{"appState":{"pageLoadApiCallsStatus":true},"categoryState":{"relatedCategories":{"headers":{"timestamp":"2022-05-27T12:31:31+00:00"},"categoryId":34095,"data":{"title":"Physical Health & Well-Being","slug":"physical-health-well-being","image":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Body, Mind, & Spirit","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34038"},"slug":"body-mind-spirit","categoryId":34038},{"name":"Physical Health & Well-Being","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095"},"slug":"physical-health-well-being","categoryId":34095}],"parentCategory":{"categoryId":34038,"title":"Body, Mind, & Spirit","slug":"body-mind-spirit","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34038"}},"childCategories":[{"categoryId":34096,"title":"Aging","slug":"aging","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34096"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-2.fabfbd5c.png","width":0,"height":0}},{"categoryId":34097,"title":"Alternative Medicine","slug":"alternative-medicine","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34097"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-1.daf74cf0.png","width":0,"height":0}},{"categoryId":34098,"title":"Personal Care & Style","slug":"personal-care-style","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34098"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-2.fabfbd5c.png","width":0,"height":0}},{"categoryId":34102,"title":"Diet & Nutrition","slug":"diet-nutrition","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34102"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-1.daf74cf0.png","width":0,"height":0}},{"categoryId":34139,"title":"Diseases","slug":"diseases","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34139"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-2.fabfbd5c.png","width":0,"height":0}},{"categoryId":34166,"title":"Exercise & Movement","slug":"exercise-movement","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34166"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-1.daf74cf0.png","width":0,"height":0}},{"categoryId":34176,"title":"Menopause","slug":"menopause","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34176"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-2.fabfbd5c.png","width":0,"height":0}},{"categoryId":34177,"title":"Pregnancy","slug":"pregnancy","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34177"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-1.daf74cf0.png","width":0,"height":0}},{"categoryId":34181,"title":"Common Ailments","slug":"common-ailments","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34181"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-2.fabfbd5c.png","width":0,"height":0}},{"categoryId":34185,"title":"Massage","slug":"massage","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34185"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-1.daf74cf0.png","width":0,"height":0}},{"categoryId":34188,"title":"General (Physical Health & Well-Being)","slug":"general-physical-health-well-being","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34188"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-2.fabfbd5c.png","width":0,"height":0}},{"categoryId":34367,"title":"Surgery","slug":"surgery","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34367"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-1.daf74cf0.png","width":0,"height":0}}],"description":"Disease and diet. Pregnancy and menopause. Aging and exercise. We've got expert advice to help you keep on truckin' through all stages of life.","relatedArticles":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles?category=34095&offset=0&size=5"}},"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095"}},"relatedCategoriesLoadedStatus":"success"},"listState":{"list":{"count":10,"total":2823,"items":[{"headers":{"creationTime":"2022-05-20T15:31:42+00:00","modifiedTime":"2022-05-26T20:54:04+00:00","timestamp":"2022-05-27T00:01:02+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Body, Mind, & Spirit","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34038"},"slug":"body-mind-spirit","categoryId":34038},{"name":"Physical Health & Well-Being","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095"},"slug":"physical-health-well-being","categoryId":34095},{"name":"Pregnancy","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34177"},"slug":"pregnancy","categoryId":34177},{"name":"General (Pregnancy)","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34180"},"slug":"general-pregnancy","categoryId":34180}],"title":"Infertility Awareness Month Spotlights a Common Problem","strippedTitle":"infertility awareness month spotlights a common problem","slug":"infertility-awareness-month-spotlights-a-common-problem","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Learn about the prevalence of infertility, some of its causes, and what those struggling can do to get advice and support on their journey.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"For years, infertility has been a silent struggle for those wanting to start a family. But this June, Infertility Awareness Month seeks to help those suffering become more vocal about their journey.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_293299\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"630\"]<img class=\"wp-image-293299 size-full\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/AdobeStock_179667705.jpg\" alt=\"Woman holding a pregnancy test wondering if she is pregnant\" width=\"630\" height=\"419\" /> © andriano_cz / Adobe Stock[/caption]\r\n<h2 id=\"tab1\" >The prevalence of infertility</h2>\r\nInfertility is usually defined as not being able to get pregnant after one year of trying. It also refers to women who are able to become pregnant, but struggle to carry their pregnancy to term. 6 million women are <a href=\"https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/infertility\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">diagnosed with fertility troubles</a> each year in the U.S., which equates to roughly 10 percent of women ages 15 to 44.\r\n\r\nMoreover, around <a href=\"https://resolve.org/learn/infertility-101/facts-diagnosis-and-risk-factors/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">1 in 8 couples deal with infertility</a> on their way to becoming a family. It’s a common problem, but it’s often kept quiet, as many couples feel shame, fear, or judgment around the issue.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_293040\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1172\"]<img class=\"wp-image-293040 size-large\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/AdobeStock_252291192-cropped-1172x586.jpg\" alt=\"Black couple with a negative pregnancy test result\" width=\"1172\" height=\"586\" /> © Prostock-studio / Adobe Stock[/caption]\r\n\r\nOverall, Western culture is becoming more open to discuss infertility. Maybe you’ve seen it addressed on TV shows like <a href=\"https://www.glamour.com/story/on-weight-fertility-and-this-is-us\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>This is Us</em></a>, <em>Parenthood</em>, or <em>Friends</em>. Maybe you’ve heard about the infertility journeys of celebrities like <a href=\"https://www.infertilityaide.com/celebrities/kim-kardashians-ivf-surrogacy-journey\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Kim Kardashian</a>, Emma Thompson, and <a href=\"https://www.self.com/story/gabrielle-unions-infertility-struggle-is-far-too-relatable\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gabrielle Union</a>. Or maybe you saw a friend post “I am 1 in 8” on social media. Though it’s not as taboo as it once was, it still can be difficult to know how to discuss such a personal issue.\r\n\r\nInfertility Awareness Month is meant to help others see the wide reach of this disease and to give those struggling with it a way to start conversations with friends, family, and other loved ones.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab2\" >Not just a woman's issue</h2>\r\nThough people tend to think of infertility as a woman’s struggle, its causes are split equally between women and men. A third of infertility cases are caused by female reproductive issues, another third by male reproductive issues, and the remaining third by a combination of male and female or unknown issues.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/article/body-mind-spirit/relationships-family/sex-gender/basic-causes-of-male-infertility-191806/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Male infertility issues</a> tend to be a bit more straightforward; they’re usually caused by low sperm production, slow sperm movement, or variant sperm shape. <a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/article/body-mind-spirit/physical-health-well-being/pregnancy/general-pregnancy/female-structural-problems-that-impact-fertility-269246/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Female infertility problems</a>, on the other hand, can be very complex. Because many different organs and systems need to work together to produce a viable pregnancy, just one irregularity may prevent fertility.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab3\" >Checking out the organs</h2>\r\nDoctors will often check a woman’s uterus and fallopian tubes first to see if any tumors, polyps, or scars are present. The fallopian tubes can also be damaged in some way. The roles they play in fertilization are vital: Think of them not only as the intersection where the sperm and egg have their “meet-cute,” but also the romantic bistro where the relationship incubates and, finally, the minivan that carries the fertilized egg to its new home: 1000 Uterus Place.\r\n\r\nUnfortunately, fallopian tubes can swell, dilate, or even burst. If there’s anything wrong with them, it’s likely the woman will need to look into in-vitro fertilization (IVF) to get pregnant.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab4\" >Parsing PCOS</h2>\r\nAnother common cause of infertility in females is <a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/article/body-mind-spirit/physical-health-well-being/diseases/pcos/pcos-for-dummies-cheat-sheet-208559/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)</a>. It’s unknown what causes this mysterious syndrome, but it’s quite prevalent, affecting 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. PCOS can manifest in myriad ways. <a href=\"https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Women with PCOS</a> may experience irregular periods, excessive hair growth on their face, chest, or thighs, or male-pattern baldness on their head. Often, women with PCOS will develop multiple cysts on their ovaries (sometimes referred to as a pearl necklace — because of the appearance of the “chain” of circular cysts on ultrasounds). However, the <a href=\"https://www.webmd.com/women/what-is-pcos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">presence of cysts isn’t necessary</a> for a PCOS diagnosis. Doctors may also measure hormone levels, such as insulin, androgens, and progesterone.\r\n\r\nSince PCOS interferes with ovulation (that interference is what can cause irregular periods), women with PCOS may have trouble growing the follicles that produce an egg to full maturity, and thus, have issues becoming pregnant. Thankfully, there are fertility medications that can aid ovulation, such as Clomid and Letrozole. If all else fails, IVF is another option for women with PCOS.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab5\" >'Outside' fertilization (aka <em>in vitro</em>)</h2>\r\nYou’ve probably heard of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) before, but what does it actually mean? <em>In vitro</em> is a Latin term that literally translates to \"in glass.\" This refers to a glass test tube or petri dish where a doctor or scientist observes or performs an experiment. In contrast, <em>in vivo</em> is a Latin term that translates to \"in the living.\" So, when something happens <em>in vitro</em>, it happens outside of a living organism.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_293000\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"630\"]<img class=\"wp-image-293000 size-full\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/hans-reniers-lQGJCMY5qcM-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Glass vials and test tubes\" width=\"630\" height=\"420\" /> © Hans Reniers / Unsplash[/caption]\r\n\r\nBut to get to that “outside” fertilization, a lot of stuff needs to happen inside first. An IVF treatment cycle involves different courses of drugs and hormones meant to stimulate egg production and egg maturation. If the drugs work as planned, an egg collection and sperm collection are scheduled, and an embryologist will put the egg together with the sperm (this is the <em>in vitro</em> part). If this is successful, the egg fertilizes, and an embryo begins to form. A few days later, this embryo is placed in the uterus, and a pregnancy test is performed after a few weeks to see if the implantation worked.\r\n<p class=\"article-tips tip\">Sadly, it often takes many cycles of treatment for IVF to be successful, and each procedure can be very expensive, time-consuming, and stressful. However, there are things those wanting to start a family can do to help. Explore this <a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/article/body-mind-spirit/physical-health-well-being/pregnancy/general-pregnancy/ivf-beyond-for-dummies-cheat-sheet-209178/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IVF cheat sheet</a> to discover ways to improve chances at IVF success, learn common abbreviations and procedure names, and view ways to keep high spirits on this journey.</p>\r\n\r\n<h2 id=\"tab6\" >Infertility support</h2>\r\nWhether those struggling with infertility are in and out of doctors’ offices, calculating an ovulation window, or trying to discreetly inject themselves with hormones in public, it’s easy to feel alone when undergoing infertility treatments. But there are organizations that exist to help women and families on this journey:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><a href=\"https://resolve.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association</a> exists to help all people on a family-building journey find knowledge, community, advocacy, and eventually, resolution. In addition to providing important facts about infertility, RESOLVE also helps connect people with medical professionals and support groups.</li>\r\n \t<li><a href=\"https://www.fertilityoutloud.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Fertility Out Loud</a> helps people struggling with infertility to understand cryptic insurance policies, learn how to reply to insensitive comments (like “Your clock is ticking! Better hurry up!”), and connect and share stories on social media platforms.</li>\r\n \t<li><a href=\"https://rescripted.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rescripted</a> is an online community for those trying to conceive (TTC) founded by two women who underwent their own IVF journeys. Aside from articles and support stories, this site also has videos on how to perform common hormonal injections and a digital pharmacy where users can search for inexpensive fertility medications.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nFor general information about how to assess fertility and nurture pregnancy, check out <a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/book/body-mind-spirit/physical-health-well-being/pregnancy/getting-pregnant-for-dummies-282236/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Getting Pregnant for Dummies</a>.","description":"For years, infertility has been a silent struggle for those wanting to start a family. But this June, Infertility Awareness Month seeks to help those suffering become more vocal about their journey.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_293299\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"630\"]<img class=\"wp-image-293299 size-full\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/AdobeStock_179667705.jpg\" alt=\"Woman holding a pregnancy test wondering if she is pregnant\" width=\"630\" height=\"419\" /> © andriano_cz / Adobe Stock[/caption]\r\n<h2 id=\"tab1\" >The prevalence of infertility</h2>\r\nInfertility is usually defined as not being able to get pregnant after one year of trying. It also refers to women who are able to become pregnant, but struggle to carry their pregnancy to term. 6 million women are <a href=\"https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/infertility\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">diagnosed with fertility troubles</a> each year in the U.S., which equates to roughly 10 percent of women ages 15 to 44.\r\n\r\nMoreover, around <a href=\"https://resolve.org/learn/infertility-101/facts-diagnosis-and-risk-factors/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">1 in 8 couples deal with infertility</a> on their way to becoming a family. It’s a common problem, but it’s often kept quiet, as many couples feel shame, fear, or judgment around the issue.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_293040\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1172\"]<img class=\"wp-image-293040 size-large\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/AdobeStock_252291192-cropped-1172x586.jpg\" alt=\"Black couple with a negative pregnancy test result\" width=\"1172\" height=\"586\" /> © Prostock-studio / Adobe Stock[/caption]\r\n\r\nOverall, Western culture is becoming more open to discuss infertility. Maybe you’ve seen it addressed on TV shows like <a href=\"https://www.glamour.com/story/on-weight-fertility-and-this-is-us\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>This is Us</em></a>, <em>Parenthood</em>, or <em>Friends</em>. Maybe you’ve heard about the infertility journeys of celebrities like <a href=\"https://www.infertilityaide.com/celebrities/kim-kardashians-ivf-surrogacy-journey\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Kim Kardashian</a>, Emma Thompson, and <a href=\"https://www.self.com/story/gabrielle-unions-infertility-struggle-is-far-too-relatable\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gabrielle Union</a>. Or maybe you saw a friend post “I am 1 in 8” on social media. Though it’s not as taboo as it once was, it still can be difficult to know how to discuss such a personal issue.\r\n\r\nInfertility Awareness Month is meant to help others see the wide reach of this disease and to give those struggling with it a way to start conversations with friends, family, and other loved ones.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab2\" >Not just a woman's issue</h2>\r\nThough people tend to think of infertility as a woman’s struggle, its causes are split equally between women and men. A third of infertility cases are caused by female reproductive issues, another third by male reproductive issues, and the remaining third by a combination of male and female or unknown issues.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/article/body-mind-spirit/relationships-family/sex-gender/basic-causes-of-male-infertility-191806/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Male infertility issues</a> tend to be a bit more straightforward; they’re usually caused by low sperm production, slow sperm movement, or variant sperm shape. <a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/article/body-mind-spirit/physical-health-well-being/pregnancy/general-pregnancy/female-structural-problems-that-impact-fertility-269246/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Female infertility problems</a>, on the other hand, can be very complex. Because many different organs and systems need to work together to produce a viable pregnancy, just one irregularity may prevent fertility.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab3\" >Checking out the organs</h2>\r\nDoctors will often check a woman’s uterus and fallopian tubes first to see if any tumors, polyps, or scars are present. The fallopian tubes can also be damaged in some way. The roles they play in fertilization are vital: Think of them not only as the intersection where the sperm and egg have their “meet-cute,” but also the romantic bistro where the relationship incubates and, finally, the minivan that carries the fertilized egg to its new home: 1000 Uterus Place.\r\n\r\nUnfortunately, fallopian tubes can swell, dilate, or even burst. If there’s anything wrong with them, it’s likely the woman will need to look into in-vitro fertilization (IVF) to get pregnant.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab4\" >Parsing PCOS</h2>\r\nAnother common cause of infertility in females is <a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/article/body-mind-spirit/physical-health-well-being/diseases/pcos/pcos-for-dummies-cheat-sheet-208559/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)</a>. It’s unknown what causes this mysterious syndrome, but it’s quite prevalent, affecting 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. PCOS can manifest in myriad ways. <a href=\"https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Women with PCOS</a> may experience irregular periods, excessive hair growth on their face, chest, or thighs, or male-pattern baldness on their head. Often, women with PCOS will develop multiple cysts on their ovaries (sometimes referred to as a pearl necklace — because of the appearance of the “chain” of circular cysts on ultrasounds). However, the <a href=\"https://www.webmd.com/women/what-is-pcos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">presence of cysts isn’t necessary</a> for a PCOS diagnosis. Doctors may also measure hormone levels, such as insulin, androgens, and progesterone.\r\n\r\nSince PCOS interferes with ovulation (that interference is what can cause irregular periods), women with PCOS may have trouble growing the follicles that produce an egg to full maturity, and thus, have issues becoming pregnant. Thankfully, there are fertility medications that can aid ovulation, such as Clomid and Letrozole. If all else fails, IVF is another option for women with PCOS.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab5\" >'Outside' fertilization (aka <em>in vitro</em>)</h2>\r\nYou’ve probably heard of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) before, but what does it actually mean? <em>In vitro</em> is a Latin term that literally translates to \"in glass.\" This refers to a glass test tube or petri dish where a doctor or scientist observes or performs an experiment. In contrast, <em>in vivo</em> is a Latin term that translates to \"in the living.\" So, when something happens <em>in vitro</em>, it happens outside of a living organism.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_293000\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"630\"]<img class=\"wp-image-293000 size-full\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/hans-reniers-lQGJCMY5qcM-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Glass vials and test tubes\" width=\"630\" height=\"420\" /> © Hans Reniers / Unsplash[/caption]\r\n\r\nBut to get to that “outside” fertilization, a lot of stuff needs to happen inside first. An IVF treatment cycle involves different courses of drugs and hormones meant to stimulate egg production and egg maturation. If the drugs work as planned, an egg collection and sperm collection are scheduled, and an embryologist will put the egg together with the sperm (this is the <em>in vitro</em> part). If this is successful, the egg fertilizes, and an embryo begins to form. A few days later, this embryo is placed in the uterus, and a pregnancy test is performed after a few weeks to see if the implantation worked.\r\n<p class=\"article-tips tip\">Sadly, it often takes many cycles of treatment for IVF to be successful, and each procedure can be very expensive, time-consuming, and stressful. However, there are things those wanting to start a family can do to help. Explore this <a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/article/body-mind-spirit/physical-health-well-being/pregnancy/general-pregnancy/ivf-beyond-for-dummies-cheat-sheet-209178/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IVF cheat sheet</a> to discover ways to improve chances at IVF success, learn common abbreviations and procedure names, and view ways to keep high spirits on this journey.</p>\r\n\r\n<h2 id=\"tab6\" >Infertility support</h2>\r\nWhether those struggling with infertility are in and out of doctors’ offices, calculating an ovulation window, or trying to discreetly inject themselves with hormones in public, it’s easy to feel alone when undergoing infertility treatments. But there are organizations that exist to help women and families on this journey:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><a href=\"https://resolve.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association</a> exists to help all people on a family-building journey find knowledge, community, advocacy, and eventually, resolution. In addition to providing important facts about infertility, RESOLVE also helps connect people with medical professionals and support groups.</li>\r\n \t<li><a href=\"https://www.fertilityoutloud.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Fertility Out Loud</a> helps people struggling with infertility to understand cryptic insurance policies, learn how to reply to insensitive comments (like “Your clock is ticking! Better hurry up!”), and connect and share stories on social media platforms.</li>\r\n \t<li><a href=\"https://rescripted.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rescripted</a> is an online community for those trying to conceive (TTC) founded by two women who underwent their own IVF journeys. Aside from articles and support stories, this site also has videos on how to perform common hormonal injections and a digital pharmacy where users can search for inexpensive fertility medications.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nFor general information about how to assess fertility and nurture pregnancy, check out <a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/book/body-mind-spirit/physical-health-well-being/pregnancy/getting-pregnant-for-dummies-282236/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Getting Pregnant for Dummies</a>.","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":34757,"name":"Christy Jones","slug":"christy-jones","description":"Christy Jones is a writer, editor, and content manager for Dummies.com based in Minneapolis, MN.