Preparing for IVF: How to Optimize Your Chances for Success
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an exciting process, full of hope and joy for potentially starting or growing your family. However, the journey can also be physically and mentally challenging. While IVF isn't a guarantee, there are steps you can take to prepare for the process and optimize your chances of conception.
1. Adjusting Your Diet and Lifestyle
As you prepare for IVF, it’s important to ensure your eggs and sperm, whether from a partner or a donor, are as healthy as possible. One way to do this is to ensure you’re eating a well-balanced diet and getting the nutrients you need. Try to include the following in your diet:
- Plenty of water
- Foods rich in antioxidants, like certain fruits and dark, leafy green vegetables
- Whole grains, like oats, and grain legumes, like lentils and chickpeas
- Lean proteins, like fish, poultry, and eggs
- Healthy fats, like avocado, olive oil, almonds, and oily fish
It’s also important to limit or avoid certain foods and beverages, including caffeine and alcohol. For instance, limit coffee intake to one cup a day and avoid alcohol wherever possible.
2. Managing Medications and Supplements
Before starting IVF, your doctor may recommend supplements to take throughout the process, including folic acid, which is essential for healthy fetal development in the earliest stages of pregnancy. Your doctor may also recommend supplements such as vitamin C to promote reproductive hormone balance or melatonin to improve sleep quality.
You'll also discuss the medications you're currently taking. Some medications and supplements may not be safe during IVF. Your fertility team will help determine which medications are safe to continue and which ones you may need to stop or find alternatives.
3. Staying Active
Exercise is a great way to improve physical health while preparing for IVF. Being active can also help reduce stress and anxiety throughout the IVF process. However, because the ovaries become larger during the IVF cycle, there's a potential risk of ovarian torsion. Gentle exercise is usually safe, but it's important to consult with your fertility doctor to ensure your exercise routine is suitable for IVF.
4. Sleeping Well
It’s important to develop good sleeping habits before starting IVF, as sleep deprivation can cause hormone imbalances and trigger weight gain and fatigue. Try to come up with a bedtime routine that’s relaxing and encouraging to you. Reading, meditating, and stretching can help prepare your mind and body for sleep and the IVF journey ahead.
5. Practicing Self Care
In addition to preparing physically for IVF, it’s also important to prepare and take care of yourself mentally. Undergoing IVF is exciting, but it can also be mentally challenging. Some ways to manage stress throughout your IVF journey include:
- Meditating
- Journaling
- Practicing mindfulness
- Prioritizing yourself and activities that bring you joy
- Talking to a fertility counselor
- Confiding in friends and family
Start Your IVF Journey With an Expert Team
The best way to prepare for IVF is to work with a fertility team you can trust throughout each step of the process. At Chelsea Fertility NYC, our reproductive specialists combine extensive experience and a dedication to patient-centered care to ensure you’re prepared for the IVF journey. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.
