IVF stimulation is the first step of the IVF procedure. In this step, you will be administered a series of hormonal injections for a required number of days.
These injections will stimulate your ovaries and produce several eggs that can be collected and used for IVF.
IVF stimulation, also known as ovulation induction, is an important step of the IVF procedure. Your body will undergo drastic hormonal changes during this period. So, it is crucial for you to know what you can and cannot do to decrease the risks of complications.
Let’s discuss some of the dos and don’ts of ovulation stimulation in this article.
Things You Can And Cannot Do During IVF Stimulation
You might want to do everything you can to ensure you have a higher chance of success in your IVF treatment. So, here are some things that are safe to do during an IVF stimulation.
Can I Have Sex During An IVF Cycle?
Doctors usually have mixed opinions on this. However, it is generally not an issue to have sex during IVF stimulation. It all depends on your mood and how your body feels.
During an IVF stimulation, your hormone levels are constantly changing. This can affect your mood and reduce your sex drive.
Your ovaries will also become a little swollen during this period. So, avoid having sex if you feel any pain or discomfort.
Sometimes, your body and fertility condition might need extra care during treatment. So, it is always best to consult your fertility doctor regarding this matter.
Is There Anything I Can Do To Ensure IVF Success?
Remember that besides the treatments, you also have a part to play in the success of your IVF cycle. You need to follow certain practices to increase your chances of a successful pregnancy.
- Follow a healthy lifestyle
- Eat a healthy diet with fresh fruits and vegetables
- Avoid stress and anxiety; stay calm and positive
- Strictly avoid unhealthy habits like smoking, alcohol, drugs, etc.
- Get adequate sleep (for 7–8 hours daily)
- Do some mild exercises regularly
- Take your medicines on time
- Most important of all, listen to your fertility doctor’s instructions and follow them meticulously.
- Consult them if you have any questions and clear your doubts.
Is It Safe To Get The Flu Shot During IVF?
Yes, it is safe to get a flu shot before or during your IVF treatment. Most hospitals advise their patients to get a flu shot to prevent risks of complications in the baby.
This is because studies have found that almost 11% of women get flu during their pregnancy, and it often leads to serious complications for either the mother or her baby.
To avoid this issue, ensure you get a flu shot during IVF treatments. Studies have also found that getting a flu shot about 10 days before embryo transfer can increase the immune system and improve the implantation rate.
Discuss with your doctor and get the vaccine at the time they suggest. Also, learn if there are any other vaccines you need to take to reduce complications during pregnancy.
Can I Get A Massage During IVF?
Yes, you can get a massage during IVF if you want to. Massages are actually good for your body as they can relax your muscles and boost blood circulation. However, ensure you do not put too much pressure on your body, especially your abdomen areas.
Your ovaries will be swollen during ovarian stimulation. A deep tissue massage on the abdomen can pressure them and cause pain or discomfort. Go for light, relaxing massages instead.
What Should I Eat During IVF?
What you eat plays a significant role in maintaining your health during IVF stimulation. Ensure you follow a healthy diet that promotes health and does not lead to any digestive complications.
Your doctor usually won’t put too many restrictions on your diet. You can have them as long as they are fresh and properly cooked. Healthy fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meat, and low-mercury fish are some preferable food choices for your IVF diet.
Here are some food choices that are best to be avoided during your IVF treatments.
- Avoid junk, fried, and processed foods
- Avoid smoking and alcohol
- Avoid eating outside foods. Prefer home-cooked foods.
- Avoid overeating. Have small amounts at regular intervals.
Can I Drink Alcohol During IVF?
No, strictly avoid alcohol if you are trying for IVF. Alcohol has always been noted to decrease fertility in men and women. It can influence your hormone levels and affect your reproductive system.
Men who drink excess alcohol have been diagnosed as having low sperm counts with low-quality sperm. Women, too, have been noted to have lower fertilization and implantation rates than women who don’t drink alcohol.
So, if you are trying for an IVF pregnancy, ensure you quit drinking at least three months before starting the treatments.
Can I Have Caffeine During IVF?
High intake of caffeine during IVF treatments have been shown to reduce the chances of success of the treatment. So, try reducing your caffeine intake as much as possible to increase your chances of success.
Conclusion
IVF treatment as a whole is very important and it is essential for you to follow the dos and don’ts that your doctor suggests you to do. Consult with our fertility doctor regarding everything you need to know about the treatment before starting it.
If you have any concerns when you are undergoing IVF treatment, you can call our fertility hospital and clear your doubts.
Yes, stress has been noted as one of the main factors affecting your hormone levels and disrupting ovulation cycles. So, try to manage stress and do relaxing activities like meditation, listening to music, etc.
Yes, you can exercise duringIVF treatments. Your doctor will actually recommend you to do some mild exercise and engage in light physical activities during IVF.
However, don’t do strenuous physical exercise that can put too much pressure on your body.
You can sleep on any side you are comfortable with during IVF. However, it is best to prefer lying on your left side as it enhances blood flow to your reproductive organs. You can also shift sides now and then if you feel uncomfortable lying on one side.
