It is estimated that 1 in 8 {couples} or 12% of married ladies have bother getting pregnant or sustaining a pregnancy whereas starting fertility therapy can deliver on a wide range of feelings, together with apprehensions about what can and can’t be carried out in the course of the in vitro fertilization or IVF course of. IVF is a fertility therapy that entails extracting eggs from a lady’s ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory after which transferring the embryos again into the lady’s uterus.

While IVF generally is a very profitable therapy for infertility, it may also be a nerve-racking and demanding course of however fear not as we obtained you lined with some efficient food regimen, exercise and stress administration ideas that may assist make your IVF journey safer and extra profitable. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Ameet Patki, Consultant – Gynaecology and Obstetrics at PD Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre in Khar, shared, “The optimal fertility diet has yet to be established, and the effects of nutritional factors on fertility are largely unknown. However, dietary modifications have been shown to improve ovulatory disorder infertility. Soya containing may help female fertility, yet hinder male fertility. In contrast to men, women may actually benefit from consumption of phytoestrogens during infertility treatments. Mediterranean diet, which includes a large proportion of fresh fruits, vegetables, high dairy products, saturated oils, eggs, fish, is helpful and less of processed meats. ”

Stating that the key phrase is moderation, he siad, “Start making a healthy choice much before the IVF process starts and follow through pregnancy. A large cup of coffee a day is fine but more than 4 cups of coffee with caffeine can definitely reduce implantation rates and also affect fetal growth. There is a clear impact on fertility with smoking and alcohol. Hence, cessation should be advised. In women, the toxins in cigarette smoking have been correlated with subfertility, endocrine disorders, earlier onset of menopause, premature ovarian failure, and decreased implantation rate. Smoking is also associated with many earlier pregnancy complications including spontaneous miscarriages, preterm labour, and ectopic pregnancy. However, with smoking cessation, fecundity returns to a similar rate as to non-smokers, even if cessation occurs within one year of attempting conception. Similarly, cigarette smoking was associated with a significant decrease in sperm concentration, total sperm count and total number of motile sperm thereby affecting pregnancy rates even in IVF cycles.”

According to Dr Ameet Patki, anti-oxidants like CO-10 work very effectively to scale back the oxidative stress significantly in males and therefore Co-120 together with Vitamin C, Selenium and L-carnitine amongst different anti-oxidants could be given as dietary dietary supplements. In ladies, he mentioned, “Folic acid, Vitamin B complex and CO-10 should be given as supplements in the diet. Similarly, weight loss should be recommended if the BMI is in the overweight and obese category, and weight gain should be recommended for an underweight BMI. Higher BMI is also associated with negative outcomes for patients undergoing in vitro fertilization. Extreme exercise may lead to anovulation and infertility, whereas exercise may result in improved ovulation and fertility in anovulatory obese patients.”

Regarding train, he really helpful, “Continue exactly what you have been doing if it helps you relieve stress. That means do not suddenly start exercising ‘for fertility’s sake,’ if it just adds additional stress to your life. One form of exercise that we tell all patients to refrain from during IVF stimulation is CrossFit or high-intensity interval training. Why? Your ovaries are expanding and growing larger due to the fertility medication and can sometimes twist on the pedicle causing a medical emergency. Fertility treatment is a high-stress, high-anxiety time. There are so many factors feeding into that stress from hormones to hopes and fears. In addition, the high dose hormones can often play havoc with the mind and body. We recommend that people who are trying to conceive stick with their usual routine, especially if it helps them manage their stress levels. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) also notes that reducing stress can help people have a better quality of life while navigating a challenging experience, like infertility.”

