#male infertility

[spideyson-stuff]

‼️ ANGST ‼️

TW: INFERTILITY

Yeah, a little more depression, sorry-

This counts more as SpiderMom too, well, my blog is about SpiderSon not IronDad so who cares, right?

Peter infertile, he discovered this during the tests Bruce insisted on doing on him so he could understand his spider powers, Nat and he are the only infertile ones among the avengers, Nat for... well you know, so no one really understands what it means to him, after all he's only 15 why would he care about that? well not that he cares NOW, he doesn't want to be a father so soon

But there is still something deep down that hurts, knowing that against his will something was taken from him, he wanted those clichéd sitcom lives you know? living in a little house with whoever he married and with a kid or two, and now it's all just... impossible? Yes, he can adopt a child, but it's not just infertility that hurts, she's a superhero, he doesn't know if he'll get home alive the next day

All this together... honestly hurts, Nat is the only one who understood this, she sits down with Peter one day and tells him how this happened to her, Peter comforts him a little and she comforts him too, it's not the same thing, Peter is a 15 year old boy and Nat is a trained assassin, but they are helping each other, so who really cares?

When Tony finds FUCKING NATACHA ROMANOFF and Peter sleeping in each other's arms on the living room floor after a particularly painful day for both of them, he doesn't question it, they both deserve a a little comfort of understanding, a confrontation that only someone who is in the same hole can provide

Tony can't do this, he accepts this

[codfanficedits]

Winter days.

Pairing: Kyle "Gaz" Garrick x fem!Reader

Summary: Gaz doesn't want to circle around your relationship status anymore

Wordcount: 5363 | Rating: M (18+ only!)

Warnings: Male infertility, reader wants to get pregnant, talk about children, reader is insecure and projects it on relationship, two idiots in love trying to navigate through a relationship, going from friends with benefits to lovers

A/N: I never write for or about Gaz, so he might be a little OOC. However, this idea came to me and it seemed to fit him the best.

It was the holiday season, Christmas was coming up, and your leave got denied, together with Gaz. Not that you really minded that of course. You and Gaz had been, more than friends, but never really an official couple, and you liked it that way. Out the corner of your eye you saw him come over, handing you a hot chocolate before sitting down next to you with his own.  He shuffled a little closer to you before finally putting his arm around you. “You looked cold.”

You happily accepted the hot chocolate, not protesting either when you put his arm around you.

"I was cold." You admit, and Gaz felt as a human furnace, radiating his warmth.

You place your head on his shoulder, before you close your eyes. "This is nice."

Gaz smiled and nodded, wrapping his arms around your waist. It was funny how he went around the camp in a tank top 90% of the time, but in the winter he liked to bundle up and cuddle.

"It is... I'm glad you're here," he whispered in your ear, his voice being low. "Not just now, but in general. You make me... happy."

He leaned his head closer to you, looking at you with his beautiful eyes while his fingers traced patterns on your skin.

While the two of you never officially entered a relationship, you did belong together, and you never looked at another man after you met him. After all, the two of you did all the things people in relationship do, from sleeping together to going on dates. You just never named it.

"You make me happy too." You murmur softly

Gaz's fingers moved to your neck, caressing the skin there softly. He leaned down and kissed you passionately before pulling away.

"It's been... months... since we started this," he murmured, kissing you once more before sitting up straight in his seat. He looked at you, his eyes piercing into yours. He took care to not come off as forceful, but he wanted to take this relationship a step further—or at most establish a label so you guys weren't so vague about it.

You enjoyed his touch, his kisses. You didn't enjoy the talk he wanted to start. Whatever you had going on, didn't have a name, and you were fine with that.

You took a sip of the hot chocolate he had brought you. "Correct." You answer. "And it is working perfectly fine, isn't it?"

He raised his eyebrows at your reluctance to engage in a conversation he deemed necessary. "How do you define perfectly fine?" he asked pointedly. "Because to me, that would mean having some clarity on what we're doing, on what we are to one another."

"So I'm asking you, to tell me what we're doing here. Are we in a relationship?"

Gaz was stubborn and you knew he wouldn't let it go until he had some clearance, and you couldn't really blame him for that.

You took another sip of your hot chocolate, before you put the mug on the coffee table. For a brief moment you considered to change the subject, but you knew how persistent and stubborn Gaz could be.

"I don't know." You answer. "We sleep together, we fuck, and then we stay for breakfast too. We take each other out on little dates, I buy your favourite snacks when I'm in the store." You added. "And that is going perfectly fine."

Gaz was not pleased by your answer and he made that much clear by furrowing his brows and crossing his arms. "Well, yes, obviously that's going 'fine.' But I'm not asking about what we do together, I'm asking about the context of our relationship."

"Are we exclusively seeing each other? Are we just friends with benefits? Are we..." he trailed off, hoping you would finish his sentence for him. "Are you dating anyone else? Do I need to be worried about anyone else?"

You raised an eyebrow at his question, and at his body language. You could tell he was getting agitated by your answers.

"Dating someone else?" You repeated. "I have my hands full with you, and I don't even have enough time to think about someone else." You mused as you leaned back against the couch.

