The Fertility Institute

How should you prepare your body before IVF? Eating healthy and exercising are important first steps. 🍎🥦🍓​​

A 2020 Harvard Medical School study found that eating a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, and getting extra folic acid can boost fertility. Do you smoke ci******es, drink alcohol, or consume a lot of caffeine? Cutting these things out before getting pregnant can also help.​​

Prioritizing your health can prepare your body for pregnancy. Talk to a specialist about your diet and exercise plan to ensure you're implementing lifestyle changes in a healthy way. If you have any additional questions, our team is here to help.​

Today is World Embryologist Day! ​

We want to take a moment to thank all the embryologists in the First Fertility network for the incredible work they do. They are an essential part of our patients' parenthood journeys.​

If you want to join the First Fertility network as an embryologist, please see our current openings here:​ https://tinyurl.com/mwxkka3b

Infertility is a deeply personal journey. Discovering the underlying cause can help you determine the best path ahead.​​​

​Conditions like endometriosis and PCOS are common causes of infertility, and there are many other factors that can affect your ability to conceive. Seeing a reproductive endocrinologist can help you with these conditions. Have you experienced recurrent miscarriages or irregular menstrual cycles? They can provide treatment options for these as well.​​

The key? Seek help early. Our fertility specialists at First Fertility are here to support you and help you build your family. 💕 If you have questions or need guidance, we’re here for you every step of the way.​​ https://tinyurl.com/ycxr6bt8

Preparing for your first fertility appointment? Here are a few essentials to bring along to ensure we make the most of our time together:​​​

🩺 Insurance cards and IDs: These are crucial for verifying your coverage and streamlining the administrative process.​​​
📋 Notes and questions: Jot down any thoughts or questions you have about your fertility. No question is too small or insignificant!​​​
💊 List of medications: Bring a list of your current medications, vitamins, and supplements. This helps us understand your health background better.​​​
📚 Medical records and family history: Please provide these before your appointment so your physician can review them in advance, making our time together as productive as possible.​​​

Remember, we're here to help and support you. If you have any concerns or need further guidance before your appointment, don’t hesitate to reach out. ​💙✨​​​

🔬 Considering Genetic Carrier Screening? 🔬​​​

Have you thought about comprehensive genetic carrier screening? This important process can identify whether you are a carrier of over 100 genetic disorders, including cystic fibrosis, fragile X, and spinal muscular atrophy. ​​​

While carriers are typically healthy individuals, two parents who are carriers of the same genetic disorder may have an affected child. Screening can help you feel empowered and more confident when making decisions about your future family.​​​

Click the link for more information.​​​ https://tinyurl.com/2dbtf96r

The cutest LSU fan ever! 💜💛🐯We're always happy to receive a visit from one of our adorable FINO babies. ​

Fertility has its own language. Do you know the meanings of these common fertility-related acronyms? ​​

✨ IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): A process where eggs are fertilized by s***m outside the body and then implanted in the uterus. ​​
✨ IUI (Intrauterine Insemination): A procedure where s***m is directly placed into the uterus around the time of ovulation. ​​
✨ PCOS (Polycystic O***y Syndrome): A hormonal disorder that causes irregular periods and enlarged ovaries.​​
✨ TTC (Trying to Conceive): Often used by couples or individuals who are hoping to become pregnant. ​​

Are there any popular fertility terms that you'd like to highlight? Let us know in the comments!​​

🌟 Wondering what Ovulation Induction (OI) is? 🌟​​

Ovulation Induction (OI) is a fertility treatment designed to help women who have irregular or absent ovulation. By using medication, OI stimulates the ovaries to produce and release eggs and is often used alongside intrauterine insemination (IUI) or artificial insemination. Our fertility specialists will monitor you throughout this process and prescribe medication based on your needs and fertility goals.​​

For more information on how OI might be the right path for you, click the link. https://tinyurl.com/28h67b37💕

Are you considering freezing your eggs, but wondering if it's the right time? 🤔​​

