/eleftEiQWiM/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-role-of-the-pediatrician-in-the-adoption-process-before-during-and-after-an-adoption/ Thu, 09 Dec 2010 04:41:11 GMT By Michael Traister, MD Starting about 10 years ago, in response to the markedly increased numbers of children being adopted from abroad, a minor sub-specialty emerged in the field of pediatrics, pediatricians interested in adoptions, or ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/eleftEiQWiM" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-role-of-the-pediatrician-in-the-adoption-process-before-during-and-after-an-adoption/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/lTM3GhZl5Po/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-to-ask-questions-and-how-not-to-partnering-with-your-reproductive-endocrinologist/ Tue, 07 Dec 2010 04:45:18 GMT By Shari DeGraff Stewart and Julia Fichtner Krahm Why don’t we speak up as active participants in our treatment?  We confuse the appropriateness of asking questions with the appropriateness of how to ask.  Let’s face ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/lTM3GhZl5Po" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/how-to-ask-questions-and-how-not-to-partnering-with-your-reproductive-endocrinologist/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/KQmN2zBwNgQ/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/tis-the-season-to-feel-guilty-past-abortion-history-and-current-infertility-issues/ Sun, 05 Dec 2010 04:47:30 GMT by Corey Whelan "Dealing with infertility after an abortion is fraught with complexities, surrounding feelings of guilt and  anxiety about whether one's last chance to have a baby may have been squandered.  Some patients feel ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/KQmN2zBwNgQ" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/tis-the-season-to-feel-guilty-past-abortion-history-and-current-infertility-issues/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/-L4SKcXB92A/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-emotional-challenges-of-choosing-egg-donation/ Tue, 30 Nov 2010 05:31:05 GMT by Iris Waichler, MSW, LCSW  I was 42 years old when I started my infertility journey. My only treatment option was an egg donor.  My husband asked if it would be hard emotionally bonding with the baby we desperately hoped would ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/-L4SKcXB92A" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-emotional-challenges-of-choosing-egg-donation/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/Zt1JkNnXncg/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/30-seconds-and-understanding/ Sun, 21 Nov 2010 04:51:39 GMT by Kevin Hoffman Below is a letter I recently wrote to my birth mother and below that is what I learned from writing it. ************** Dear Helen, I call you Helen because calling you mom just doesn’t feel right. On October 24, 2009, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/Zt1JkNnXncg" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/30-seconds-and-understanding/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/s8qUklZjrPE/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/scooter-pie-for-breakfast-or-stories-from-illuminations-nyc/ Thu, 11 Nov 2010 15:20:13 GMT New York is my city.  It's easier for me to strut than to walk down the streets of Manhattan, it's impossible not to feel beautiful, looking at the lights of the Empire State, feeling the air, people watching, I just love it and nothing ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/s8qUklZjrPE" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/scooter-pie-for-breakfast-or-stories-from-illuminations-nyc/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/tFmc6aG9Ro8/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/something-went-bump-in-the-night/ Wed, 03 Nov 2010 04:56:30 GMT by Lisa Marsh, The AFA's London Correspondent No.3 in a series: Single fathers raising, caring for and talking to pre-teen daughters about her body As your daughter approaches puberty, changes are bubbling and brewing under her skin, ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/tFmc6aG9Ro8" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/something-went-bump-in-the-night/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/uTFQkx0stP0/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/life-has-a-deadline-too/ Tue, 12 Oct 2010 05:03:02 GMT by Corey Whelan My daughter doesn't pick up after herself.  Those TV shows about hoarders scare the crap out of me because her room looks a little bit like that.  My son is much more meticulous. But sometimes, it's hard for us to ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/uTFQkx0stP0" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/life-has-a-deadline-too/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/QVKetEH7Y1M/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/whats-the-difference-between-a-hysterosalpingogram-hsg-and-a-sono-hysterogram/ Thu, 30 Sep 2010 17:18:51 GMT This just happens to be one of my most frequently asked questions, and it’s a good one. Both are can be very important tests. Some women need only one, some both. In this blog you will see pictures and explanations. I enjoyed putting this ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/QVKetEH7Y1M" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/whats-the-difference-between-a-hysterosalpingogram-hsg-and-a-sono-hysterogram/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/866UZdjQPVE/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-aftermath/ Sat, 13 Feb 2010 01:14:54 GMT by Corey Whelan It is a mess in NYC right now.  Dirty snow piled everywhere and icy patches of melt freeze, melt freeze.  My daughter Caitlin has a nine block walk to the bus that gets her to school and I take that walk with her ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/866UZdjQPVE" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-aftermath/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/GIMZqIAuXPw/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/something-about-my-uterus/ Fri, 12 Feb 2010 01:20:27 GMT The AFA's dear friend Andrea, who wrote about her fledgling pregnancy on this blog page just last month, shared her sad news with us - she lost the pregnancy.  