You tilted your head a little bit. "You don't have to worry about anyone else. I don't like men enough to tolerate a second one around me and I like you too much to fuck someone else."

Gaz's brows furrowed even more at your answer, but this time it wasn't due to anger. Just general confusion. "So you care about me too much to sleep with anyone else? But not enough to... y'know... commit to this relationship?"

"Are you saying I'm just a means to an end for you? Something to keep your bed warm on a winter night?" He sighed and looked away, his expression a combination of hurt and anger. "I really hope what you're telling me isn't true."

There you had it. A consequence of your vague answers.

You let out a sigh before you took his chin in your hand, forcing him to look at you.

"Communication, my tall boy." You answer. "I never once said you were just someone to keep my bed warm in the winter."

"All I'm saying is that I enjoy our time together." You said, before you pressed a soft kiss on his lips. "I'm worried that when we label it, things go to shit and all of the sudden you're Gaz, my ex-boyfriend."

Gaz didn't say anything for a moment, still feeling a bit confused by your answers. "And you don't have to worry that we'll be 'exes' if we don't actually make it official?"

"We've already established that we enjoy each other's company and that we're not seeing other people. So what difference does it make? I mean, why wouldn't you want to... be with me?" He tried to keep the hurt out of his voice, but it slipped a bit. "Do you not see a future here?"

You could hear the hurt in his voice and it broke your heart a little bit. "When I look in your eyes, all I see is my future." You answer.

"It is not like I don't want us to be together. It is more than I am worried that if things change it will get awkward and stuff." You tried to explain.

Eventually you ran a hand through your hair. "Fuck it." You muttered. "I am worried you'll leave me if we're a couple, and if whatever we have doesn't have a label, I can convince myself a breakup wouldn't hurt."

It was like a gut-punch, hearing about your insecurities and your reasons for not making the relationship... well, a relationship. And your thought process was completely understandable.

"Do you really think I'll leave you if we finally decide to make things official?" he asked, looking at you intently. "When is the last time I've ever left your side for any reason outside of work? When have I ever made you feel even a little bit of doubt that I would be loyal to you?"

"I know it's not fair to project my insecurities on you like this. And you've never given me reason to doubt you, or whatever it is that we have going on."

You took his hand before you looked at him. "I'm just afraid of losing you."

"I'm afraid of losing you, too," he said after a moment of silence. "But in my eyes, not wanting to risk the relationship we already have by making it more is ultimately the thing that will tear it apart. I don't want to be a casual fling, and if I was, I wouldn't have spent the better part of the last six months getting to know you and hanging out with you outside of that."

His voice grew quieter, his eyes filled with emotion. "I don't want a superficial connection, and I thought you felt the same way, too."

You placed your hand on his cheek, softly caressing the rough skin. "I am sorry."

"I want us to be more too." You eventually said. "I really do."

"I just don't want things to change between us. I want them to stay the same. All I want to change is that I can introduce you as my boyfriend."

"And I just want to call you my girlfriend," he growled playfully, nuzzling his head against your hand. "Is that really too much to ask for?"

"And things are bound to change as time goes on—that's a fact. They change no matter what. Hell, I'm surprised we've managed to remain as un-official as we are for half a year. That's longer than most of this camp has dated for, and I thought you and I had something special."

A slight pout appeared as he looked up at you, waiting for an answer.

"Then you can call me your girlfriend." You said with a soft, small smile. "We do have something special." You answered, before you kissed his pout away.

"That was why I was so afraid to fuck things up." You added softly as you took hold of your hot chocolate again, taking a small sip.

Gaz's eyes got wide, not expecting that response. He placed his hand on yours, taking up the small cup and placing it back on the coffee table.

"Does that mean... we're a couple now? Is that you saying yes and agreeing to finally date me?" His voice was a combination of surprise, disbelief, and joy.

"God, you have no idea how long I've wanted to hear you say that!" His eyes were glowing.

"Hey." You protested softly. "I was drinking that."

"But yes. I think it is time we finally make it official, can't have some new recruit flirting with you because I'm afraid of putting a label on us." You added with a slight teasing in your voice.

"And who is going to flirt with me now?" he chuckled as he looked around, as if searching for a potential suitor just so he could put them down before they even tried. "Because even though we weren't official and I couldn't technically call you my girlfriend, I did want to be possessive over you."

"I will flirt with you." You answer while you give him a playful nudge.

"You were all possessive over me." You reminded him. "The last time we were in a bar to celebrate a mission, some poor bloke tried to buy me a drink, and you just had to stand behind me. Towering over the both of us, and I saw the look you gave him, and it nearly scared me."

He laughed and kissed your temple, knowing that the only reason you were scared was because you thought he would act on that look. "It's funny you brought that up, because I was thinking of decking him for daring to hit on my girlfriend who wasn’t officially my girlfriend."

He gave you a small nudge with his elbow before leaning his head on your shoulder. "So I don't know why you think a label would change anything. I'm going to keep being possessive over you, but in a way that will hopefully make you less scared. Hopefully being the key word."

"I nearly got a free drink and you were thinking about decking the bloke." You laughed.

"I don't mind you being jealous at all." You answered. "As long as you don't kill someone, I'm okay with it."