According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the ideal time is in your 20s and early 30s. Since women have fewer eggs as they age, women in this range have a higher ovarian reserve and optimal egg quality. ​​

Egg freezing empowers you to preserve your fertility, allowing you the flexibility to pursue parenthood when the time is right for you. Our compassionate team at The Fertility Institute is here to guide you through this important decision. ​​

For more information on egg freezing, click the link. 💖 https://tinyurl.com/y8ystem2

🌟 Are you thinking about IVF? Whether you're a couple facing fertility challenges, a single woman ready to start your family, or an LGBT+ couple, IVF could be the right choice for you. IVF can also be used to screen for genetic conditions such as Tay-Sachs or cystic fibrosis and could be an empowering option for those who have been through fertility-harming cancer treatments, like chemotherapy. ​​

At The Fertility Institute, we're here to provide personalized support and guidance throughout your fertility journey. Learn more by clicking the link. https://tinyurl.com/4y4z7xvk💚 ​​

Wondering why hydration matters when trying to conceive? Drinking water plays a crucial role, as it: ​

💧Helps eliminate toxins from your system​
💧Aids urine and waste in flowing from your kidneys​
💧Boosts circulation and delivers nutrients for eggs or s***m ​

While you might find yourself visiting the restroom more often, remember drinking water is a crucial step in eliminating potential fertility-harming chemicals. Stay hydrated and support your fertility journey with every sip!​

What is Minimally Invasive Gynecological Surgery (MIGS)? This advanced surgical technique offers numerous benefits and is designed to address various gynecological conditions, including:​

🔹 Endometriosis​
🔹 Uterine Fibroids​
🔹 Ovarian Cysts​
🔹 Pelvic Adhesions​
🔹 Abnormal Uterine Bleeding​

At The Fertility Institute, we're thrilled to have Dr. Stacy A Scheib, M.D., the only MIGS-certified surgeon on the Gulf Coast. MIGS can help people with a variety of complex conditions, even if they're not trying to become pregnant right now. Click the link for more information.​ https://tinyurl.com/mpjjdxy2

Have you had a positive experience with The Fertility Institute? 💖​

We're seeking former patients to share their stories for our upcoming marketing campaign. Your journey could provide some much-needed hope and encouragement to those currently navigating their own path to parenthood. Every family has a unique story, and by sharing yours, we can let others know they’re not alone. ​

If you’re interested in participating and becoming a brand ambassador, please complete a short survey by August 15th.​ https://tinyurl.com/yck6u3zf

The fertility community has its own language, and if you're joining the community, you may wonder about all the terms you're seeing on social media. Here are some: baby dust and sticky dust. What's the difference? Let's explain: ​

✨ Baby Dust: Means good luck for those trying to conceive. ​
✨ Sticky Dust: Used to offer best wishes for a current pregnancy. ​

Your friends at The Fertility Institute are here to support you when you're or navigating your pregnancy journey. 💕 What’s your favorite fertility term or acronym? Share with us below! 👇​

What is varicocele? This condition causes enlarged veins in the sc***um and, according to the Mayo Clinic, impacts up to 40% of men with fertility challenges. Though some men with varicocele experience discomfort or pain, many are asymptomatic. Varicocele can cause low s***m production due to difficulty regulating testicular temperature, but it can potentially be treated with surgery.​​​

If you're experiencing male infertility, you're not alone. At The Fertility Institute, we're here to provide support and solutions tailored to your needs. Get help on your path to parenthood today.​​​ https://tinyurl.com/2thmpshk

Did you know that Cystic Fibrosis (CF) can impact fertility? Women with CF may experience thick cervical mucus, and many men with CF lack the vas deferens, a crucial reproductive tube. Yet—thanks to modern reproductive technologies—there are paths forward. You have options, and our team at The Fertility Institute is here to help you on this journey ahead. ​

Join our very own Dr. Peter Lu, M.D., who has been recognized by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, in donating to the cause. ​

