Dear Procrea Gatineau Patients,

I am thrilled to announce a significant evolution: starting March 1, 2024, Procrea Gatineau will become Ovo Gatineau. This transition, a result of our association with OVO, Quebec’s largest fertility clinic, allows us to reintegrate into the RAMQ system, offering fertility services covered by the public regime.

Our collaboration with OVO Clinic provides access to cutting-edge practices and an optimal variety of services. In addition to soon offering embryo transfers at our site, you will benefit from access to a state-of-the-art technical platform and the expertise of our multidisciplinary team.

To effectively integrate these new processes and align with RAMQ standards, a transition period is required. Therefore, there will be no fertility treatment activity from February 1 to February 29, 2024. However, our prenatal screening services will not be affected and will continue as usual during this period.

We look forward to welcoming you back on March 1 and to welcoming you into the larger OVO family. For any questions during this transition period, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] .

I thank you for your continuous support and look forward to embarking on this new journey together.

Sincerely,

Dr. Eric Himaya

Spermatozoids are one of the most important factors when it comes to achieving a successful pregnancy. Healthy spermatozoa are crucial for the fertilization process to take place. In order for a woman to conceive, the man’s sperm must be able to reach and penetrate her egg. If the sperm is not healthy, it might not be able to complete this process, which could result in infertility. In this article, Procrea is giving you some advice to boost your spermatozoa and increase your chance to procreate through food.

How can a man’s diet impact healthy spermatozoa production?

There are many things that can impact sperm health and spermatozoa production. One of the most important things is the dad-to-be diet. Eating a healthy diet is important for overall health, and it is especially important for men who are trying to conceive.

Inflammation can lead to decreased fertility

The negative impacts of excess food on spermatozoa have been well documented. Too much food can lead to weight gain, which in turn can lead to a decrease in the quality and quantity of sperm. This is because excess food can cause inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are harmful to sperm. When the body is in a state of inflammation, it produces harmful molecules called free radicals. These molecules can damage DNA and essential proteins within sperm, leading to decreased fertility. Additionally, oxidative stress can cause the cells of the sperm membrane to become rigid and inflexible. This makes it more difficult for sperm to swim and reach the egg.

Obesity is harmful for the male’s reproductive system

Excess food can also lead to obesity, which is a major risk factor for infertility. Obesity causes an increase in the production of estrogen, which can interfere with normal sperm development. Additionally, obesity can lead to problems with the male reproductive system, such as decreased testosterone levels and an increase in the number of abnormal sperm cells.

The future dad’s diet has huge impact on the development of the fetus

This is groundbreaking news for couples planning to have a child. Researchers from McGill University have shown that the father’s eating behavior has a great impact on the development of the fetus and the health of the unborn child, before conception. Poor eating habits can lead to obesity and other health problems in the father, which can then be passed on to the child. This is why it’s so important for fathers to eat healthy foods and stay in shape before trying to conceive.

All of these factors together can reduce the chances of fertilization taking place. If you are trying to conceive, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and stay within a healthy weight range. Eating too much junk food and processed foods can have negative consequences for your fertility.

What are the key nutrients and foods for healthy spermatozoa?

Nuts

A study of 2018 found that adding 60 grams of nuts per day to the diets of young men aged 18-35 can improve sperm quality by 16 %, and increase sperm mobility by 6 %. This study provides valuable information on how to improve male fertility by adopting the right diet, and could aid in the treatment of infertility.

White and fatty fish

There is some evidence to suggest that the consumption of white fish can improve the sperm quality, making it more efficient and effective in terms of fertilization. This is good news for couples who are trying to conceive, as it can help to improve their chances of success. There are many benefits to eating fatty fish, including male fertility. On the other hand, fatty fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for overall health and fertility. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish help to improve sperm quality and motility. They also help to reduce inflammation, which is often associated with infertility. Eating fatty fish is a simple way to improve your fertility and increase your chances of conception.

Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that is important for the health of sperm. It helps to keep the sperm cell head shape normal and increases the sperm count. It’s also great for the development of sperm and testosterone production. Zinc can be found in wholemeal bread, calf liver or even egg yolks.