You ran a hand through his hair. "The next time we're allowed leave. I want you to take me to England. To the city you grew up in."

"You almost got a punch to your nose, more like," he quipped back. "I don't care about the free drink. I don't like to share."

He thought about where you had said you wanted to go, and smiled. "I think that can be arranged. I always wanted to take someone special back there..."

"I was thinking of going back there after this rotation," he continued, "it's been a very long time since I've been back home. I hope you do enjoy it, because it means a lot to me."

"I hope I enjoy it too." You answered. "And I think I would like to meet your mother." You added quietly. "You've told me a lot about her and I think I would like her."

"Trust me, you'll love her." He nodded, before chuckling.. "You may have to deal with my sisters as well, though."

He took a deep breath. "I think that if you meet her... it might just get you a pass to meet the rest of my family, but you're going to have to deal with being called my future wife by everyone."

You let out a quiet chuckle. "Don't worry. I can handle that."

"After all. If you ever met my parents, my mother’s first question would be when you would give me a child." You sighed.

"And my grandma would try to sweettalk you into taking your shirt off."

"Wow." In one fell swoop, you had managed to make all of his insecurities about meeting the family just disappear. Even the ones that he had yet to think about. And he wasn't sure whether to laugh or groan.

"I mean, if you think I'd enjoy having your grandma try to flirt with me," he said with a smirk. "But your mother? That's... a difficult answer to give. Children are a... touchy subject for me, let's say."

You pulled a sour face. "Please. Do not. Flirt with grandma.”

You tilted your head at the mention of children, sitting up a bit more straight. "Why?" You asked, as you deemed it important to know as his girlfriend

He gave a soft chuckle in response to your comment, before your question cut his amusement off. His expression grew sad as memories from his past filled his mind.

"...I'm sterile. I've never told anyone before, to be honest. It felt like... it was too hard to talk about it. Like I was ashamed about it." Gaz let out a deep sigh before he looked up at you, giving you his best smile through the emotions that were threatening to take over.

"But I'm telling you, because I trust you and I want you to know my truths."

"Oh."

You pulled back a bit, letting his answer linger in the air. You had always wanted to be a mother at some point in your life, it was how you were raised, you adored children.

Your hand automatically went to your stomach, resting there, before you looked at him again. "That is.. that is quite important to know." You eventually said. "How did you find out?"

The look on your face was the one he had expected, and he winced at it. He knew deep down he was right—it was important that you knew, and he just hoped you would accept him for... for him. He never thought he would love someone so much, to the point that even his biggest insecurities and flaws felt like they weren't worth worrying about, because you loved him despite them.

"I was diagnosed when I was in my teens. It... it's a genetic thing. A condition I inherited from my mother that caused my sperm count to be too low."

You took his hand into yours, giving it a soft squeeze.

"Is it impossible to conceive with your sperm count? Or would it just be really hard?" You asked, your head slightly tilting to the side.

It felt as if you had to choose between him and your desire to be a mother someday, and it was breaking your heart.

"Almost impossible," he responded with a sigh. "I've seen studies that show there is a chance I could conceive naturally, but the odds would be so heavily stacked against us that most specialists would just outright advise against it."

What really tore at him was that he knew how much you loved kids and how much you wanted one, something he had planned to make a reality for you. "I know how badly you want a kid someday, and I feel so terrible that I can't give you that... even now I'm wondering if you are still going to love me after this conversation."

You took his large hand to your lips, pressing a soft, sweet kiss on the back of his hand.

"Thank you, for sharing this with me." You eventually said. "I can imagine it must be very hard to say this, especially when you know about my maternal instincts."

"But I still love you. And when the time is there, we will work something out."

"What if you can't live without a baby? What if it's something you absolutely need in your life, but I can't give you that?" He asked, his tone coming across as worried as he looked down at your joined hands.

"I would hate for you to eventually end up resenting me because this issue prevents you from getting what you want... I always imagined I would have children someday, too, and it hurts me just to think that you might not get to be a mother just because of me."

You placed the back of his hand against your cheek, softly leaning into the touch.

"We can adopt, foster, maybe by the time we're ready there are some medical procedures we can try. IVF or something, maybe if you're comfortable with it we can look into a donor." You answered.

"I would rather be without child with you, than be in some sort of stupid relationship with a child and without you."

"You know, I have thought about these things before, and I do think that IVF is a great option," he nodded, "but I have had this nagging feeling that our future children would have to be my blood. I don't know where that thought came from and why I feel such a desire about it, I just can't get it off my mind."

"Maybe I am just overthinking it, and it's all for nothing..." Gaz muttered.

"But the fact that you'd rather be with me than anyone with a child, just makes it even harder for me to bear."

You nodded softly. "I get that. If the roles were to reversed I probably would've felt the same way."

"This. This might be a little crazy, and you're allowed to say no." You started.

"But we've been dating unofficially for six months and now we've finally decided to make it official." You added.

"My birth control has to be renewed next month. What if I quit it? If the chance is small we won't have to worry, and if it happens. It happens."

For a moment there was silence as he processed what you were saying. He wasn't sure what it was that he felt, but it was somewhere along the lines of shock, surprise, fear, and worry.