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/34757"}}],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":34180,"title":"General (Pregnancy)","slug":"general-pregnancy","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34180"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[{"label":"The prevalence of infertility","target":"#tab1"},{"label":"Not just a woman's issue","target":"#tab2"},{"label":"Checking out the organs","target":"#tab3"},{"label":"Parsing PCOS","target":"#tab4"},{"label":"'Outside' fertilization (aka in vitro)","target":"#tab5"},{"label":"Infertility support","target":"#tab6"}],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[{"articleId":269260,"title":"Long-Term Health Effects of Fertility Medication","slug":"long-term-health-effects-of-fertility-medication","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269260"}},{"articleId":269257,"title":"10 “Fake News” Stories about Fertility","slug":"10-fake-news-stories-about-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269257"}},{"articleId":269252,"title":"Sperm Insemination—Prepping Sperm to Meet the Egg","slug":"sperm-insemination-prepping-sperm-to-meet-the-egg","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269252"}},{"articleId":269246,"title":"Female Structural Problems That Impact Fertility","slug":"female-structural-problems-that-impact-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269246"}},{"articleId":269240,"title":"10 Things to Know in Early Pregnancy","slug":"10-things-to-know-in-early-pregnancy","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269240"}}],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":269260,"title":"Long-Term Health Effects of Fertility Medication","slug":"long-term-health-effects-of-fertility-medication","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269260"}},{"articleId":269257,"title":"10 “Fake News” Stories about Fertility","slug":"10-fake-news-stories-about-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269257"}},{"articleId":269252,"title":"Sperm Insemination—Prepping Sperm to Meet the Egg","slug":"sperm-insemination-prepping-sperm-to-meet-the-egg","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269252"}},{"articleId":269246,"title":"Female Structural Problems That Impact Fertility","slug":"female-structural-problems-that-impact-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269246"}},{"articleId":269240,"title":"10 Things to Know in Early Pregnancy","slug":"10-things-to-know-in-early-pregnancy","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269240"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":282236,"slug":"getting-pregnant-for-dummies","isbn":"9781119601159","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy"],"amazon":{"default":"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","ca":"https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","indigo_ca":"http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-9208661-13710633?url=https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/1119601150-item.html&cjsku=978111945484","gb":"https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","de":"https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20"},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/getting-pregnant-for-dummies-cover-9781119601159-203x255.jpg","width":203,"height":255},"title":"Getting Pregnant For Dummies","testBankPinActivationLink":"","bookOutOfPrint":true,"authorsInfo":"\n <p><b data-author-id=\"33339\">Lisa A. Rinehart</b> has been involved in reproductive medicine in the Chicago area for 25 years, currently as a health care attorney and medical practice consultant. She is the executive director of the Kevin J. Lederer LIFE foundation, an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and a frequent speaker on all aspects of reproductive law. Dr. <b data-author-id=\"33340\">John S. Rinehart</b> has maintained an exclusive practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology in the Chicago area for 35 years. He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Johns Hopkins Hospital and his fellowship in reproductive endocrinology at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital. He serves as a senior attending physician with North Shore University HealthSystem and as a senior clinic educator for the Pritzker School of Medicine for The University of Chicago. <b data-author-id=\"9114\">Sharon Perkins</b>, RN, coauthor of Fertility For Dummies, has more than two decades of experience in maternal/child health. <p>Carol Vannais, RN, educates parents-to-be in the benefits of breastfeeding.</p> <b data-author-id=\"33341\">Jackie Meyers-Thompson</b> is managing partner of Coppock-Meyers Public Relations/J.D. Thompson Communications. She is the author of Fertility For Dummies and Infertility For Dummies.</p>","authors":[{"authorId":33339,"name":"Lisa A. Rinehart","slug":"lisa-a-rinehart","description":"Lisa A. Rinehart has been involved in reproductive medicine in the Chicago area for 25 years, currently as a health care attorney and medical practice consultant. She is the executive director of the Kevin J. Lederer LIFE foundation, an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and a frequent speaker on all aspects of reproductive law. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33339"}},{"authorId":33340,"name":"John S. Rinehart","slug":"john-s-rinehart","description":"Dr. John S. Rinehart has maintained an exclusive practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology in the Chicago area for 35 years. He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Johns Hopkins Hospital and his fellowship in reproductive endocrinology at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital. He serves as a senior attending physician with North Shore University HealthSystem and as a senior clinic educator for the Pritzker School of Medicine for The University of Chicago.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33340"}},{"authorId":9114,"name":"Sharon Perkins","slug":"sharon-perkins","description":" Sharon Perkins, RN, coauthor of Fertility For Dummies, has more than two decades of experience in maternal/child health. <p>Carol Vannais, RN, educates parents-to-be in the benefits of breastfeeding.</p>","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9114"}},{"authorId":33341,"name":"Jackie Meyers-Thompson","slug":"jackie-meyers-thompson","description":" Jackie Meyers-Thompson is managing partner of Coppock-Meyers Public Relations/J.D. Thompson Communications. She is the author of Fertility For Dummies and Infertility For Dummies.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33341"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;pregnancy&quot;,&quot;general-pregnancy&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781119601159&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-629014bea8fb4\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;pregnancy&quot;,&quot;general-pregnancy&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781119601159&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-629014bea9ab8\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Articles","articleList":null,"content":null,"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Solve","lifeExpectancy":"Two years","lifeExpectancySetFrom":"2022-05-12T00:00:00+00:00","dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":292984},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2020-03-15T19:21:09+00:00","modifiedTime":"2022-05-11T21:29:03+00:00","timestamp":"2022-05-12T00:01:06+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Body, Mind, & Spirit","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34038"},"slug":"body-mind-spirit","categoryId":34038},{"name":"Physical Health & Well-Being","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095"},"slug":"physical-health-well-being","categoryId":34095},{"name":"Pregnancy","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34177"},"slug":"pregnancy","categoryId":34177},{"name":"General (Pregnancy)","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34180"},"slug":"general-pregnancy","categoryId":34180}],"title":"Female Structural Problems That Impact Fertility","strippedTitle":"female structural problems that impact fertility","slug":"female-structural-problems-that-impact-fertility","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Explore some of the structural problems with the female reproductive system that can cause women difficulties in getting pregnant.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"Women’s infertility issues can be very complex because so many different systems can be at fault. Is the problem uterine, tubal, hormonal, age-related, or ovarian? Any one of these problems can cause enough trouble to prevent you from <a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/health/pregnancy/getting-pregnant-for-dummies-cheat-sheet/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">becoming and staying pregnant</a>.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab1\" ><a name=\"_Toc23330866\"></a><a name=\"_Toc17797286\"></a>A healthy uterus</h2>\r\nMaybe you had an HSG to evaluate your fallopian tubes and uterus, or maybe you had a hysteroscopic surgery for an even closer look into the uterus. Looking at the uterus is an integral part of any fertility workup because the uterus nourishes and holds a baby for nine months.\r\n<h3><a name=\"_Toc23330867\"></a><a name=\"_Toc17797287\"></a>Finding fibroids in the uterus</h3>\r\nFibroids, or benign tumors, are commonly found inside or on the outside of the uterus. They’re extremely common, with 40 percent of women between the ages of 35 and 55 having at least one. Fibroids are even more common in African-American women, with 50 percent having at least one.\r\n\r\nFibroids can cause bowel or bladder problems, very heavy bleeding, or pain. Fibroids can be either inside or outside the uterine cavity; their location determines whether they cause a problem with your ability to get or stay pregnant. Fibroids completely outside the uterus, such as <em>pedunculated fibroids,</em> which are attached to the uterus by a stem, don’t usually cause a problem with fertility. Submucosal fibroids grow through the lining of uterine wall and can cause a miscarriage.\r\n\r\nFibroids can be surgically removed through a process called a <em>myomectomy.</em> A small fibroid inside the uterus can usually be removed by hysteroscopy, a procedure in which a thin telescope is inserted into the uterus through the vagina. This is outpatient surgery and is relatively atraumatic. In contrast, large intramural fibroids require an abdominal incision and a hospital stay. You generally need to deliver by cesarean section after an abdominal myomectomy.\r\n<h3><a name=\"_Toc23330868\"></a><a name=\"_Toc17797288\"></a>Removing polyps in uterus</h3>\r\nPolyps are small fleshy benign growths found on the surface of the endometrium. Very small polyps usually cause no problem with getting pregnant, but larger polyps or multiple polyps can interfere with conception.\r\n\r\nPolyps can cause irregular bleeding; they can be diagnosed via sonohysterogram or hysteroscopy and can be scraped off the endometrium. Polyp removal is called polypectomy.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab2\" ><a name=\"_Toc23330869\"></a><a name=\"_Toc17797289\"></a>Clearing out the fallopian tubes</h2>\r\nMost women have two fallopian tubes, one on each side of the uterus, next to the ovaries. Because these tubes are the transport path from the ovary to the uterus, a problem with one or both tubes can have a big impact on your baby-making ability.\r\n<h3><a name=\"_Toc23330870\"></a>How fallopian tubes should work and what can go wrong</h3>\r\nFallopian tubes are not just tubes. If they were, then repair would be much simpler and far more successful. Tubes actually have jobs to do: specifically, to transport and culture. The tube is where the sperm and eggs meet, and fertilization takes place. So, the tube must allow sperm to migrate through the uterus and into the tube. The tube also must pick the oocyte from the surface of the ovary when it is ovulated and move it nearer the uterus. Finally, once the fertilized egg, now called an embryo, has developed for two to three days, the tube must move the embryo into the uterus.\r\n\r\nThe inside of the tube is lined with cells that have hair-like projections that move in a wave-like fashion to transport the embryo. (Think beach ball at a football game moving around the crowd.) Infections can damage these hair-like projections and decrease or destroy the tube’s ability to perform the transport function. This is a microscopic function and therefore cannot be diagnosed.\r\n\r\nAlso, the tube acts as an incubator for the early development of the embryo. The environment in the tube, designed specifically for the embryo, is unlike anywhere else in the body. This function also cannot be seen or diagnosed.\r\n<p class=\"article-tips warning\">Sometimes a tube is surgically removed after an ectopic pregnancy, a pregnancy that starts to grow in the tube rather than in the uterus. If this pregnancy is found early enough, it may be possible to dissolve the pregnancy with a chemotherapy agent called methotrexate. However, if the fetus grows large enough undetected in the tube, the tube can burst, causing life-threatening bleeding. The only way to stop the bleeding is to remove the tube.</p>\r\nYou can get pregnant with only one tube but having one ectopic pregnancy leaves you at a higher risk to have another. Frequently, when a tube is removed, the surgeon will look at the other tube and find that it looks okay. For a person with an ectopic and one remaining tube, the pregnancy rate is estimated to be about 70 percent, of which 10 percent are another ectopic. So why don’t the other 30 percent conceive? Probably because the tube may appear normal and be open, but damage on the interior of the tube has caused it to malfunction and not be able to perform the job it needs to do. When women become pregnant after an ectopic has been removed, they usually do so within the first year. Beyond that pregnancies can occur but they are rare, and the couple may want to pursue IVF.\r\n<h3><a name=\"_Toc23330871\"></a><a name=\"_Toc17797290\"></a>Damaged tubes</h3>\r\nWomen who have only the left ovary and the right fallopian tube can get pregnant because the egg can “float” to the remaining tube. Of course, this also applies to women who have the left tube and the right ovary. (One study estimated that the egg gets picked up by the opposite tube about 30 percent of the time.) Sometimes fallopian tubes are seen to be enlarged on ultrasound or during an HSG. If the tubes are very swollen and dye doesn’t flow through them, you may have a <em>hydrosalpinx,</em> the medical term for a tube filled with fluid. If both tubes are dilated, the condition is known as <em>hydrosalpinges.</em>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_269248\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"556\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-269248\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/pregnant-hydrosalpinx.jpg\" alt=\"hydrosalpinx \" width=\"556\" height=\"306\" /> Illustration by Kathryn Born<br /><br />A hydrosalpinx can affect your ability to get pregnant.[/caption]\r\n\r\nA hydrosalpinx interferes with pregnancy in two ways:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>The egg cannot be picked up by the dilated tube, whose <em>fimbriae</em> (the end) is blocked by scarring.</li>\r\n \t<li>The tube has an environment that damages the development of the embryo.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nThe treatment for a hydrosalpinx is surgical. In mild cases, the end of the tube can be opened and the ends peeled back like a flower. Surgical repair of damaged tubes has a low chance of success primarily because surgical repair does not address the damage on the interior of the tube. However, in severe cases, the tube will not work even if it is opened. In these cases, the tube or tubes must be removed, and you need to have IVF. This diagnosis is a hard thing for many women to accept because it definitely ends any chance that they’ll be able to get pregnant on their own. However, well-done studies have demonstrated that pregnancy rates are lower for women with bilateral hydrosalpinges. Having one hydrosalpinx and one open tube still reduces the chance for a successful IVF cycle. The reason why the hydrosalpinx reduces the pregnancy rate is unknown, but theories propose that the fluid in the tube can leak into the uterus prevent implantation.\r\n\r\nIn very rare cases, women can be born without any fallopian tubes; often the tubes are missing as part of a syndrome in which the external sex organs look normal, but the vagina, uterus, and fallopian tubes are missing. Of course, if you’ve had two ectopic pregnancies, you may have had both tubes surgically removed also.\r\n\r\nSometimes fallopian tubes look fine on an X-ray but may be surrounded by adhesions (scarring) that prevent them from picking up the egg. <em>Endometriosis,</em> tissue growths found anywhere in the pelvis, can grow in or around the fallopian tubes and is a common cause of adhesions around tubes. Normal tubes can’t be visualized by ultrasound.\r\n<p class=\"article-tips remember\">Because the fallopian tubes play such a large role in getting pregnant, you’ll probably need intervention, such as IVF, to get pregnant if a problem is discovered with them. Removal or absence of the tubes, or a blockage that can’t be removed, makes IVF inevitable if you’re trying to get pregnant.</p>\r\n\r\n<h2 id=\"tab3\" ><a name=\"_Toc23330872\"></a><a name=\"_Toc17797291\"></a>Addressing scar tissue</h2>\r\nFor doctors who perform surgeries in this area, it's typical to see scar tissue, or adhesions (as shown), in your reproductive system. Many women having a second or third cesarean section delivery or other surgery had scar tissue throughout the pelvis that needed to be cut away before the delivery team could get to the uterus.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_269247\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"556\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-269247\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/pregnant-adhesions.jpg\" alt=\"adhesions\" width=\"556\" height=\"572\" /> Illustration by Kathryn Born<br /><br />Adhesions in the female reproductive system.[/caption]\r\n\r\nAdhesions form when blood and plasma from trauma, such as surgery (like an appendectomy, tubal removal of an ectopic pregnancy or fibroid), form fibrin deposits, which are threadlike strands that can bind one organ to another. They can be removed, but surgery to correct adhesions may result in — you guessed it — more adhesions.\r\n\r\nThe amount of scarring depends upon the surgical procedure done but can occasionally be extensive. Adhesions can cause pelvic pain; cesarean sections can cause adhesions, but they tend to be anterior (or in front of) the uterus, and thus may cause difficulty during a subsequent C-section. However, C-sections don’t usually cause problems with tubes (which tend to be behind the uterus), and thus don’t usually cause infertility.\r\n<p class=\"article-tips remember\">Your chances of getting pregnant after adhesion removal are highest in the first six months after surgery, before extensive adhesions form again. Some adhesions can’t be removed without damaging the tubes or ovaries, and you may need IVF to get pregnant. Since the advent of IVF, surgical repair for pelvic adhesions is uncommon.</p>\r\nIf you have adhesions in the uterus itself, you may be diagnosed with Asherman’s syndrome, also called uterine synechiae. Asherman’s can follow a dilation and curettage (D&C), an abortion, or a uterine infection. It can be diagnosed during an HSG but is best diagnosed with a hysteroscopy, where the inside of the uterus can be visualized. Asherman’s is also suspected if you have scant or no menstrual flow or recurrent miscarriages following uterine trauma. There are varying amounts of scarring in Asherman’s syndrome. Some people have very few adhesions, and these are filmy and easy to remove. That person has a very good chance to conceive. If the mild to moderate adhesions are removed surgically, you have a good chance, probably 75 percent or better, of becoming pregnant and carrying to term. Severe adhesions may destroy nearly all the normal uterine lining, and pregnancy may not be possible. Less frequently, a person will have extensive intrauterine scarring and that person will have a very poor chance for achieving a pregnancy. A gestational surrogate may be needed in these cases.","description":"Women’s infertility issues can be very complex because so many different systems can be at fault. Is the problem uterine, tubal, hormonal, age-related, or ovarian? Any one of these problems can cause enough trouble to prevent you from <a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/health/pregnancy/getting-pregnant-for-dummies-cheat-sheet/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">becoming and staying pregnant</a>.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab1\" ><a name=\"_Toc23330866\"></a><a name=\"_Toc17797286\"></a>A healthy uterus</h2>\r\nMaybe you had an HSG to evaluate your fallopian tubes and uterus, or maybe you had a hysteroscopic surgery for an even closer look into the uterus. Looking at the uterus is an integral part of any fertility workup because the uterus nourishes and holds a baby for nine months.\r\n<h3><a name=\"_Toc23330867\"></a><a name=\"_Toc17797287\"></a>Finding fibroids in the uterus</h3>\r\nFibroids, or benign tumors, are commonly found inside or on the outside of the uterus. They’re extremely common, with 40 percent of women between the ages of 35 and 55 having at least one. Fibroids are even more common in African-American women, with 50 percent having at least one.\r\n\r\nFibroids can cause bowel or bladder problems, very heavy bleeding, or pain. Fibroids can be either inside or outside the uterine cavity; their location determines whether they cause a problem with your ability to get or stay pregnant. Fibroids completely outside the uterus, such as <em>pedunculated fibroids,</em> which are attached to the uterus by a stem, don’t usually cause a problem with fertility. Submucosal fibroids grow through the lining of uterine wall and can cause a miscarriage.\r\n\r\nFibroids can be surgically removed through a process called a <em>myomectomy.</em> A small fibroid inside the uterus can usually be removed by hysteroscopy, a procedure in which a thin telescope is inserted into the uterus through the vagina. This is outpatient surgery and is relatively atraumatic. In contrast, large intramural fibroids require an abdominal incision and a hospital stay. You generally need to deliver by cesarean section after an abdominal myomectomy.\r\n<h3><a name=\"_Toc23330868\"></a><a name=\"_Toc17797288\"></a>Removing polyps in uterus</h3>\r\nPolyps are small fleshy benign growths found on the surface of the endometrium. Very small polyps usually cause no problem with getting pregnant, but larger polyps or multiple polyps can interfere with conception.\r\n\r\nPolyps can cause irregular bleeding; they can be diagnosed via sonohysterogram or hysteroscopy and can be scraped off the endometrium. Polyp removal is called polypectomy.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab2\" ><a name=\"_Toc23330869\"></a><a name=\"_Toc17797289\"></a>Clearing out the fallopian tubes</h2>\r\nMost women have two fallopian tubes, one on each side of the uterus, next to the ovaries. Because these tubes are the transport path from the ovary to the uterus, a problem with one or both tubes can have a big impact on your baby-making ability.\r\n<h3><a name=\"_Toc23330870\"></a>How fallopian tubes should work and what can go wrong</h3>\r\nFallopian tubes are not just tubes. If they were, then repair would be much simpler and far more successful. Tubes actually have jobs to do: specifically, to transport and culture. The tube is where the sperm and eggs meet, and fertilization takes place. So, the tube must allow sperm to migrate through the uterus and into the tube. The tube also must pick the oocyte from the surface of the ovary when it is ovulated and move it nearer the uterus. Finally, once the fertilized egg, now called an embryo, has developed for two to three days, the tube must move the embryo into the uterus.\r\n\r\nThe inside of the tube is lined with cells that have hair-like projections that move in a wave-like fashion to transport the embryo. (Think beach ball at a football game moving around the crowd.) Infections can damage these hair-like projections and decrease or destroy the tube’s ability to perform the transport function. This is a microscopic function and therefore cannot be diagnosed.\r\n\r\nAlso, the tube acts as an incubator for the early development of the embryo. The environment in the tube, designed specifically for the embryo, is unlike anywhere else in the body. This function also cannot be seen or diagnosed.\r\n<p class=\"article-tips warning\">Sometimes a tube is surgically removed after an ectopic pregnancy, a pregnancy that starts to grow in the tube rather than in the uterus. If this pregnancy is found early enough, it may be possible to dissolve the pregnancy with a chemotherapy agent called methotrexate. However, if the fetus grows large enough undetected in the tube, the tube can burst, causing life-threatening bleeding. The only way to stop the bleeding is to remove the tube.</p>\r\nYou can get pregnant with only one tube but having one ectopic pregnancy leaves you at a higher risk to have another. Frequently, when a tube is removed, the surgeon will look at the other tube and find that it looks okay. For a person with an ectopic and one remaining tube, the pregnancy rate is estimated to be about 70 percent, of which 10 percent are another ectopic. So why don’t the other 30 percent conceive? Probably because the tube may appear normal and be open, but damage on the interior of the tube has caused it to malfunction and not be able to perform the job it needs to do. When women become pregnant after an ectopic has been removed, they usually do so within the first year. Beyond that pregnancies can occur but they are rare, and the couple may want to pursue IVF.