20 Must Steps for Achieving First Attempt IVF Success: updated 2023

Introduction

Embarking on the journey of In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) can seem daunting. The emotional rollercoaster, the physical demands, and the financial investment – it’s quite a ride. But fear not, you are not alone. About 1 in 8 women seek this extra help to conceive, making IVF a common pathway to parenthood. As we stride into 2023, our understanding of IVF has never been better. So buckle up, and join us as we reveal the 20 essential steps you must take to make IVF successful in your first attempt.

1. Understand the IVF Journey

First things first, understanding the IVF journey is key to navigating it successfully. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Preparation: This stage begins 2 to 4 weeks before your IVF cycle, involving small lifestyle changes to ensure you’re at your best health.

1. Stage 1: Day 1 of your IVF is the first day of your period closest to the scheduled IVF treatment.
2. Stage 2: This stage takes 3 to 12 days and involves starting fertility drugs to stimulate your ovaries to release more eggs than normal.
3. Stage 3: An injection of the “pregnancy hormone”, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), helps your ovaries release some eggs. Exactly 36 hours after the injection, your eggs will be harvested.
4. Stage 4: On the same day as the eggs are harvested, they are fertilized. This is when you begin taking progesterone to prepare your womb for a healthy pregnancy.
5. Stage 5: Less than a week after your eggs were harvested, the healthy embryo is transferred back into your womb.
6. Stage 6: 9 to 12 days later, your doctor will check on the progress of the embryo in your womb through a scan and a blood test.

2. Embrace Healthy Eating Habits

During your IVF cycle, your focus should be on eating healthy, balanced meals. A Mediterranean-style diet is highly recommended, filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Remember to avoid red meat, sugar, and other highly processed foods.

3. Maintain an Appropriate Exercise Regimen

Exercise is crucial, but it’s important not to overdo it. If you’re a runner, try to keep it to no more than 15 miles per week, as running can have negative effects on the thickening of the womb lining.

4. Avoid Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals

Certain chemicals found in everyday household items can interfere with hormones and reproductive health. These include formaldehyde, parabens, triclosan, benzophenone, BPA, brominated flame retardants, perfluorinated compounds, dioxins, and phthalates. Consider replacing such products with natural alternatives.

5. Review Your Medications

Some medications can interfere with fertility drugs, cause hormonal imbalances, or make IVF treatment less effective. These include certain NSAIDs, antidepressants, steroids, antiseizure medications, thyroid medications, and chemotherapy drugs. Make sure to discuss all your current medications with your fertility doctor.

6. Take Supplements

Certain natural supplements can help support a new pregnancy. Start taking a prenatal vitamin to increase your folic acid levels before your IVF cycle begins. Fish oil and vitamin D supplements are also recommended, but always review any supplements with your doctor before adding them to your diet.

7. Prioritize Sleep

Sleep and fertility are closely connected. Getting the right amount of sleep can support your IVF cycle. The recommended amount of sleep to get during IVF is still being researched, but generally, it’s advised to aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.

8. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises can help manage the stress and anxiety that often accompany an IVF cycle.

9. Maintain Open Communication with Your Partner

Your partner plays a crucial role in this journey. It’s important to maintain open communication to support each other emotionally.

10. Keep a Positive Attitude

Having a positive attitude is crucial during the IVF journey. Although it can be a challenging process, keeping your mind positive can help you navigate the ups and downs more effectively.

11. Attend Regular Medical Checkups

Regular checkups with your fertility doctor are important to monitor your progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

12. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking

Alcohol and smoking can negatively impact fertility in both men and women. It’s best to avoid these substances during your IVF journey.

13. Seek Emotional Support

The IVF journey can be emotionally challenging. Seeking support from a professional counselor, support group, or trusted friends and family can be beneficial.

14. Stay Hydrated

Staying well-hydrated is important for overall health and can support your body during the IVF process.

15. Consider Acupuncture

Some studies suggest that acupuncture can increase IVF success rates. Discuss this with your fertility doctor.

16. Avoid Heat Exposure for Men

Heat can negatively impact sperm quality. Men should avoid hot tubs, saunas, and tight clothing during the IVF process.

17. Follow Your Doctor’s Advice

Your fertility doctor is your best guide during this journey. Make sure to follow their advice and instructions closely.

18. Limit Caffeine Intake

While moderate caffeine intake is generally considered safe, it’s best to limit your intake during your IVF cycle.

19. Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

Maintaining a healthy body weight can increase the chances of success with IVF. If you’re underweight or overweight, consider working with a nutritionist or dietitian to reach a healthy weight before beginning your IVF cycle.

20. Stay Informed

As research evolves, staying informed about the latest findings and advancements in IVF can help you make informed decisions about your treatment.

By following these steps, you can prepare your body and mind for the IVF journey, improving your chances of a successful outcome. Remember that everyone’s journey is unique, and while these steps can provide a helpful guide, it’s important to work closely with your fertility doctor to create a personalized plan that best meets your needs.