Andrea wished to share her heart and feelings with all of you during this ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/GIMZqIAuXPw" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/something-about-my-uterus/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/8Q5v8skFBK4/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/i-raise-my-glass-to-family-and-to-my-mom/ Sun, 07 Feb 2010 04:37:36 GMT by Ken Mosesian 11 years ago today my mom died. It was her second bout with cancer, after having been in remission. I'm taking the day off to cook the foods of my childhood and fill the house with the smells I so deeply miss. More than ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/8Q5v8skFBK4" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/i-raise-my-glass-to-family-and-to-my-mom/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/ODyuHVNlMCU/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/is-it-safe-to-orgasm-during-pregnancy/ Thu, 04 Feb 2010 04:40:25 GMT by Corey Whelan For many pregnant women, particularly those who struggled to get there, pregnancy can be a period of unexpected stress.  Having undergone the trauma of infertility, many women are afraid to trust that their pregnancy will ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/ODyuHVNlMCU" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/is-it-safe-to-orgasm-during-pregnancy/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/PTxeyEOJ3jk/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-rise-in-autism-again/ Tue, 02 Feb 2010 01:26:50 GMT by Jackie Lombardo Just before noon on the Friday before Christmas 2009, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced a new report showing a 50% increase in autism between two birth cohort years - 1994 and 1996. This study reflects another ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/PTxeyEOJ3jk" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-rise-in-autism-again/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/N6CsiBZPhcw/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-male-urinary-tract-infection-a-hidden-cause-of-infertility/ Thu, 07 Jan 2010 04:44:15 GMT By Harry Fisch, MD This week I want to talk about something I see pretty often in my male patients.  It’s a condition that is often an unrecognized source of problems ranging from the merely inconvenient – having to get up ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/N6CsiBZPhcw" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-male-urinary-tract-infection-a-hidden-cause-of-infertility/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/bUjb-tqBxqY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/varicocele-a-common-form-of-male-factor-infertility/ Tue, 29 Dec 2009 04:33:40 GMT  by Corey Whelan According to recent estimates, roughly six million Americans are affected by infertility today and need medical support in order to have their family.  In 20% of these cases, the underlying cause is male factor ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/bUjb-tqBxqY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/varicocele-a-common-form-of-male-factor-infertility/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/cuT0m7HeVfc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/eating-right-for-better-sex/ Mon, 28 Dec 2009 04:31:34 GMT By Harry Fisch, MD My patients often ask me what they can do to improve their sex lives. They’re surprised with I tell them that one of the best things they can do is watch what they eat. But it’s true. After all, as the ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/cuT0m7HeVfc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/eating-right-for-better-sex/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/MTNGtSGzD3U/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/is-your-man-tired-no-sex-drive-check-the-t/ Tue, 15 Dec 2009 04:28:19 GMT  By Harry Fisch, MD A recent study suggested that about 13 million men in the US alone have a condition that few guys have ever heard of, but which may be causing them some real problems. The condition? Medically, it’s ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/MTNGtSGzD3U" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/is-your-man-tired-no-sex-drive-check-the-t/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/0H_ha64zI3A/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/ovarian-cysts-normal-ovulation/ Mon, 14 Dec 2009 04:21:03 GMT  by Fred Licciardi, MD. I need to write a few about cysts. I eventually want to get to Polycystic Ovaries, but I need to clarify the basics first. I will start with the cysts of normal ovulation. The word “cyst” requires a ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/0H_ha64zI3A" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/ovarian-cysts-normal-ovulation/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/M9WrRj_dsHM/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/evolutionary-theory-and-the-older-dad/ Mon, 07 Dec 2009 01:06:38 GMT by Corey Whelan According to Wikipedia, evolution is defined as a "slow change in groups of living things over time".  One of the tenets of evolutionary theory is that people should actually die of old age once their reproductive lives are ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/M9WrRj_dsHM" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/evolutionary-theory-and-the-older-dad/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/f7Bqke2LN_4/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/conquering-birth-mother-fear/ Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:53:18 GMT by Carolyn Berger, L.C.S.W.   New adoptive parents love nothing more than telling their adoption stories,” and people considering adopting never get tire of listening to them.  These stories generally begin with a ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/f7Bqke2LN_4" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/conquering-birth-mother-fear/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/DPsnUQIEycg/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/an-alternative-solution-herbs-and-pcos-how-to-use-them-to-improve-your-fertility/ Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:56:48 GMT By Stacey Roberts, BSPT, Q Herbalist, Natural Fertility   Rachel came to me after trying to have a baby for 4 years.  She was at her wits end.  She tried IVF but had hyperstimulated and was unsure of whether to try again. She ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/DPsnUQIEycg" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/an-alternative-solution-herbs-and-pcos-how-to-use-them-to-improve-your-fertility/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/8Mt6byn0Odc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/trick-or-treat-an-infertility-patients-guide-to-coping-with-halloween/ Fri, 30 Oct 2009 01:01:00 GMT by Judith Horowitz, Ph.D. If you think that the only treat that could make you smile would be to see a positive over-the-counter home pregnancy test, and that you are the recipient of the world’s worst trick ever i.e., being diagnosed ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/8Mt6byn0Odc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/trick-or-treat-an-infertility-patients-guide-to-coping-with-halloween/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/bYwm8sXd9U0/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/claiming-my-body/ Thu, 15 Oct 2009 04:08:23 GMT A Weblog Reprinted from November 15, 2007 by Corey Whelan   My mom never had regular periods. She was married for 14 years and got pregnant when she was 40. She was pregnant for five months before she realized it; everyone thought she was ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/bYwm8sXd9U0" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/claiming-my-body/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/7-fu2ZnLR04/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/which-anti-depressant-medications-are-safe-to-use-during-infertility-treatment/ Tue, 13 Oct 2009 04:10:19 GMT by Daniel Shapiro, M.D.   