Undergoing In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) requires careful preparation to optimise success rates. Making healthy lifestyle choices before starting IVF can enhance fertility, improve egg quality, and create a favourable environment for implantation. Here’s how to prepare your body for IVF treatment effectively.
1. Maintain a Healthy and Nutritious Diet
A balanced diet is key to supporting reproductive health. Consuming nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can enhance egg quality and hormonal balance. Omega-3 fatty acids from sources like salmon and walnuts improve uterine health, while antioxidant-rich foods help combat oxidative stress, which can affect fertility. Avoid processed foods, excessive sugar, and trans fats, as they may disrupt hormonal function and impact egg maturation.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being underweight or overweight can affect fertility by disrupting hormonal balance and ovulation. Achieving a healthy BMI (Body Mass Index) before starting IVF can significantly improve success rates. Excess weight can lead to insulin resistance, which affects egg quality, while being underweight can result in irregular ovulation. Consult a fertility expert to determine a healthy weight goal and adopt sustainable lifestyle changes that support reproductive well-being.
3. Limit Caffeine Intake
While caffeine is a daily staple for many, excessive consumption can negatively impact fertility and implantation rates. Studies suggest that consuming more than 200 mg of caffeine per day (approximately 1–2 cups of coffee) may reduce IVF success rates by affecting ovarian function and embryo implantation. Opt for decaffeinated coffee, herbal teas, or infused water as alternatives to keep your energy levels up without compromising fertility.
4. Engage in Regular Physical Activity
Exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and reducing stress, both of which are important for IVF success. However, excessive high-intensity workouts may cause hormonal imbalances and affect ovulation. Focus on moderate-intensity exercises like brisk walking, yoga, swimming, or light strength training. These activities support circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy reproductive system.
5. Manage Stress and Practise Mindfulness
The IVF journey can be emotionally demanding, and high stress levels can negatively affect fertility outcomes. Practising stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or acupuncture can promote relaxation and hormonal balance. Engaging in activities that bring joy and emotional well-being, such as journaling or spending time in nature, can help reduce anxiety and create a positive mindset for the IVF process.
Consult the Experts at Genesis IVF Penang
Proper preparation is key to improving your chances of a successful IVF journey. If you’re planning for IVF, the fertility specialists at Genesis IVF Penang can provide personalised guidance and comprehensive fertility assessments to optimise your reproductive health.
📞 Schedule a consultation today and take the next step towards your parenthood journey. Consult with our top IVF specialists in Penang to learn more