"I'm not sure that's something we should do. As much as I want a child, I don't want one yet. As much as I do not think it will happen right away... I still just don't want to risk it."

"And... what if you get pregnant? Are you ready for that?"

"it is in my blood to raise a child." You answered with a shrug of your shoulders. "So I don't really worry about it."

"But. I do appreciate your honesty, and then I'll just renew it, no worries.” You quickly added.

"It was just a silly idea." You said with a meek smile

The response that you gave worried him even more. "You’re what? 26, you're smart and independent. You're not just a baby maker and raising a child is a huge responsibility. It changes your entire life and needs to be done right."

"How can you not be worried?" he sighed as he shook his head.

"Do I see you as a mother? Yes, eventually. But not now. Please don't try to make the choice for me. You mean too much for me to risk something happening."

"I come from a family where woman had children in a lot of different situations. From women being single mothers, to the father being in jail and everything in between. In the end it always worked out.

You frowned at his words. "I am not making a choice for you. I just asked your point of view, and when you expressed some valid points. I told you that I would renew my birth control." You said, your tone a little too sharp

"And I come from a family with a long lineage of military members who all had children after getting married." He said, his tone matching yours, as it felt like you were getting angry about the entire subject matter.

"You can't just shrug off my concerns, it's almost like you want me to say yes to you not using birth control so you could get pregnant." He scoffed

"You say you want to have a child in the future, but I don't understand your rush for it. We aren't even married yet!" he said, almost annoyed now.

You rolled your eyes at him. "Oh my god." You groaned. "All I did was give you an option on this! I asked your opinion, you gave that opinion and I listened to you. What more do you want me to do?" You snapped back.

"And besides. Its 2023, you don’t have to be married to have a child." You scoffed.

"An option that should not have even been presented to me!" he said with a hint of harshness to his tone. "Don't you get it? This is a huge decision and you're making it sound so simple and easy when it really isn't. I haven't even met your family yet, we just got official together and you want to risk it all by getting pregnant now?"

"Is that all you care about? It's like... it's like..." His voice trailed off.

"I. Don't. Get it." He said, shaking his head in disbelief.

"Oh well I'm sorry." You hissed. "You decided to drop a goddamn bomb on me a goddamn hour after we became official. In those six months we've been.. whatever the fuck we were. You never mentioned it once!"

"And maybe I rushed. Yes. I'll admit that. But you said yourself it would take such a long fucking time to conceive, and maybe my mind jumped to thinking in solutions." You added with a harsh tone.

You got up from the couch. "You know what? Forget about this whole conversation. I need some time alone to cool off." You scoffed as you walked away.

He was about to say something when he saw that he had said too much and it had been far too much for you. He couldn't help but sigh as he saw you storm off, and he wanted nothing more than to run after you.

"Love..." he mumbled to himself. "God damn it..." he muttered as he looked around the room for at least a distraction to help him process what had just happened.

You let yourself drop to your bed, letting out a frustrated groan in your pillow. You had never wanted this conversation to escalate into this.

You pulled out your phone, fingers hovering over the screen before you typed your message.

"Still love you. Just need a little time to cool off."

With a soft sigh you hit send to Gaz. You never wanted your emotions to ruin whatever it was the two of you had.

A text back came almost immediately.

"I love you too. I'm sorry. Please come back to me when you're ready."

"And don't just run off and ignore the problem," he mumbled to himself. He thought about calling you, but he thought that, at least for now, it would be better to give you space to process your own emotions and figure out if you were actually ready to talk about the conversation.

"God, I hope this doesn't ruin things..." he sighed. "I hope you don’t resent me."

You took your time to calm down, staring at the ceiling, as you tried to process what just happened. After nearly thirty minutes you finally get up from your bed.

You saw him sitting on the couch, and you walked up behind him, wrapped your arms around his neck as you pressed a kiss on his cheek.

"I know we have to talk, but I want you to know that I still love you and want to work things out, okay?" You whispered in his ear before you let go off him and sat down next to him.

The warmth of your embrace was exactly what he needed, as it instantly took the weight off of his mind. He felt his whole body relax as he reached over and grabbed your hand, pulling you closer to him.

"I know we do," he said quietly. "I love you more than I can really put into words. I honestly thought that I was going to lose you today, and I don't want to ever come close to that point again."

"And I want you to know that I wasn't saying no to a child, just that it's... not time yet."

"I know. I know." You say softly, a meek smile on your face.

"First off. I’m sorry for walking off like that. I can get a little hot headed and then I might say things I'll regret once I've cooled off. So I walk away to calm down." You explained.

"And secondly, sorry for bringing up stopping with birth control. I was on some sort of pink cloud and that made me only see the nice part of things. It was stupid to even mention it and I never wanted to give you the feeling that I was forcing something upon you."

"Oh... you don't need to apologize," he mumbled, rubbing your hand softly. "You weren't forcing anything and I understood where you were coming from. It was mostly just... I don't want you to think this entire relationship is centered around this one decision, and how it turns out."

He looked at you and tried to push a small smile.

"But I'm proud of us for being able to have this conversation. I'm proud of you for speaking openly about your thoughts on this, and I'm proud of myself for being able to do the same."

"I get it." You sighed. "I really do."

