IVF, or in vitro fertilization, is a complex medical procedure that often involves many different factors. However, one thing that many doctors and experts agree on is that making certain lifestyle changes can help improve your IVF results.
By taking small steps to improve your overall health and well-being, you may be able to increase your chances of success with IVF. Here are a few easy lifestyle changes to consider making.
1. Quit smoking
Smoking has been shown to decrease fertility in both men and women, and may also decrease the success rates of IVF. If you’re a smoker, quitting can be one of the best things you can do for your health and fertility.
Try joining a support group, finding a quit buddy, or using nicotine replacement products to help you quit. Your doctor can also provide resources and support to help you stop smoking.
2. Cut back on alcohol
Another lifestyle factor that can impact your fertility is alcohol consumption. While some studies have suggested that moderate alcohol intake may not have a significant impact on IVF success rates, heavy drinking has been linked to lower success rates.
Consider cutting back on or limiting your alcohol consumption to increase your chances of success with IVF.
3. Manage stress
Stress can have a negative impact on fertility, as well as overall health and well-being. Taking steps to manage your stress levels can be beneficial when undergoing IVF.
Consider practicing relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. You can also try talking to a therapist, joining a support group, or finding other healthy coping strategies to help manage stress.
4. Maintain a healthy weight
Being underweight or overweight can both have negative impacts on fertility and IVF success rates. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and exercise can help improve your fertility and increase your success with IVF.
Talk to your doctor or a nutritionist to help you create a healthy diet and exercise plan that works for you.
5. Get enough sleep
Getting enough sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. It can also impact fertility and IVF success rates. Try to establish a regular sleep routine and make sure you’re getting at least 7 hours of sleep each night.
If you’re having trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor about strategies to help improve your sleep quality.
6. Consider supplements
Some supplements have been shown to have a positive impact on fertility and IVF success rates. Talk to your doctor about supplements like folic acid, coenzyme Q10, and omega-3 fatty acids, which may be beneficial for fertility and overall health.
7. Eat a balanced diet
A balanced diet can provide the nutrients your body needs to function properly and can also improve fertility and IVF success rates. Make sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains in your diet.
Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in saturated fat.
8. Exercise regularly
Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, and improve overall health and well-being. It can also improve fertility and increase IVF success rates.
Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week, and incorporate strength training exercises in your routine.
9. Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water is important for overall health and well-being, but it can also impact fertility and IVF success rates. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid sugary drinks and excessive caffeine consumption.
10. Limit exposure to harmful chemicals
Exposure to certain chemicals can have a negative impact on fertility and IVF success rates. Limit your exposure to harmful chemicals like pesticides, cleaning products, and other toxic substances.
Consider using natural cleaning products, eating organic foods, and avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals in your workplace or home.