Donation link: https://finest.cff.org/northshore/peterylu ​

Are you trying to become pregnant? You may wonder how long to wait before seeing a fertility specialist. This journey is exciting and emotional, and it sometimes takes time. If you're under 35 and have been trying to conceive for a year, it might be time for a consultation. If you're over 35, you may want to seek help after six months, while those over 40 should schedule an appointment after three months.​

Our compassionate team at The Fertility Institute is here to support you every step of the way. You can click the link to request an appointment.​ https://tinyurl.com/ycxr6bt8

Happy Fourth of July from all of us at The Fertility Institute! 🎉 Today is a time for family, friends, and festivities. We hope that you have a fun and safe holiday with your loved ones, whether you're watching fireworks or having a family barbecue. ❤️🤍💙​

We're proud to live in a country that values freedom, and that should extend to your reproductive choices. We will always advocate for everyone's right to build a family. ​

Choosing the right fertility provider is a personal decision for anyone. Are you wondering what questions you should ask a potential provider? Here are some examples to ensure the provider meets your goals and offers the support you require.​

⚫What are your success rates? ​
⚫ What are the treatment options available?​
⚫What are the costs involved and what is covered by insurance?​
⚫ What are the clinic’s qualifications and accreditations?​
⚫ What support services do you offer?​

At The Fertility Institute, we are dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate care. Schedule your first appointment with us today and let us help you take the next step on your fertility journey.​ https://tinyurl.com/ycxr6bt8

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 10% of reproductive-age women around the globe have endometriosis. This disease causes tissue to grow outside of your uterus and can make it more challenging to become pregnant. ​​​

If you've been diagnosed with endometriosis or have noticed symptoms like severe pelvic pain, don't wait to seek help. Our team at The Fertility Institute is here to provide the support you need and help you explore treatment options.​​​

Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/yc5khrsn

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Wondering about what your options are when trying to find an egg donor? ​​

Our team at The Fertility Institute is here to help you navigate this process and pursue your parenthood dreams. You can learn more about IVF with donor eggs by clicking the link: https://tinyurl.com/5a56be7y

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormone disorder that can impact menstruation and fertility. There are many women living with PCOS and likely many more who have yet to receive an official diagnosis. Symptoms of PCOS can range from irregular or light periods to weight gain, acne, enlarged ovaries, and excess body hair. It's also one of the most common causes of female infertility.​

If you're living with PCOS, you can potentially manage your symptoms with a healthy diet and physical activity. Patients can speak with a healthcare provider about building a personalized care plan. If you're hoping to conceive with PCOS, you have options, such as fertility medications to help you ovulate.​​

At The Fertility Institute, we're here to help you navigate your journey. Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/4kjwyv95

Please join Dr. Lu in support of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation - Louisiana Chapter, New Orleans.

https://finest.cff.org/northshore/peterylu

When you're trying to conceive, you may feel many different emotions: hope, frustration, sadness, anger. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and while you're navigating your fertility journey, it's important to ask for help when you need it. Sometimes, you might choose to pause fertility treatments for much-needed rest and renewal or to consider your next steps. ​​

The emotions you're feeling are valid. Talking to trusted friends and family, joining a support group, or speaking with a professional could help you. Your mental health matters and our team at The Fertility Institute is here for you. Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. 💙​​

There are many stigmas around men's health, but you don't have to "man up" in the face of fertility challenges. Everybody needs support sometimes, and you're not alone. The fertility experts at First Fertility are here for you this Men's Health Awareness Month and every month. ​

Whether you're dealing with infertility or just looking to take proactive steps for your reproductive health, you can seek help from a compassionate team who's in your corner. ​

When you're , it may seem like everyone else can get pregnant at the drop of a hat. The truth? Over five million people of childbearing age in the United States experience infertility. ​

You're not alone, and we're here for you. If you want to discuss your feelings on your fertility journey, options include connecting with others in similar situations or joining a support group. ​

Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/27ey6b55