\r\n<h3><a name=\"_Toc23330871\"></a><a name=\"_Toc17797290\"></a>Damaged tubes</h3>\r\nWomen who have only the left ovary and the right fallopian tube can get pregnant because the egg can “float” to the remaining tube. Of course, this also applies to women who have the left tube and the right ovary. (One study estimated that the egg gets picked up by the opposite tube about 30 percent of the time.) Sometimes fallopian tubes are seen to be enlarged on ultrasound or during an HSG. If the tubes are very swollen and dye doesn’t flow through them, you may have a <em>hydrosalpinx,</em> the medical term for a tube filled with fluid. If both tubes are dilated, the condition is known as <em>hydrosalpinges.</em>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_269248\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"556\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-269248\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/pregnant-hydrosalpinx.jpg\" alt=\"hydrosalpinx \" width=\"556\" height=\"306\" /> Illustration by Kathryn Born<br /><br />A hydrosalpinx can affect your ability to get pregnant.[/caption]\r\n\r\nA hydrosalpinx interferes with pregnancy in two ways:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>The egg cannot be picked up by the dilated tube, whose <em>fimbriae</em> (the end) is blocked by scarring.</li>\r\n \t<li>The tube has an environment that damages the development of the embryo.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nThe treatment for a hydrosalpinx is surgical. In mild cases, the end of the tube can be opened and the ends peeled back like a flower. Surgical repair of damaged tubes has a low chance of success primarily because surgical repair does not address the damage on the interior of the tube. However, in severe cases, the tube will not work even if it is opened. In these cases, the tube or tubes must be removed, and you need to have IVF. This diagnosis is a hard thing for many women to accept because it definitely ends any chance that they’ll be able to get pregnant on their own. However, well-done studies have demonstrated that pregnancy rates are lower for women with bilateral hydrosalpinges. Having one hydrosalpinx and one open tube still reduces the chance for a successful IVF cycle. The reason why the hydrosalpinx reduces the pregnancy rate is unknown, but theories propose that the fluid in the tube can leak into the uterus prevent implantation.\r\n\r\nIn very rare cases, women can be born without any fallopian tubes; often the tubes are missing as part of a syndrome in which the external sex organs look normal, but the vagina, uterus, and fallopian tubes are missing. Of course, if you’ve had two ectopic pregnancies, you may have had both tubes surgically removed also.\r\n\r\nSometimes fallopian tubes look fine on an X-ray but may be surrounded by adhesions (scarring) that prevent them from picking up the egg. <em>Endometriosis,</em> tissue growths found anywhere in the pelvis, can grow in or around the fallopian tubes and is a common cause of adhesions around tubes. Normal tubes can’t be visualized by ultrasound.\r\n<p class=\"article-tips remember\">Because the fallopian tubes play such a large role in getting pregnant, you’ll probably need intervention, such as IVF, to get pregnant if a problem is discovered with them. Removal or absence of the tubes, or a blockage that can’t be removed, makes IVF inevitable if you’re trying to get pregnant.</p>\r\n\r\n<h2 id=\"tab3\" ><a name=\"_Toc23330872\"></a><a name=\"_Toc17797291\"></a>Addressing scar tissue</h2>\r\nFor doctors who perform surgeries in this area, it's typical to see scar tissue, or adhesions (as shown), in your reproductive system. Many women having a second or third cesarean section delivery or other surgery had scar tissue throughout the pelvis that needed to be cut away before the delivery team could get to the uterus.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_269247\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"556\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-269247\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/pregnant-adhesions.jpg\" alt=\"adhesions\" width=\"556\" height=\"572\" /> Illustration by Kathryn Born<br /><br />Adhesions in the female reproductive system.[/caption]\r\n\r\nAdhesions form when blood and plasma from trauma, such as surgery (like an appendectomy, tubal removal of an ectopic pregnancy or fibroid), form fibrin deposits, which are threadlike strands that can bind one organ to another. They can be removed, but surgery to correct adhesions may result in — you guessed it — more adhesions.\r\n\r\nThe amount of scarring depends upon the surgical procedure done but can occasionally be extensive. Adhesions can cause pelvic pain; cesarean sections can cause adhesions, but they tend to be anterior (or in front of) the uterus, and thus may cause difficulty during a subsequent C-section. However, C-sections don’t usually cause problems with tubes (which tend to be behind the uterus), and thus don’t usually cause infertility.\r\n<p class=\"article-tips remember\">Your chances of getting pregnant after adhesion removal are highest in the first six months after surgery, before extensive adhesions form again. Some adhesions can’t be removed without damaging the tubes or ovaries, and you may need IVF to get pregnant. Since the advent of IVF, surgical repair for pelvic adhesions is uncommon.</p>\r\nIf you have adhesions in the uterus itself, you may be diagnosed with Asherman’s syndrome, also called uterine synechiae. Asherman’s can follow a dilation and curettage (D&C), an abortion, or a uterine infection. It can be diagnosed during an HSG but is best diagnosed with a hysteroscopy, where the inside of the uterus can be visualized. Asherman’s is also suspected if you have scant or no menstrual flow or recurrent miscarriages following uterine trauma. There are varying amounts of scarring in Asherman’s syndrome. Some people have very few adhesions, and these are filmy and easy to remove. That person has a very good chance to conceive. If the mild to moderate adhesions are removed surgically, you have a good chance, probably 75 percent or better, of becoming pregnant and carrying to term. Severe adhesions may destroy nearly all the normal uterine lining, and pregnancy may not be possible. Less frequently, a person will have extensive intrauterine scarring and that person will have a very poor chance for achieving a pregnancy. A gestational surrogate may be needed in these cases.","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":33339,"name":"Lisa A. Rinehart","slug":"lisa-a-rinehart","description":"Lisa A. Rinehart has been involved in reproductive medicine in the Chicago area for 25 years, currently as a health care attorney and medical practice consultant. She is the executive director of the Kevin J. Lederer LIFE foundation, an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and a frequent speaker on all aspects of reproductive law. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33339"}},{"authorId":33340,"name":"John S. Rinehart","slug":"john-s-rinehart","description":"Dr. John S. Rinehart has maintained an exclusive practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology in the Chicago area for 35 years. He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Johns Hopkins Hospital and his fellowship in reproductive endocrinology at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital. He serves as a senior attending physician with North Shore University HealthSystem and as a senior clinic educator for the Pritzker School of Medicine for The University of Chicago.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33340"}},{"authorId":9114,"name":"Sharon Perkins","slug":"sharon-perkins","description":" <p><b>Dr. John Rinehart</b> has maintained his practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology for 35 years. He is a Senior Educator at the Pritzker School of Medicine. <b>Lisa Rinehart</b> is a healthcare attorney and medical practice consultant and a frequent speaker on reproductive law. <b>Jackie Thompson</b> is the author of <i>Fertility For Dummies</i> and <i>Infertility For Dummies</i>. She is also a former fertility patient. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9114"}},{"authorId":33341,"name":"Jackie Meyers-Thompson","slug":"jackie-meyers-thompson","description":" Jackie Meyers-Thompson is managing partner of Coppock-Meyers Public Relations/J.D. Thompson Communications. She is the author of Fertility For Dummies and Infertility For Dummies.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33341"}}],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":34180,"title":"General (Pregnancy)","slug":"general-pregnancy","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34180"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[{"label":"A healthy uterus","target":"#tab1"},{"label":"Clearing out the fallopian tubes","target":"#tab2"},{"label":"Addressing scar tissue","target":"#tab3"}],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[{"articleId":269260,"title":"Long-Term Health Effects of Fertility Medication","slug":"long-term-health-effects-of-fertility-medication","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269260"}},{"articleId":269257,"title":"10 “Fake News” Stories about Fertility","slug":"10-fake-news-stories-about-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269257"}},{"articleId":269252,"title":"Sperm Insemination—Prepping Sperm to Meet the Egg","slug":"sperm-insemination-prepping-sperm-to-meet-the-egg","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269252"}},{"articleId":269240,"title":"10 Things to Know in Early Pregnancy","slug":"10-things-to-know-in-early-pregnancy","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269240"}},{"articleId":269234,"title":"Home Pregnancy Tests (HPTs)","slug":"home-pregnancy-tests-hpts","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269234"}}],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":269260,"title":"Long-Term Health Effects of Fertility Medication","slug":"long-term-health-effects-of-fertility-medication","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269260"}},{"articleId":269257,"title":"10 “Fake News” Stories about Fertility","slug":"10-fake-news-stories-about-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269257"}},{"articleId":269252,"title":"Sperm Insemination—Prepping Sperm to Meet the Egg","slug":"sperm-insemination-prepping-sperm-to-meet-the-egg","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269252"}},{"articleId":269240,"title":"10 Things to Know in Early Pregnancy","slug":"10-things-to-know-in-early-pregnancy","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269240"}},{"articleId":269234,"title":"Home Pregnancy Tests (HPTs)","slug":"home-pregnancy-tests-hpts","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269234"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":282236,"slug":"getting-pregnant-for-dummies","isbn":"9781119601159","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy"],"amazon":{"default":"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","ca":"https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","indigo_ca":"http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-9208661-13710633?url=https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/1119601150-item.html&cjsku=978111945484","gb":"https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","de":"https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20"},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/getting-pregnant-for-dummies-cover-9781119601159-203x255.jpg","width":203,"height":255},"title":"Getting Pregnant For Dummies","testBankPinActivationLink":"","bookOutOfPrint":true,"authorsInfo":"\n <p><b data-author-id=\"33339\">Lisa A. Rinehart</b> has been involved in reproductive medicine in the Chicago area for 25 years, currently as a health care attorney and medical practice consultant. She is the executive director of the Kevin J. Lederer LIFE foundation, an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and a frequent speaker on all aspects of reproductive law. Dr. <b data-author-id=\"33340\">John S. Rinehart</b> has maintained an exclusive practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology in the Chicago area for 35 years. He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Johns Hopkins Hospital and his fellowship in reproductive endocrinology at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital. He serves as a senior attending physician with North Shore University HealthSystem and as a senior clinic educator for the Pritzker School of Medicine for The University of Chicago. <p><b>Dr. John Rinehart</b> has maintained his practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology for 35 years. He is a Senior Educator at the Pritzker School of Medicine. <b>Lisa Rinehart</b> is a healthcare attorney and medical practice consultant and a frequent speaker on reproductive law. <b>Jackie Thompson</b> is the author of <i>Fertility For Dummies</i> and <i>Infertility For Dummies</i>. She is also a former fertility patient. <b data-author-id=\"33341\">Jackie Meyers-Thompson</b> is managing partner of Coppock-Meyers Public Relations/J.D. Thompson Communications. She is the author of Fertility For Dummies and Infertility For Dummies.</p>","authors":[{"authorId":33339,"name":"Lisa A. Rinehart","slug":"lisa-a-rinehart","description":"Lisa A. Rinehart has been involved in reproductive medicine in the Chicago area for 25 years, currently as a health care attorney and medical practice consultant. She is the executive director of the Kevin J. Lederer LIFE foundation, an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and a frequent speaker on all aspects of reproductive law. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33339"}},{"authorId":33340,"name":"John S. Rinehart","slug":"john-s-rinehart","description":"Dr. John S. Rinehart has maintained an exclusive practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology in the Chicago area for 35 years. He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Johns Hopkins Hospital and his fellowship in reproductive endocrinology at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital. He serves as a senior attending physician with North Shore University HealthSystem and as a senior clinic educator for the Pritzker School of Medicine for The University of Chicago.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33340"}},{"authorId":9114,"name":"Sharon Perkins","slug":"sharon-perkins","description":" <p><b>Dr. John Rinehart</b> has maintained his practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology for 35 years. He is a Senior Educator at the Pritzker School of Medicine. <b>Lisa Rinehart</b> is a healthcare attorney and medical practice consultant and a frequent speaker on reproductive law. <b>Jackie Thompson</b> is the author of <i>Fertility For Dummies</i> and <i>Infertility For Dummies</i>. She is also a former fertility patient. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9114"}},{"authorId":33341,"name":"Jackie Meyers-Thompson","slug":"jackie-meyers-thompson","description":" Jackie Meyers-Thompson is managing partner of Coppock-Meyers Public Relations/J.D. Thompson Communications. She is the author of Fertility For Dummies and Infertility For Dummies.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33341"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;pregnancy&quot;,&quot;general-pregnancy&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781119601159&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-627c4e4241df6\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;pregnancy&quot;,&quot;general-pregnancy&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781119601159&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-627c4e42426f1\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Articles","articleList":null,"content":null,"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Solve","lifeExpectancy":"Five years","lifeExpectancySetFrom":"2021-09-02T00:00:00+00:00","dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":269246},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-26T21:15:34+00:00","modifiedTime":"2022-05-11T13:53:09+00:00","timestamp":"2022-05-11T18:01:20+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Body, Mind, & Spirit","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34038"},"slug":"body-mind-spirit","categoryId":34038},{"name":"Physical Health & Well-Being","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095"},"slug":"physical-health-well-being","categoryId":34095},{"name":"Pregnancy","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34177"},"slug":"pregnancy","categoryId":34177},{"name":"General (Pregnancy)","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34180"},"slug":"general-pregnancy","categoryId":34180}],"title":"Basic Causes of Male Infertility","strippedTitle":"basic causes of male infertility","slug":"basic-causes-of-male-infertility","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"If a man is infertile, there is a problem with his sperm. This is often a low sperm count or low sperm motility.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"If a couple tries to conceive but can’t seem to do it, one of the first things that doctors look for is a problem with the man’s sperm. Sperm compose about 5 to 10 percent of semen, and are the only part of the semen that can cause pregnancy. If a man is infertile, there is a problem with his sperm — often a low sperm count or low motility. Sometimes, male infertility can be treated.\r\n\r\nJust because testicles look normal doesn’t mean that they are fully functioning. The most common problems of male infertility are:\r\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><strong>Low sperm count,</strong> which means that the man isn’t producing enough sperm</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><strong>Low motility,</strong> where the sperm he is producing lack sufficient ability to swim to the egg</p>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p class=\"Tip\">The basis for the problems may be abnormal sperm production, which can be difficult to treat, or that the testicles are too warm. Heat is known to decrease sperm count, so the solution could be as simple as changing the style of underwear from tighty-whities (briefs) to boxers. Another cause can be a blockage somewhere along the line, which may be corrected through surgery.</p>\r\nInterestingly enough, most semen analysis is done by gynecologists, specialists in the female reproductive system. A gynecologist is usually the first person a woman consults when she has problems getting pregnant. Commonly, the gynecologist asks that the man’s sperm be analyzed. If the tests reveal a problem with the sperm, the man is sent to a urologist for further evaluation.","description":"If a couple tries to conceive but can’t seem to do it, one of the first things that doctors look for is a problem with the man’s sperm. Sperm compose about 5 to 10 percent of semen, and are the only part of the semen that can cause pregnancy. If a man is infertile, there is a problem with his sperm — often a low sperm count or low motility. Sometimes, male infertility can be treated.\r\n\r\nJust because testicles look normal doesn’t mean that they are fully functioning. The most common problems of male infertility are:\r\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><strong>Low sperm count,</strong> which means that the man isn’t producing enough sperm</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><strong>Low motility,</strong> where the sperm he is producing lack sufficient ability to swim to the egg</p>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p class=\"Tip\">The basis for the problems may be abnormal sperm production, which can be difficult to treat, or that the testicles are too warm. Heat is known to decrease sperm count, so the solution could be as simple as changing the style of underwear from tighty-whities (briefs) to boxers. Another cause can be a blockage somewhere along the line, which may be corrected through surgery.</p>\r\nInterestingly enough, most semen analysis is done by gynecologists, specialists in the female reproductive system. A gynecologist is usually the first person a woman consults when she has problems getting pregnant. Commonly, the gynecologist asks that the man’s sperm be analyzed. If the tests reveal a problem with the sperm, the man is sent to a urologist for further evaluation.","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":9567,"name":"Sabine Walter","slug":"sabine-walter","description":"Dr. Ruth Westheimer, a practicing therapist and adjunct professor at New York University, has written 18 books and appears frequently in the media. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9567"}},{"authorId":9568,"name":"Pierre A. Lehu","slug":"pierre-a-lehu","description":"Pierre A. Lehu has worked for decades with America's favorite sex therapist, Dr. Ruth, as a publicist, writer, and friend. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9568"}}],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":34180,"title":"General (Pregnancy)","slug":"general-pregnancy","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34180"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[{"articleId":269260,"title":"Long-Term Health Effects of Fertility Medication","slug":"long-term-health-effects-of-fertility-medication","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269260"}},{"articleId":269257,"title":"10 “Fake News” Stories about Fertility","slug":"10-fake-news-stories-about-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269257"}},{"articleId":269252,"title":"Sperm Insemination—Prepping Sperm to Meet the Egg","slug":"sperm-insemination-prepping-sperm-to-meet-the-egg","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269252"}},{"articleId":269246,"title":"Female Structural Problems That Impact Fertility","slug":"female-structural-problems-that-impact-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269246"}},{"articleId":269240,"title":"10 Things to Know in Early Pregnancy","slug":"10-things-to-know-in-early-pregnancy","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269240"}}],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":269260,"title":"Long-Term Health Effects of Fertility Medication","slug":"long-term-health-effects-of-fertility-medication","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269260"}},{"articleId":269257,"title":"10 “Fake News” Stories about Fertility","slug":"10-fake-news-stories-about-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269257"}},{"articleId":269252,"title":"Sperm Insemination—Prepping Sperm to Meet the Egg","slug":"sperm-insemination-prepping-sperm-to-meet-the-egg","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269252"}},{"articleId":269246,"title":"Female Structural Problems That Impact Fertility","slug":"female-structural-problems-that-impact-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269246"}},{"articleId":269240,"title":"10 Things to Know in Early Pregnancy","slug":"10-things-to-know-in-early-pregnancy","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269240"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":282236,"slug":"getting-pregnant-for-dummies","isbn":"9781119601159","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy"],"amazon":{"default":"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","ca":"https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","indigo_ca":"http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-9208661-13710633?url=https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/1119601150-item.html&cjsku=978111945484","gb":"https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","de":"https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20"},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/getting-pregnant-for-dummies-cover-9781119601159-203x255.jpg","width":203,"height":255},"title":"Getting Pregnant For Dummies","testBankPinActivationLink":"","bookOutOfPrint":true,"authorsInfo":"\n <p><b data-author-id=\"33339\">Lisa A. Rinehart</b> has been involved in reproductive medicine in the Chicago area for 25 years, currently as a health care attorney and medical practice consultant. She is the executive director of the Kevin J. Lederer LIFE foundation, an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and a frequent speaker on all aspects of reproductive law. Dr. <b data-author-id=\"33340\">John S. Rinehart</b> has maintained an exclusive practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology in the Chicago area for 35 years. He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Johns Hopkins Hospital and his fellowship in reproductive endocrinology at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital. He serves as a senior attending physician with North Shore University HealthSystem and as a senior clinic educator for the Pritzker School of Medicine for The University of Chicago. <p><b>Dr. John Rinehart</b> has maintained his practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology for 35 years. He is a Senior Educator at the Pritzker School of Medicine. <b>Lisa Rinehart</b> is a healthcare attorney and medical practice consultant and a frequent speaker on reproductive law. <b>Jackie Thompson</b> is the author of <i>Fertility For Dummies</i> and <i>Infertility For Dummies</i>. She is also a former fertility patient. <b data-author-id=\"33341\">Jackie Meyers-Thompson</b> is managing partner of Coppock-Meyers Public Relations/J.D. Thompson Communications. She is the author of Fertility For Dummies and Infertility For Dummies.</p>","authors":[{"authorId":33339,"name":"Lisa A. Rinehart","slug":"lisa-a-rinehart","description":"Lisa A. Rinehart has been involved in reproductive medicine in the Chicago area for 25 years, currently as a health care attorney and medical practice consultant. She is the executive director of the Kevin J. Lederer LIFE foundation, an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and a frequent speaker on all aspects of reproductive law. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33339"}},{"authorId":33340,"name":"John S. Rinehart","slug":"john-s-rinehart","description":"Dr. John S. Rinehart has maintained an exclusive practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology in the Chicago area for 35 years. He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Johns Hopkins Hospital and his fellowship in reproductive endocrinology at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital. He serves as a senior attending physician with North Shore University HealthSystem and as a senior clinic educator for the Pritzker School of Medicine for The University of Chicago.