Why it’s Important for Men to Talk About Mental Health

Mental health issues have become a common topic of discussion since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. What’s not always part of the discussion, though, is the risk mental health issues pose to men. Men are often reluctant to discuss depression and other mental health issues, yet research indicates that men are up to four times more likely than women to die from suicide. In fact, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, men make up about 70 percent of suicide deaths annually. What can be done to stem this tide? The first step is more open communication.

While over 6 million men in the United States experience symptoms of depression each year, and more than 3 million suffer from anxiety, men are less likely than women to seek mental health support. The reason for this has to do with cultural stigmas. Outdated ideas about gender and mental health can discourage men from seeking treatment, and men are more likely than women to buy into some of these detrimental and destructive points of view. Ideas about men with depression being dangerous or unreliable are among these viewpoints, as is the perception that men should be able to “snap out of” depression and “man up.” It’s no wonder that men who have heard and internalized these thoughts would be reluctant or embarrassed to seek formal treatment for depression.

Men are also less likely to talk to their peers about issues that are troubling them. While a man may be feeling financial pressure and the stress of supporting a family and balancing home and work life, he’s unlikely to talk about these stressors. This can lead to symptoms of depression that include bad moods, apathy, inability to sleep or sleeping too much, or feelings of anxiousness, restlessness, or racing thoughts. While women often seem sad or down when they’re depressed, men are more likely to display anger or aggression, or self-medicate through substance abuse. It’s important to notice these signs in the men in your life, so that you can encourage them to talk about what’s going on.

Talking about mental health is important and beneficial. Opening up about stressors can bring a sense of relief and make a person feel less isolated. What’s more, the more people talk about their mental health, the more the topic is normalized, allowing other people to feel they can talk about it too. Talking about mental health can bring out compassion and understanding, not just for others but also for yourself. It also can make a person feel more in control of the situation, once it’s finally out in the open. By beginning to talk, first to close friends and loved ones, then to a health professional, a person can find strategies for coping with mental health issues like depression and anxiety, leading to a healthier life.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we care about all aspects of men’s health. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

The Link Between Stress and Men’s Reproductive Health

When you’re trying to conceive a child, you’ll try just about anything to make it happen. Men trying to improve their reproductive health often wear looser clothing, avoid hot tubs and laptops, and change their diets to improve their chances at conception. It can get pretty stressful, which is not great, because stress negatively impact on your reproductive health as well.

It makes sense that stress would be bad for your reproductive health, because it’s bad for your health in general. Stress, a reaction to mental or emotional pressure, can cause biochemical, physiological, and behavioral changes or responses. It’s known to disrupt immune function, exacerbate bowel issues, cause heart trouble, and contribute to cancer. Now, several studied have linked stress with a reduction in male fertility and the quality of semen.

Stress can cause erectile dysfunction, which is a major cause of infertility. Researchers don’t yet fully understand, though, what it is about stress that impacts semen quality. It may cause the release of hormones that decrease testosterone and sperm production, or it could be that oxidative stress is the problem. One study indicated that work stress adversely affected sperm count and semen volume, and another showed that prolonged stress, such as the stress experienced by soldiers, reduced sperm motility. Other studied confirm the correlation between stress and semen quality, even if we don’t know exactly how it happens.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your stress. Even though stress can feel like it’s beyond your control, you can alleviate it in the following ways.

• Take control of your problems. If something is overwhelming you, try breaking it down into smaller, more manageable tasks so it’s easier to tackle.
• Learn to say no. It’s easy to keep taking on tasks and adding to your workload, and this may be your way of trying to be in control of your problems. However, it’s smarter to delegate than to do too much, and to say no when you’re overwhelmed. If you’re often working overtime, for instance, be proactive about it, speaking to your boss and making a point to work fewer hours.
• Spend time with your favorite people. It’s easy for men to become isolated, especially when they’re dealing with something as stressful as infertility. Make the time to be with friends and family, enjoying the company of loved ones without focusing on your worries. It can also be helpful to talk about your struggles with infertility, and if you’re having trouble talking to people you know about it, consider joining a support group. In a group where people are going through similar experiences, you can share and feel truly understood.
• Get some exercise. Regular exercise can reduce stress and anxiety, as well as helping to regulate your sleep patterns, which also alleviates stress. You don’t have to overdo it; yoga, walking, or a light gym workout are enough to be beneficial. Make exercise a priority, scheduling like you would any other appointment, and invite a friend to join you. Above all, do something you enjoy that’s sustainable in the long run.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we are committed to helping men overcome reproductive issues and start healthy families. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Questions to Ask Your PCP During Your Checkups

If you’re taking care of yourself, you probably go in for an annual checkup with your primary care provider (PCP). You might find, though, that you end up feeling rushed and a little bit overwhelmed during the appointment. You may not end up learning as much as you need to know because you forget the questions you wanted to ask your doctor. We suggest that you make a list ahead of time, and consider asking these questions next time you see your PCP.