"I just.. the way you reacted.. it did make me nervous if we were compatible with each other." You admitted. "In my perspective I gave you an option, you gave your opinion and I realised it was a stupid idea. And you just kept going on and on, talking about it was all I cared about."

"It's because it scares me," he said softly. "Of course I still want a child someday, but it's such a life-changing decision. And then you threw it at me and I don't know... for a moment it felt like you didn't take me into consideration when suggesting it because it's really not the best time to go through with it."

"But... don't get me wrong... I understand that you have your own wants and needs. It's just... I never wanted to be the sole reason the relationship falls apart."

"Truth be told. I didn't take you in consideration." You admitted.

"You told me you were sterile, and that there was a very small chance, and I automatically thought that this would be some sort of solution. Stopping with birth control now, so it would magically happen over three years." You added with a weak smile.

"And in that thought process I didn't once think about how you would feel, or what we would do it I got pregnant within a year or something."

"That's what surprised me..." he said quietly, rubbing his forehead. "You didn't think of any of the negative implications it would have and assumed we were both going to just be okay with it."

"The thing is..." he said, looking at you. "It really scared me because it made me think you wanted it too badly. I got this feeling that you would... I don't know... have a child whether I wanted one or not, and I... I just didn't want that."

"I did assume that, and I'm sorry." You said in the same quiet tone, matching his tone.

"And for me it was really hard to understand why you couldn't just let it slide after I told you I wouldn't quit my birth control. And that really pissed me off." You added.

"I would really like to have a child with you, but not now. But it is definitely something I would like in the future."

“The way you phrased it," Gaz sighed, "made me think you didn't really care if you got pregnant and that really worried me. I don't want to just... give up on waiting for the right time. I don't want to risk it now..."

"And that's what made me mad." he said, his tone getting a little sharp. "That you were willing to throw all reason aside and just...try to see if it works. I know you'd do anything for something you want... but I want us to be on the same page about it."

There was something in his sharp tone that set you off again, your jaw clenching as you took a few deep breaths.

"I have a feeling we're circling around each other, but we both mean the same thing." You eventually said.

"Bottomline is that I won't quit my birth control, neither will I bring it up again.

We both do want children but not for another couple year.

And I think it is important to keep communicating about those needs and wants."

"We can talk about it again in the future..." he sighed. "Once things have had more time to become set, and we don't have as much on our plates."

A brief silence fell as you both processed the situation.

"But hey..." he said softly, his voice taking on more optimism that was missing during their discussion. "At least we can talk about these things. And that you're willing to communicate about what you're feeling, even when it makes you uncomfortable or it's something that's difficult to say is... huge."

You just nodded. "Yeah. Look at us being all grown up and adults, talking about our feelings and stuff."

You reached your hand out to him. "Is there anything else on your mind that bothers you and needs discussing?"

"I don't think so," he said, taking your hand and squeezing it gently. "Not at least about this topic."

"How about you?" he asked. "Do you feel okay about the conversation we just had?" He asked carefully. He didn't want to push it too much as he wanted to give you space and time, especially since he couldn't help but worry a little about you being mad at him.

"Well, I mean. It was tough." You admitted. "I had a lot of worries about us becoming official, and to have a fight almost immediately after. It did have me worried."

"But I am glad we could talk this out in a mature way."

You looked at the floor. "I would like some extra reassurance that everything is okay. Maybe a cuddle and some sweet words."

"Oh, come here you," he chuckled, opening up his arms to you and letting you get close to him.

"Of course everything's okay. Just because we had a disagreement does not mean we're gonna tear each other apart over something so small. We're both adults, we're going to have conflicts sometimes, but what matters is how we deal with them. And I think we dealt with this one pretty damn well."

If you looked closely, his eyes widened when he realized how aggressive his tone had just been. "Oh... and I'm sorry. Again."

[bpod-bpod]

Twisted Tail

Sperm swim a great distance, relative to their size, to reach an egg. To do so, they use a tail-like structure called a flagellum whose architecture includes structures called dynein arms. Deficiencies in dynein proteins, such as DNAH3, are linked to male infertility. Researchers investigated this using whole-exome sequencing to study the genomes of infertile men with malformed sperm. In four men, they identified variations in the DNAH3 gene that led to almost no DNAH3 protein in their sperm flagella. These flagella were deformed, as captured using scanning electron microscopy (pictured), compared to healthy sperm (left). Male mice lacking DNAH3 were also infertile. Both the infertile mice and men had reduced levels of proteins associated with dynein arms in their flagella and their infertility was rescued by directly injecting sperm into an egg. DNAH3 is, therefore, important in determining sperm flagella shape and this knowledge may aid diagnosis and genetic counselling for infertile men.

Written by Lux Fatimathas

Image from work by Xiang Wang, Gan Shen, Yihong Yang, Chuan Jiang and Tiechao Ruan, and colleagues

Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Women & Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing; Dept of Obstetrics/Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China

Video originally published with a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

Published in eLife, November 2024

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[mindblowingscience]

Mature spermatozoa are characterized by a head, midpiece and a long tail for locomotion. Now, researchers from the University Hospital Bonn (UKB) and the Transdisciplinary Research Unit "Life & Health" at the University of Bonn have found that a loss of the structural protein ACTL7B blocks spermatogenesis in male mice. The cells can no longer develop their characteristic shape and remain in a rather round form. The animals are infertile. The results of the study have now been published in the journal Development. Male sperm cells are constantly produced in large quantities in the testicles during so-called spermatogenesis. In this process, the typical elongated sperm cells are formed from round germ cells. This enormous change in shape requires the fine tuned reorganization of specialized structural proteins. One of these structural proteins is ACTL7B.