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33340"}},{"authorId":9114,"name":"Sharon Perkins","slug":"sharon-perkins","description":" <p><b>Dr. John Rinehart</b> has maintained his practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology for 35 years. He is a Senior Educator at the Pritzker School of Medicine. <b>Lisa Rinehart</b> is a healthcare attorney and medical practice consultant and a frequent speaker on reproductive law. <b>Jackie Thompson</b> is the author of <i>Fertility For Dummies</i> and <i>Infertility For Dummies</i>. She is also a former fertility patient. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9114"}},{"authorId":33341,"name":"Jackie Meyers-Thompson","slug":"jackie-meyers-thompson","description":" Jackie Meyers-Thompson is managing partner of Coppock-Meyers Public Relations/J.D. Thompson Communications. She is the author of Fertility For Dummies and Infertility For Dummies.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33341"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;pregnancy&quot;,&quot;general-pregnancy&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781119601159&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-627bf9f117069\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;pregnancy&quot;,&quot;general-pregnancy&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781119601159&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-627bf9f117df9\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Articles","articleList":null,"content":null,"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Solve","lifeExpectancy":"Two years","lifeExpectancySetFrom":"2022-05-11T00:00:00+00:00","dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":191806},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-26T22:36:08+00:00","modifiedTime":"2022-05-06T19:43:08+00:00","timestamp":"2022-05-07T00:01:07+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Body, Mind, & Spirit","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34038"},"slug":"body-mind-spirit","categoryId":34038},{"name":"Physical Health & Well-Being","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095"},"slug":"physical-health-well-being","categoryId":34095},{"name":"Exercise & Movement","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34166"},"slug":"exercise-movement","categoryId":34166},{"name":"Cardio","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34167"},"slug":"cardio","categoryId":34167}],"title":"Running Your Way to Fitness","strippedTitle":"running your way to fitness","slug":"running-your-way-to-fitness","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Running is wonderful exercise, but it can be tough on your body. Learn how to avoid injury, have fun, and run for great fitness.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"Like walking, running provides a fitness workout that you can take with you anywhere. You can work up a great sweat, burn lots of calories, and your muscles feel invigorated after you finish. You don’t need a rack on your car or a suitcase full of equipment; you just open the door and go.\r\n\r\nNo single type of exercise is better than all the rest. It’s merely a question of what’s best for you. Many runners develop frequent, chronic injuries. Many people have joints that simply will not tolerate all that pounding. If you’re not built to run, don’t argue with your body. You can get in great condition in other ways. And if you’re a beginner, hold off on running until you’ve built up stamina and strength.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab1\" >Running the right way</h2>\r\nRunners have a habit of looking directly at the ground, almost as if they can’t bear to see what’s coming next. Keeping your head down throws your upper-body posture off-kilter and can lead to upper-back and neck pain. Lift your head and focus your eyes straight ahead. Relax your shoulders, keep your chest lifted, and pull your abdominal muscles in tightly. Don’t overarch your back and stick your butt out; that’s one of the main reasons runners get back and hip pain.\r\n<p class=\"Remember\">Keep your arms close to your body, and swing them forward and back rather than across your body. Don’t clench your fists. Pretend you’re holding a butterfly in each hand; you don’t want your butterflies to escape, but you don’t want to crush them, either.</p>\r\nLift your front knee and extend your back leg. Don’t shuffle along like you’re wearing cement boots. Land heel first and roll through the entire length of your foot. Push off from the balls of your feet instead of running flat-footed and pounding off your heels. Otherwise, your feet and legs are going to cry uncle long before your cardiovascular system does.\r\n<p class=\"Warning\">If you experience pain in your ankles, knees, or lower back, stop running for a while. If you don’t, you could end up having to sit on the sidelines for months.</p>\r\n\r\n<h2 id=\"tab2\" >Running tips for rookies</h2>\r\nThese tips help you get fit and avoid injury.\r\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Start by alternating periods of walking with periods of running.</b> For example, try two minutes of walking and one minute of running. Gradually decrease your walking intervals until you can run continuously for 20 minutes. If you have the inclination, you can build from there. Of course, sticking with a walk-run routine is fine; you’re less likely to injure yourself that way.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Vary your pace. </b>Different paces work your heart, lungs, and legs in different ways.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Always run against traffic when running on the shoulder of a road. </b>This allows you to see oncoming cars and dive for the side of the road, if necessary.<b> </b>If you’re running on steeply <i>banked</i> (angled away from the center line) country roads and the road is flat, you can run in the middle of the road to save wear and tear on your legs. But as you head up or down hills, get as far over on the shoulder (that is, away from the road) as possible to avoid speeding cars mowing you down. Consider carrying a lightweight cell phone for emergencies.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Don’t increase your mileage by more than 10 percent a week. </b>If you run 5 miles a week and want to increase, aim to do 5 1/2 miles the following week. Jumping from 5 miles to 6 miles doesn’t sound like a big deal, but studies show that if you increase your mileage more than 10 percent, you set yourself up for injury.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>","description":"Like walking, running provides a fitness workout that you can take with you anywhere. You can work up a great sweat, burn lots of calories, and your muscles feel invigorated after you finish. You don’t need a rack on your car or a suitcase full of equipment; you just open the door and go.\r\n\r\nNo single type of exercise is better than all the rest. It’s merely a question of what’s best for you. Many runners develop frequent, chronic injuries. Many people have joints that simply will not tolerate all that pounding. If you’re not built to run, don’t argue with your body. You can get in great condition in other ways. And if you’re a beginner, hold off on running until you’ve built up stamina and strength.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab1\" >Running the right way</h2>\r\nRunners have a habit of looking directly at the ground, almost as if they can’t bear to see what’s coming next. Keeping your head down throws your upper-body posture off-kilter and can lead to upper-back and neck pain. Lift your head and focus your eyes straight ahead. Relax your shoulders, keep your chest lifted, and pull your abdominal muscles in tightly. Don’t overarch your back and stick your butt out; that’s one of the main reasons runners get back and hip pain.\r\n<p class=\"Remember\">Keep your arms close to your body, and swing them forward and back rather than across your body. Don’t clench your fists. Pretend you’re holding a butterfly in each hand; you don’t want your butterflies to escape, but you don’t want to crush them, either.</p>\r\nLift your front knee and extend your back leg. Don’t shuffle along like you’re wearing cement boots. Land heel first and roll through the entire length of your foot. Push off from the balls of your feet instead of running flat-footed and pounding off your heels. Otherwise, your feet and legs are going to cry uncle long before your cardiovascular system does.\r\n<p class=\"Warning\">If you experience pain in your ankles, knees, or lower back, stop running for a while. If you don’t, you could end up having to sit on the sidelines for months.</p>\r\n\r\n<h2 id=\"tab2\" >Running tips for rookies</h2>\r\nThese tips help you get fit and avoid injury.\r\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Start by alternating periods of walking with periods of running.</b> For example, try two minutes of walking and one minute of running. Gradually decrease your walking intervals until you can run continuously for 20 minutes. If you have the inclination, you can build from there. Of course, sticking with a walk-run routine is fine; you’re less likely to injure yourself that way.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Vary your pace. </b>Different paces work your heart, lungs, and legs in different ways.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Always run against traffic when running on the shoulder of a road. </b>This allows you to see oncoming cars and dive for the side of the road, if necessary.<b> </b>If you’re running on steeply <i>banked</i> (angled away from the center line) country roads and the road is flat, you can run in the middle of the road to save wear and tear on your legs. But as you head up or down hills, get as far over on the shoulder (that is, away from the road) as possible to avoid speeding cars mowing you down. Consider carrying a lightweight cell phone for emergencies.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Don’t increase your mileage by more than 10 percent a week. </b>If you run 5 miles a week and want to increase, aim to do 5 1/2 miles the following week. Jumping from 5 miles to 6 miles doesn’t sound like a big deal, but studies show that if you increase your mileage more than 10 percent, you set yourself up for injury.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>","blurb":"","authors":[],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":34167,"title":"Cardio","slug":"cardio","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34167"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[{"label":"Running the right way","target":"#tab1"},{"label":"Running tips for rookies","target":"#tab2"}],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":240619,"title":"What is Sprint Training?","slug":"what-is-sprint-training","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","exercise-movement","cardio"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/240619"}},{"articleId":198533,"title":"How to Determine Your Heart Rate","slug":"how-to-determine-your-heart-rate","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","exercise-movement","cardio"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/198533"}},{"articleId":198530,"title":"How to Cool Down after Cardio Exercise","slug":"how-to-cool-down-after-cardio-exercise","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","exercise-movement","cardio"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/198530"}},{"articleId":198529,"title":"How to Do Crunches","slug":"how-to-do-crunches","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","exercise-movement","cardio"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/198529"}},{"articleId":198516,"title":"How to Swim to Get a Good Workout","slug":"how-to-swim-to-get-a-good-workout","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","exercise-movement","cardio"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/198516"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":0,"slug":null,"isbn":null,"categoryList":null,"amazon":null,"image":null,"title":null,"testBankPinActivationLink":null,"bookOutOfPrint":false,"authorsInfo":null,"authors":null,"_links":null},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = 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Spirit","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34038"},"slug":"body-mind-spirit","categoryId":34038},{"name":"Physical Health & Well-Being","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095"},"slug":"physical-health-well-being","categoryId":34095},{"name":"Pregnancy","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34177"},"slug":"pregnancy","categoryId":34177},{"name":"General (Pregnancy)","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34180"},"slug":"general-pregnancy","categoryId":34180}],"title":"Getting Pregnant For Dummies Cheat Sheet","strippedTitle":"getting pregnant for dummies cheat sheet","slug":"getting-pregnant-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Use the lists in this cheat sheet to decipher fertility testing and treatment—dos and don'ts, fertility tests, common abbreviations, and key medications.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"Getting pregnant can be a complex and lengthy process for those diagnosed with infertility. Getting through the fertility treatment may seem difficult. Following are a few of our cheat lists to not only help you decipher fertility testing but also help you understand fertility treatment a little better.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_268905\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"556\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-268905\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/getting-pregnant.jpg\" alt=\"pregnant woman holding ultrasound image\" width=\"556\" height=\"379\" /> © Natalia Deriabina[/caption]","description":"Getting pregnant can be a complex and lengthy process for those diagnosed with infertility. Getting through the fertility treatment may seem difficult. Following are a few of our cheat lists to not only help you decipher fertility testing but also help you understand fertility treatment a little better.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_268905\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"556\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-268905\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/getting-pregnant.jpg\" alt=\"pregnant woman holding ultrasound image\" width=\"556\" height=\"379\" /> © Natalia Deriabina[/caption]","blurb":"","authors":[],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":34180,"title":"General (Pregnancy)","slug":"general-pregnancy","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34180"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[{"articleId":269260,"title":"Long-Term Health Effects of Fertility Medication","slug":"long-term-health-effects-of-fertility-medication","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269260"}},{"articleId":269257,"title":"10 “Fake News” Stories about Fertility","slug":"10-fake-news-stories-about-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269257"}},{"articleId":269252,"title":"Sperm Insemination—Prepping Sperm to Meet the Egg","slug":"sperm-insemination-prepping-sperm-to-meet-the-egg","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269252"}},{"articleId":269246,"title":"Female Structural Problems That Impact Fertility","slug":"female-structural-problems-that-impact-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269246"}},{"articleId":269240,"title":"10 Things to Know in Early Pregnancy","slug":"10-things-to-know-in-early-pregnancy","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269240"}}],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":269260,"title":"Long-Term Health Effects of Fertility Medication","slug":"long-term-health-effects-of-fertility-medication","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269260"}},{"articleId":269257,"title":"10 “Fake News” Stories about Fertility","slug":"10-fake-news-stories-about-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269257"}},{"articleId":269252,"title":"Sperm Insemination—Prepping Sperm to Meet the Egg","slug":"sperm-insemination-prepping-sperm-to-meet-the-egg","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269252"}},{"articleId":269246,"title":"Female Structural Problems That Impact Fertility","slug":"female-structural-problems-that-impact-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269246"}},{"articleId":269240,"title":"10 Things to Know in Early Pregnancy","slug":"10-things-to-know-in-early-pregnancy","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269240"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":282236,"slug":"getting-pregnant-for-dummies","isbn":"9781119601159","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy"],"amazon":{"default":"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","ca":"https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","indigo_ca":"http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-9208661-13710633?url=https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/1119601150-item.html&cjsku=978111945484","gb":"https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","de":"https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/1119601150/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20"},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/getting-pregnant-for-dummies-cover-9781119601159-203x255.jpg","width":203,"height":255},"title":"Getting Pregnant For Dummies","testBankPinActivationLink":"","bookOutOfPrint":true,"authorsInfo":"\n <p><b data-author-id=\"33339\">Lisa A. Rinehart</b> has been involved in reproductive medicine in the Chicago area for 25 years, currently as a health care attorney and medical practice consultant. She is the executive director of the Kevin J. Lederer LIFE foundation, an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and a frequent speaker on all aspects of reproductive law. Dr. <b data-author-id=\"33340\">John S. Rinehart</b> has maintained an exclusive practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology in the Chicago area for 35 years. He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Johns Hopkins Hospital and his fellowship in reproductive endocrinology at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital. He serves as a senior attending physician with North Shore University HealthSystem and as a senior clinic educator for the Pritzker School of Medicine for The University of Chicago. <p><b>Dr. John Rinehart</b> has maintained his practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology for 35 years. He is a Senior Educator at the Pritzker School of Medicine. <b>Lisa Rinehart</b> is a healthcare attorney and medical practice consultant and a frequent speaker on reproductive law. <b>Jackie Thompson</b> is the author of <i>Fertility For Dummies</i> and <i>Infertility For Dummies</i>. She is also a former fertility patient. <b data-author-id=\"33341\">Jackie Meyers-Thompson</b> is managing partner of Coppock-Meyers Public Relations/J.D. Thompson Communications. She is the author of Fertility For Dummies and Infertility For Dummies.</p>","authors":[{"authorId":33339,"name":"Lisa A. Rinehart","slug":"lisa-a-rinehart","description":"Lisa A. Rinehart has been involved in reproductive medicine in the Chicago area for 25 years, currently as a health care attorney and medical practice consultant. She is the executive director of the Kevin J. Lederer LIFE foundation, an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and a frequent speaker on all aspects of reproductive law. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33339"}},{"authorId":33340,"name":"John S. Rinehart","slug":"john-s-rinehart","description":"Dr. John S. Rinehart has maintained an exclusive practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology in the Chicago area for 35 years. He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Johns Hopkins Hospital and his fellowship in reproductive endocrinology at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital. He serves as a senior attending physician with North Shore University HealthSystem and as a senior clinic educator for the Pritzker School of Medicine for The University of Chicago.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33340"}},{"authorId":9114,"name":"Sharon Perkins","slug":"sharon-perkins","description":" <p><b>Dr. John Rinehart</b> has maintained his practice in infertility and reproductive endocrinology for 35 years. He is a Senior Educator at the Pritzker School of Medicine. <b>Lisa Rinehart</b> is a healthcare attorney and medical practice consultant and a frequent speaker on reproductive law. <b>Jackie Thompson</b> is the author of <i>Fertility For Dummies</i> and <i>Infertility For Dummies</i>. She is also a former fertility patient. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9114"}},{"authorId":33341,"name":"Jackie Meyers-Thompson","slug":"jackie-meyers-thompson","description":" Jackie Meyers-Thompson is managing partner of Coppock-Meyers Public Relations/J.D. Thompson Communications. She is the author of Fertility For Dummies and Infertility For Dummies.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/33341"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;pregnancy&quot;,&quot;general-pregnancy&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781119601159&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-627562613de34\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;pregnancy&quot;,&quot;general-pregnancy&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781119601159&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-627562613e80b\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Cheat Sheet","articleList":[{"articleId":0,"title":"","slug":null,"categoryList":[],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/"}}],"content":[{"title":"Dos and don’ts to protect your fertility","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Even before you try to get pregnant, you may want to take a look at things that could impact your fertility. So, what can you do even before you try to conceive? So much of this is making healthy lifestyle choices, which can have a positive impact on your fertility&#8230;in those areas that you can control! Consider these fertility tips, which will bode well for you when trying to get pregnant, being pregnant, and staying healthy as a parent!</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Do maintain proper weight through a balanced diet.</li>\n<li>Don’t abuse drugs or alcohol.</li>\n<li>Do see your gynecologist regularly.</li>\n<li>Don’t smoke.</li>\n<li>Do use protection during casual sex (to prevent STIs).</li>\n<li>Don’t ignore changes such as pain or unusual bleeding.</li>\n<li>Do check your environment to remove toxins.</li>\n<li>Don’t wait for the perfect time to have a baby — age matters!</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"Most critical questions in any fertility evaluation","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Your physician will likely pose some critical questions as part of an evaluation of your fertility. He or she is trying to get a handle on your fertility potential and your specific infertility diagnosis. Here are our “top picks for issues to consider and the reason why your fertility doctor will be asking you the question.</p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>How old are you?</strong> Age is the most accurate predictor for a woman’s ability to achieve a pregnancy.</li>\n<li><strong>How long have you been trying to get pregnant?</strong> Couples who have normal fertility conceive quickly. The longer a couple have been trying to conceive without achieving a pregnancy, the more likely there is a problem.</li>\n<li><strong>Are your menstrual cycles regular or irregular?</strong> Cycle regularity or irregularity helps to define a list of possible causes for the infertility and thus guides the diagnostic process</li>\n<li><strong>Have you ever had pelvic surgery or an infection?</strong> Women with pelvic surgery or infection are more likely to have an anatomic problem for their infertility, such as blocked tubes or pelvic scarring.</li>\n<li><strong>Has the male partner ever fathered a child?</strong> Men who fathered a child in the past generally have enough sperm to create another pregnancy — barring intervening illness or trauma.</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"3 most important fertility tests","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Fertility tests are necessary to help determine what the underlying diagnosis may be and guide your doctor to the best fertility treatment for you — whether it is pills, procedures, or <a href=\"https://dummies-wp-content.dummies.com/health/pregnancy/understanding-the-steps-in-an-ivf-treatment-cycle/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IVF</a>. Here is a snapshot of what you or your partner definitely (and minimally) need in the way of testing.</p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Semen analysis:</strong> This is a simple test of the man’s semen to determine if there is a problem with the man’s ability to conceive a child, including a sperm count, the sperm motility, and an analysis of sperm shape (morphology).</li>\n<li><strong>AMH:</strong> Done on the female, AMH is a protein made by egg units, which tells us about the number of eggs remaining in a woman’s ovaries. In general, more is better, and the AMH can help determine if a woman has a normal number of eggs.</li>\n<li><strong>Sonohysterogram:</strong> Otherwise known as a <em>saline-infused scan </em>(or SIS), the sonohysterogram involves filling the uterus with water and using ultrasound to determine if the cavity of the uterus is normal and if the fallopian tubes are open.</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"Common abbreviations used in the fertility clinic","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Because we know how easy it is to get confused by the fertility treatment abbreviations, we created the following list to help you navigate the system.