The success of IVF depends on many factors, including your lifestyle. Adopting a healthy lifestyle can increase your IVF success rate many times over. So, what changes are needed? We reached out to health experts who can tell us how to make lifestyle changes to increase your IVF success rate. Read on to find out more.
From a balanced diet to daily exercise: experts share lifestyle changes to improve IVF success (Image credit: iStock)
For couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) the journey can be both mentally and physically demanding. Advanced medical procedures play a key role, but Lifestyle changes You can greatly increase your chances of success pregnancyRecent studies suggest that adopting a healthier lifestyle can have a positive impact on IVF outcomes, improving egg and sperm quality and overall reproductive health. We got in touch with Dr Anjali Kumar, Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, who told us that lifestyle changes can also improve your chances of conception success. Let’s find out.
1. Adopt a healthy diet
Dr Anjali Kumar explains that eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can improve IVF outcomes and boost fertility. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and healthy fats in your diet. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, almonds and leafy greens protect cells from harm and promote a healthy reproductive system. Additionally, make sure you get enough iron, calcium and folate, all of which are essential during pregnancy.
Dr Anjali Kumar says reproductive health depends on maintaining a healthy weight. IVF can be a challenge for women who are underweight or overweight. Hormonal abnormalities caused by excess body fat can affect ovulation and embryo implantation. Conversely, being underweight may not produce enough hormones required for a healthy pregnancy. The goal is to maintain a BMI (body mass index) between 18.5 and 24.9.
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Dr Anjali Kumar explains that stress can interfere with conception and IVF procedures can be mentally taxing. It’s important to find practical stress management techniques. Using methods such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness and meditation can help you stay calm and centered. To talk to someone who understands how you’re feeling and can share your feelings and experiences, consider enrolling in a support group or seeking professional counselling.
Dr Anjali Kumar explains that moderate exercise is not only good for your overall health, but can also increase your chances of IVF success. Frequent exercise improves circulation, lowers stress levels and helps you maintain a healthy weight – all essential factors for conception. However, strenuous or excessive exercise should be avoided as it can have a negative impact on your reproductive system. Aim to do around 30 minutes a day of moderate exercise like yoga, swimming or walking most days of the week.
Dr Anjali Kumar says good quality sleep is essential for healthy hormone balance and overall wellbeing. Get 7-9 hours of sleep every night. To improve the quality of your sleep, establish a regular sleep pattern and create a relaxing environment. To improve your sleep, try to cut out coffee, avoid screens right before bed and engage in relaxing exercises.
Dr Anjali Kumar explains that although sometimes ignored, adequate hydration is essential for reproductive health. Drinking enough water helps maintain optimal functioning of your body systems, including your reproductive organs. If you live in a hot climate or are physically active every day, try to drink at least eight glasses of water.
7. Reduce your exposure to toxins in the environment
Dr. Anjali Kumar says environmental pollutants like pesticides, heavy metals, and hormone-disrupting chemicals can affect fertility. Reduce your exposure to dangerous chemicals by choosing organic foods whenever possible, avoiding plastic food storage containers, and cutting back on your use of toxic personal care products. Additionally, consider using water and air filters to reduce the amount of pollutants in your home.
Dr Anjali Kumar explains that the effectiveness of IVF treatment depends heavily on the male’s fertility. Encourage your spouse to lead a healthy lifestyle as well. To improve sperm quality: Healthy dietMen should also avoid exposing their testicles to high temperatures, such as hot baths or tight underwear, as these can negatively affect sperm production.
Dr. Anjali Kumar says certain medications can negatively affect IVF outcomes and fertility. It’s important to avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and recreational drug use. These drugs can reduce implantation rates, decrease egg and sperm quality, and increase the chance of miscarriage. To prevent negative effects on fertility, limit your daily caffeine intake to less than 200 mg, or the amount in one 12-ounce cup of coffee.
