PREPARING MIND & BODY FOR IVF

Yoga increases blood flow to reproductive organs, improves endocrine function and hormonal balance and is also known to reduce discomfort associated with IVF treatment.

For couples yearning to conceive, but unable to do so, it is NOT the end of the road. There are several Fertility Treatments and Assisted Reproductive Procedures, to help get pregnant. Using In Vitro Fertilization has become widely acceptable and common amongst infertile couples and the stigma is fast wearing off. But that does not take away from the stress the couple go to, especially the woman/ mother-to-be. Preparing for IVF treatment is just as important as the treatment itself.

In IVF treatment, Fertilisation of the egg takes place outside the body, in vitro at laboratory conditions.

STEP 1: The woman’s eggs in the ovaries are stimulated to grow using hormone injections.

STEP 2: Mature ova are then extracted from the ovaries.

STEP 3: The most suited ovum (or ova) is then fertilised using sperm in the laboratory.

STEP 4: The fertilised eggs are then placed in the uterus of the women.

The development of eggs are then closely monitored.

Who should opt for IVF?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a good option for couples

Who are unable to conceive naturally?
Who are unable to conceive after other routine methods of treatment?
Where either or both members are infertile.
With tubal factor uterine causes.

GETTING READY FOR IVF

While IVF offers a lot of hope it does not take away from the stress the couple go through, especially the woman/ mother-to-be. Preparing for IVF treatment is just as important as the treatment itself. Here are some tips that could get you ready for the treatment:

1. RELAX.
Getting stressed is not good. Anxiety over the treatment, the rate of success, the odds against you, etc are all negative thoughts that will hamper the success of the treatment. Staying stress free from the beginning and all throughout the treatment cycle helps to increase the success of IVF treatment. Taking up meditation and learning breathing techniques to keep calm are great choices for those with an impending IVF procedure. Breathing deeply using your stomach is known to eliminate stress hormones from your body almost instantaneously.
2. TAKE A LESSONS IN YOGA
Yoga has physiological and psychological benefits. It increases blood flow to reproductive organs, improves endocrine function and hormonal balance and is also known to reduce discomfort associated with IVF treatment. It also improves strength and flexibility. The slow measured motions of yoga accompanied with good breath technique reduces stress and gives a sense of peace.
3. GET ENOUGH SLEEP
Getting a good night’s rest influences sex hormones, sperm production, and ovulation. Hence establishing a healthy sleep cycle is crucial and this is applicable to women and men. Avoid staying up late or doing anything particularly stressful just before sleeping. A few stretches, soothing tea and gentle music can help you sleep better.
4. TAKE YOUR MEDS REGULARLY
Prenatal vitamins are extremely important. Follow your doctor’s instructions to the letter when it comes to taking your meds and making appointments with him/her. Not just before the IVF cycle, but all through your pregnancy it is important to stick to your doctor’s advice on what meds need to be taken and what to be avoided.
5. FOLLOW A HEALTHY DIET
Food that will make your body fertile and ready for IVF:
- Whole grains, Fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Lean proteins, like fish (particularly fish roe and caviar) and poultry
- Avoid: alcohol, red meat, sugar, and highly processed foods.
- Legumes – beans, chickpeas, and lentils.
- Healthy fats – avocado, extra-virgin olive oil, almonds, walnuts and seeds.
- Reduce salt intake.

Understanding and accepting the reason you cannot conceive is the first step. Finding a fertility clinic that offers the best treatment is the next step. And through every step after that, the most important thing is to stay calm and optimistic. The success rate of IVF treatment today is much greater than it was a decade ago. Listen to your doctor and keep the faith.