IVF is a complex process that should be done with the utmost care and precision to achieve the desired result: pregnancy. IVF involves the following steps:
- ovarian induction/stimulation,
- egg & sperm retrieval,
- fertilization,
- embryo culture, and
- embryo transfer.
All these steps need to be done carefully to succeed in IVF. Ovulation stimulation is the first step of the IVF procedure. In this article, let’s look at IVF stimulation and the dos and don’ts you should follow during this procedure.
IVF Stimulation Procedure
During ovarian stimulation, the female partner is administered hormonal injections to stimulate the ovaries to produce more mature eggs. These hormones are given in the form of injections, which women should take every day for about 8–14 days, depending on their body condition.
During each cycle, the ovaries produce over 10 to 20 egg follicles. But only one of them matures and reaches the fallopian tube. The rest are then reabsorbed by the body.
The hormonal injections will stimulate the ovaries to mature all the egg follicles at once, producing several mature eggs. These eggs are then retrieved and used for fertilization.
Having more eggs gives more chances for successful fertilization. Even if one egg fails, the other eggs can be used. Doctors also have the choice to choose the best embryo among them to increase the chances of implantation and pregnancy.
All the Best for your IVF Journey !
Things You Should Do
Now, you know how important ovulation stimulation is for IVF. Here are some things you should do during IVF stimulation to improve your chances of success.
Understand the process
Understand what the IVF process is and the steps involved in it. Having a thorough understanding of it can help you prepare yourself mentally and physically for the treatment.
Understand your hormone levels
Your emotions have a huge impact on your hormone levels. The emotional strain you go through during IVF can affect your hormone levels, which can affect IVF stimulation. So stay calm and relaxed during the process, and be positive that you will succeed.
Follow the instructions
Your doctor knows your body condition well and understands what will ensure IVF success. So, listen to your doctor and follow their instructions without fail. Be it the dosage for medicines or lifestyle changes, know that your doctor suggests them for your own good.
Reduce stress
Stress can have a negative effect on ovulation stimulation. Try to manage stress by doing relaxing activities like meditation, listening to music, etc.
Get emotional support
It is okay to look for your friends and family to get emotional support from them. IVF can be tiring. Having your friends and family near you can be a pillar of support for you.
Things You Should Not Do
Just like how there are things you should do, there are also things you should not do during IVF stimulation. Below are some of them.
Avoid unhealthy habits
It is crucial to avoid unhealthy health habits like smoking, drinking, drugs, etc., during IVF treatments. These habits can lower your chances of success. Doctors usually recommend women stop using them at least 3 months before starting the treatment.
Don’t neglect your state of health
It is common to overlook your health when making crucial decisions like IVF. Try to maintain a healthy weight, consume better food, follow a balanced diet, and don’t forget to take your vitamins. Remember, this is all for your baby.
Don’t disregard or take advice lightly
Some people do not listen to doctor’s suggestions and are lethargic about it. Don’t be like that. Doctors know the state of your health well. Listen to them and follow their advice diligently.
Conclusion
IVF is a very important decision you would have taken after serious consideration. So, you must understand how crucial it is for you to learn and follow some steps to ensure the treatment goes smoothly.
If you have any doubts about the process, you can consult your fertility doctor. Just remember that the struggles you face now will all be worth it when you hold your bundle of joy in the future.
FAQs
Yes, you can exercise during IVF. Exercise is good for your body and can improve overall physical and mental health.
Just make sure you do not involve in strenuous exercises and strain your body. You can instead go for a little walk, do some lightweight exercises, or do some yoga and meditation.
Yes. A yearly flu shot helps to safeguard you and your unborn child from serious complications from the flu, birth defects, and other health problems.
The timing of flu seasons varies from season to season, but the CDC advises getting immunized by the end of October. This scheduling enables you to be protected before flu activity picks up.
Yes, you can travel during IVF. you can consult your doctor on when and how long you can make those trips. It will be safe to just go for short weekend trips and avoid long trips. You need to visit the hospital for regular monitoring and it can get complicated if you are not present.
