IVF treatment or In Vitro Fertilisation is a boon for couples who are struggling to start a family. Your possibilities of conception can be increased by a huge margin compared to the otherwise minimal chances. Many couples suffer with conditions like poor uterine health, age, age gaps, low sperm count, previous failed pregnancy attempts and more. Repeatedly trying the traditional methods of conception in such cases, without any positive result, already takes a toll on both the physical and mental health of the couple. Our expert IVF doctors in Kolkata understand the importance of both physical and mental health when it comes to child conception.
Hence this detailed guide on how to prepare for your IVF journey, so that you have a smooth pregnancy, not only in medical terms but also in your own physical and emotional terms.
Physical factors that affect the success of an IVF treatment
- Age is a major factor that determines the success of an IVF treatment. Clinically, a lot of changes happen in the female eggs and sperm count with age, yes; but physically, age affects your metabolism, hormonal level and more. Which brings us to
- Metabolism - it is very important to have an active metabolism, a healthy BMI (Basal Metabolic Index) and just be physically fit. Couples with PCOS or poor sperm count can benefit a lot by increasing their metabolic index. Suggested lifestyle changes are
- Exercise regularly
- Yoga or meditation daily to manage the stress and improper hormone levels
- Stay active
- Avoid a sedentary lifestyle as much as you can
- Nutrition - You are what you eat and what you eat is the fuel to your body, and your IVF treatment. Preparing your body with healthy foods and nutrition way before your IVF treatment will do wonders in not only the success of the treatment but also to decrease the whole treatment time. Important nutrition facts to know are
- Eat a protein rich diet
- Leafy vegetables are a must
- A Diet rich in antioxidants and omega3 fatty acids will help the quality of the egg
- Nuts, seeds and dark chocolate are proven to increase the sperm count
- What to avoid -
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco. These can have a direct effect in reducing the sperm count in males
- Avoid caffeinated beverages - these cause severe dehydration and inflammation
- Avoid preservatives and harmful chemicals both in your food and whatever supplements you take
- Avoid harmful foods like fast food, foods with high trans fat and oily content. These foods also disturb the pH of the uterus and vagina making egg retrieval tough
- Take nutrition supplements like multivitamins, fertility supplements (on the suggestion of your doctor) and female health supplements
Mental and emotional preparation for IVF -
You are only as strong as your weakest link. Your mental health can either make or break all your physical progress till now. IVF treatment can come with multiple visits to the hospital, long waitings, doubts and confusion. It is understandable to feel overwhelmed. It is very important to keep a track of your mental health through these seemingly tough procedures.
- Get adequate rest - a proper sleep cycle can better your mental, physical and hormonal issues.
- Take breaks - get creative, take some recreational breaks. Hyperfocusing on the results of your IVF and stressing yourself out will not help you
- Understand that it might take time - even before the treatment starts, understand and tell yourself that it may take a few tries, multiple visits and short periods of confusion. And it is okay. It is all a part of the process
- Support yourself, your goal and your partner - remember and remind each other who you are doing this for.
- And most importantly, understand that our doctors and team is here to help you. You can reach out to us at any time with any number of questions. Do not bottle up things, instead, share them and relieve your mind.