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[arthayurvedic]

Male infertility refers to the inability of a man to impregnate a woman due to problems with his reproductive system. Infertility can be caused by various factors, both medical and lifestyle-related. Here are some common causes and treatment options for male infertility:

[binoddas111]

‌What is Sperm morphology| Santaan| Best fertility center in Odisha

Sperm morphology refers to the form or shape and size of the sperm. Only the right shape of sperm could reach the egg to fertilize. In the case of severe sperm morphology problems, it could lead to male infertility issues. Treat it now visit the best fertility center in Odisha | Santaan

 Semen analysis is the first test that we commonly perform to examine male fertility thoroughly.  To Know about:

 ·       Sperm Motability

·       Sperm Volume

·       Sperm Morphology

·       Sperm Count Infection

sperm morphology plays a key role in fertilizing an egg to get a female partner pregnant. If you are facing any male fertility issues then get in touch with Santaan the best fertility Center in Odisha.

https://www.santaan.in/

[nsomniacsdream]

So like so many other things, the key to fertility issues is to turn the penis off and reset it. Now this is gonna sound rough, but getting blasted right in the balls is how we do it. Just wreck your balls so they reset and work right.

[sciivfhospitaldelhi]

How Does Infertility Work? Understanding the Causes and Factors

Infertility is a condition where a couple is unable to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. It can result from reproductive health issues in either partner. Understanding what causes infertility and the factors contributing to male infertility and female infertility can help in seeking timely treatment.

What Causes Infertility?

Infertility occurs due to various medical, genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. It can affect both men and women, leading to challenges in natural conception. The primary causes of infertility can be categorized into male and female factors.

Male Infertility: Causes and Factors

Male infertility accounts for nearly 40–50% of infertility cases. The major infertility causes in males include:

✔ Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia): Fewer sperm reduce the chances of fertilization. ✔ Poor Sperm Motility (Asthenospermia): Sperm that cannot swim properly struggle to reach the egg. ✔ Abnormal Sperm Morphology: Misshapen sperm may not fertilize an egg successfully. ✔ Hormonal Imbalances: Low testosterone or other hormonal issues can reduce sperm production. ✔ Obstructions in the Reproductive Tract: Blocked ducts prevent sperm from being ejaculated. ✔ Lifestyle and Environmental Factors: Smoking, alcohol, obesity, stress, and exposure to toxins can harm sperm health.

Female Infertility: Common Causes

Female infertility is often linked to ovulation disorders, structural issues, or medical conditions affecting reproductive health. Some common causes of infertility in women include:

✔ Ovulation Disorders: Conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal imbalances prevent egg release. ✔ Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Infections, endometriosis, or previous surgeries can cause blockages, hindering fertilization. ✔ Endometriosis: Tissue growing outside the uterus can affect implantation and cause severe pain. ✔ Uterine Fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus may interfere with pregnancy. ✔ Age-Related Decline: Fertility decreases after 35 due to lower egg quality and quantity. ✔ Lifestyle and Medical Conditions: Obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, thyroid disorders, and diabetes can impact fertility.

Conclusion

Infertility is a complex issue with various underlying causes. However, with medical advancements like IVF, ICSI, and hormonal treatments, couples struggling with infertility have hope. Understanding what causes infertility and addressing male infertility and female infertility factors can improve the chances of conception. Seeking help from fertility specialists is the first step toward parenthood.

[anantafertility]

Ananta Fertility & Women Wellness Centre, the Best Fertility Centre in Porur, Chennai

Ananta Fertility & Women Wellness Centre is your trusted partner in fertility care and women’s wellness. Renowned as the best fertility centre in Porur, Chennai, we specialize in advanced treatments such as IVF (In Vitro Fertilization), IUI (Intrauterine Insemination), and male infertility solutions.

Our facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and our team of experienced fertility specialists and gynecologists ensures personalized care tailored to your unique needs. At Ananta, we not only focus on fertility treatments but we are also a holistic women’s wellness clinic in Chennai offering gynecological check-ups, hormonal therapy, and preventive health care.

Whether you’re seeking expert IVF treatment in Chennai, IUI procedures in Chennai, or male infertility treatment in Chennai, Ananta Fertility & Women Wellness Centre offers compassionate care and guidance every step of the way. Visit us today to take the first step toward parenthood in a warm and supportive environment.

[bharathomeopathy2ww]

Best Varicocele Treatment Without Surgery: How Homeopathy Provides Natural Relief

Homeopathy: Best Varicocele Treatment

Varicocele is characterized by the enlargement of veins within the scrotum, which look like varicose veins in the legs. It is a common condition affecting men, especially those between 15 and 25 years old. Varicocele can sometimes lead to discomfort, pain, and, even worse, fertility issues. While not always requiring immediate medical attention, it does require the best varicocele treatment if symptoms become severe or if it affects a man’s fertility.