Iron

Iron is an important mineral for both male and female fertility. An iron deficiency increases oxidative stress and decreases antioxidant enzymes. The body uses iron to produce sperm and eggs, and to maintain the health of reproductive tissues. A deficiency in iron can lead to reduced fertility in men and women. Good sources of iron include dried fruits, fish/seafood, and meats. Iron-rich foods are especially important for pregnant women and those who are trying to conceive, as they help ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Vitamin B9 (folate)

The relationship between male fertility and vitamin B9 is well known. A study conducted in 2017 found that sufficient consumption of vitamins B9 and B12 influences sperm parameters This means that a diet including walnuts, parsley, broccoli, and almonds is a great way to improve your fertility.

What food to avoid to improve sperm quality?

Foods that are high in pesticides, chemicals and sugar can negatively impact sperm quality. Try to avoid eating foods that are heavily processed, or foods that are known to contain high levels of chemicals and pesticides, such as conventionally-grown fruits and vegetables.

Sugar

Too much sugar in men’s diets could lead to a risk of being overweight in future children. This overconsumption of sugar affects RNA fragments that play a role in epigenetics and heredity. This means that the health of the father can directly impact the health of his children. It is important for men to be mindful of their sugar intake in order to maintain their fertility and help ensure the health of their future kids.

Processed meat

Processed meats like hot dogs, bacon and industrial sausage have been linked to lower sperm counts and quality in men. The chemicals used in the processing of these meats can interfere with male hormones and damage sperm cells. This could lead to difficulty conceiving a child. It is important for men to eat superfoods and avoid processed meats if they are trying to conceive.

Alcool

Alcohol consumption can have a significant impact on male fertility. Heavy drinking can lower testosterone levels, decrease sperm production, and reduce sperm motility. This can make it difficult or impossible for men to conceive a child. In addition, drinking can also increase the risk of miscarriage and birth defects. It is important for couples who are trying to conceive to abstain from alcohol entirely.

​​Procrea fertility clinics are experts in helping couples to get pregnant and start a family. We offer a wide variety of services and treatments to help couples conceive, including in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). If you are looking to start a family, make an appointment with Procrea today!

According to scientific studies, “stress doubles the chances of infertility”. When trying to get pregnant, stress and anxiety can be detrimental to fertility. Mindfulness meditation is then a great practice to put in place, as much to decompress from the craziness of daily life, as to try to procreate. In this article, we explain the various benefits of mindfulness meditation on fertility.

Mindfulness meditation to release stress and promote pregnancy

But what is mindfulness meditation anyway? Let’s get a little reminder of this ancestral practice which has largely proven its worth. Mindfulness meditation is about immersing yourself in the heart of the present moment, becoming aware of your body and your environment. We anchor ourselves in the “now”, and let our thoughts come as they are, without trying to control them. This relaxation technique is particularly interesting when one suffers from anxiety, overflowing emotions or even negative thoughts. When trying to get pregnant, the resulting pressure and stress can sometimes get in the way, and mindfulness can really help with letting go.

Mindfulness meditation boosts DHEA hormone production

Balanced hormones are the first step to top fertility! However, when these fluctuate due to anxiety, fatigue or our lifestyle, it sometimes gets harder to conceive. One hormone in particular increases the chances of favoring a pregnancy: DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone). This hormone, called the “longevity molecule”, is one of the most important in the human body. A high level of DHEA would boost the vitality of the eggs during the ovulation period, and get pregnant more quickly. On the other hand, many women can suffer from low levels of this hormone and thus experience fertility problems. However, healthcare professionals show the link between mindfulness meditation and increased DHEA levels! People who practice meditation would also have a DHEA rate 43% higher than those who do not practice!

Reduce stress levels by focusing on the present moment

When we try to procreate and the attempts get unsuccessful, stress and anxiety can quickly take hold of our minds. It then becomes difficult to let go and maintain some clarity. Mindfulness meditation, by promoting breathing and regulating heart rate, has a significant impact on reducing stress. Our emotions are better controlled, our sleep is of better quality, we better understand the obstacles of daily life, and our morale is gradually recovering. So no, there is no factual evidence yet between high stress levels and low fertility rates. In fact, these are mostly assumptions. Let’s just say that stress does not help the situation, and does not offer the best conditions for having a child.

