IVF (In vitro fertilization) has been a blessing for several infertile couples who have had trouble conceiving their own child. It is an intricate procedure involving a series of invasive and non-invasive procedures.
IVF stimulation, or ovarian stimulation, is the first step of the IVF procedure. Here, the female partner is administered a series of fertility injections for some days to stimulate the ovaries to produce more mature eggs.
IVF can be fairly new to you, and you might be confused about what the procedure entails and what you should and shouldn’t do during the procedure. In this article, we have discussed the dos and don’ts of IVF stimulation.
Things You Can Do During IVF Stimulation
IVF stimulation is a very important step in the IVF cycle. The lifestyle you follow and what you do and don’t do during this period can influence the number of high-quality eggs retrieved from the procedure.
Below are some of the things you can do during IVF stimulation.
Can I have sex during an IVF cycle?
Yes, it is okay to have sex during IF stimulation. Your fertility medications do not interfere with your sexual life with your partner. However, it mostly depends on how you feel and if you are “in the mood” for it.
You will be administered hormonal injections during ovarian stimulation. These injections can affect your hormonal levels and tamper with your sex drive.
However, it is not the same for every woman. So, listen to your body and have sex if you are okay physically and mentally.
Note: Avoid having sex for around 2 weeks after embryo transfer. You can discuss this with your IVF doctor if you need further clarification on this matter.
Is there anything I can do to ensure IVF success?
The success of your IVF cycle mostly depends on your fertility condition and treatments. However, there are some things you can do to improve your health and increase your chances of success.
Here’s what you can do:
- Maintain a healthy diet and avoid unhealthy foods
- Follow a healthy lifestyle
- Avoid harmful habits like smoking, alcohol, drugs, etc.
- Manage stress
- Follow a regular sleep routine and sleep for at least 7–8 hours
- Take the prescribed supplements without fail
- Do mild exercises regularly
Is it safe to get the flu shot during IVF?
Yes, you can get a flu shot during IVF. Cold and flu are viral infections and can cause serious complications and birth defects if you are affected during pregnancy. So, it is best to get vaccinated before you confirm pregnancy.
Discuss with Best Gynecologist and learn if there are any other vaccines you need to take during the procedure. This can help you prevent possible complications during pregnancy.
Can I get a massage during IVF?
Yes, you can get a massage during IVF. A good massage can be relaxing and promote blood circulation. However, ensure you get a mild and therapeutic massage that doesn’t put too much pressure on your body.
A deep tissue massage is not recommended during IVF. Your ovaries will be enlarged due to fertility medications, and having a deep tissue massage can put pressure on them.
What should I eat during IVF?
A balanced diet that contains all the nutrients essential for your and your baby’s healthy development is vital during IVF and pregnancy. Your unhealthy food habits are most likely the main reason for your infertility issues.
If you wish to have a high success rate in your IVF treatments, the first thing you need to do is avoid all unhealthy foods and add healthy foods to your diet.
There are no restrictions on what you can eat during pregnancy as long as they are fresh and well-cooked. Here are some tips you must follow to ensure you have a proper diet.
- Avoid junk, fried, processed, or canned foods. Eat boiled and well-cooked foods.
- Avoid eating outside foods. Have home-cooked foods as much as possible.
- Add healthy fruits and vegetables to your diet. E.g., spinach, kale, oranges, berries, broccoli, etc.
- Don’t eat too much of any food. Have them in moderation.
Things You Must Not Do During IVF Stimulation
Just like there are things you can do after IVF stimulation, there are some things you cannot do during IVF stimulation. Pay attention to the points we are going to discuss below and ensure you avoid them till your IVF treatment ends.
Can I drink alcohol during IVF?
Drinking and smoking are two of the most important causes of infertility in both men and women. People who drink have been shown to have 50% higher chances of failed pregnancy than people who don’t drink.
Alcohol can also affect your hormonal balance and decrease the quantity and quality of your egg, making them more susceptible to chromosomal abnormalities.
Alcohol also affects the quality of your partner’s sperm. So, both you and your partner should try avoiding alcohol during your IVF treatment and pregnancy.
Should I reduce caffeine intake during IVF?
Caffeine is another substance you should try reducing during IVF stimulation. Caffeine has been shown to reduce egg quality and impact embryo implantation.
There is no need to avoid caffeine completely. Try limiting it to one or two cups a day.
Conclusion
IVF stimulation is a very important step in your IVF treatments. The number of high-quality eggs you produce in this step is essential to increase your chances of a successful pregnancy.
If you still have doubts regarding what you can and cannot do during IVF stimulation, you can discuss it with your doctor and get some suggestions from them.
Sleep is an important factor during IVF treatments. Inadequate sleep can affect your hormones and disrupt your metabolism. Aim to get at least 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep during IVF treatments and pregnancy.
If you are overweight or obese, then yes, losing weight can benefit your IVF result. Obesity is one of the major reasons for infertility. Try to bring your weight within the normal BMI range (18.5–24.9) for a higher success rate.
Below are some foods you should avoid during IVF stimulation.
- Avoid junk, fried, processed, or canned foods.
- Avoid eating outside foods.
- Avoid fish high in mercury.
- Avoid alcohol and carbonated drinks.
