Come inside! Our new facility offers Volume 1 Issue 2 Summer 2016 many features you’ll love.

MALE

 IT TAKES

TWO{WHEN MEN HAVE ISSUES} 

Why is it that guys often don’t bother to go to the doctor? Are they hoping that if they ignore their symptoms they’ll just go away? Well, if you’re unable to get pregnant, here’s something else your guy can’t ignore: He could be the reason. (cont. inside)

PHYSICIAN PROFILE Lawrence Engmann, MD, MRCOG One of "America's Top OB/GYN'S"

Did you know the Center is responsible HEALTHCIRCLE for nearly 12,000 babies Holistic nurses and being born since 1982 through health coaches are here for you Advanced Reproductive Technologies (A.R.T.) FAMILY BUILDING PROGRAM Fertility issues and options facing gay’s and lesbian’s paths to parenthood

FINANCING OPTIONS Access to a wide range of financial programs

FERTILITY 101 VIDEOS Educational videos featuring our doctors with answers to some of the most commonly asked questions

Janine Boudo / Bella Blue Photography  IT TAKES

TWO{WHEN MEN HAVE FERTILITY ISSUES}

(cont. from page 1) t can be hard for a guy to admit that he’s not “up to the sometimes even to zero. Other toxins can have a similar impact Ijob,” but many men have fertility issues. In fact, male factor on hormone levels, sperm quality or testicular health. Heavy infertility contributes to about 50% of all infertility problems. alcohol use, cigarettes and excessive heat in the scrotal area can That’s why, when a couple comes to us, we look at both also be factors. partners. Because as the saying goes, “it takes two.” The use of certain for unrelated medical A SIMPLE TEST TELLS A LOT conditions can also affect male fertility. For example, calcium channel blockers taken for high pressure may have a A sperm test, or semen analysis, is the first step in diagnosing male infertility problems. The test is non-invasive, painless, direct effect on the ability of sperm to bind to egg receptors. and yields lots of critical information. Our doctors analyze Other medications and forms of treatment – , the semen sample for its volume, viscosity (thickness), pH radiation, and hormone deprivation therapy, for example – can level (acidity) and color, as well as the concentration of sperm also negatively impact male fertility. Other medical conditions, (sperm count). They also look at sperm motility (how many such as testicular cancer, can also present problems. are moving), morphology (how many are abnormally shaped), MALE INFERTILITY CAN OFTEN BE REVERSED as well as “forward progression” (are the sperm swimming in a straight line?). It should be noted that all men produce A change in lifestyle can often reverse the effects of “acquired” abnormally shaped sperm, and, in fact, as many as 50% of male factor infertility. If a specific is a factor, the sperm in a “normal” sample can be abnormally shaped. In other meds with less toxic side effects should be considered. addition to the semen test, the urologist will do a thorough Most of the time, the effects of testosterone supplements are evaluation that includes a medical history, physical examination reversible. Other medications that promote the body’s ability and, if appropriate, additional sperm function tests. to produce its own testosterone can be substituted. In some cases, however (such as the long-term use of anabolic steroids SEVERAL FACTORS CAN CAUSE MALE INFERTILITY for bodybuilding) the effects can be irreversible. Of course, knowledge is always power. Providing more education to men Research shows that certain lifestyle choices can be detrimental about the potential impact of their lifestyle choices is critical to to sperm quality and fertility. Exposure to toxins – including preventing many male fertility problems before they develop. those found in marijuana, cocaine, anabolic steroids and other substances – often contribute to “acquired” male factor With comprehensive evaluation, counseling, education and infertility. Chronic marijuana use, for example, has been a personalized approach to treatment, our team of urologists shown to lower testosterone levels and affect sperm quality. and reproductive specialists is committed to maximizing your The use of testosterone supplements – on the rise among men potential for reproductive success. And, yes, we’re making sure of reproductive age – can result in a lowered sperm count, men remember that reproductive health “takes two.”  The use of certain medications for unrelated medical conditions can also affect male fertility. Summer 2016 Expanding HealthCircle, Our Holistic Approach to Fertility Care Are you looking to integrate holistic and complementary medicine into your fertility treatment plan? With an interest in holistic nursing practice, Marie is able to integrate complementary modalities within her fertility nursing practice. Her training MARIE HESLIN includes a foundation of both traditional APRN Certificate western medicine and holistic nursing of Integrative philosophy. Marie is also a Reiki Practitioner, Nursing, Reiki a Japanese hands-on healing modality. When Practitioner Levels I & II a practitioner is working with someone having fertility issues, they explore where Meet Dr. Lawrence Engmann the energy is blocked or out of balance and then allow the energy to flow to where it is needed most. Many times, the energy in and around the reproductive system is very low, lead physician at the Center, Dr. Engmann is also the particularly if the woman has old emotional ADirector of the Center’s Oncofertility program. “The wounds stored in this area. Center sees a lot of patients, so we see a lot of problems” stated Have you considered working with a Health Dr. Engmann. “We’re also involved in cutting edge research. Coach to help you achieve your goals of The Oncofertility program is a unique collaboration between a healthy and enhance your oncologists, reproductive endocrinologists and researchers all over fertility treatment plan? Through lifestyle the country, created to help individuals who have been diagnosed AMI CHOKSHI and behavioral adjustments, Ami provides with cancer, and who are going to be going through chemotherapy Certified education and support to patients to achieve or radiation treatment that might render them infertile.” Health Coach their health-related goals. She also partners with your provider to help you implement Dr. Engmann has been selected by Consumer’s Research Council his/her recommendations for your health in America to be included in their Guide to America’s Top and treatment plan. Most people find great Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He has also been awarded benefits from a health coach. Similar to The Berlex Foundation Resident Education Award, the Best having a fitness coach in a gym or a mentor Maternal-Fetal Medicine Resident Award, the Alumni Award at the workplace, when you have a Health for Undergraduate Education and The Ludwig Pyrtec Award for Coach to help light the way, achieving your Best Scientific Paper. goals become a lot easier. “I have a passion for treating patients and helping patients meet their dreams. My patients know they have a trusted friend who will be compassionate, optimistic, and who will be available for them during one of the most difficult times of their lives.”