It is evident that infertility causes stress however what’s much less clear is whether or not or not stress causes infertility. Dr Ameet Patki highlighted, “The impact of distress on treatment outcome is difficult to investigate for a number of factors, including inaccurate self-report measures and feelings of increased optimism at treatment onset. Despite the prevalence of infertility, the majority of infertile women do not share their story with family or friends, thus increasing their psychological vulnerability. The inability to reproduce naturally can cause feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem. These negative feelings may lead to varying degrees of depression, anxiety, distress, and a poor quality of life. Physical, in-person, emotional support still seems to be superior to support through the internet and chat rooms, but the use of the internet for support can still help people facing infertility by educating, empowering, and diminishing feelings of depression. Yoga is one method of stress management and relaxation that may be beneficial for women undergoing fertility treatments. Yoga helps with relaxation through meditation, breathing, and achieving a deep sense of calmness.”

He added, “Mind-body therapy that focuses on cognitive behaviour therapy, relaxation training, negative health behaviour modification, and social support components was found to improve pregnancy rates for those undergoing their second IVF treatment cycle. A good doctor patient relationship, getting all your doubts cleared from your team, availing counselling services at your doctor’s clinic for diet, exercise and psychological stress helps to improve the couple’s outlook to the treatment and definitely makes the process worth the effort, time and money.”

Dr Vaishali Chaudhary, Director- IVF and Fertility at Sahyadri Hospitals in Pune, insisted, “Maintaining a healthy lifestyle during IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is crucial to enhance the chances of successful pregnancy outcomes. A balanced diet, appropriate exercise, and effective stress management techniques can significantly contribute to the overall well-being of individuals undergoing IVF treatment. These practices not only support the physical aspects of fertility but also promote emotional and mental wellness throughout the journey.”

Tips on Diet:

Maintaining a wholesome and well-balanced food regimen is crucial for people present process IVF and Dr Vaishali Chaudhary suggested the next food regimen ideas –

1. Nutrient-Rich Foods: Consume a wide range of nutrient-rich meals, together with fruits, greens, complete grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy merchandise. These meals present important nutritional vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help reproductive well being.

2. Folate and Iron: Adequate consumption of folate and iron is essential for each preconception and being pregnant. Leafy greens, legumes, fortified cereals and lean meats are good sources.

3. Healthy Fats: Incorporate sources of wholesome fat, comparable to avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish, which offer omega-3 fatty acids that promote hormone stability.

4. Hydration: Stay well-hydrated by consuming loads of water all through the day to help general bodily features.

5. Limit Processed Foods: Minimise processed and sugary meals, as they might contribute to irritation and hormonal imbalances.

Tips on Exercise:

Engaging in applicable bodily exercise can positively impression fertility and general well-being therefore, Dr Vaishali Chaudhary really helpful the next train tricks to think about –

1. Moderation: Engage in average, common train routines that embrace cardiovascular actions (like strolling, swimming, or biking) and energy coaching. Avoid extreme or intense exercises that would doubtlessly have an effect on hormonal stability.

2. Yoga and Stretching: Gentle types of train like yoga and stretching can enhance flexibility, cut back stress, and promote leisure.

3. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthening the pelvic flooring muscle groups can present help to the reproductive organs and enhance blood circulation within the pelvic area.

4. Consultation: Before beginning any new train routine, seek the advice of your healthcare supplier to make sure it is protected and applicable in your particular person state of affairs.

Tips for Stress Management:

Managing stress is crucial in the course of the IVF journey as stress can impression fertility and emotional well-being so Dr Vaishali Chaudhary listed these stress administration strategies –

1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness and meditation strategies to scale back anxiousness and promote leisure. Deep respiratory workout routines may also be useful.

2. Family Support: Build a powerful help system of mates, household, or help teams to share your ideas, considerations, and experiences.

3. Hobbies and Leisure Activities: Engage in hobbies, actions, and spare time activities that deliver pleasure and distract from stressors.

4. Professional Help: If stress turns into overwhelming, think about looking for steering from a psychological well being skilled who focuses on fertility-related points.

5. Time for Yourself: Allocate common time for self-care, whether or not it is studying, spending time in nature, or having fun with a soothing tub.