Homeopathy stimulates the innate healing mechanisms, improves circulation, and, therefore, corrects the condition of the veins. It is sometimes offered to patients who want noninvasive treatment, thereby avoiding surgical procedures or prolonged medication.

Understanding How Homeopathy Helps Cure Varicocele

Homeopathy provides a treatment that is suited to every patient, taking into account the person's general health, lifestyle, and symptoms. Thus, in the case of varicocele, homeopathic remedies attempt to tackle the underlying factors responsible for its occurrence. This makes homeopathic varicocele natural treatment

seem effective in curing varicocele.

Homeopathic remedies are selected after a thorough understanding of the patient's physical and emotional state. Homeopathic medicines are given to stimulate the body's self-healing capacity. In the case of varicocele, homeopathy can reduce the swelling in the veins, improve blood circulation in the affected area, and reduce discomfort. Homeopathic treatments can also address symptoms that are related, such as pain or heaviness in the scrotum, and even infertility issues brought on by varicocele.

The biggest advantage homeopathy has over other varicocele natural treatment is that it focuses on the physical aspect and the emotional aspect that one's health may point towards. Many varicocele sufferers also suffer from stress, anxiety, or depression, especially when the condition becomes a cause of infertility. A homeopathic approach to treatment attempts to balance emotional health further, which means a more holistic recovery.

Bharat Homeopathy: Best Homeopathy Treatment for Varicocele in Gurgaon

If you are in Gurgaon and seeking effective varicocele treatment in homeopathy, Bharat Homeopathy is one of the leading clinics that can provide proper care. Bharat Homeopathy has expert homeopaths who treat varicocele by taking a well-crafted, customized approach. Bharat Homeopathy works to find the root cause of varicocele symptoms and uses natural remedies to restore balance and health.

At Bharat Homeopathy, treatment starts with a detailed consultation to understand the patient's case. The practitioner ensures he understands the complete medical history and symptoms of the patient, as well as the lifestyle factors involved. After getting a proper diagnosis, the prescribed remedies are correctly administered. However, homeopathic medicines for varicocele are not used to treat varicocele alone. They are mainly prescribed to deal with the condition of the entire patient, promote immunity, and enhance the body's healing potential.

Varicocele Symptoms and Treatment

The symptoms of varicocele can be mild to severe and may go unnoticed in some cases. In many instances, varicocele is asymptomatic and only identified during a routine physical exam or infertility investigation. However, for those who experience symptoms, these may include:

Pain or discomfort: This is often felt in the scrotum and may worsen after physical activity, standing for long periods, or during hot weather.

Swelling: Enlarged veins may be noticeable as a “bag of worms” feeling in the scrotum.

Heaviness: A sensation of heaviness or dragging in the scrotum.

If left untreated, varicocele may lead to complications such as reduced sperm count or quality, making it more difficult for men to conceive. It may also cause atrophy (shrinkage) of the testicles over time, leading to long-term complications.

Homeopathic varicocele treatment without surgery offers a noninvasive, natural alternative to surgery. It aims to relieve symptoms and improve overall health without the need for surgery or long-term pharmaceutical use. Homeopathy is particularly suitable for patients who are looking for a safe, natural approach to managing varicocele, as it avoids the risks associated with invasive procedures.

Can Varicocele Heal on Its Own?

In some cases, varicocele may improve or stabilize on its own, especially if it is mild and asymptomatic. However, the condition does not typically resolve by itself in more severe cases. For many men, especially those who experience pain, discomfort, or infertility, treatment is required to manage the condition effectively.

Although varicocele may not fully heal on its own, proper intervention can still control the symptoms and prevent the condition from aggravating. Homeopathy is an option that cure varicocele without surgery

and is suitable for those interested in a smooth, non-interventional approach to treating varicocele. A carefully designed homeopathic treatment plan allows for the reduction of inflammation and sometimes even healing of the emotional nuances that accompany such chronic conditions as varicocele.

Conclusion

Homeopathy is a great solution for those undergoing treatment for varicocele to cure varicocele naturally. It is a painless method of healing the human body from within. Patients may seek homeopathic care from highly experienced homeopaths, like Bharat Homeopathy in Gurgaon, to receive personalized treatments that address their symptoms and problems. Though varicocele is not one that may self-resolve, treatment will remove discomfort and complications from the disease. Homeopathy works in a manner to assist the body in natural healing, thereby providing long-term relief with the added benefit of possibly increased fertility and well-being. If you suffer from varicocele and are interested in holistic healing, homeopathic varicocele natural remedies can be one treatment you definitely include in your journey to wellness.

[bpod-bpod]

Stopping Swimming

A newly discovered genetic mutation in the CCDC146 gene affects microtubules [proteins that form a cell's inner structure] to cause sperm tail abnormality, a cause of male infertility

Read the published research article here

Image from work by Jana Muroňová and colleagues

Institute for Advanced Biosciences, (IAB), INSERM 1209, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, (IAB) CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, (IAB) Université Grenoble Alpes, France

Image originally published with a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

Published in eLife, January 2024

You can also follow BPoD on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

[crystaivfdel]

Unhealthy Sperm: Recognizing the Signals & Seeking Help

Infertility is a shared journey, and male factors often play a significant role. Recognizing potential issues with sperm health is crucial for timely intervention. Here are some signs that might indicate unhealthy sperm:

Reduced Sperm Count: A lower-than-normal sperm count can significantly impact fertility.