</p>\n<ul>\n<li>AI: artificial insemination</li>\n<li>AMA: advanced maternal age</li>\n<li>AMH: antimullerian hormone</li>\n<li>ART: assisted reproductive technology</li>\n<li>ASRM: American Society for Reproductive Medicine</li>\n<li>AZH: assisted zona hatching</li>\n<li>BCP: birth control pills (also noted as OCP [oral contraceptive pills])</li>\n<li>Beta: Short for bHCG, it’s a blood test to measure the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin</li>\n<li>BMI: body mass index</li>\n<li>CC: Clomiphene citrate or Clomid</li>\n<li>COH: controlled ovarian hyperstimulation</li>\n<li>Cryo: cryopreservation</li>\n<li>DNR: donor</li>\n<li>DOR: donor oocyte recipient</li>\n<li>E2: estradiol</li>\n<li>ET: embryo transfer</li>\n<li>Endo: endometrium or endometriosis</li>\n<li>Endo Bx: endometrial biopsy</li>\n<li>FET: frozen embryo transfer</li>\n<li>FDA: Food and Drug Administration</li>\n<li>FSH: follicle stimulating hormone</li>\n<li>GH: gestational host (also called GS [gestational surrogate] or GC [gestational carrier])</li>\n<li>HCG: human chorionic gonadotropin</li>\n<li>HSG: hysterosonogram</li>\n<li>Hx: history</li>\n<li>IC: intercourse</li>\n<li>ICSI: intracytoplasmic sperm injection</li>\n<li>IP: intended parent</li>\n<li>IUI: intrauterine insemination</li>\n<li>IVF: in vitro fertilization</li>\n<li>LH: leutinizing hormone</li>\n<li>LMP: last menstrual period</li>\n<li>OB/Gyn: obstetrician/gynecologist</li>\n<li>OPK: ovulation predictor kit</li>\n<li>OTC: over the counter</li>\n<li>P4: progesterone</li>\n<li>PCOS: polycystic ovary syndrome (also called PCOD [polycystic ovary disease])</li>\n<li>PID: pelvic inflammatory disease</li>\n<li>PGT: preimplantation genetic testing</li>\n<li>POC: products of conception</li>\n<li>POI: premature ovarian insufficiency (formerly POF [premature ovarian failure])</li>\n<li>PCP: primary care physician</li>\n<li>RE: reproductive endocrinologist</li>\n<li>REI: reproductive endocrinology and infertility</li>\n<li>RET: [egg] retrieval</li>\n<li>RX: prescription</li>\n<li>SA: semen analysis</li>\n<li>SART: Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology</li>\n<li>SIS: saline infused sonohysterogram</li>\n<li>STI: sexually transmitted infection (formerly STD [sexually transmitted disease])</li>\n<li>TVUS: transvaginal ultrasound</li>\n<li>Tx: treatment</li>\n<li>UTI: urinary tract infection</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"Key medications in fertility treatment","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>There are myriad fertility medications that may be used to help create and maintain a pregnancy. While treatment protocols vary.  The purpose of these meds is generally constant. Here is a brief overview of what these meds are actually doing for you.</p>\n<ul>\n<li>OCP: oral contraceptive pills used for menstrual cycle control.</li>\n<li>Long-acting GnRH agonist (Lupron): Stops the release of FSH/LH from the pituitary and is used to suppress menstrual cycles and set ovarian stimulation.</li>\n<li>GnRH antagonist (ganirelix, cetrorelix): Stops the release of FSH/ LH from the pituitary and is used to control ovarian stimulation.</li>\n<li>Clomiphene citrate (Clomid): Used to regulate a cycle or increase the number of eggs developed.</li>\n<li>Letrozole: Used to regulate a cycle or increase the number of eggs developed.</li>\n<li>Human menopausal gonadotropins (hMG): Contains both FSH/ LH and is used to regulate a cycle or increase the number of eggs developed, (Menopur, for example.)</li>\n<li>Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH): Used to regulate a cycle or increase the number of eggs developed. (Follistim or Gonal-F, for example.)</li>\n<li>Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): Used to trigger the release of an egg (ovulation) or to complete the maturation of eggs in an IVF cycle. (Pregnyl or Novarel, for example.)</li>\n<li>Cabergoline (Dostinex): Used to treat increased prolactin levels or to reduce the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.</li>\n<li>Bromocriptine (Parlodel): Used to treat increased prolactin levels.</li>\n<li>Progesterone: Used to stimulate growth of the uterine lining and sustain an embryo during implantation.</li>\n</ul>\n"}],"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Solve","lifeExpectancy":"One year","lifeExpectancySetFrom":"2021-09-02T00:00:00+00:00","dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":268904},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-27T16:47:22+00:00","modifiedTime":"2022-05-02T20:31:38+00:00","timestamp":"2022-05-03T00:01:10+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Body, Mind, & Spirit","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34038"},"slug":"body-mind-spirit","categoryId":34038},{"name":"Physical Health & Well-Being","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095"},"slug":"physical-health-well-being","categoryId":34095},{"name":"Exercise & Movement","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34166"},"slug":"exercise-movement","categoryId":34166},{"name":"Running & Walking","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34173"},"slug":"running-walking","categoryId":34173}],"title":"Walking the Weight Off For Dummies Cheat Sheet","strippedTitle":"walking the weight off for dummies cheat sheet","slug":"walking-the-weight-off-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Walking can be a great way to lose weight, especially if you ramp up the intensity and make walking part of your lifestyle.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"It may sound too good to be true, but losing weight doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the simplest ways to lose weight is by just walking, something you already do each and every day. Anyone can do it, almost anywhere, and at any time. Just get up and start putting one foot in front of the other, and you are well on your way to achieving your weight-loss goals.","description":"It may sound too good to be true, but losing weight doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the simplest ways to lose weight is by just walking, something you already do each and every day. Anyone can do it, almost anywhere, and at any time. Just get up and start putting one foot in front of the other, and you are well on your way to achieving your weight-loss goals.","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":9226,"name":"Erin Palinski-Wade","slug":"erin-palinski-wade","description":"Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, is a certified diabetes educator (CDE) and nationally recognized nutrition and fitness expert who's appeared in national health magazines and on morning news TV shows.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9226"}}],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":34173,"title":"Running & Walking","slug":"running-walking","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34173"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[{"articleId":144692,"title":"Increasing the Intensity of Walking 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Posture","slug":"sizing-up-your-running-posture","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","exercise-movement","running-walking"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/199179"}},{"articleId":198769,"title":"Your First Run: Starting Slowly but Surely","slug":"your-first-run-starting-slowly-but-surely","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","exercise-movement","running-walking"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/198769"}},{"articleId":144692,"title":"Increasing the Intensity of Walking Workouts","slug":"increasing-the-intensity-of-walking-workouts","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","exercise-movement","running-walking"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/144692"}},{"articleId":144643,"title":"Making Walking Part of Your Lifestyle","slug":"making-walking-part-of-your-lifestyle","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","exercise-movement","running-walking"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/144643"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":282663,"slug":"walking-the-weight-off-for-dummies","isbn":"9781119002505","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","exercise-movement","running-walking"],"amazon":{"default":"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1119002508/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","ca":"https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1119002508/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","indigo_ca":"http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-9208661-13710633?url=https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/1119002508-item.html&cjsku=978111945484","gb":"https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1119002508/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","de":"https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/1119002508/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20"},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/walking-the-weight-off-for-dummies-cover-9781119002505-203x255.jpg","width":203,"height":255},"title":"Walking the Weight Off For Dummies","testBankPinActivationLink":"","bookOutOfPrint":false,"authorsInfo":"\n <p><b data-author-id=\"9226\">Erin Palinski-Wade</b> is a nationally recognized nutrition and fitness expert, speaker and spokesperson. She has contributed her expertise to many national media outlets including the <i>CBS Early Show, The Doctors, and NBC News.</i> She is the author of <i>Belly Fat Diet For Dummies, 2 Day Diabetes Diet,</i> and owns a private nutrition counseling practice in NJ. Her website, <b>www.erinpalinski.com,</b> offers a free nutrition newsletter including tips and recipes. </p>","authors":[{"authorId":9226,"name":"Erin Palinski-Wade","slug":"erin-palinski-wade","description":"Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, is a certified diabetes educator (CDE) and nationally recognized nutrition and fitness expert who's appeared in national health magazines and on morning news TV shows.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9226"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;exercise-movement&quot;,&quot;running-walking&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781119002505&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-627070c679997\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;exercise-movement&quot;,&quot;running-walking&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781119002505&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-627070c67a328\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Cheat Sheet","articleList":[{"articleId":144692,"title":"Increasing the Intensity of Walking Workouts","slug":"increasing-the-intensity-of-walking-workouts","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","exercise-movement","running-walking"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/144692"}},{"articleId":144643,"title":"Making Walking Part of Your Lifestyle","slug":"making-walking-part-of-your-lifestyle","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","exercise-movement","running-walking"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/144643"}}],"content":[{"title":"Increasing the intensity of walking workouts","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>After your walking workouts begin showing results and you start losing weight, you&#8217;ll find yourself motivated to try to do more, and that&#8217;s great. You can safely increase the intensity of your workouts with just a few simple adjustments.</p>\n<h2>Increase your daily steps</h2>\n<p>A calorie burned is a calorie burned, no matter how you do it. By simply walking a few extra steps today than you did yesterday, you will burn a few more calories, helping you on your path to weight-loss success. The more steps you can fit in each day, the better.</p>\n<p class=\"Tip\">To help increase your steps, purchase a pedometer and wear it from the time you get up in the morning until the time you go to bed. Do this for three days to figure out how many steps, on average, you walk each day. Then aim to walk an additional 500 steps each day for a week. Once this goal is easily achieved, aim to add on another 500 steps each day.</p>\n<p>Keep doing this until you can walk 10,000 steps or more each day. Although it sounds simple, these steps really add up in a big way.</p>\n<h2>Increase your walking speed</h2>\n<p>Going for a daily walk is a great way to boost your health along with your weight-loss efforts. The longer you walk, the more calories you burn, which can help to promote faster weight loss.</p>\n<p>But maybe you have a tight schedule and can only walk for a short period of time each day. Not to worry! By increasing your speed when walking, you can cover a greater distance in the same period of time. This technique allows you to burn more calories per minute, which means you&#8217;ll achieve a faster rate of weight loss without having to increase the amount of time you spend exercising each day.</p>\n<h2>Increase your incline</h2>\n<p>Walking daily is a great form of exercise, but if you walk in the same way day after day, your body will become accustomed to your walk. This means that your muscles won’t have to work as hard to help you walk at the same speed or for the same distance. And when muscles aren’t challenged, you burn fewer calories and lose less weight. To prevent this problem, mixing up the way you walk is vital.</p>\n<p class=\"Tip\">One way to do this is by added an incline to your walk. If you walk outdoors, aim to walk uphill for part or all of your walk. If you walk indoors, add stairs or an incline on a treadmill to your walk to increase the intensity of your workout.</p>\n<p>When you walk on an incline, the muscles in your lower body along with your core have to work harder to propel you uphill. This extra work not only increases the amount of calories you burn each minute as you walk, but it also helps to tone and tighten muscles as well.</p>\n"},{"title":"Making walking part of your lifestyle","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Setting aside time each day to take a walk is a great start to losing weight and improving your health. But research has found individuals who set aside time to actually <i>workout</i> may end up being less active at the end of the day than their peers who lead an active lifestyle but don’t schedule in structured workouts.</p>\n<p>For the individuals who schedule workouts, the activity becomes a chore, and they find it hard to stay on track, especially if they are inactive for much of the day. If, however, you use walking as a way to stay active all day long, you don&#8217;t need to schedule chores to manage your weight and maintain your fitness.</p>\n<p class=\"Tip\">So to be as active as possible, make sure you incorporate walking as part of your lifestyle. Here are some ideas that can help:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Take the opportunity to fit in additional steps throughout the day whenever possible.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Stand and walk while talking on the phone.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Park in the furthest parking spot instead of the closest.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Take the stairs instead of the elevator.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Although all of these ideas seem simple, when you do them day after day, in combination with a structured walking workout, you can quickly and easily achieve your weight-loss goals and also keep the weight off for good.</p>\n"}],"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Explore","lifeExpectancy":"Five years","lifeExpectancySetFrom":"2022-05-02T00:00:00+00:00","dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":207543},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-27T16:48:27+00:00","modifiedTime":"2022-04-28T15:57:19+00:00","timestamp":"2022-04-28T18:01:08+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Body, Mind, & Spirit","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34038"},"slug":"body-mind-spirit","categoryId":34038},{"name":"Physical Health & Well-Being","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095"},"slug":"physical-health-well-being","categoryId":34095},{"name":"Diet & Nutrition","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34102"},"slug":"diet-nutrition","categoryId":34102},{"name":"Wheat-Free","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34137"},"slug":"wheat-free","categoryId":34137}],"title":"Living Wheat-Free For Dummies Cheat Sheet","strippedTitle":"living wheat-free for dummies cheat sheet","slug":"living-wheat-free-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Follow these guidelines to return to a low-to-no-grain, low-sugar, high-fat diet and enjoy real, rather than processed, foods.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"Living a wheat-free lifestyle means eliminating wheat from your diet. To get the most health benefits, you should also cut back on the amount of processed sugar you consume. When you follow these guidelines, you return to a low-to-no-grain, low-sugar, high-fat diet that was far more common many decades ago.\r\n\r\nThe idea is to enjoy real food and limit the foods you eat from a box or a drive-through window. When you do need to grab a meal on the go or pick up some groceries, use the following lists to make smart choices.","description":"Living a wheat-free lifestyle means eliminating wheat from your diet. To get the most health benefits, you should also cut back on the amount of processed sugar you consume. When you follow these guidelines, you return to a low-to-no-grain, low-sugar, high-fat diet that was far more common many decades ago.\r\n\r\nThe idea is to enjoy real food and limit the foods you eat from a box or a drive-through window. When you do need to grab a meal on the go or pick up some groceries, use the following lists to make smart choices.","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":9449,"name":"Rusty Gregory","slug":"rusty-gregory","description":"Rusty Gregory has a masters degree in kinesiology and runs a personal training studio. He is an active contributor to DailyRX.com, an emerging leader in publishing health news for consumers, and is the author of Self-Care Reform: How to Discover Your Own Path to Good Health. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9449"}},{"authorId":9450,"name":"Alan Chasen","slug":"alan-chasen","description":" Alan Chasen has a degree in kinesiology and has run a personal training studio since 1989. He advises his clients on exercise, proper nutrition, and general well-being. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9450"}}],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":34137,"title":"Wheat-Free","slug":"wheat-free","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34137"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[{"articleId":157847,"title":"Choosing Restaurants that Suit a Wheat-Free Lifestyle","slug":"choosing-restaurants-that-suit-a-wheat-free-lifestyle","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/157847"}},{"articleId":157842,"title":"Preparing to Eliminate Wheat from Your Diet","slug":"preparing-to-eliminate-wheat-from-your-diet","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/157842"}},{"articleId":157841,"title":"Substituting Healthy Ingredients for Wheat","slug":"substituting-healthy-ingredients-for-wheat","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/157841"}},{"articleId":157843,"title":"Ordering from Room Service on a Wheat-Free Diet","slug":"ordering-from-room-service-on-a-wheat-free-diet","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/157843"}},{"articleId":157844,"title":"10 Foods You Thought Were Healthy but Aren't","slug":"10-foods-you-thought-were-healthy-but-arent","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/157844"}}],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":157847,"title":"Choosing Restaurants that Suit a Wheat-Free Lifestyle","slug":"choosing-restaurants-that-suit-a-wheat-free-lifestyle","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/157847"}},{"articleId":157842,"title":"Preparing to Eliminate Wheat from Your Diet","slug":"preparing-to-eliminate-wheat-from-your-diet","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/157842"}},{"articleId":157841,"title":"Substituting Healthy Ingredients for Wheat","slug":"substituting-healthy-ingredients-for-wheat","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/157841"}},{"articleId":157843,"title":"Ordering from Room Service on a Wheat-Free Diet","slug":"ordering-from-room-service-on-a-wheat-free-diet","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/157843"}},{"articleId":157844,"title":"10 Foods You Thought Were Healthy but Aren't","slug":"10-foods-you-thought-were-healthy-but-arent","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/157844"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":282360,"slug":"living-wheat-free-for-dummies","isbn":"9781118774588","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"amazon":{"default":"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1118774582/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","ca":"https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1118774582/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","indigo_ca":"http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-9208661-13710633?url=https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/1118774582-item.html&cjsku=978111945484","gb":"https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1118774582/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","de":"https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/1118774582/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20"},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/living-wheat-free-for-dummies-cover-9781118774588-203x255.jpg","width":203,"height":255},"title":"Living Wheat-Free For Dummies","testBankPinActivationLink":"","bookOutOfPrint":false,"authorsInfo":"\n <p><b data-author-id=\"9449\">Rusty Gregory</b> has a master’s degree in kinesiology and runs a personal training studio. He is an active contributor to dailyRX.com, an emerging leader in publishing health news for consumers, and is the author of <i>Self-Care Reform: How to Discover Your Own Path to Good Health.</i> <b data-author-id=\"9450\">Alan Chasen</b> has a degree in kinesiology and has run a personal training studio since 1989. He advises his clients on exercise, proper nutrition, and general well-being.</p> ","authors":[{"authorId":9449,"name":"Rusty Gregory","slug":"rusty-gregory","description":"Rusty Gregory has a masters degree in kinesiology and runs a personal training studio. He is an active contributor to DailyRX.com, an emerging leader in publishing health news for consumers, and is the author of Self-Care Reform: How to Discover Your Own Path to Good Health. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9449"}},{"authorId":9450,"name":"Alan Chasen","slug":"alan-chasen","description":" Alan Chasen has a degree in kinesiology and has run a personal training studio since 1989. He advises his clients on exercise, proper nutrition, and general well-being. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9450"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;diet-nutrition&quot;,&quot;wheat-free&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781118774588&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-626ad664911d5\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;diet-nutrition&quot;,&quot;wheat-free&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781118774588&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-626ad66491b96\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Cheat Sheet","articleList":[{"articleId":157847,"title":"Choosing Restaurants that Suit a Wheat-Free Lifestyle","slug":"choosing-restaurants-that-suit-a-wheat-free-lifestyle","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/157847"}},{"articleId":157833,"title":"Recognizing Wheat's Many Pseudonyms","slug":"recognizing-wheats-many-pseudonyms","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/157833"}},{"articleId":157834,"title":"Knowing Other Names for Sugar","slug":"knowing-other-names-for-sugar","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diet-nutrition","wheat-free"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/157834"}}],"content":[{"title":"Choosing restaurants that suit a wheat-free lifestyle","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>More and more restaurants are reaching beyond their traditional customer bases to tap into the market of those who can&#8217;t or don&#8217;t eat wheat, grain, or gluten. This shift has increased in the number gluten-free menus chain restaurants offer.</p>\n<p class=\"Remember\">However, many restaurants with gluten-free options haven&#8217;t taken the final step of creating gluten-free kitchens to avoid cross-contamination. The following restaurants offer prudent choices but, to be safe, call ahead or look online to see whether they meet your wheat-, grain-, or gluten-free approval.</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Austin Grill (Tex-Mex)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Biaggi&#8217;s Ristorante Italiano (Italian)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Boston Market (American)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Carrabba&#8217;s Italian Grill (Italian)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Chili&#8217;s (American)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Fleming&#8217;s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar (Steakhouse)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Olive Garden (Italian)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">On The Border (Mexican)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Outback Steakhouse (Steakhouse)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">P.F. Chang&#8217;s China Bistro (Asian)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Red Lobster (Seafood)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Red Robin (American)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Romano&#8217;s Macaroni Grill (Italian)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Ruby Tuesday&#8217;s (American)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Souper Salad (American)</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Even though fast-food restaurants probably aren&#8217;t the first thing you think about when addressing your wheat- or grain-free needs, you can create meals at some places that will meet your needs in a pinch. Remember, always ask &#8220;How is the food prepared?&#8221; and &#8220;Which foods on the menu are gluten-free?