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Essential Health Tips For Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Experiencing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) can be an exhilarating experience, but it can be filled with many obstacles

It is vital to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prepare for the procedure. Here are some important health tips for women about to undergo IVF.

Prioritise a balanced diet

Nutrition is key when it comes to maintaining reproductive health. Women undergoing IVF should consider a food plan comprising various fruit, vegetables, grains, and proteins. Fruits and vegetables provide many important vitamins and antioxidants necessary for improving the egg cells, while grains provide fiber and other nutrients. Chicken, fish, lentils, and other legumes contain lean proteins needed for tissue repair and hormonal balance, while omega-3-fatty acid, which consists of healthy fats from fishes and flaxseed, helps minimize inflammation and supports hormones. It is important to drink water regularly because it provides energy and also enhances egg quality.

Engage in gentle exercise

In general, being physically active is good for the body. However, during IVF, it is important to only perform gentle and non-strenuous exercises. Low impact exercises like walking, yoga and swimming increase circulation, relieve tension and promote relaxation without overstraining the body. High-intensity workouts are best avoided as they potentially raise the stress hormones which may affect fertility. Controlled exercise levels can be sufficient to ensure general fitness and not overload the body during the course of treatment.

Manage stress effectively

The IVF process is riddled with emotional ups and downs along the way. For such reasons stress management techniques become important as a part of the process. Mindfulness and meditation assist women in being more attentive and less anxious at events. Acupuncture can also reduce stress and improve the blood supply to the reproductive organs, thus potentially improving the outcomes of the IVF procedure. Therapy and peer support prevent the feeling of isolation and connect people to the emotional side of the trauma they may have experienced. Moreover, rest and hobbies help to restore emotional well-being, helping women cope with the demands of IVF.

Follow medical advice closely

Perhaps the most important determinant during the IVF is obedience to the practitioner’s recommendations. This involves taking supplements such as folic acid, vitamin D and iron that are essential for the fetus, regulation of hormones and health of the placenta. It is also necessary to bear in mind the precautions regarding self-healing practices, avoid self-medicating with over-the-counter supplements, which may counteract the IVF procedures. Maintaining compliance with medical guidance protects health and even optimizes the effectiveness of the treatment.

Build a support network

Going through procedures such as IVF can be daunting emotionally, thus, women undergoing IVF should always seek an emotional network. Being able to confide in a partner at times can make it easier to deal with the emotional stress inherent to the process. A good support system can help women feel more understood and more supported, which makes it easier to get through the IVF process.

Conclusion

It is essential to use nutritional approaches, gentle exercise, stress management, comply with healthcare directives, and get emotional support during the entire IVF process. These components are integral towards improved wellbeing and may in the long run lead to better IVF results. Each journey of IVF is different, and, thus, it’s best to have a positive attitude, be flexible with the approach and be mindful of what works best for you.

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Dr. Nandita Palshetkar

Guest Author Obstetrician, Gynaecologist, Director of Bloom IVF India, President of IVF Society of India (ISAR)

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