Some of the most common questions we receive from patients going through in vitro fertilization (IVF) are regarding what they can and cannot do during treatment. There’s a lot at stake so it’s understandable that patients want to ensure they’re doing everything within their control to have the best possible outcome.
It can be helpful to have some tips to follow to ensure a successful IVF cycle. First, make sure to speak with your fertility doctor about guidelines you should follow specific to your treatment plan. Read on for general Dos and Don’ts during IVF stimulation:
Do eat healthy
A Mediterranean-type diet consisting of plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats (e.g. olive oil), and lean proteins (e.g. fish, beans, nuts), not only helps you feel better but can get your body in an optimal state for pregnancy. A healthy diet also includes:
- Minimizing processed foods and refined carbohydrates
- Eating foods rich in antioxidants
- Keeping caffeine intake to a minimum (less than 200 mg a day)
Now is also a great time to take your prenatal vitamin with DHA, but talk with your doctor about any other supplements you should take before, during and after IVF treatment.
Don’t obsess over the perfect fertility diet
While following the above recommendations is important, try not to stress too much about every little thing you’re eating during this time. There is no perfect fertility diet. If you would like to have an occasional glass of wine or dessert during IVF, it’s okay!
Do practice self-care
Make sure you’re taking time to relax during your IVF cycle. Get out in the sunshine for a walk, go on a date night, meditate, write in a journal, or get a prenatal massage. IVF can be stressful, so it’s important to find some time for yourself.
Don’t use hot tubs or saunas
Go ahead and take hot showers, but try to stay away from taking long hot baths or spending time in a hot tub or sauna during IVF stimulation.
Do gentle exercise
Let’s be honest, when you’re undergoing IVF, it’s easy to put your general health to the side to focus on your monitoring appointments and remembering to do your injections. But doing basic things to improve your health such as getting enough sleep, reducing your stress levels, moving your body, and drinking enough water can all help you have the best chances of success.
When taking stimulation medications during an IVF cycle, your ovaries enlarge and need to be protected during this time. Taking walks, yoga and leisurely swimming are all exercises that are considered relatively safe during IVF and can encourage stress relief.
Don’t overdo it
Now is not the time to start training for a marathon or joining CrossFit, as these are both strenuous exercise routines that can overly stress the body and divert precious resources from the developing follicles. High impact exercise or any jostling motion can also increase the risk of ovarian torsion (when the enlarged ovary twists on its blood supply), which is a surgical emergency.
Do stay connected with your partner
Make sure you’re continuing to spend time with your partner and maintain open and honest communication. IVF can be challenging on a relationship, and it’s important to stay connected during this time.
It’s easy when you’re the female constantly being monitored and tested to forget about your partner. But sperm quality and overall male health are important when it comes to having a successful pregnancy. In fact, 35% of fertility issues involve both the male and female. Sperm quality, hormone levels, genetic conditions such as Klinefelter’s syndrome, or structural issues of the reproductive system, such as varicoceles in the testicles, can all have an impact on fertility. That’s why it’s important for your partner to be tested too.
Don’t be surprised if sex is off the table for now
Unfortunately, there may be periods when intercourse or other sexual activity is restricted. Besides the risk for ovarian torsion, you’re at an increased risk with twins or multiples since eggs might still be ovulated after an egg retrieval.
Your fertility specialist might recommend you avoid intercourse during a transfer cycle until your pregnancy test. This is because you don’t want anything potentially affecting implantation. It’s always best to err on the side of caution in order to give you the best possible chances of a successful pregnancy.
Do give yourself realistic expectations
While IVF is a deeply scientific process, it unfortunately doesn’t always work the first time. This can be surprising for some people to hear, but there are many factors that go into an IVF cycle. Your egg quality, underlying medical conditions, and how your body responds to the medications all need to be considered when coming up with a personalized treatment plan. While you should go into your cycle with confidence, know that if it doesn’t work out, it’s not due to anything that you did. If your first cycle wasn’t successful, oftentimes, your plan will need to be adjusted.
Do find support
IVF, and infertility in general, can feel isolating. It’s important to surround yourself with people who understand and support you. If you don’t know anyone around you who has gone through IVF, or you aren’t ready to share with your friends and family about your treatments, you can find support online or with in-person support groups. Many groups are available on social media or by searching hashtags such as #IVFjourney on Instagram. You may also want to consider additional support from a licensed therapist who specializes in fertility struggles. IVF can be emotionally and financially difficult, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
Do ask lots of questions
When going through fertility treatments, it’s crucial to be an advocate for yourself. If there’s something your care team says that’s unclear to you, clarify anything you need to so that you have a good understanding of your treatment plan. It might be helpful to bring a list of questions when meeting with your provider and take notes during your appointment. If an issue comes up at home, whether you have a concern, or are confused about how to take your medications, get in touch with your care team promptly. This is your body and your treatment cycle, so you deserve to have as much knowledge about the process as you desire.
Make sure you talk with your CCRM Fertility specialist if you have any questions or concerns about your individualized treatment plan. Call us today to make an appointment.