Poor Sperm Motility: Sperm need to be strong swimmers to reach the egg. Decreased motility (movement) can hinder fertilization.

Abnormal Sperm Morphology: Abnormalities in sperm shape and size can affect their ability to function properly.

Ejaculation Problems: Issues like premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and difficulty ejaculating can also impact fertility.

What to Do If You Suspect an Issue:

Don't Panic: Many factors can affect sperm quality, including stress, diet, and certain medications.

Consult a Specialist: Schedule a consultation with a male infertility specialist near me.

Open Communication: Discuss your concerns openly with your partner.

A Male Infertility Specialist Can:

Perform a Semen Analysis: This comprehensive test evaluates sperm count, motility, and morphology.

Identify Underlying Causes: Determine the root cause of any sperm-related issues, such as hormonal imbalances, infections, or genetic factors.

Recommend Treatment Options: Explore various treatment options, including lifestyle changes, medication, or assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as IUI or IVF.

Remember: Seeking professional help is the first step towards addressing male infertility. Open communication and a collaborative approach with your partner and medical team are essential for a successful journey.

[infertilityclinicsblog]

IVF Fertility Center In Kasaragod

Discover advanced reproductive care at the best IVF fertility center in Kasaragod. Offering personalized fertility treatments, including IVF, IUI, and egg freezing, our expert team helps couples achieve their dream of parenthood with high success rates and compassionate support. Book your consultation today!

[drdas]

The Essential Guide to Kidney Stone Treatment: Diagnosis, Causes, and Management Tips

Kidney stones are tiny, solid deposits of minerals and salts that form in your kidneys. While their passage through your body can be intensely painful, some stones may pass unnoticed, without causing any discomfort. For those looking for effective kidney stone treatments in Bahrain, Dr. Das Clinic provides expert care and personalized treatment options to help manage and treat kidney stones.

What are kidney stones and how do they develop?

Your kidneys play a crucial role in eliminating waste and other byproducts from your body. Similar to your liver, think of your kidneys as your body’s natural filtration system.

When you're dehydrated or fail to consume enough water, crystals composed of minerals and salt can develop. As these crystals grow, they draw in additional waste and chemicals, causing the crystal to expand and eventually form a solid mass.

Who can develop a kidney stone?

Unfortunately, anyone can develop a kidney stone, but there are a few risk factors, including:

Being overweight.

Some illnesses also predispose you to a greater risk of development, including polycystic kidney disease and health problems that alter your urine to contain higher concentrations of things like excess calcium or uric acid.

Certain medications can also increase your risk, like calcium-based antacids or diuretics.

Not drinking enough water. While you can get some water through food and even soft drinks, these are by no means what you should use to monitor your water intake.

A family history of kidney stones.

While anyone can get a kidney stone, men are more likely to develop them.

Symptoms include severe pain in your side, lower back pain, burning during urination and blood in your urine.

How to prevent kidney stones

Staying well-hydrated can assist in passing kidney stones, and your doctor may prescribe medication to reduce the acidity of your urine. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can also contribute to preventing kidney stones.

Treatments of kidney stones

Of course! Here's a synonym for that content:

Treatment methods depend on the size and quantity of the stones. If your doctor determines that the stones will pass naturally, they may prescribe pain relievers to help ease the discomfort during the process.

Non-invasive options, like shock-wave lithotripsy, are also available, which breaks the stones into smaller fragments that can be passed more easily.

A ureteroscopy may be conducted in more severe cases, where a doctor uses an endoscope to remove the stone. Larger stones may require surgical intervention.

Although kidney stones can be uncomfortable, they are manageable if detected early. Ensure you stay well-hydrated with water and follow your healthcare provider's recommendations regarding medications, especially if you're at a higher risk of developing kidney stones. For those seeking kidney stone treatments in Bahrain, Dr. Das Clinic offers comprehensive care and treatment options tailored to your needs.

[ankururja]

The Role of Male Fertility Doctor

Male fertility doctors, often referred to as andrologists or reproductive urologists, are specialists dedicated to understanding and treating male reproductive health issues. Despite common misconceptions, male factor infertility contributes to nearly 50% of infertility cases, making their role vital in family planning.

These specialists address a wide range of concerns, including low sperm count, motility issues, hormonal imbalances, and genetic conditions affecting fertility. Through advanced diagnostic tools and cutting-edge treatments like surgical sperm retrieval, hormone therapy, or lifestyle recommendations, male fertility doctor empower men to take charge of their reproductive health.

By fostering open conversations and breaking societal stigma, these professionals provide not only medical solutions but also emotional support to individuals and couples on their journey to parenthood. Remember, seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a proactive step toward building the family you dream of.

Fertility is a shared responsibility, and taking the first step toward understanding and improving male fertility is empowering. Let Ankur Urja be your partner in this hopeful journey.