Are you dealing with infertility and looking to opt for In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment? You might be wondering if you can do anything to boost your chances. Even though IVF technology is advanced, your body's health plays a crucial role. The right lifestyle changes, better nutrition, and stress management can create an environment more conducive to conception. Here are seven effective ways to enhance fertility before undergoing IVF.
7 Ways To Boost Fertility Before IVF
Focus On Your Diet
You should maintain a healthy diet and include foods that help nourish the pregnancy process. Certain foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3s support the development of eggs and the uterus, promote ovulation, nourish the womb, and slow down the degeneration of eggs. It contributes to the health of the eggs and the balance of reproductive hormones, which helps protect cells and enhances the likelihood of pregnancy.
Lower Your Stress Levels
Did you know increased stress levels can lower your fertility and give rise to various health issues? Hence, you should manage your stress levels before IVF treatment to promote the chances of success. Adopt relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to lower your stress levels.
Also Read: Fertility Treatments For Women With PCOS: What Works And What Doesn't
Say No To Smoking
If you or your partner is a smoker, it's time to quit the habit right away. This harmful habit can lower your chances of conception and increase the chances of reproductive health issues. Cigarette toxins can affect egg quality, disrupt hormone levels, and lead to complications in fertility treatments. Quitting smoking before IVF can improve overall reproductive health and increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Maintain Healthy Weight
You need to maintain a healthy weight as being overweight or having a low Body Mass Index (BMI) can cause problems in conceiving. A BMI within the range of 18.5 to 24.9 is optimal for fertility. The Office on Women's Health (OASH) states that women who are overweight or obese can improve their likelihood of becoming pregnant by losing weight. Additionally, weight loss can help restore regular menstrual cycles.
Exercise
Another way to increase the chances of conception is by engaging in regular physical activity. It can help maintain a healthy weight, improve blood circulation to reproductive organs, and reduce stress levels. However, make sure not to exercise excessively or include high-intensity workouts as they can negatively impact fertility by disrupting hormone levels. Activities like brisk walking, yoga, and light strength training can help prepare your body for IVF.
Also Read: Getting Pregnant After Menopause Is Naturally Impossible, But Can IVF Help To Conceive?
Limit Caffeine and Alcohol Intake
Excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption can impact fertility. According to a 2023 study, consuming even 100-200 mg of caffeine per day can lead to pregnancy issues. Common side effects may include difficulties with fertility, growth restriction in the womb, low birth weight, and the risk of miscarriage. Similarly, alcohol can affect hormone levels and egg quality. Reducing or eliminating these substances can help create an optimal environment for conception.
Track Your Ovulation
If you're undergoing IVF, learning about your ovulation cycles and hormone levels can be beneficial. Monitoring your menstrual cycles, checking your basal body temperature, or using ovulation predictor kits can provide useful information about your hormonal changes. You can also discuss with your fertility expert having your hormone levels tested or implementing some lifestyle modifications that may enhance your egg quality before undergoing the IVF process.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]