Do’s and Don’ts of IVF Treatment: Top Lifestyle Tips to Improve IVF Success

Most of our patients really want to know what choices can make or break their IVF success. While every IVF journey is unique, there are certainly research-backed do’s and don’ts that have been shown to universally improve your outcomes. In this blog, we’re discussing the do’s and don’ts of IVF treatment, with details on everything you need to do and avoid during your cycle.

Do’s of IVF Treatment

IVF is a medical fertility treatment, but its success depends on factors like individual health and lifestyle choices. Here are some choices you can make to ensure that your IVF journey is successful.

Do Follow a Balanced Diet

Both partners should follow a balanced diet to boost fertility and improve IVF outcomes. Your diet should include green leafy vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds, lean protein, fresh fruits, and nutrient-dense food. Reduce sodium and sugar intake and cut out inflammatory foods from your diet.

Do Stay Hydrated

Your body needs water to function well. Drinking enough water can help your organs, specifically your reproductive organs, function well during IVF treatment. Drinking water also helps blood circulation and minimizes the side effects of IVF.

Do Exercise in Moderation

Light exercise can improve blood flow to your reproductive organs and boost pregnancy and live birth rates. Yoga, light weightlifting, walking, and jogging are all great low-intensity activities that you can do during your IVF cycle. Exercise isn’t just great for your physical health; it can also reduce stress and uplift your mood.

Do Maintain a Healthy Weight

Studies have shown a link between obesity and ovulation issues. Overweight women typically respond poorly to ovarian stimulation and induction, and younger obese women have poor embryo quality and fertilization rates.

Do Take Fertility Supplements

Prior to starting IVF treatment, talk to your IVF specialist about taking supplements and multivitamins. Both partners can improve their fertility and IVF outcomes by taking the right supplements and compensating for any vitamin deficiencies.

Do Get Enough Sleep

Just like food, your body needs sleep to function and stay healthy. Your body’s tissues recover and regenerate during deep sleep. Do not compromise good sleep during IVF treatment, as it will help regulate your physical and mental health.

Do Bring Someone To Take You Home After Retrieval

Egg retrieval is considered the most ‘surgical’ part of the IVF process. Make sure to bring someone along with you, as you will still be feeling the effects of anesthesia after the procedure and need help getting home. Do not try to drive yourself or take public transportation alone.

Don’ts During IVF Treatment

Certain things should be avoided during IVF treatment, as they could potentially lower your chances of success.

Don’t Consume Alcohol and Caffeine

There’s no safe amount of alcohol you can consume during pregnancy, so follow the same rule during IVF treatment as well. Research states that men and women who consume more than four alcoholic drinks per week have a 21% lower chance of live birth in IVF cycles. Alcohol also lowers estrogen levels and ovarian reserve in women.

While moderate caffeine intake (less than 200 mg per day) hasn’t been proven harmful, many experts recommend limiting it during IVF and early pregnancy.

Don’t Smoke

Just like alcohol, smoking and vaping can harm fertility in both women and men. Ideally, you and your partner should stop smoking for at least a few months before starting your IVF cycle. If you have a smoking problem, join a support group and look for resources that can help you quit.

Don’t Over-Exercise

Intense physical exercise like weight lifting should absolutely be avoided during IVF treatment. Such activities increase your risk of ovarian torsion and can put unnecessary strain on your body.

Also, do not try to lose weight during your IVF cycle. If you need to lose weight, always do it before you start treatment. Trying to lose weight during IVF can be a source of stress and intense exercise can reduce fertility or cause injuries.

Don’t Use Products With Harsh Chemicals

If you work a job that exposes you to harsh chemicals and toxins, try to minimize exposure to them at least during your IVF treatment. Certain household or cleaning products may contain harsh endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which can upset your body’s delicate hormonal balance and harm your reproductive health.

EDCs are also found in cosmetics, pesticides, soap, nail polish, furniture, electronics, and many everyday items. Talk to your doctor about the lifestyle changes you can make before starting IVF.

Don’t Make Important Decisions Without Consulting Your Doctor

Always consult your doctor before making any significant lifestyle changes like taking supplements, exercising, or modifying your diet. The internet has a lot of useful health tips, but not everything will work for you. Your doctor is aware of your medical history and can give you better and more personalized advice than the internet.

Don’t Elevate Your Body Temperature

Your nurse will tell you to avoid hot baths, and there’s a good reason for that. Avoid elevating your body temperature during and after IVF treatment, as it can interfere with embryo implantation and disrupt hormone balance. This includes not using saunas, hot tubs, heated blankets, or hot yoga and generally avoiding hot temperatures.

Choose the Right Fertility Clinic For Your IVF Treatment

IVF success depends on clinical care as well as lifestyle factors. By taking active steps to boost your reproductive health and following these do’s and don’ts of IVF treatment, you can definitely improve your IVF outcomes. After all, making small lifestyle changes could have a big impact on your fertility.

If you’re planning an IVF cycle, our specialists at Corion Fertility Clinic can guide you every step of the way! Book a consultation today to personalize your fertility plan.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. Can I exercise during IVF?

A. Yes, you can exercise during IVF. Make sure to stick to light to moderate exercise routines and avoid heavy weights and high-intensity workouts.

Q. Which food is good for IVF treatment?

A. For the best results, follow a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats during IVF treatment. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, salt, and excessive caffeine.

Q. Can I take a bath after embryo transfer?

A. Avoid submerging yourself in water after embryo transfer, as it can increase the risk of infection. Lukewarm showers or bucket baths are fine.

Q. Should I take bed rest after embryo transfer?

A. No, bed rest is not recommended after embryo transfer, as it can actually reduce your chances of success.