Did you know that the success of an IVF treatment depends equally on the lifestyle and health of both the parents, as it does on the clinical aspect? Yes the medical factors like health of the egg, number of eggs retrieved, embryo formation, the number of embryos and all are the main factors determining the pregnancy, but what determines these factors? What determines the health of the egg or the potency of the sperm? Read along to know how our IVF test centre in Kolkata suggests a holistic approach for a successful pregnancy.
How does lifestyle affect IVF treatment
A lot of couples that come for an IVF as their only/last option for pregnancy are those who suffer with conditions involving reproductive and hormonal health. Conditions like PCOS, low ovarian reserve, low sperm count, uterine wall conditions and more. In a way these are already linked to the lifestyle of the individual. For example
- As age increases, the ovarian reserve and the number of female eggs decreases
- If the female parent has poor metabolism, weight gain issues, is prone is alcohol and tobacco intake, the quality of eggs decreases
- Sedentary lifestyle and no physical activity can worsen conditions like PCOS and cause a poor hormonal balance which,
- Inturn affects the egg production, as hormones like FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) are responsible for production and release of eggs
- When it comes to the male counterpart, an unhealthy lifestyle with alcohol and tobacco consumption, obesity, exposure to certain medications, chemicals and harmful radiation is the main cause of low sperm count
- Also imbalance in the pituitary gland can affect the sperm triggering hormones
It might sound scary and overwhelming. You might wonder ‘I understand, but what are the steps that I need to take now?’ , well – here is a simplified guide
- Nutrition
- The healthier you eat, the better your clinical health (the health of the eggs and sperm) gets. You can do your part by
- Taking a lot of leafy vegetables - spinach, broccoli and methi are a few to start
- Following a diet rich in antioxidants - this is to reduce any inflammation in the uterus - avocado and berries
- A diet rich in omega 3 fatty acids and amino acids to improve the egg health - comes from brown organic eggs and fish
- Yoghourt and probiotics are good to maintain the pH level of your uterus and vagina
- For males - a lot of nuts and seeds, dark chocolate, whole grains and lentils, pomegranates and spinach help with sperm count
- Stay active
- The more you stay active, the more your metabolism increases. This leaves you with a healthy appetite for healthy foods
- A good metabolism is also good for sexual health and the healthy production of eggs and sperm
- Having a regular exercise routine also helps manage stress and regulate your mental health. Because stress is something that directly affects hormonal production.
- Take the necessary supplements suggested by your doctor
- Sometimes women who are older and with poor ovarian reserve might need extra supplements than what is in their food. This is for better absorption
- Your IVF doctor will suggest you some multivitamins and reproductive health supplements like Follic acid, Inositol, Vitamin C, E and such
- For males, supplements like zinc, folate and selenium are very important
- Along with what to do, there is a list to avoid
- Avoid heavy drinking and tobacco consumption
- Avoid any extra medication without your doctor’s consult
- Avoid environmental toxins - radiation, harmful chemicals in paints, pesticides and metals affect sperm count
- Rest and Hydrate
- The whole process of the IVF treatment might seem long and taxing. Especially if you are always on your toes and are worried
- This worry can affect your physical health during the procedure and we do not want that
- Hence it is very important to take breaks from hyper focusing on the treatment and its results. Regulating mental health is equally important
- Also a dehydrated reproductive system is more prone to infections and inflammations so drink lots of water
IVF treatment starts way before you enter our clinic. Your lifestyle at home is the first step and the only step in your hands. The success of an IVF treatment comes from equal coordination between the doctors and the parents-to-be. Help us help you start your dream family! Book a consultation now.