HealthCircle Summer 2016

June is Gay Pride month! Family Offering More Sharing Our Patient’s Building financing Program options THERE are many different paths e understand how stressful fertility treatments can be, to parenthood. But fertility Wespecially for those who do not have coverage for the options and issues facing LGBT treatments they need. As participants in the In Vitro Sciences individuals and couples are Centers of Excellence program, we have access to a wide range Love different from others wishing of financial programs. For those with insurance, we will help We love seeing our patients’ notes, and especially their photographs! Since we started our “I am the Center” video series, to become parents. There are you sort through the confusion and frustration of evaluating we’ve been gratified to see so many messages to our staff. legal and financial obstacles your coverage as well as help you find more affordable and that need special attention and knowledge to overcome. immediate ways to pay for testing and treatment that is not We loved having Marsha Kathy is beyond Thank you for giving Laura was absolutely covered by your insurance. as our nurse through the amazing!! I would not us the two biggest blessings! amazing through my two Fertility options for third party “journey on growing our have“ made it through “Your team of doctors and “transfers! So positive and reproduction have grown over You can finance one cycle at a time; or, for IVF, you can apply for our multiple cycle refund family. Thank you for your without her. She will nurses are the best of the personable, she believed the years. LGBT individuals and couples now have choices that include not only adopted children, but genetically program called the IVF Financial Share forever hold a special when I could not and I’m gift of patience, love and best. We are truly grateful.” related children, as well. Females, depending on their health Program, or purchase a multiple IVF healing!” place in my heart.” so grateful for her support.” and age, can use advanced technologies such as sperm cycle package with no refund. Any of donation with Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), In Vitro these options can also be financed Fertilization (IVF), shared conception, and with a loan. We also have special egg or embryo freezing to achieve a pregnancy. Males, Possibilities Plans just for self- depending on their sperm quality and options, pay patients including our can use technologies like , IVF, egg SARTresults donation, and gestational carriers. new IVF Possibilities Plus Choosing a quality Center is paramount to having successful outcomes. Not all Centers provide the same infertility Plan which will provide increased savings to self-pay patients treatments, offer the same approach or have the same results. Important criteria used to evaluate a Center’s success All of these techniques have been used extensively here at based upon economic need. Plus discounted fertility medication include its: The Center and our experts can help patients determine programs and very special programs just for U.S. military • experience level or volume what is best for their particular situation. In addition to veterans and their spouses. • live birth rate, and the range of advanced medical technologies we offer, we • triplet or higher birth rate. can also guarantee the highest level of skill and expertise The dream of having a baby can be difficult to plan for financially. in successfully using them. We are experts in the field Our goal is to help every patient find a way to pay for their care. of reproductive endocrinology and infertility and have been nationally recognized for our success, compassion We’re pleased that the and commitment.  Center continues to demonstrate success: Not only in the percent of live births achieved, but also in our ability to lessen the potential for with , triplets or more. As the largest fertility center in the state "Day 3 Testing" with 1,275 IVF cycles in the last year, we continue David Schmidt, MD to lead in both the region and the nation. 101 To learn more about our success rates and

those of other programs,

please visit the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technologies website Have you seen our new (www.sart.org). Click on educational videos? "HSG & "Age & Fertility" Sonohysterography" IVF Success. A comparison Our YouTube channel is full of videos John C. Nulsen, MD Andrea J. DiLuigi, MD of clinic success rates featuring our doctors with answers to some may not be meaningful of the most commonly asked questions. because patient medical characteristics and treatment approaches may vary from clinic to clinic.