&#8221; For starters, the most obvious choice at most fast-food stops is to go bunless. Here&#8217;s a quick list of fast food restaurants that offer gluten-free menus to some degree or another:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Arby&#8217;s</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Au Bon Pain</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Burger King</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Chick-Fil-A</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Chipotle</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Culver&#8217;s</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Dairy Queen</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Domino&#8217;s Pizza</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Godfather&#8217;s Pizza</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Jason&#8217;s Deli</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Jack-in-the-Box</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Long John Silver&#8217;s</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Panera Bread</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Sonic Drive-In</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Starbucks (primarily drinks)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Subway</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Wendy&#8217;s</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"Recognizing wheat's many pseudonyms","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Spotting wheat in an ingredients list can be more difficult than it may appear. Wheat has many different forms and names and can appear multiple times in the same list. Acquainting yourself with the following list as you start your new lifestyle makes your trip to the grocery store much easier. As you become more comfortable with your wheat-free lifestyle, you&#8217;ll develop a repertoire of go-to foods, and this list will become less important.</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Barley grass (because of cross-contamination)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Bulgur (a form of wheat)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Durum, durum flour, durum wheat</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Einkorn</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Emmer</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Farina</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Flour (including all-purpose, cake, enriched, graham, high-protein or high-gluten, and pastry)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Farro</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Fu</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Kamut</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Seitan (made from wheat gluten and commonly used in vegetarian meals)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Semolina</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Spelt</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Sprouted wheat</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Triticale (a cross between wheat and rye)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Triticum aestivum</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Wheat berries</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Wheat bran, germ/germ oil/germ extract, gluten, grass, malt, or starch</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Wheat protein/hydrolyzed wheat protein</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"Knowing other names for sugar","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>To take full advantage of the health benefits of a wheat-free lifestyle, experts recommend that you also eliminate as much processed sugar as possible. One of wheat&#8217;s worst effects is that it causes an increase in blood sugar, which leads to weight gain, heart disease, and diabetes. Foods that contain lots of sugar have the same effect, so you need to watch your sugar intake.</p>\n<p>Recognizing the various pseudonyms for sugar and noting the total grams of sugar on the food label can help you make healthier choices. Here are the other names for sugar that you may see on a product&#8217;s ingredients list:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Agave nectar</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Brown sugar</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Cane crystals</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Cane sugar</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Corn sweetener</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Corn syrup</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Crystalline fructose</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Dextrose</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Evaporated cane juice</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Fructose</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Fruit juice concentrates</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Glucose</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">High fructose corn syrup</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Honey</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Invert sugar</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Lactose</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Maltose</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Malt syrup</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Molasses</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Raw sugar</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Sucrose</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Sugar</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Syrup</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"}],"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Solve","lifeExpectancy":"Two years","lifeExpectancySetFrom":"2022-04-28T00:00:00+00:00","dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":207770},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-27T16:49:34+00:00","modifiedTime":"2022-04-26T18:58:49+00:00","timestamp":"2022-04-27T00:01:25+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Body, Mind, & Spirit","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34038"},"slug":"body-mind-spirit","categoryId":34038},{"name":"Physical Health & Well-Being","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095"},"slug":"physical-health-well-being","categoryId":34095},{"name":"Alternative Medicine","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34097"},"slug":"alternative-medicine","categoryId":34097}],"title":"Ayurveda For Dummies Cheat Sheet (UK Edition)","strippedTitle":"ayurveda for dummies cheat sheet (uk edition)","slug":"ayurveda-for-dummies-cheat-sheet-uk-edition","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Learn about the traditional Indian medicine of Ayurveda, including its three doshas, 20 qualities, and eating right for your Ayurvedic type.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"Ayurveda — the \"science of life\" in Sanskrit — is the ancient art of traditional Indian medicine. Ayurveda encourages a combination of diet, exercise, herbal treatments, and breathing practices to help you enjoy a long and healthy life. This Cheat Sheet explains some of the core beliefs in Ayurveda.","description":"Ayurveda — the \"science of life\" in Sanskrit — is the ancient art of traditional Indian medicine. Ayurveda encourages a combination of diet, exercise, herbal treatments, and breathing practices to help you enjoy a long and healthy life. This Cheat Sheet explains some of the core beliefs in Ayurveda.","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":9729,"name":"Angela Hope-Murray","slug":"angela-hope-murray","description":"Angela Hope-Murray, MSc, MA, has practiced complementary medicine for more than 30 years. She trained extensively in Ayurvedic medicine in Britain, the US, Germany and India, becoming a registered Ayurvedic practitioner in 2001. Angela is a member of the Health Professions Council and is based at The Hale Clinic in London.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9729"}}],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":34097,"title":"Alternative Medicine","slug":"alternative-medicine","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34097"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[{"articleId":167530,"title":"The 20 Qualities in Ayurveda","slug":"the-20-qualities-in-ayurveda","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","alternative-medicine"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/167530"}},{"articleId":167529,"title":"The Three Doshas in Ayurveda","slug":"the-three-doshas-in-ayurveda","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","alternative-medicine"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/167529"}},{"articleId":167516,"title":"Eating Right for Your Ayurvedic Type","slug":"eating-right-for-your-ayurvedic-type","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","alternative-medicine"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/167516"}},{"articleId":167059,"title":"Ten Wonderful Ways to Enhance Your Health with Ayurveda","slug":"ten-wonderful-ways-to-enhance-your-health-with-ayurveda","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","alternative-medicine"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/167059"}}],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":285905,"title":"CBD For Dummies Cheat Sheet","slug":"cbd-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","alternative-medicine"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/285905"}},{"articleId":264236,"title":"Recipes for Medical Cannabis Desserts","slug":"recipes-for-medical-cannabis-desserts","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","alternative-medicine"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/264236"}},{"articleId":264231,"title":"Recipes for Medical Cannabis Entrees and Side Dishes","slug":"recipes-for-medical-cannabis-entrees-and-side-dishes","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","alternative-medicine"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/264231"}},{"articleId":264226,"title":"How to Make Extracts from Cannabis","slug":"how-to-make-extracts-from-cannabis","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","alternative-medicine"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/264226"}},{"articleId":264219,"title":"How to Make Concentrates from Cannabis","slug":"how-to-make-concentrates-from-cannabis","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","alternative-medicine"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/264219"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":281547,"slug":"ayurveda-for-dummies","isbn":"9781118306703","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","alternative-medicine"],"amazon":{"default":"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1118306708/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","ca":"https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1118306708/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","indigo_ca":"http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-9208661-13710633?url=https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/1118306708-item.html&cjsku=978111945484","gb":"https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1118306708/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","de":"https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/1118306708/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20"},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/ayurveda-for-dummies-cover-9781118306703-203x255.jpg","width":203,"height":255},"title":"Ayurveda For Dummies","testBankPinActivationLink":"","bookOutOfPrint":false,"authorsInfo":"\n <p><b data-author-id=\"9729\">Angela Hope-Murray, MSc (Ayur) MA, BSc (Ost),</b> has been a practitioner of complementary medicine for over 30 years. She trained extensively in Ayurvedic Medicine in Britain, the US, Germany and India, becoming a registered Ayurvedic Practitioner in 2001. Angela is a member of the Health Professions Council, and is currently based at The Hale Clinic in London.</p>","authors":[{"authorId":9729,"name":"Angela Hope-Murray","slug":"angela-hope-murray","description":"Angela Hope-Murray, MSc, MA, has practiced complementary medicine for more than 30 years. She trained extensively in Ayurvedic medicine in Britain, the US, Germany and India, becoming a registered Ayurvedic practitioner in 2001. Angela is a member of the Health Professions Council and is based at The Hale Clinic in London.","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9729"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;alternative-medicine&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781118306703&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-626887d57ffb7\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;alternative-medicine&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9781118306703&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-626887d580544\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Cheat Sheet","articleList":[{"articleId":167529,"title":"The Three Doshas in Ayurveda","slug":"the-three-doshas-in-ayurveda","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","alternative-medicine"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/167529"}},{"articleId":167530,"title":"The 20 Qualities in Ayurveda","slug":"the-20-qualities-in-ayurveda","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","alternative-medicine"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/167530"}},{"articleId":167516,"title":"Eating Right for Your Ayurvedic Type","slug":"eating-right-for-your-ayurvedic-type","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","alternative-medicine"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/167516"}}],"content":[{"title":"The three doshas","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Central to Ayurveda are the three <i>doshas</i>, or constitutions. When you know what type fits you best, you can tailor Ayurvedic treatment to suit your needs. Most people are a combination of two of the doshas, so you may be vata-pitta or pitta-kapha for example.</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Vata:</b> Your mind darts from one thing to the next. You tend to be slim and gangly with dry, wiry hair. Mentally, you’re very creative but you get bored easily.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Pitta:</b> You have a sharp intellect and a matching appetite. You’re of medium build and have silky hair. You’re passionate and enthusiastic. You usually enjoy studying.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Kapha:</b> You’re laid-back and easy going. You’re prone to weight gain with a slow metabolism. It takes you a while to commit facts to memory, but once there you’ll never forget them.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"The 20 qualities in Ayurveda","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>According to Ayurveda, everything is experienced as a mixture of 20 different qualities, or attributes, which describe everything in our physical and mental world. An excess or deficiency in one of these qualities can lead to an imbalance in health. These opposite features point the way to effective diagnosis and treatment of illness in Ayurveda.</p>\n<p>Ayurveda believes that if the treatment is <i>like</i> the ailment it’s treating, it increases that ailment. Only an opposite quality can combat it. Here are the 20 qualities:</p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Dull</td>\n<td>Sharp</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Hard</td>\n<td>Soft</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Heavy</td>\n<td>Light</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Cold</td>\n<td>Hot</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Wet</td>\n<td>Dry</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Dense</td>\n<td>Subtle</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Rough</td>\n<td>Smooth</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Slow</td>\n<td>Quick</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Solid</td>\n<td>Liquid</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Oily</td>\n<td>Brittle</td>\n</tr>\n</tbody>\n</table>\n"},{"title":"Eating right for your Ayurvedic type","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Your basic Ayurvedic constitution or type (vata, pitta or kapha) influences which foods are most appropriate for you for staying healthy and balanced. Remember: you’re probably a combination of types, so follow the advice for your predominant dosha.</p>\n<h3>Vata</h3>\n<p>If <b>vata</b> is prominent in your constitution, your daily diet should be light, warmed, and slightly oily, to help your digestive system.</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Soak dried fruits before you eat them.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Always eat breakfast to keep your energy levels up.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Avoid products with yeast, which create gas.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Nuts are a good snack for you, eaten little and often.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Avoid caffeine if you can; if not, stick to black tea in moderate amounts.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Spices help stimulate the flow of your digestive enzymes.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n<h3>Pitta</h3>\n<p>If you’re predominantly <b>pitta</b>, you benefit from nourishing, cooling, and sweet foods. Pittas have voracious appetites, so, try not to eat too much in one go.</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Eat raw foods and enjoy salads and refreshing cool drinks — especially in the summer.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Include a good quality protein, such as beans, in your meals.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Wheat products and heavier foods help keep you in balance.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Keep your fluids high in hot weather and take advantage of the abundance of fresh sweet fruits.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Don’t eat when you’re upset or angry; you’ll suffer from indigestion and headaches.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n<h3>Kapha</h3>\n<p>If you have a <b>kapha</b> constitution you already have a strong, well-built body, so, you need less of heavy foods like bread and pasta:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Eat light, dry and warm food.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Seek pungent, bitter, and astringent tastes.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Avoid oily, cold, or heavy foods and drinks.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Pass on rich desserts. (Sorry.)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Skip really salty foods to keep weight from piling on (although a little is okay and even encourages salivation and enjoyment).</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Make your food spicier to increase digestive power.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"}],"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Explore","lifeExpectancy":"Five years","lifeExpectancySetFrom":"2022-04-26T00:00:00+00:00","dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":207992},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-27T16:47:51+00:00","modifiedTime":"2022-04-26T15:44:17+00:00","timestamp":"2022-04-26T18:01:03+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Body, Mind, & Spirit","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34038"},"slug":"body-mind-spirit","categoryId":34038},{"name":"Physical Health & Well-Being","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095"},"slug":"physical-health-well-being","categoryId":34095},{"name":"Diseases","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34139"},"slug":"diseases","categoryId":34139},{"name":"Thyroid","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34165"},"slug":"thyroid","categoryId":34165}],"title":"Thyroid For Dummies Cheat Sheet","strippedTitle":"thyroid for dummies cheat sheet","slug":"thyroid-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Whether you have low or excessive function, recognize and manage the symptoms of your thyroid problems with help from this cheat sheet.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"Thyroid problems affect around 30 million people in the United States, says the <a href=\"http://www.thyroidawareness.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists</a>. If you suffer from a thyroid condition, this Cheat Sheet is here to help you to recognize and manage your symptoms, and avoid the triggers that can cause a flare-up of thyroid problems.","description":"Thyroid problems affect around 30 million people in the United States, says the <a href=\"http://www.thyroidawareness.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists</a>. If you suffer from a thyroid condition, this Cheat Sheet is here to help you to recognize and manage your symptoms, and avoid the triggers that can cause a flare-up of thyroid problems.","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":9008,"name":"Alan L. Rubin","slug":"alan-l-rubin","description":"Alan L. Rubin, MD, is one of the nation's foremost authorities on diabetes and thyroid disease. A physician in private practice for more than 30 years, he is the author of several best-selling health titles, including Diabetes For Dummies, Diabetes Cookbook For Dummies, Prediabetes for Dummies, High Blood Pressure For Dummies, and Thyroid For Dummies. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9008"}}],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":34165,"title":"Thyroid","slug":"thyroid","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34165"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[{"articleId":201336,"title":"Facing the Consequences of Iodine Deficiency","slug":"facing-the-consequences-of-iodine-deficiency","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/201336"}},{"articleId":200927,"title":"Pinpointing the Causes of Hypothyroidism","slug":"pinpointing-the-causes-of-hypothyroidism","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/200927"}},{"articleId":200685,"title":"Clearing Up Common Myths about Thyroid Health","slug":"clearing-up-common-myths-about-thyroid-health","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/200685"}},{"articleId":200381,"title":"Exploring Hyperthyroid Eye Disease","slug":"exploring-hyperthyroid-eye-disease","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/200381"}},{"articleId":199801,"title":"Noting the Signs and Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism","slug":"noting-the-signs-and-symptoms-of-hyperthyroidism","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/199801"}}],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":201336,"title":"Facing the Consequences of Iodine Deficiency","slug":"facing-the-consequences-of-iodine-deficiency","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/201336"}},{"articleId":200927,"title":"Pinpointing the Causes of Hypothyroidism","slug":"pinpointing-the-causes-of-hypothyroidism","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/200927"}},{"articleId":200685,"title":"Clearing Up Common Myths about Thyroid Health","slug":"clearing-up-common-myths-about-thyroid-health","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/200685"}},{"articleId":200381,"title":"Exploring Hyperthyroid Eye Disease","slug":"exploring-hyperthyroid-eye-disease","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/200381"}},{"articleId":199801,"title":"Noting the Signs and Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism","slug":"noting-the-signs-and-symptoms-of-hyperthyroidism","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/199801"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":282632,"slug":"thyroid-for-dummies-2nd-edition","isbn":"9780471787556","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"amazon":{"default":"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0471787558/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","ca":"https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/0471787558/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","indigo_ca":"http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-9208661-13710633?url=https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/0471787558-item.html&cjsku=978111945484","gb":"https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0471787558/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","de":"https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/0471787558/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20"},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/thyroid-for-dummies-2nd-edition-cover-9780471787556-203x255.jpg","width":203,"height":255},"title":"Thyroid For Dummies, 2nd Edition","testBankPinActivationLink":"","bookOutOfPrint":false,"authorsInfo":"\n <p><b data-author-id=\"9008\">Alan L. Rubin, MD,</b> has had a private practice specializing in thyroid disorders and diabetes for nearly three decades. A member of the Endocrine Society, he speaks regularly on thyroid health. </p>","authors":[{"authorId":9008,"name":"Alan L. Rubin","slug":"alan-l-rubin","description":"Alan L. Rubin, MD, is one of the nation's foremost authorities on diabetes and thyroid disease. A physician in private practice for more than 30 years, he is the author of several best-selling health titles, including Diabetes For Dummies, Diabetes Cookbook For Dummies, Prediabetes for Dummies, High Blood Pressure For Dummies, and Thyroid For Dummies. ","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9008"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;diseases&quot;,&quot;thyroid&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780471787556&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-6268335fcc57f\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;diseases&quot;,&quot;thyroid&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780471787556&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-6268335fccf08\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Cheat Sheet","articleList":[{"articleId":149106,"title":"7 Ways to Maximize Your Thyroid Health","slug":"7-ways-to-maximize-your-thyroid-health","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/149106"}},{"articleId":149031,"title":"11 Signs and Symptoms of Low Thyroid Function","slug":"11-signs-and-symptoms-of-low-thyroid-function","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/149031"}},{"articleId":149030,"title":"13 Signs and Symptoms of Excessive Thyroid Function","slug":"13-signs-and-symptoms-of-excessive-thyroid-function","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/149030"}},{"articleId":149096,"title":"8 Medications to Be Cautious of in Thyroid Conditions","slug":"8-medications-to-be-cautious-of-in-thyroid-conditions","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","diseases","thyroid"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/149096"}}],"content":[{"title":"7 ways to maximize your thyroid health","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>You can take action to improve your thyroid health. If you&#8217;re concerned that you have — or may have — a problem with your thyroid, you should bear in mind the following advice:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">If thyroid disease runs in your family, ask your doctor about screening for thyroid diseases at appropriate intervals.