Practicing mindfulness on a daily basis: exercises to refocus and promote the conception of a baby

Did these few lines convince you to try mindfulness meditation to improve your fertility? If so, you are probably now wondering how to practice daily, how often and for how long. Let’s find out now!

Mindfulness requires no equipment

There are different ways to practice mindfulness meditation, although the main goal is always the same: to be with yourself for at least 5 minutes a day, and observe what is happening. For example, close your eyes and grab an edible object in your hand. Touch it, taste it, smell it and focus on your awakened senses. In the shower, it’s the same thing: you can feel the water running over your skin, or even when you’re walking down the street. Daily activities can be real mindfulness meditation exercises! Finally, you can always opt for guided mindfulness meditation online or with a teacher, or follow sessions via mobile apps.

Focus on yourself for as long as you want

The key to mindfulness meditation is regularity. Several small sessions of 5 minutes carried out on a constant basis, will be much more effective in the long term than a meditation of one hour per week. And the advantage is that you can practice it at any time of the day, without equipment! Being able to take a few moments for yourself, a little each day, is to refocus on what is most important: you, your soul and your conscience. Your mind will clear, and you will be in the best condition to get pregnant.

Procrea, the fertility clinics with a holistic approach

Calling on Procrea clinics when you want to start a pregnancy process is the assurance of being taken care of by a dedicated and professional team. More than medical care, we favor a global approach to the health of our patients. Acupuncture, meditation for stress reduction, nutrition and weight control… we are convinced that these alternative methods offer not only benefits for overall health, but also for fertility. In addition, it helps prepare the body for a healthy future pregnancy.

Mindfulness meditation for conception: what you need to remember

Meditation, by promoting the regulation of your hormones and your heart rate, has multiple beneficial impacts on fertility. In addition, this ancestral relaxation method acts against stress and anxiety, while helping you to let go. In general, we can only recommend the practice of mindfulness to maintain your morale at the top, and live in the present moment.

Need support in your pregnancy process? The Procrea fertility clinic is at your service: make an appointment now, and let’s start your conception process together.

One-third to one-half of women with endometriosis have difficulty getting pregnant. Many people may have heard of endometriosis, but they are unaware of how this condition can have an effect on fertility. The Mayo Clinic describes endometriosis as, “an often painful disorder in which tissue similar to the tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus — the endometrium — grows outside your uterus. Endometriosis most commonly involves your ovaries, fallopian tubes and the tissue lining your pelvis” (1). There are women who develop endometrial tissue in other areas of the body, but this is typically considered rare. We are going to discuss this diagnosis, as well as natural and medicinal methods to treat it. 

How is Endometriosis Diagnosed?

Endometriosis can be difficult to diagnose and most women who are affected by it could struggle to get a diagnosis for many years. Endometriosis has a vast range of symptoms that may mimic other diseases, which can complicate the diagnosis. Some of the main symptoms are:

• Painful periods

• Pain during sexual intercourse

• Infertility

Other symptoms can include:

• Pain outside of the period

• Digestive problems

• Pneumothorax

The cells can attach to major organs and every month during menstruation, those cells shed their lining just like the uterus. This is what causes endometriosis to be so painful. 

Diagnosing endometriosis can be completed multiple ways such as: Pelvic exam, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and laparoscopy 

Pelvic Exam

A doctor will insert one or two gloved fingers inside your vagina and while pressing down on your abdomen, they can evaluate your uterus, ovaries, and other pelvic organs. The doctor will be able to feel the difference between normal and abnormal tissue in your pelvis.

Ultrasound

During an ultrasound specifically performed to diagnose endometriosis, a doctor or sonographer will insert a small probe, called a transducer, into the vagina to capture images of the pelvis. They will examine your uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes to see if they have any anomaly. Cysts, a large uterus, adhesions with immobile organs can be clues to the presence of endometrial cells. 