• Should I change my diet? Eating sensibly is a good idea for everyone, so stick to nutrient-dense foods and try to avoid things that are over-processed, calorie-laden, or full of sugar. If you have a health condition like pre-diabetes or diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend specific dietary measures for you to take.
• How much do I need to exercise? It’s recommended for most people to get 30 minutes of exercise, at least five days a week. The amount and type of exercise that’s right for you is something your doctor can help you to determine.
• How much sleep do I need? Sleep is extremely important, and many health conditions are linked to poor sleep, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, excess weight, and mood disorders. Younger men who don’t get enough sleep can also suffer from low testosterone. Your doctor can advise you on the amount of sleep you need, but in general, good sleep habits include going to bed and waking at the same time each day, exercising regularly, avoiding caffeine in the afternoon and evening, avoiding large meals and alcohol at night, and using the bedroom only for sleeping and sex.
• Which tests and screenings should I have? At your physical, you’ll probably have your weight, temperature, and blood pressure checked, and the doctor will examine you, listening to your heart and lungs and checking your reflexes. Your doctor may also order some screenings, like cholesterol, blood sugar, and iron levels, and possibly heart function, using an EKG. You may also have a prostate check, which is necessary to protect your health. Talk to your doctor about any other screenings that may be necessary.
• Am I at increased risk for any illnesses or conditions? Talk to your doctor about your family history, and be honest about your lifestyle habits. Your doctor will be able to help you determine whether you’re at increased risk for things like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
• Should I be concerned with my bowel health? Everyone experiences problems like constipation or diarrhea from time to time, but if these conditions are chronic or sudden and intense, you may be suffering from a condition more serious than an upset stomach. Talk to your doctor, because you may be suffering from something like irritable bowel syndrome, food intolerance, or celiac disease, but it could also be colon cancer. Getting to the root cause of your problem, then, is crucial.
• Is depression a risk for me? About 6 million men in the United States struggle with depression, but many of them don’t ask for help. In fact, they often do not realize they’re suffering from depression but simply report symptoms like fatigue, loss of appetite, restlessness, or a loss of interest in their usual activities. Staying on top of your mental health is important, not least because men die from suicide at four times the rate of women. If you’re feeling stressed or anxious, talk to your doctor.
• What kinds of cancer should concern me? Men have a greater lifetime risk of cancer than women, and some cancers are particularly likely to affect men. Lung cancer and colorectal cancer, for instance, occur more frequently in men than women. Melanoma affects both genders equally, but is the most common type of cancer in men over 50. Of course, men can also get prostate, testicular, and penile cancer. Talk to your doctor about screening for and protecting against cancer.
• How is my sexual health? Sexual health is important because it impacts your overall health. If you’re suffering from erectile dysfunction or you have any symptoms that could indicate a sexually transmitted infection, talk to your doctor about it. There’s also the controversial issue of male menopause, in which the decline in testosterone as men age can cause symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, low sex drive, loss of energy, and depression.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start families with healthy pregnancies. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Foods that Affect Sperm Count

Did you know that the sperm count of the average man has steadily decreased over the past 40 years? Why is this happening? Is it a problem that the quality of sperm is decreasing? It is certainly a problem for a man who is struggling with infertility. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to promote your sperm quality, and it starts with eating the right foods.

How big of a problem is decreasing sperm quality? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that a male factor as well as a female factor is involved in about 35 percent of couples experiencing infertility. Additionally, a recent study estimates that sperm counts have dropped by 59 percent, on average over the past 38 years. What’s causing this decrease? No one really knows. Some blame technology like cell phones and laptops, which produce fertility-threatening heat. Obesity may be a factor. And there’s a body of research to indicate that a man’s diet has an impact on sperm count. Here are the dietary do’s and don’ts for improving your fertility.

First, here are the foods to avoid if you want to boost fertility:

• Processed meats, eaten three or more times a week, can reduce your chance of achieving pregnancy by 28 percent. Red meat is also related to low sperm concentration and sperm count, and processed red meat also alters sperm motility. Eating fish and poultry is better for your fertility.
• Trans fats increase the risk of heart disease and decrease sperm counts. In fact, sperm with the highest trans-fatty acid levels are linked to low sperm concentrations. Trans fatty acids typically come from French fries and commercially baked items, as well as foods like frostings and things cooked with lard.
• Soy products have phytoestrogens, estrogen-like compounds that interfere with fertility. Soy milk, veggie burgers, protein bars, tofu, and tempeh are soy-based foods linked to low sperm count, particularly in overweight men.
• High fat dairy products have been linked to abnormal sperm shape and low motility. Whole milk, cheese, and cream are all on the do-not-eat list, because as few as three slices of cheese a day can endanger fertility. Low-fat dairy, however, is linked to higher sperm concentration and motility.
• Pesticides and bisphenol a (BPA) can make their way into your food and diminish fertility. Pesticides can be on vegetables and fruits as well as meat and fish. BPA is in food packaging and cans and can leech into the foods we eat. These chemicals, which area also found in non-stick cookware act as xenoestrogens and decrease sperm concentration.
• Sometimes what you drink can impact your fertility. Alcohol and beverages with excessive caffeine have been linked to a decrease in male fertility.