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">If you have a thyroid problem, check your thyroid function during times of major body changes, such as pregnancy.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Make sure you get enough iodine in your diet, especially if you&#8217;re vegetarian.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">If you&#8217;ve taken thyroid hormone replacement for several years to treat hypothyroidism (low thyroid function), ask your doctor if you can try stopping treatment to see if your thyroid can function without it.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">If you still experience symptoms of hypothyroidism while taking hormone replacement pills, ask your doctor if you can try taking both types of thyroid hormone (T4 and T3), although this is controversial.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Remember that some medications can interact with thyroid hormones.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Protect your thyroid from radiation. If your neck has had exposure to radiation in the past, ensure your doctor knows that.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"11 signs and symptoms of low thyroid function","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Someone with hypothyroidism — an underactive thyroid gland — often experiences some of the following signs and symptoms. Keep in mind that these symptoms alone can&#8217;t diagnose thyroid disease, and thyroid disease is sometimes present even if you don&#8217;t experience all the symptoms:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Slow pulse</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Enlarged thyroid (unless removed during previous thyroid treatment)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Dry, cool skin that is puffy, pale, and yellowish</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Brittle nails and dry, brittle hair that falls out excessively</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Swelling, especially of the legs</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Hoarseness, slow speech, and a thickened tongue</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Slow reflexes</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Intolerance to cold</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Tiredness and a need to sleep excessively</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Constipation</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Increased menstrual flow</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"13 signs and symptoms of excessive thyroid function","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Someone with hyperthyroidism — an over-active thyroid gland — may experience some or all of the following symptoms. The same caution about symptoms of hypothyroidism applies here; these symptoms alone don&#8217;t confirm a diagnosis. Only blood tests can do this.</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Higher body temperature and intolerance to heat</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Weight loss</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Weakness</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Enlarged thyroid</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Warm, moist skin</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Rapid pulse</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Tremor of the fingers and tongue</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Nervousness</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Difficulty sleeping</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Rapid mood changes</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Decreased menstrual flow</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">More frequent bowel movements</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Changes to the eyes that make it appear as if you&#8217;re staring</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"8 medications to be cautious of in thyroid conditions","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Certain drugs can interact with your thyroid hormone to negatively affect your thyroid function. These are just a few commonly used medications that can affect your thyroid:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Amiodarone</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Aspirin (more than 3,000 milligrams daily)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Estrogen (for example, in hormone replacement therapy, or in the oral contraceptive pill)</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Iron tablets</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Iodine</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Lithium</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Propranolol</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Corticosteroids</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"}],"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Solve","lifeExpectancy":"Two years","lifeExpectancySetFrom":"2022-04-26T00:00:00+00:00","dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":207640},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-27T16:56:58+00:00","modifiedTime":"2022-04-25T18:14:45+00:00","timestamp":"2022-04-26T00:01:10+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Body, Mind, & Spirit","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34038"},"slug":"body-mind-spirit","categoryId":34038},{"name":"Physical Health & Well-Being","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095"},"slug":"physical-health-well-being","categoryId":34095},{"name":"Pregnancy","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34177"},"slug":"pregnancy","categoryId":34177},{"name":"General (Pregnancy)","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34180"},"slug":"general-pregnancy","categoryId":34180}],"title":"IVF & Beyond For Dummies Cheat Sheet","strippedTitle":"ivf & beyond for dummies cheat sheet","slug":"ivf-beyond-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Find out if in-vitro fertilization (IVF) is an option for you, and learn how to be prepared on your IVF journey.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"If you’ve been trying unsuccessfully to have a baby for some time, you may wonder whether IVF can help fulfill your baby dream. To begin with, you need to undergo some tests to establish the cause of your infertility. If IVF is an alternative for you and you decide to try treatment, your best bet for coping with the inevitable ups and downs is to be well-prepared: The more you know about the physical, technical, emotional and financial aspects of infertility and IVF, the better you’ll fare on your IVF journey and beyond, when hopefully, you’ll have a baby to love and care for.","description":"If you’ve been trying unsuccessfully to have a baby for some time, you may wonder whether IVF can help fulfill your baby dream. To begin with, you need to undergo some tests to establish the cause of your infertility. If IVF is an alternative for you and you decide to try treatment, your best bet for coping with the inevitable ups and downs is to be well-prepared: The more you know about the physical, technical, emotional and financial aspects of infertility and IVF, the better you’ll fare on your IVF journey and beyond, when hopefully, you’ll have a baby to love and care for.","blurb":"","authors":[],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":34180,"title":"General (Pregnancy)","slug":"general-pregnancy","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34180"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":269260,"title":"Long-Term Health Effects of Fertility Medication","slug":"long-term-health-effects-of-fertility-medication","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269260"}},{"articleId":269257,"title":"10 “Fake News” Stories about Fertility","slug":"10-fake-news-stories-about-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269257"}},{"articleId":269252,"title":"Sperm Insemination—Prepping Sperm to Meet the Egg","slug":"sperm-insemination-prepping-sperm-to-meet-the-egg","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269252"}},{"articleId":269246,"title":"Female Structural Problems That Impact Fertility","slug":"female-structural-problems-that-impact-fertility","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269246"}},{"articleId":269240,"title":"10 Things to Know in Early Pregnancy","slug":"10-things-to-know-in-early-pregnancy","categoryList":["body-mind-spirit","physical-health-well-being","pregnancy","general-pregnancy"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/269240"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":0,"slug":null,"isbn":null,"categoryList":null,"amazon":null,"image":null,"title":null,"testBankPinActivationLink":null,"bookOutOfPrint":false,"authorsInfo":null,"authors":null,"_links":null},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;pregnancy&quot;,&quot;general-pregnancy&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[null]}]\" id=\"du-slot-62673646aed64\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;body-mind-spirit&quot;,&quot;physical-health-well-being&quot;,&quot;pregnancy&quot;,&quot;general-pregnancy&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[null]}]\" id=\"du-slot-62673646aff47\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Cheat Sheet","articleList":[{"articleId":193518,"title":"Diagnosing an Infertility Problem: Is IVF for You?","slug":"diagnosing-an-infertility-problem-is-ivf-for-you","categoryList":[],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/193518"}},{"articleId":193521,"title":"Improving Your Chances of IVF Success","slug":"improving-your-chances-of-ivf-success","categoryList":[],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/193521"}},{"articleId":193517,"title":"Understanding Some Common Infertility and IVF Abbreviations","slug":"understanding-some-common-infertility-and-ivf-abbreviations","categoryList":[],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/193517"}},{"articleId":193523,"title":"Understanding the Steps in an IVF Treatment Cycle","slug":"understanding-the-steps-in-an-ivf-treatment-cycle","categoryList":[],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/193523"}},{"articleId":193520,"title":"Keeping Your Spirits Up on Your IVF Journey","slug":"keeping-your-spirits-up-on-your-ivf-journey","categoryList":[],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/193520"}},{"articleId":193519,"title":"Caring For Your Baby Post-IVF","slug":"caring-for-your-baby-post-ivf","categoryList":[],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/193519"}}],"content":[{"title":"Diagnosing an infertility problem: is IVF for you?","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>If you’ve been trying for a baby for a year or more without luck, it’s time to tackle the problem and find out what you can do about it. Here are some facts about infertility and IVF to get you started:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>You’re not alone: </b>About 15 per cent of couples — nearly one in six — have difficulties conceiving. Over time, some of these couples will conceive spontaneously after trying for a long time, some will have a baby after undergoing infertility treatment or by adopting, and some will remain childless.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>What’s the problem:</b> Your doctor will order tests and investigations of you and your partner to pinpoint why you can’t conceive, because knowing the cause of infertility guides your treatment.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Causes of infertility:</b> About one-third of infertility cases in couples are due to a male fertility problem, another third are due to a female fertility problem, and the final third are either due to both male and female fertility problems or of an unknown cause.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Why us:</b> It’s normal to feel shocked, angry and sad when you discover that you’re infertile.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Low-tech options: </b>Depending on the cause of your infertility, your doctor may suggest you try a low-tech fertility treatment alternative. If this treatment doesn’t work, your next option is usually IVF.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Time for IVF:</b> For certain causes of infertility, IVF is the only way to help you have a family. If that’s the case for you, read up as much as you can about treatment, because being well-prepared is the best way to handle the highs and lows that inevitably accompany treatment.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"Improving your chances of IVF success","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Research indicates that by getting into shape <i>before</i> you start IVF you can improve your odds of the treatment being successful. To boost your chances of overcoming infertility and falling pregnant, follow these rules:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Avoid smoking:</b> Smokers have lower fertility than non-smokers and smoking reduces your chances of IVF success.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Don’t carry a lot of excess weight:</b> Try to keep your body mass index (BMI) in the normal range of 18.5 to 25. A BMI higher than this can cause hormonal imbalances that disrupt ovulation and reduce sperm quality, which of course decrease the likelihood of conception, both spontaneous and with IVF. Don’t despair if you have a lot of weight to lose: Losing even just five to ten kilograms can greatly improve your chances of IVF success.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Follow a balanced diet: </b>A well-balanced diet is essential not only for your health but also for the wellbeing of a growing foetus. The bulk of your daily diet should consist of cereals, pasta and rice. You should also have three to five servings of vegetables and two to four servings of fruit, and two to three servings each of low-fat dairy products and meat/poultry/fish/beans for protein. Finally, go easy on sweet goodies and fats.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Don’t consume too much caffeine:</b> Women who consume a lot of caffeine — more than three cups of coffee per day — may take longer to conceive.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Restrict your alcohol intake:</b> Alcohol is known to decrease fertility and increase the risk of miscarriage.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Take folic acid supplements:</b> Getting enough folic acid before conception and during the early stages of pregnancy greatly reduces the risk of the baby having neural tube defects such as spina bifida.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Start IVF treatment ASAP:</b> Age is IVF’s worst enemy. In a nutshell, your odds of having a successful pregnancy decrease dramatically as you approach age 40.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"Understanding some common infertility and IVF abbreviations","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>When you enter the world of IVF, you need a crash course in deciphering the many abbreviations used in clinics. Here’s a list of the most commonly used short forms of infertility-related terms.</p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>DI</b></td>\n<td>Donor insemination</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>ET</b></td>\n<td>Embryo transfer</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>FET</b></td>\n<td>Frozen embryo transfer</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>FSH</b></td>\n<td>Follicle-stimulating hormone</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>GnRH</b></td>\n<td>Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>ICSI</b></td>\n<td>Intracytoplasmic sperm injection</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>IVF</b></td>\n<td>In-vitro fertilization</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>LH</b></td>\n<td>Luteinizing hormone</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>OHSS</b></td>\n<td>Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>OPU</b></td>\n<td>Oocyte pick-up</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>PGD</b></td>\n<td>Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>PN</b></td>\n<td>Pronuclei</td>\n</tr>\n</tbody>\n</table>\n"},{"title":"Understanding the steps in an IVF treatment cycle","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>If you need IVF to treat your infertility, your doctor will provide you with tonnes of information about what treatment entails. Here’s the short version of the steps involved in an IVF treatment cycle.</p>\n<ol class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Ovarian stimulation.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">Your doctor prescribes a course of drugs for you to take to stimulate your ovaries into hopefully producing 12 to 15 mature eggs.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Monitoring of your drug response.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">To monitor the progress of your ovarian stimulation you undergo an ultrasound examination and blood tests.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Egg maturation.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">Two days before your eggs are due to be collected you have a hormone injection, which triggers maturation of the eggs.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Egg collection.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">You receive a light general anaesthetic for this simple, short procedure, and your doctor retrieves your eggs using an ultrasound-guided technique.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Sperm production.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">On the day of egg collection, your partner provides a sperm sample.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Fertilisation.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">The embryologist puts sperm and eggs together in the lab and, if all goes well, the eggs fertilise and early embryo development begins.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Embryo transfer.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">Two to five days after egg collection, your doctor places one or two embryos in your uterus.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Embryo freezing.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">If you have additional embryos suitable for use, they can be frozen and kept for future transfers.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Pregnancy test.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">About two weeks after embryo transfer you have a blood test to find out whether the treatment worked.</p>\n<ul class=\"level-two\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">If the test is positive, you have your first pregnancy scan two weeks later.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">If the test is negative, you and your partner need to talk to your doctor and decide whether to try the treatment again.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</li>\n</ol>\n"},{"title":"Keeping your spirits up on your IVF journey","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Infertility and IVF can be pretty stressful and at times you may feel sad and worried; you and your partner may even struggle in your relationship together. Follow these tips to help you keep sane during your IVF journey:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Become as well informed as you can about the ins and outs of IVF treatment.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Set realistic expectations for your treatment.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Have a plan B in case treatment doesn’t work for you.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Be actively involved in decisions about your treatment.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Make use of the IVF counsellors at your clinic.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Don’t bottle things up: Talk to your partner about how you feel.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Don’t blame yourself if IVF doesn’t work.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Keep doing the things you enjoy during treatment to give yourself a break from IVF. For example, continue with your hobbies or go for weekends away.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Try not to let treatment take over your life.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">If talking about your feelings makes you feel better, confide in someone you trust.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Use the internet to get in touch with people with similar problems who understand how you feel.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Join a support group: By talking to others with similar problems you’ll realize that you’re not alone.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"Caring for your baby post-IVF","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>When you’ve waited long and tried hard to have a baby, you feel ecstatic when IVF works for you. But even after IVF, you find that caring for a new baby is hard work. Here’s some advice to help you survive the first few crazy months of parenthood:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Babies don’t come with a manual, so don’t feel bad if you feel a bit out of your depth at first. You need time to get to know your baby’s likes and dislikes.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Knowing how to care for your baby isn’t instinctive — you have to learn as you go.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">The fact that you really wanted your baby doesn’t make caring for your newborn any easier than for other parents with newborns. Don’t expect too much of yourself and ask for help when you need it.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">New parents worry about the wellbeing of their babies, but after IVF you may worry even more and wonder about your ability to care for your baby. Rest assured: Your baby will be fine and no-one can do a better job than you.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Some new mothers find that breastfeeding doesn’t always come easily: Get professional advice and support if you experience difficulties.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">All new parents need a break now and then, so share the workload and enlist as many stand-ins as you can find.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">If your baby cries a lot and is difficult to soothe, feed and settle, you may benefit from attending a day-stay or residential mother–baby program. Ask your maternal and child health nurse for a referral.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"}],"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Solve","lifeExpectancy":"One year","lifeExpectancySetFrom":"2022-04-25T00:00:00+00:00","dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":209178}],"_links":{"self":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095/categoryArticles?sortField=time&sortOrder=1&size=10&offset=0"},"next":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095/categoryArticles?sortField=time&sortOrder=1&size=10&offset=10"},"last":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/34095/categoryArticles?sortField=time&sortOrder=1&size=10&offset=2813"}}},"objectTitle":"","status":"success","pageType":"article-category","objectId":"34095","page":1,"sortField":"time","sortOrder":1,"categoriesIds":[],"articleTypes":[],"filterData":{"categoriesFilter":[{"itemId":0,"itemName":"All Categories","count":2821},{"itemId":34096,"itemName":"Aging","count":90},{"itemId":34097,"itemName":"Alternative Medicine","count":86},{"itemId":34181,"itemName":"Common Ailments","count":123},{"itemId":34102,"itemName":"Diet & Nutrition","count":1198},{"itemId":34139,"itemName":"Diseases","count":545},{"itemId":34166,"itemName":"Exercise & Movement","count":437},{"itemId":34188,"itemName":"General (Physical Health & Well-Being)","count":8},{"itemId":34185,"itemName":"Massage","count":6},{"itemId":34176,"itemName":"Menopause","count":6},{"itemId":34098,"itemName":"Personal Care & Style","count":14},{"itemId":34095,"itemName":"Physical Health & Well-Being","count":1},{"itemId":34177,"itemName":"Pregnancy","count":263},{"itemId":34367,"itemName":"Surgery","count":44}],"articleTypeFilter":[{"articleType":"All Types","count":2821},{"articleType":"Articles","count":2610},{"articleType":"Cheat Sheet","count":103},{"articleType":"Step by Step","count":95},{"articleType":"Videos","count":13}]},"filterDataLoadedStatus":"success","pageSize":10},"adsState":{"pageScripts":{"headers":{"timestamp":"2022-05-27T12:59:08+00:00"},"adsId":0,"data":{"scripts":[{"pages":["all"],"location":"header","script":"<!--Optimizely Script-->\r\n<script src=\"https://cdn.optimizely.com/js/10563184655.js\"></script>","enabled":false},{"pages":["all"],"location":"header","script":"<!-- comScore Tag -->\r\n<script>var _comscore = _comscore || [];_comscore.push({ c1: \"2\", c2: \"15097263\" });(function() {var s = document.createElement(\"script\"), el = document.getElementsByTagName(\"script\")[0]; s.async = true;s.src = (document.location.protocol == \"https:\" ? 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Physical Health & Well-Being Articles