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging, known more commonly as an MRI, can be performed to find endometrial cells deep inside the pelvis. An MRI can also be done to find endometrial cells in other parts of the body, although this is rarely ordered without specific symptoms.

Laparoscopy

The only sure way to diagnose endometriosis is through laparoscopic surgery. This type of surgery is low-risk but is usually still avoided if possible. The surgeon will make a small incision in the abdomen, near or in the belly button. A camera, called a laparoscope, will be inserted into the incision, which the surgeon will use to visualize internal organs looking for signs of endometriosis. If found, the anatomy can be restored and abnormal cells can be removed. This is an important diagnostic tool and can greatly help for relief of symptoms.  However, it is temporary and the main treatment will always be medical for long term care and to avoid relapse.

Endometriosis and Fertility

There are many ways, both naturally and medically, to relieve symptoms of endometriosis and help fertility. Let’s first look at the different natural methods available for a woman considering natural childbearing.

Natural Methods

One of the methods to help relieve endometriosis symptoms is  to focus on an anti-inflammatory diet that centers around eating foods high in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. Studies have found that women who eat more Omega-3 fats experience relief in their symptoms. Some foods that could be incorporated into your diet are:

• Spinach, broccoli, beans, and beets

• Walnuts, dark chocolate

• Salmon

• Oranges, Berries

Nutrition is a key component of immune system health, so women with endometriosis could find relief from their symptoms after changing their diet. 

Although we do not have evidence that hypnosis, psychotherapy or acupuncture help diminish symptoms or treat endometriosis, they are options that can be considered and explored.

Keep in mind that these natural methods will only treat symptoms and bring relief, not cure endometriosis. 

Medical Treatments

Medical treatments are available to relieve and control endometriosis. These treatments can include pain medication, hormone therapy and surgery. Pain medication can bring relief from symptoms but is not a cure-all. 

Hormones fluctuate during menstruation, which causes the endometrial cells to thicken and shed. Hormone therapy can be a more permanent pain reliever, sometimes eliminating the pain altogether. It is the main treatment plan for long term relief and prevention of worsening endometriosis. If you stop the treatment, symptoms could return unless you have reached the age of menopause, at which time endometriosis will be much less problematic. Different hormone treatments are available, including progestin therapy and birth control pills.

Another option to treat endometriosis is surgery. Surgeons can perform a laparoscopic procedure to remove endometrial cells while leaving your uterus and ovaries intact. The procedure is like the diagnosis laparoscopy, but the surgeon will actually remove or burn the endometrium tissue to relieve pain. If the surgery is successful, fertility may be improved although  this remains controversial.  Furthermore, a high number of women would have to get surgery in order to improve fertility for only one of them.  Therefore, it is usually avoided when only considered for infertility. 

The final option is IVF (in vitro fertilization) to stimulate the ovaries. According to contemporaryobgyn.net, “IVF clinical outcomes were evaluated based on rates of fertilization, implantation, and spontaneous pregnancy. The fertilization rate among patients with endometriosis was 70% compared to 67.1% for patients who did not have the condition” (2). 

Natural and medical methods will mainly help relieve endometriosis pain, which is the first step before procreation. 

When Treatments are No Longer Sufficient

If you have tried the natural and medical methods above and they are no longer working, that’s when you should contact a professional. Consult a doctor to establish a diagnosis and analysis of fertility beyond endometriosis. If tests are inconclusive, consult a fertility professional who may help identify more serious problems. You should also contact a professional if you experience multiple miscarriages. 

Endometriosis Can Affect Fertility, But Each Case is Different 

Even though endometriosis is painful, underdiagnosed, and can affect fertility, it does not mean you are infertile. Many women who are diagnosed with endometriosis have successfully conceived and given birth, both naturally and through IVF or other fertility treatments. It can take longer to conceive, but it is still a possibility. 

If you have any of the symptoms listed at the beginning of the article or you are struggling with fertility, you should set up an appointment with your primary care doctor to get a diagnosis. The sooner you receive a diagnosis, the quicker your symptoms and pain can be resolved, and the sooner you can start to try to conceive.

