Embarking on the treatment path of assisted reproductive technology is quite often a challenging experience. In-vitro Fertilization, or IVF, is the preferred type of assisted reproductive treatment opted by most couples. However, it requires tremendous degrees of preparation, both physical and mental. Before starting the IVF procedure, it is essential for couples to prepare their bodies, as overall well-being significantly impacts the outcome. So, nurturing your body and mind by adopting healthy lifestyle practices becomes a crucial factor for achieving successful conception while undergoing IVF. Before you head into the IVF journey, we recommend preparing an IVF preparation checklist so that you may undergo the procedure while being in optimum health. So, without further ado, let's discover the key elements that need to be factored in while preparing this checklist, as this will ensure your body is fully prepared to successfully undergo the IVF process.
Your diet plays a key role in preparing your body for IVF treatment. Eating a healthy and balanced diet ensures your body gets the essential micro-nutrients to maintain your overall health. You must follow an IVF preparation diet that boosts health and immunity, thus improving your chances of getting pregnant. It is highly recommended to increase the intake of nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, fruits, legumes, meat, etc. Eat foods rich in dietary fibre. Also include food rich in vitamins, minerals, omega fatty acids, DHA, etc.
Also, it is prudent to limit the intake of processed foods when you're trying to get pregnant. Avoid bakery foods, as they contain a high amount of trans fat, which is bad for your reproductive health. Cut off foods rich in refined sugar, as it could negatively impact fertility.
Your body might not receive the right amount of nutrients and vitamins from your daily diet. The intake of prenatal or vitamin supplements can greatly support the deficiency of vitamins and minerals in your body. Consuming prenatal supplements when you are trying to conceive increases the chance of conception. This is why it is essential to start consuming prenatal supplements when you're preparing for IVF treatment. Ensure you consume supplements containing vital vitamins and minerals such as folic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, iron, etc. Regular intake of prenatal supplements can greatly improve the outcome of IVF procedures. It also helps the baby grow healthy in the womb.
Drinking and smoking can negatively affect your fertility to a great extent. Unrestricted alcohol intake by women can lower egg quality, and even successful implantation may result in miscarriage. Excessive drinking can also reduce the quality of sperm in men. So, if you are trying to conceive through IVF, it is a must to avoid the intake of alcohol and quit smoking. In fact, it is recommended to stop the intake of alcohol several weeks before your IVF procedure for a better success rate.
Research suggests that caffeine affects fertility and conception. It is believed that excessive consumption of coffee and tea increases the risk of miscarriage after a successful IVF cycle. So, if you opt for IVF, limit your caffeine intake before and during the IVF cycle for a positive outcome of the procedure.
People who are obese suffer from various fertility issues. Also, overweight women have poor IVF outcomes, as it greatly affects the quality of the egg. Thus, it is important to reduce your weight before starting your IVF treatment. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding processed foods can help maintain an ideal weight. Adapting to healthy lifestyle choices can help avoid unwanted weight gain and improve your reproductive health.
People who are trying to conceive or undergoing IVF treatments must stay active. Moderate exercise throughout fertility treatment increases the chance of conception and is a better way to prepare your body for IVF treatment. Exercises like walking, swimming, yoga, etc., help improve your blood supply and achieve hormonal balance. Choose a suitable exercise regimen, as performing high-intensity exercises is not advisable during the IVF cycle.
Improving your sleep quality is important when you have planned to schedule an IVF procedure. Inadequate sleep can affect your overall health, as well as fertility. Studies indicate that women who sleep less generate lower levels of fertility hormones. So, look for ways to improve your sleep before you start your IVF treatment. Practice mind relaxation techniques like reading, yoga, etc., before bedtime to sleep better.
Make sure you take proper care of your mental health before you start your IVF journey. Express your feelings and emotions to others, as this can help manage any anxiety that you may experience during the course of your treatment. Professional counseling can also help people overcome any depression that may arise due to fertility issues. Keep your mind relaxed and calm before the IVF treatment by participating in mind-relaxing activities like reading, painting, cooking, baking, etc. Yoga and meditation can also help to manage stress during IVF embryo transfers.
A clear idea of the IVF treatment, including various aspects of the procedure, will help prepare your mind for the same. Talk to your doctor about what you can expect during and after the procedure. Connect with support groups, as they can provide useful insights on IVF procedures.
Understand and follow the recommendations on how to care for your body and mind before embarking on the IVF journey. This will increase your chances of success and help you prepare yourself mentally and physically for the procedure.
You can prepare your body in advance for a positive outcome of the IVF procedure. It is ideal to nurture your body three to six months before you start your IVF journey.
To prepare your womb for IVF treatment, we recommend you start by eating a fertility-boosting diet. Eat foods that improve egg quality and sperm quality. Intake of folic acid supplements is a must before you start with the IVF procedure. Prenatal supplements for women can also help to prepare your womb for a successful conception.
You must stay motivated when you have decided to opt for assisted reproductive treatments like IVF. Educate yourself about the IVF procedure. This will help you face the procedure with confidence. Take steps to prepare your body for the procedure. Involve in activities that improve your mental health.