Infertility patients know this better than anyone- emotions go haywire during a fertility treatment odyssey.  Pregnancy and the post-partum period can be just as bad, with extreme cases of post-partum ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/7-fu2ZnLR04" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/which-anti-depressant-medications-are-safe-to-use-during-infertility-treatment/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/0vJ2TfpmQO8/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-dreaded-biochemical-pregnancy/ Wed, 30 Sep 2009 04:15:00 GMT by Fred Licciardi, M.D., author of the Infertility Blog   Here I will tell of a typical story about a woman who has been suffering from infertility, and finally becomes pregnant. After the relief of a positive pregnancy test her ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/0vJ2TfpmQO8" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-dreaded-biochemical-pregnancy/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/JIjhOZmdbOs/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/lead-in-lipstick-dont-worry-says-the-fda/ Thu, 10 Sep 2009 04:07:01 GMT by Heather Sarantis, Commonweal     In 2007, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics released a report, “A Poison Kiss: The Problem of Lead in Lipstick.” More than half of the 33 brand-name lipsticks tested contained ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/JIjhOZmdbOs" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/lead-in-lipstick-dont-worry-says-the-fda/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/zpHQjQDBNGc/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/yoga-off-the-mat/ Thu, 10 Sep 2009 03:57:48 GMT How to manage and arrest the STRESS RESPONSE by Brenda Strong Even for a Yoga Teacher, life is stressful.  Honestly, this year has been rough for me.  Last weekend, I went to my 93 year-old aunt’s memorial in California, after a ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/zpHQjQDBNGc" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/yoga-off-the-mat/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/491KWeE6Rto/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/in-honor-and-in-memory/ Wed, 09 Sep 2009 16:59:31 GMT by Corey Whelan  I used to call September my spiritual month.  The color of the sky, that amazing blue.  The leaves falling.  The crisp air.  It all worked for me.  I chose to get married in September.  My ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/491KWeE6Rto" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/in-honor-and-in-memory/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/sn7-eFrzQ4Q/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/dont-always-believe-the-labels/ Tue, 08 Sep 2009 23:56:49 GMT by Kavita Patel    Have you ever asked yourself, when you see all of those labels on cereal boxes, if the labeling is 100% true? It seems to me when I peruse through a grocery store that the cereal aisle is something really ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/sn7-eFrzQ4Q" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/dont-always-believe-the-labels/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/CCBdbsvd9H0/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/please-exercise/ Thu, 03 Sep 2009 23:53:12 GMT by Fred Licciardi, M.D. author of the infertilityblog.com   Please exercise. In the preceding centuries, tremendous physical activity was required for human survival, and yet, reproduction carried on. Imagine the exhaustion and stress ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/CCBdbsvd9H0" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/please-exercise/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/bQ77mnde_yQ/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/an-infertile-mother-worries-about-vaccine-reactions/ Sat, 22 Aug 2009 03:50:47 GMT by Corey Whelan   Not that I’m dramatic or anything, but I trust Dr. Steven Gelman with my life.  Even more than that, I trust him with the lives of my children.  Dr. Gelman has been their pediatrician for almost 14 years ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/bQ77mnde_yQ" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/an-infertile-mother-worries-about-vaccine-reactions/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/aH8knSK0BbY/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-vatican-said-what/ Mon, 17 Aug 2009 03:53:02 GMT by Ken Mosesian, The American Fertility Association's Executive Director    I have a great love for theology. To relax, I’ll pick up a book like After Writing: On the Liturgical Consummation of Philosophy by Catherine ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/aH8knSK0BbY" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/the-vatican-said-what/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/Ehts2-nSrRs/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/looka-looka-by-corey-whelan-the-afas-program-director/ Sat, 25 Jul 2009 03:48:05 GMT Tonight I am going to Coney Island with my kids to see the fireworks.  We will ride the Cyclone first (at least they will, you can’t get me on a roller coaster to save my life) and then Nathan’s, and after that we’ll ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/Ehts2-nSrRs" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/looka-looka-by-corey-whelan-the-afas-program-director/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~3/DIhB7_kXY94/ http://www.theafa.org/blog/child-free-living-on-fathers-day/ Thu, 25 Jun 2009 03:24:15 GMT About 10 years ago, I received a call from my dad just before Father’s Day. My mom had recently died from her second bout with cancer, and my dad and I had become extremely close as a result. After the usual check-in conversation (how are ...<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheAfaBlog/~4/DIhB7_kXY94" height="1" width="1"/> http://www.theafa.org/blog/child-free-living-on-fathers-day/