Now that you know what to avoid, what should you eat? Certain foods have been shown to increase male fertility and improve sperm health.

• Eat your veggies. Fruits and vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables and legumes, have been shown to improve sperm concentration and motility. It’s believed that this is due to the high level of antioxidants and nutrients like co-enzyme Q10, vitamin C, and lycopene, micronutrients linked to higher sperm concentration.
• Have some fish or chicken. Research indicates that eating chicken and fish can actually improve fertility. Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, raise sperm count significantly. On the other hand, taking omega 3 supplements does not have the same effect.
• Walnuts can give your fertility a boost. In a small 2012 study, significant improvements in sperm vitality were seen with the consumption of only 18 walnuts a day.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start families with healthy pregnancies. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Everything You Need to Know About Erectile Dysfunction

It’s the subject of many late night commercials and it’s often used as a punchline, but erectile dysfunction (ED) is no laughing matter to the men who suffer from it. In fact, many of them don’t even want to talk about it, even with their doctor. Having the right information about ED is important, though, so we’d like to help expand your understanding of this common condition.

• How common is ED? It’s estimated that about 30 million men in the United States struggle with erectile dysfunction, and the prevalence of the condition increases with age. It can occur among younger men too, though, and about 25 percent of men seeking their first treatment for ED are under 40 years old. Lifestyle choices are a significant risk factor for ED among younger men. It’s estimates that the percentage of men with ED rises by 10 percent for each decade of life. In other words, about 60 percent of men in their sixties experience mild to moderate erectile dysfunction. It’s not inevitable, though. The healthier a man is, the lower his risk of sexual dysfunction.
• What, exactly, is erectile dysfunction? It’s the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. It used to be called impotence, but that term is not widely used today. Many men experience ED occasionally, but frequent erectile function can be a sign of health trouble. It can also be the result of emotional or relationship difficulties that may require professional assistance.
• What causes ED? Erectile dysfunction happens when there’s a problem with the erection process. An erection occurs because of increased blood flow into the penis, as excitement grows and the muscles in relax, allowing blood to flow through the penile arteries and into two chambers in the penis. As blood fills the chambers, the penis becomes rigid. Emotional and physical conditions can interfere with this process, including heart disease, diabetes, hormone imbalances, stress, and depression, among others. Alcohol, tobacco, and drug use can factor into ED, as can the use of certain medications.
• How is ED treated? There are many different ways to treat erectile dysfunction, from vacuum pumps, talk therapy, yoga, and acupuncture, to medications and even surgery. Improving diet, getting regular exercise, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and other lifestyle changes can help prevent ED. There are also different supplements that many men find helpful in managing erectile dysfunction. The most important thing to do if you’re experiencing ED is to speak to your doctor and find the treatment that’s right for you.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we provide treatment for many different sexual health issues, including erectile dysfunction. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility and sex lives through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

How to Increase your Health

Compared to women, men are more likely to die before reaching age 80, but less likely to seek medical care. Men are more likely to die by suicide, but less likely to see a therapist. Guys, we have to fix this. Here are a few points of advice.

HAPPY, HEALTHY FOODS

Americans are notoriously overweight. Obesity has been a deadly epidemic here for decades now. If you’re a bit over your ideal weight, make a list of all the foods you enjoy. Then rate them for their nutritional cost and benefit. You may be surprised by all the healthy foods that you do enjoy but have passed over for various reasons. If you’re worried about vegetables going bad before you eat them, buy them frozen or canned. They’re still healthy foods. If you think veggies are boring, add salsa or jalapenos. At the store, avoid sections containing unhealthy, tempting foods. Avoid fast food restaurants in favor of eating meals at home that you’ve taken care to plan.

GET SOME EXERCISE

The sedentary lifestyle common in modern America poses substantial health risks to men and women alike. Make the time to take daily walks. If there’s a sport you used to do, consider taking it back up. There may be groups online dedicated to men such as yourself wanting to get together for a tennis match, a round of golf, or a pickup game of soccer or basketball. Consider joining your church’s softball team, or forming one if one doesn’t exist. Plan hiking outings for yourself and your family. If you have arthritis or have suffered from injuries, check out your local municipal pool. Many have low-impact water aerobics. You can also just swim laps. If you have a bike, get it fixed up and take it out for a spin. If your neighborhood has too many hills or too much traffic, look online for the best places to bike nearby, and make it an adventure.

BE MINDFUL OF YOUR EMOTIONS

Everyone has emotions and emotional needs. Don’t keep them simmering below the surface. Talk to friends and family. You never know what pearls of wisdom are hiding there unless you engage. Be open about what you’re feeling. If you’re feeling a lot of stress, or feel that you may be depressed, see a therapist. They’re professionally trained to help you take stock of your emotional health in productive ways. They can also help you get any medications that may benefit you.

Dr. Joshua Green of the Center for Vasectomy Reversal is a leader in helping men become parents. For more information about the vasectomy reversal procedure, please contact our Sarasota, FL clinic at 941-210-6649 or schedule a free consultation online