Going through IVF can feel like an emotional and physical rollercoaster. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure, you’re not alone. Taking the right steps, together as a couple, can make the process smoother and improve your chances of success. Here’s a clear, simple guide to precautions during IVF treatment, written just for you.
What lifestyle changes count as important precautions during IVF treatment?
Your daily routine plays a big role in IVF outcomes. Small changes can support your body during the process. Eat simple, home-cooked meals. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein (like dal, paneer, eggs, or fish). Avoid processed or fried food.
Limit caffeine. Caffeine is found to affect ovarian reserve and the quality of the eggs. Studies say that caffeine intake of more than 300mg per day reduces the quality and number of the eggs. Swap your third cup of tea or coffee with lemon water or coconut water. Stay hydrated. One of the most common symptoms of dehydration in adults is tiredness. Drink enough water every day.
Avoid smoking and alcohol. These may reduce the quality of both eggs and sperm and are part of the big IVF dos and don’ts. Sleep well. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep. Poor sleep may affect hormones important for reproduction.
Move, but don’t overdo it. Light walking or yoga is good. Avoid intense workouts or heavy lifting. These lifestyle choices are simple but powerful IVF success factors. They prepare your body to respond better to treatment and support embryo development.
How can your partner support you better during IVF, and why does it matter?
IVF is not just a woman’s journey; it’s something both of you go through. Many articles forget to talk about the partner’s role, but it matters more than you may think.
Dr Sabiha Anjum Shaik, MBBS, DGO, FRM (Reproductive Medicine), Consultant Gynaecologist, Medicover Hospital, Bangalore, says, “Stress is being labelled a carcinogen now. That’s how toxic it could become! So, steer away from stress for your IVF to succeed. Definitely having a healthy diet, physical exercise, and proper sleep helps maintain hormonal balance, produces lots of endorphins, which have a positive effect on the body. IVF could be science, but our approach could be holistic. I often advise couples to take a vacation before embryo transfer and not to put a ton of pressure on the result. It is easier said than done, but it helps us cope better if things don’t turn out as we expect. There is no harm in seeking help from a therapist before, during and after the procedures to help deal with things better.”
- Be there for each other. Appointments, injections, and waiting periods can be stressful. Sit together, talk, and support each other’s feelings.
- Split responsibilities. Share household work so the partner undergoing IVF can rest more.
- Attend appointments together. It shows emotional support and also helps both understand what’s going on medically.
- Talk openly. IVF can be full of hopes and fears. Bottling up feelings can increase stress and reduce emotional closeness.
Good emotional health is one of the quiet IVF success factors that couples often overlook. You are stronger as a team.
What should you do (and avoid) after embryo transfer as part of precautions during IVF treatment?
The time after the embryo transfer is delicate. Many couples feel unsure about what’s safe. Here are the key precautions during IVF treatment during this phase:
- Rest, but don’t be on bed rest. Light movement (like walking) improves blood flow. Complete bed rest is not necessary and can sometimes cause more harm than good.
- Skip sex for a while. Most doctors advise avoiding sex during IFV treatment.
- Take medicines as advised. Follow timings and dosages. Don’t stop or skip without checking with your doctor.
- Avoid hot showers or saunas. High heat may affect implantation.
- Say no to heavy lifting or travel. Avoid bumpy rides or anything physically tiring during this phase.
This is also the time when many women ask, “What about recovery after IVF?” Recovery depends on your body, but following these steps helps create a safe, healing environment for the embryo.
Your IVF journey may feel tough, but taking care of the small things can make a big difference. These precautions during IVF treatment are simple, practical, and important for both partners. Focus on supporting each other emotionally, making smart lifestyle choices, and being gentle with yourself after the embryo transfer.
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