Narayana Health Care

With the latest advancement in medical science, many solutions are available for treating infertility. IVF or In Vitro Fertilization is one of the assisted reproduction methods helping many couples realize a dream of having their child. In IVF, the embryologist fertilizes man’s sperm and woman’s egg outside of the body in the laboratory. After fertilization, the doctor implants the embryo into the woman’s uterus and, the pregnancy happens.

Though there are advancements in medical science, still many concerns arise in our minds regarding the procedure IVF, such as:

• Side effects of medicines used in IVF
• Multiple pregnancies
• Will pregnancy be more complicated
• Potential congenital disease (disease present since birth) in a child
• The necessity for complete rest

Let us address these concerns one by one.

Medication used in IVF can show mild side effects, such as a bruise, redness at the injection site, nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, abdominal discomfort, and vaginal discharge. The chances of severe side effects are minimal.

As far as the chance of multiple pregnancies, yes, you can have multiple pregnancies in IVF. In IVF, the embryologist transfers more than one embryo to the uterus to increase the chances of IVF success. Generally, pregnancy through IVF is the same as a normal conceive pregnancy. But, in the case of multiple pregnancies, some associated risks are delivery by cesarean section, pregnancy-related high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and preterm delivery.

There is no theory that IVF-conceived children have a higher incidence of congenital diseases. Pregnancy in the late 30s, reasons for infertility, and genetic defects are some of the most common causes of congenital diseases.

There is no need for complete bed rest after embryo transfer. A gynaecologist may suggest light exercise like slow walking after embryo transfer. Exercise also helps in boosting fertility which is essential for the success of any assisted reproductive technique. Let us discuss how exercise helps in making an IVF procedure a success.

Importance of exercise before IVF

There is too much confusion about exercise and its impact on artificial fertilization. Healthy body weight may enhance the success of fertilization.

Excessive body weight and fat around the belly can disturb the hormonal balance leading to the irregular menstrual cycle and disturbing hormone levels. Changes in the hormonal balance can sometimes increase the risk of non-formation of female eggs. Obesity can also affect the quality of the ovum (egg). The chance of live births also reduces in obese women compared to women with normal BMI in the case of assisted reproduction.

We can see the correlation between obesity and fertility. Some lifestyle modifications that can help in boosting fertility are:

• Exercise is the best way of reducing weight. Exercise improves mood, reduces the risk of many diseases, and makes bones strong. Exercise can be in the form of walking, cycling, jogging, running, and swimming.
• High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is also an effective method to cut extra fat.
• Yoga is also a productive method to maintain a healthy weight.
• A change in dietary habits is a must to reduce weight. Replacing simple carbohydrates with complex carbohydrates such as quinoa, brown rice, lentils, and beans, is one of the best dietary modifications. Proteins and complex carbohydrates help to sustain energy for extended periods.
• We have to cut down our extra sugar consumption in between meals. We should avoid snacks, such as sugary drinks, cake, cookies, and sweets.
• Having most of the daily calory intake in the morning is a good habit. Eating a healthy and heavy breakfast decreases insulin resistance and improves our BMI. As we know, insulin resistance is one of the main factors responsible for weight gain so, managing it can reduce excess weight.
• Switching to low-fat dairy products also helps in maintaining a healthy body weight.
• Including fruits and fresh vegetables in the diet promotes antioxidants and improves our BMI.

If you are thinking of going for assisted reproduction techniques or IVF, these simple lifestyle modifications can help you.