Disease and diet. Pregnancy and menopause. Aging and exercise. We've got expert advice to help you keep on truckin' through all stages of life.

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Aging

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General (Pregnancy) Infertility Awareness Month Spotlights a Common Problem

Article / Updated 05-26-2022

For years, infertility has been a silent struggle for those wanting to start a family. But this June, Infertility Awareness Month seeks to help those suffering become more vocal about their journey. The prevalence of infertility Infertility is usually defined as not being able to get pregnant after one year of trying. It also refers to women who are able to become pregnant, but struggle to carry their pregnancy to term. 6 million women are diagnosed with fertility troubles each year in the U.S., which equates to roughly 10 percent of women ages 15 to 44. Moreover, around 1 in 8 couples deal with infertility on their way to becoming a family. It’s a common problem, but it’s often kept quiet, as many couples feel shame, fear, or judgment around the issue. Overall, Western culture is becoming more open to discuss infertility. Maybe you’ve seen it addressed on TV shows like This is Us, Parenthood, or Friends. Maybe you’ve heard about the infertility journeys of celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Emma Thompson, and Gabrielle Union. Or maybe you saw a friend post “I am 1 in 8” on social media. Though it’s not as taboo as it once was, it still can be difficult to know how to discuss such a personal issue. Infertility Awareness Month is meant to help others see the wide reach of this disease and to give those struggling with it a way to start conversations with friends, family, and other loved ones. Not just a woman's issue Though people tend to think of infertility as a woman’s struggle, its causes are split equally between women and men. A third of infertility cases are caused by female reproductive issues, another third by male reproductive issues, and the remaining third by a combination of male and female or unknown issues. Male infertility issues tend to be a bit more straightforward; they’re usually caused by low sperm production, slow sperm movement, or variant sperm shape. Female infertility problems, on the other hand, can be very complex. Because many different organs and systems need to work together to produce a viable pregnancy, just one irregularity may prevent fertility. Checking out the organs Doctors will often check a woman’s uterus and fallopian tubes first to see if any tumors, polyps, or scars are present. The fallopian tubes can also be damaged in some way. The roles they play in fertilization are vital: Think of them not only as the intersection where the sperm and egg have their “meet-cute,” but also the romantic bistro where the relationship incubates and, finally, the minivan that carries the fertilized egg to its new home: 1000 Uterus Place. Unfortunately, fallopian tubes can swell, dilate, or even burst. If there’s anything wrong with them, it’s likely the woman will need to look into in-vitro fertilization (IVF) to get pregnant. Parsing PCOS Another common cause of infertility in females is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It’s unknown what causes this mysterious syndrome, but it’s quite prevalent, affecting 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. PCOS can manifest in myriad ways. Women with PCOS may experience irregular periods, excessive hair growth on their face, chest, or thighs, or male-pattern baldness on their head. Often, women with PCOS will develop multiple cysts on their ovaries (sometimes referred to as a pearl necklace — because of the appearance of the “chain” of circular cysts on ultrasounds). However, the presence of cysts isn’t necessary for a PCOS diagnosis. Doctors may also measure hormone levels, such as insulin, androgens, and progesterone. Since PCOS interferes with ovulation (that interference is what can cause irregular periods), women with PCOS may have trouble growing the follicles that produce an egg to full maturity, and thus, have issues becoming pregnant. Thankfully, there are fertility medications that can aid ovulation, such as Clomid and Letrozole. If all else fails, IVF is another option for women with PCOS. 'Outside' fertilization (aka in vitro) You’ve probably heard of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) before, but what does it actually mean? In vitro is a Latin term that literally translates to "in glass." This refers to a glass test tube or petri dish where a doctor or scientist observes or performs an experiment. In contrast, in vivo is a Latin term that translates to "in the living." So, when something happens in vitro, it happens outside of a living organism. But to get to that “outside” fertilization, a lot of stuff needs to happen inside first. An IVF treatment cycle involves different courses of drugs and hormones meant to stimulate egg production and egg maturation. If the drugs work as planned, an egg collection and sperm collection are scheduled, and an embryologist will put the egg together with the sperm (this is the in vitro part). If this is successful, the egg fertilizes, and an embryo begins to form. A few days later, this embryo is placed in the uterus, and a pregnancy test is performed after a few weeks to see if the implantation worked. Sadly, it often takes many cycles of treatment for IVF to be successful, and each procedure can be very expensive, time-consuming, and stressful. However, there are things those wanting to start a family can do to help. Explore this IVF cheat sheet to discover ways to improve chances at IVF success, learn common abbreviations and procedure names, and view ways to keep high spirits on this journey. Infertility support Whether those struggling with infertility are in and out of doctors’ offices, calculating an ovulation window, or trying to discreetly inject themselves with hormones in public, it’s easy to feel alone when undergoing infertility treatments. But there are organizations that exist to help women and families on this journey: RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association exists to help all people on a family-building journey find knowledge, community, advocacy, and eventually, resolution. In addition to providing important facts about infertility, RESOLVE also helps connect people with medical professionals and support groups. Fertility Out Loud helps people struggling with infertility to understand cryptic insurance policies, learn how to reply to insensitive comments (like “Your clock is ticking! Better hurry up!”), and connect and share stories on social media platforms. Rescripted is an online community for those trying to conceive (TTC) founded by two women who underwent their own IVF journeys. Aside from articles and support stories, this site also has videos on how to perform common hormonal injections and a digital pharmacy where users can search for inexpensive fertility medications. For general information about how to assess fertility and nurture pregnancy, check out Getting Pregnant for Dummies.

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General (Pregnancy) Female Structural Problems That Impact Fertility

Article / Updated 05-11-2022

Women’s infertility issues can be very complex because so many different systems can be at fault. Is the problem uterine, tubal, hormonal, age-related, or ovarian? Any one of these problems can cause enough trouble to prevent you from becoming and staying pregnant. A healthy uterus Maybe you had an HSG to evaluate your fallopian tubes and uterus, or maybe you had a hysteroscopic surgery for an even closer look into the uterus. Looking at the uterus is an integral part of any fertility workup because the uterus nourishes and holds a baby for nine months. Finding fibroids in the uterus Fibroids, or benign tumors, are commonly found inside or on the outside of the uterus. They’re extremely common, with 40 percent of women between the ages of 35 and 55 having at least one. Fibroids are even more common in African-American women, with 50 percent having at least one. Fibroids can cause bowel or bladder problems, very heavy bleeding, or pain. Fibroids can be either inside or outside the uterine cavity; their location determines whether they cause a problem with your ability to get or stay pregnant. Fibroids completely outside the uterus, such as pedunculated fibroids, which are attached to the uterus by a stem, don’t usually cause a problem with fertility. Submucosal fibroids grow through the lining of uterine wall and can cause a miscarriage. Fibroids can be surgically removed through a process called a myomectomy. A small fibroid inside the uterus can usually be removed by hysteroscopy, a procedure in which a thin telescope is inserted into the uterus through the vagina. This is outpatient surgery and is relatively atraumatic. In contrast, large intramural fibroids require an abdominal incision and a hospital stay. You generally need to deliver by cesarean section after an abdominal myomectomy. Removing polyps in uterus Polyps are small fleshy benign growths found on the surface of the endometrium. Very small polyps usually cause no problem with getting pregnant, but larger polyps or multiple polyps can interfere with conception. Polyps can cause irregular bleeding; they can be diagnosed via sonohysterogram or hysteroscopy and can be scraped off the endometrium. Polyp removal is called polypectomy. Clearing out the fallopian tubes Most women have two fallopian tubes, one on each side of the uterus, next to the ovaries. Because these tubes are the transport path from the ovary to the uterus, a problem with one or both tubes can have a big impact on your baby-making ability. How fallopian tubes should work and what can go wrong Fallopian tubes are not just tubes. If they were, then repair would be much simpler and far more successful. Tubes actually have jobs to do: specifically, to transport and culture. The tube is where the sperm and eggs meet, and fertilization takes place. So, the tube must allow sperm to migrate through the uterus and into the tube. The tube also must pick the oocyte from the surface of the ovary when it is ovulated and move it nearer the uterus. Finally, once the fertilized egg, now called an embryo, has developed for two to three days, the tube must move the embryo into the uterus. The inside of the tube is lined with cells that have hair-like projections that move in a wave-like fashion to transport the embryo. (Think beach ball at a football game moving around the crowd.) Infections can damage these hair-like projections and decrease or destroy the tube’s ability to perform the transport function. This is a microscopic function and therefore cannot be diagnosed. Also, the tube acts as an incubator for the early development of the embryo. The environment in the tube, designed specifically for the embryo, is unlike anywhere else in the body. This function also cannot be seen or diagnosed. Sometimes a tube is surgically removed after an ectopic pregnancy, a pregnancy that starts to grow in the tube rather than in the uterus. If this pregnancy is found early enough, it may be possible to dissolve the pregnancy with a chemotherapy agent called methotrexate. However, if the fetus grows large enough undetected in the tube, the tube can burst, causing life-threatening bleeding. The only way to stop the bleeding is to remove the tube. You can get pregnant with only one tube but having one ectopic pregnancy leaves you at a higher risk to have another. Frequently, when a tube is removed, the surgeon will look at the other tube and find that it looks okay. For a person with an ectopic and one remaining tube, the pregnancy rate is estimated to be about 70 percent, of which 10 percent are another ectopic. So why don’t the other 30 percent conceive? Probably because the tube may appear normal and be open, but damage on the interior of the tube has caused it to malfunction and not be able to perform the job it needs to do. When women become pregnant after an ectopic has been removed, they usually do so within the first year. Beyond that pregnancies can occur but they are rare, and the couple may want to pursue IVF. Damaged tubes Women who have only the left ovary and the right fallopian tube can get pregnant because the egg can “float” to the remaining tube. Of course, this also applies to women who have the left tube and the right ovary. (One study estimated that the egg gets picked up by the opposite tube about 30 percent of the time.) Sometimes fallopian tubes are seen to be enlarged on ultrasound or during an HSG. If the tubes are very swollen and dye doesn’t flow through them, you may have a hydrosalpinx, the medical term for a tube filled with fluid. If both tubes are dilated, the condition is known as hydrosalpinges. A hydrosalpinx interferes with pregnancy in two ways: The egg cannot be picked up by the dilated tube, whose fimbriae (the end) is blocked by scarring. The tube has an environment that damages the development of the embryo. The treatment for a hydrosalpinx is surgical. In mild cases, the end of the tube can be opened and the ends peeled back like a flower. Surgical repair of damaged tubes has a low chance of success primarily because surgical repair does not address the damage on the interior of the tube. However, in severe cases, the tube will not work even if it is opened. In these cases, the tube or tubes must be removed, and you need to have IVF. This diagnosis is a hard thing for many women to accept because it definitely ends any chance that they’ll be able to get pregnant on their own. However, well-done studies have demonstrated that pregnancy rates are lower for women with bilateral hydrosalpinges. Having one hydrosalpinx and one open tube still reduces the chance for a successful IVF cycle. The reason why the hydrosalpinx reduces the pregnancy rate is unknown, but theories propose that the fluid in the tube can leak into the uterus prevent implantation. In very rare cases, women can be born without any fallopian tubes; often the tubes are missing as part of a syndrome in which the external sex organs look normal, but the vagina, uterus, and fallopian tubes are missing. Of course, if you’ve had two ectopic pregnancies, you may have had both tubes surgically removed also. Sometimes fallopian tubes look fine on an X-ray but may be surrounded by adhesions (scarring) that prevent them from picking up the egg. Endometriosis, tissue growths found anywhere in the pelvis, can grow in or around the fallopian tubes and is a common cause of adhesions around tubes. Normal tubes can’t be visualized by ultrasound. Because the fallopian tubes play such a large role in getting pregnant, you’ll probably need intervention, such as IVF, to get pregnant if a problem is discovered with them. Removal or absence of the tubes, or a blockage that can’t be removed, makes IVF inevitable if you’re trying to get pregnant. Addressing scar tissue For doctors who perform surgeries in this area, it's typical to see scar tissue, or adhesions (as shown), in your reproductive system. Many women having a second or third cesarean section delivery or other surgery had scar tissue throughout the pelvis that needed to be cut away before the delivery team could get to the uterus. Adhesions form when blood and plasma from trauma, such as surgery (like an appendectomy, tubal removal of an ectopic pregnancy or fibroid), form fibrin deposits, which are threadlike strands that can bind one organ to another. They can be removed, but surgery to correct adhesions may result in — you guessed it — more adhesions. The amount of scarring depends upon the surgical procedure done but can occasionally be extensive. Adhesions can cause pelvic pain; cesarean sections can cause adhesions, but they tend to be anterior (or in front of) the uterus, and thus may cause difficulty during a subsequent C-section. However, C-sections don’t usually cause problems with tubes (which tend to be behind the uterus), and thus don’t usually cause infertility. Your chances of getting pregnant after adhesion removal are highest in the first six months after surgery, before extensive adhesions form again. Some adhesions can’t be removed without damaging the tubes or ovaries, and you may need IVF to get pregnant. Since the advent of IVF, surgical repair for pelvic adhesions is uncommon. If you have adhesions in the uterus itself, you may be diagnosed with Asherman’s syndrome, also called uterine synechiae. Asherman’s can follow a dilation and curettage (D&C), an abortion, or a uterine infection. It can be diagnosed during an HSG but is best diagnosed with a hysteroscopy, where the inside of the uterus can be visualized. Asherman’s is also suspected if you have scant or no menstrual flow or recurrent miscarriages following uterine trauma. There are varying amounts of scarring in Asherman’s syndrome. Some people have very few adhesions, and these are filmy and easy to remove. That person has a very good chance to conceive. If the mild to moderate adhesions are removed surgically, you have a good chance, probably 75 percent or better, of becoming pregnant and carrying to term. Severe adhesions may destroy nearly all the normal uterine lining, and pregnancy may not be possible. Less frequently, a person will have extensive intrauterine scarring and that person will have a very poor chance for achieving a pregnancy. A gestational surrogate may be needed in these cases.

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General (Pregnancy) Basic Causes of Male Infertility

Article / Updated 05-11-2022

If a couple tries to conceive but can’t seem to do it, one of the first things that doctors look for is a problem with the man’s sperm. Sperm compose about 5 to 10 percent of semen, and are the only part of the semen that can cause pregnancy. If a man is infertile, there is a problem with his sperm — often a low sperm count or low motility. Sometimes, male infertility can be treated. Just because testicles look normal doesn’t mean that they are fully functioning. The most common problems of male infertility are: Low sperm count, which means that the man isn’t producing enough sperm Low motility, where the sperm he is producing lack sufficient ability to swim to the egg The basis for the problems may be abnormal sperm production, which can be difficult to treat, or that the testicles are too warm. Heat is known to decrease sperm count, so the solution could be as simple as changing the style of underwear from tighty-whities (briefs) to boxers. Another cause can be a blockage somewhere along the line, which may be corrected through surgery. Interestingly enough, most semen analysis is done by gynecologists, specialists in the female reproductive system. A gynecologist is usually the first person a woman consults when she has problems getting pregnant. Commonly, the gynecologist asks that the man’s sperm be analyzed. If the tests reveal a problem with the sperm, the man is sent to a urologist for further evaluation.

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Cardio Running Your Way to Fitness

Article / Updated 05-06-2022

Like walking, running provides a fitness workout that you can take with you anywhere. You can work up a great sweat, burn lots of calories, and your muscles feel invigorated after you finish. You don’t need a rack on your car or a suitcase full of equipment; you just open the door and go. No single type of exercise is better than all the rest. It’s merely a question of what’s best for you. Many runners develop frequent, chronic injuries. Many people have joints that simply will not tolerate all that pounding. If you’re not built to run, don’t argue with your body. You can get in great condition in other ways. And if you’re a beginner, hold off on running until you’ve built up stamina and strength. Running the right way Runners have a habit of looking directly at the ground, almost as if they can’t bear to see what’s coming next. Keeping your head down throws your upper-body posture off-kilter and can lead to upper-back and neck pain. Lift your head and focus your eyes straight ahead. Relax your shoulders, keep your chest lifted, and pull your abdominal muscles in tightly. Don’t overarch your back and stick your butt out; that’s one of the main reasons runners get back and hip pain. Keep your arms close to your body, and swing them forward and back rather than across your body. Don’t clench your fists. Pretend you’re holding a butterfly in each hand; you don’t want your butterflies to escape, but you don’t want to crush them, either. Lift your front knee and extend your back leg. Don’t shuffle along like you’re wearing cement boots. Land heel first and roll through the entire length of your foot. Push off from the balls of your feet instead of running flat-footed and pounding off your heels. Otherwise, your feet and legs are going to cry uncle long before your cardiovascular system does. If you experience pain in your ankles, knees, or lower back, stop running for a while. If you don’t, you could end up having to sit on the sidelines for months. Running tips for rookies These tips help you get fit and avoid injury. Start by alternating periods of walking with periods of running. For example, try two minutes of walking and one minute of running. Gradually decrease your walking intervals until you can run continuously for 20 minutes. If you have the inclination, you can build from there. Of course, sticking with a walk-run routine is fine; you’re less likely to injure yourself that way. Vary your pace. Different paces work your heart, lungs, and legs in different ways. Always run against traffic when running on the shoulder of a road. This allows you to see oncoming cars and dive for the side of the road, if necessary. If you’re running on steeply banked (angled away from the center line) country roads and the road is flat, you can run in the middle of the road to save wear and tear on your legs. But as you head up or down hills, get as far over on the shoulder (that is, away from the road) as possible to avoid speeding cars mowing you down. Consider carrying a lightweight cell phone for emergencies. Don’t increase your mileage by more than 10 percent a week. If you run 5 miles a week and want to increase, aim to do 5 1/2 miles the following week. Jumping from 5 miles to 6 miles doesn’t sound like a big deal, but studies show that if you increase your mileage more than 10 percent, you set yourself up for injury.

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General (Pregnancy) Getting Pregnant For Dummies Cheat Sheet

Cheat Sheet / Updated 05-06-2022

Getting pregnant can be a complex and lengthy process for those diagnosed with infertility. Getting through the fertility treatment may seem difficult. Following are a few of our cheat lists to not only help you decipher fertility testing but also help you understand fertility treatment a little better.

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Running & Walking Walking the Weight Off For Dummies Cheat Sheet

Cheat Sheet / Updated 05-02-2022

It may sound too good to be true, but losing weight doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the simplest ways to lose weight is by just walking, something you already do each and every day. Anyone can do it, almost anywhere, and at any time. Just get up and start putting one foot in front of the other, and you are well on your way to achieving your weight-loss goals.

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Wheat-Free Living Wheat-Free For Dummies Cheat Sheet

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-28-2022

Living a wheat-free lifestyle means eliminating wheat from your diet. To get the most health benefits, you should also cut back on the amount of processed sugar you consume. When you follow these guidelines, you return to a low-to-no-grain, low-sugar, high-fat diet that was far more common many decades ago. The idea is to enjoy real food and limit the foods you eat from a box or a drive-through window. When you do need to grab a meal on the go or pick up some groceries, use the following lists to make smart choices.

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Alternative Medicine Ayurveda For Dummies Cheat Sheet (UK Edition)

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-26-2022

Ayurveda — the "science of life" in Sanskrit — is the ancient art of traditional Indian medicine. Ayurveda encourages a combination of diet, exercise, herbal treatments, and breathing practices to help you enjoy a long and healthy life. This Cheat Sheet explains some of the core beliefs in Ayurveda.

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Thyroid Thyroid For Dummies Cheat Sheet

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-26-2022

Thyroid problems affect around 30 million people in the United States, says the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. If you suffer from a thyroid condition, this Cheat Sheet is here to help you to recognize and manage your symptoms, and avoid the triggers that can cause a flare-up of thyroid problems.

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General (Pregnancy) IVF & Beyond For Dummies Cheat Sheet

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-25-2022

If you’ve been trying unsuccessfully to have a baby for some time, you may wonder whether IVF can help fulfill your baby dream. To begin with, you need to undergo some tests to establish the cause of your infertility. If IVF is an alternative for you and you decide to try treatment, your best bet for coping with the inevitable ups and downs is to be well-prepared: The more you know about the physical, technical, emotional and financial aspects of infertility and IVF, the better you’ll fare on your IVF journey and beyond, when hopefully, you’ll have a baby to love and care for.

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