Citations:

1. “Endometriosis”

2. “Study finds IVF success negatively correlates with endometriosis severity”

A miscarriage occurs when a woman loses her pregnancy before the 20th week. Also called spontaneous abortion, it occurs in most cases during the first trimester (before 14 weeks). It is important to know that the rate of miscarriage increases with the age of the mother or the person providing the eggs.
Since it often happens at the very beginning of the pregnancy, it may go unnoticed. However, there are signs that may indicate a miscarriage and should be investigated during any pregnancy. These include bleeding or painful cramps.

Miscarriage: Management

Management depends on the age of the pregnancy at the time of conclusion. It may include a period of observation, medication or a curettage. But it is important to remember that a miscarriage is not only physical but also psychological. It is important to have a support network and sometimes it may even be  necessary to consult a psychologist.

How can a fertility specialist intervene in case of miscarriage?

When a woman experiences a miscarriage, it is important that she be accompanied on a moral and psychological level as well as on a medical level. Indeed, a miscarriage can have an impact on the health of the woman as well as on the outcome of future pregnancies. Hence the importance of being accompanied by a health professional who is comfortable and knowledgeable on the subject. 

For example, experts recommend that women who have had two or more miscarriages meet with a fertility doctor. Many family doctors or gynecologists can also help. If possible, consulting a fertility specialist is a good idea.

Many women who experience pregnancy loss go on to have healthy pregnancies, but the loss may indicate a fertility problem. This problem needs to be recognized and evaluated if the pregnancy plan is to be pursued. 

A fertility specialist will meet with you and propose a personalized treatment plan. He or she will evaluate the potential causes according to your history, such as :

• Abnormal shape of the uterus (malformation, myomas, etc);
• Genetic abnormalities;
• Hormonal disorders;
• Infection;
• Immunological factors;

Since the majority of miscarriages are due to a chromosomal abnormality of the embryo, the discussion may also include the evaluation of the relevance of a genetic analysis of the embryo before a possible implantation.  

Embryos analyzed in this way and considered normal will offer a higher pregnancy rate and limit the risk of genetic abnormality in the embryo, and consequently of miscarriage. Abnormal embryos will generally not be used since they often result in a negative pregnancy test or miscarriage.

Note that all of these risks are directly related to several factors, mainly the woman’s age.  Thus, the options may vary depending on your personal circumstances.

Follow-up and advice from doctors

If you have suffered repeated miscarriages, we invite you to make an appointment with a fertility specialist who will be able to help you find the cause of the miscarriage and accompany you. 

On July 19, some refreshing changes are coming to our Newmarket and Vaughan locations. 

Newmarket location change 

Our Newmarket clinic is moving to a new address July 19th 2021. Freshly renovated with plenty of convenient parking. We look forward to welcoming you to this brand-new location. 

Appointments will be at our new address as of July 19th: 

1111 Davis Drive East, Unit 39 

Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 9E5 

T: 905.967.0852 / F: 905.967.0512 

New name, new look: Vaughan and Newmarket clinics 

Starting on July 19, great patient care will have a brand-new name! The Procrea Fertility clinics in Newmarket and Vaughan clinics will be renamed as Generation Fertility.  

Since 2011, our Newmarket and Vaughan teams have been recognized for their caring expertise, innovation and healthy outcomes. We’ve also been growing with the addition of new team members, recently welcoming two new fertility specialists Drs. Hartman and Lai. The new Generation Fertility name and look reflect the energy and expertise of our team. And, while our name is changing, you can expect the excellent patient care and clinical team you’ve come to know.  

We’re honored to be your clinic of choice, to help you achieve your dream of family. 

The Vaughan clinic is not relocating and will remain at its current address: 

955 Major Mackenzie Drive West, Suite 400 

Vaughan, ON L6A 4P9 

T: 289.357.0100 / F: 289.357.0101 

What if I have eggs, sperm or embryos stored at the clinic?

Your storage arrangements are not changing. Rest assured, your samples will not be affected and will remain safely stored in their current location, carefully monitored by our expert staff. Should you have any questions you may email us at [email protected]

What if I have additional questions?

Or team would be happy to communicate with you. Should you have any additional concerns feel free to call us or email us at [email protected]