About fertilityFeaturing Anthony Luciano, surgerY MD Dr. Luciano answers some commonly asked questions about fertility surgery as part of our The Fertility 101 series. What are the main problems impacting a woman’s fertility that can be End treated surgically? We do several kinds of surgical procedures to promote fertility in women who have a difficult time getting pregnant. These procedures have to do with problems with the uterus, problems to the with the or problems with the fallopian tubes. By far the problem that can be helped the most with surgery are fibroids in the uterus. These are benign tumors that are very common. They are almost always ticking benign. Most of the time we don’t even have to treat them. But when they grow close to the cavity of the uterus, and when they impact the endometrial lining, then they can cause infertility. En el Centro, honramos y celebramos nuestros How are the surgical procedures done? clock pacientes y amigos de todas las culturas de habla hispana Most of the time the surgery for fibroids can be done minimally invasive. You don’t have a major incision. Just a small telescope our 40th birthday doesn’t have to be the end of a dream. in the abdomen or sometimes in the uterus itself. These surgeries are done on an outpatient basis and the patient can go home YFor the past ten years, Connecticut required employer 1 or 2 hours after the surgery. groups and health plans to cover the medically necessary costs of What are the typical outcomes of these procedures? diagnosing and treating infertility. However, in this initial law, the state only required the coverage for people under the age of 40. For uterine fibroids that affect the cavity itself, the only way to treat it is surgical. In fact, the surgery offers an excellent prognosis. By that I mean after the surgery most women’s fertility will respond very well. Once surgery is performed, their Now, Connecticut has an updated insurance mandate. For success rate is very high. insurance policies sold or renewed after January 1, 2016, the age limit has been revoked, expanding coverage to women Please watch the complete video on our website or on our YouTube channel. over 40. This mandate applies to health insurance plans subject “My story hasn’t to state regulation. According to Kate Weldon LeBlanc of Resolve New England, there are over 75,000 women in the state experiencing fertility problems. defined who I am, but Many of these women, over 40. “If you in the past thought that door was closed to you, that door is now open” stated Kate. it has shaped me into WHERE However, the law has many limitations and exemptions. Because ARE THEY NOW? Recently, some of our former patients and their of these variables, costs for infertility diagnosis and treatment families joined us on Better Connecticut during for couples in Connecticut can be minimal or substantial. For the person National Infertility Awareness Week. This year’s more details go to our website where we have specific links to theme, “Start Asking” was intended to not the documents addressing the insurance mandate. that I needed to be.” only raise awareness about this disease, but also The only way to determine your particular coverage is to work motivate all that are touched by infertility to closely with your particular insurance carrier and examine all angles – Janine Boudo commit to the cause. "Infertility is like a crazy of your plan. At the Center, we have a trained staff dedicated to do roller coaster ride of emotions. But when you just that. Our Insurance Program Coordinators will help patients find someone who has been or is going down determine precisely what their insurance plan covers and what you the same road as you, it makes you remember can expect to spend as a result. ithat you’re not alone." – Kelly Drajewicz Come inside! Our new facility offers many features you’ll love.

An academic affiliate of UCONN School of Medicine

MONTHLY EVENTS

FIRST & THIRD Wednesdays YOGA 5:30-6:30pm

The Center recently won the THIRD Thursdays Farmington Chamber of Commerce's RESOLVE Infertility Peer Support Group 7-9pm Distinguished Business of the Year Award, given to 'businesses that Check our website at uconnfertility.com for pre-registration information. And like our have made a substantial contribution Facebook page for the most up-to-date information. to the community, have employees who individually and collectively participate in the community, and the physical presence of the business adds to the economic vitality and livability of our community.'

uconnfertility.com DID YOU The Center is an academic affiliate of the UCONN School of Medicine? We are a specialized program of the division 844.HOPEIVF KNOW of Reproductive Endocrinology and Fertility and one of the largest and most? successful IVF programs in the Northeast. We offer one of less than 40 postgraduate fellowships for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) in the FARMINGTON United States. Due to our national reputation as a "Center of Excellence," acceptance to one 2 Batterson Park Road of our fellowship positions is very competitive. Fellows also participate in ongoing clinical Farmington, CT 06032 research. This has resulted in several first author publications and national conference (844) 467 3483 presentations for our fellows. Over the past three years, the fellows have presented 18 abstracts at national meetings and have published 13 articles in peer reviewed journals. Plus, we not only have REI fellows, but also Ob/Gyn residents and medical students NEW LONDON training here as well. 4 Shaws Cove Suite 201 New London, CT 06320 (877) 860 8044

HARTFORD 50 Columbus Blvd. Suite 2 Hartford, CT 06106 (860) 525 8283 NEW! April 2016