Do’s & Don’ts During IVF Treatment
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- Do’s & Don’ts During IVF Treatment
Understanding the IVF Journey: Phases & Key Points
Before diving into the do’s and don’ts, it helps to briefly understand the stages of a typical IVF cycle. This also clarifies when certain restrictions or precautions apply.
- Baseline & Preparation
- Baseline tests: hormonal assays, ultrasound, infectious disease screening, semen analysis
- Pre-treatment optimization: lifestyle changes, addressing thyroid, diabetes, nutritional deficiencies
- Ovarian Stimulation (Follicular Phase / Controlled Ovarian Stimulation)
- You will take injectable hormonal medications (FSH / LH / GnRH protocols)
- Frequent monitoring (ultrasound scans, hormonal blood tests)
- Trigger & Egg Retrieval
- An injection (“trigger”) is given to mature eggs
- Egg retrieval is performed under sedation
- Fertilization & Embryo Culture
- In the lab, eggs are fertilized (standard IVF or ICSI) and cultured over days
- Optionally, embryo testing or selection
- Embryo Transfer
- Embryo(s) transferred into the uterus
- “Two-week wait” until pregnancy test
- Post-Transfer / Early Pregnancy Monitoring
- Luteal support (progesterone, estrogen)
- Monitoring for implantation, early pregnancy growth
Each stage has slightly different risk factors and guidelines. The do’s and don’ts we list below are grouped by relevance across phases (especially stimulation to post-transfer).
Do’s (Best Practices) During IVF Treatment
1. Follow Protocols Strictly & Timely
- Take all medications exactly as prescribed (dose, timing, route).
- Do not skip or alter injections or oral medications without consulting your doctor.
- Keep a calendar or reminder (app / alarm) to avoid missed doses.
- Attend all scheduled monitoring scans and blood tests.
2. Maintain a Balanced, Nutritious Diet
- Prioritize whole foods: plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins (paneer, legumes, fish, eggs).
- Include sources of good fats: nuts, seeds (flaxseed, chia), olive oil in moderation.
- Stay adequately hydrated (target ~2 to 2.5 litres of clean water daily, adjust for climate).
- Ensure sufficient intake of micronutrients (especially iron, folic acid, vitamin B12, D, zinc).
- Use the supplements your doctor prescribes (e.g. prenatal folate, vitamin D).
3. Moderate & Gentle Exercise
- Gentle walking, stretching, yoga (prenatal / fertility yoga) is usually fine.
- Short sessions of low-impact cardio (e.g. 20–30 min) are acceptable if you are used to them and your doctor approves.
- Focus on relaxing, mind-body practices (deep breathing, meditation, guided relaxation).
4. Stress Management, Emotional Well-Being
- Use mindfulness, breathing exercises, meditation, or guided imagery.
- Engage in hobbies and supportive social activity (without overexerting).
- Consider joining fertility support groups (online or in person).
- If needed, consult a counsellor or psychologist experienced in fertility issues.
5. Ensure Adequate Sleep & Rest
- Target 7–8 hours of restful sleep per night.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Avoid screen time close to bedtime (blue light) as much as possible.
6. Maintain a Healthy Body-Weight / Manage BMI
- If overweight or underweight, consult your doctor or nutritionist prior to starting IVF.
- Gradual, safe weight loss or gain is better than rapid changes.
- Avoid crash diets, extreme weight loss, fasting protocols (unless doctor insists).
7. Be Honest About All Medications & Supplements
- Inform your doctor of any over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies, ayurvedic supplements, vitamin regimens you are using.
- Some herbs (e.g. ginseng, ashwagandha, certain traditional remedies) may interfere with hormone action or embryo development.
- Always clear any new medication (antibiotics, painkillers, cold/flu medicines) with your fertility specialist.
8. Maintain Good Vaginal & Pelvic Hygiene
- Avoid douching, scented vaginal washes, or harsh chemicals.
- Use gentle, fragrance-free soaps.
- Wear breathable cotton underwear.
9. Observe Travel / Movement Restrictions Carefully
- Short, safe travel in moderate conditions is often permissible, but long trips involving high stress or altitude changes should be avoided during stimulation & after embryo transfer.
- Ensure you have access to your clinic or medical care whenever required (for monitoring or emergencies).
10. Follow Post-Transfer Precautions
- After embryo transfer, avoid lifting heavy objects, high-impact activity, or trauma to the abdomen.
- Many doctors advise avoiding baths, saunas, or hot tubs for some days.
- Continue luteal support medications (progesterone, estrogen) as directed.
- Maintain a calm and positive mindset (though we acknowledge waiting can be very anxious).
- Do pregnancy tests as scheduled (usually ~9–12 days post transfer).
11. Maintain Communication With Your Clinic
- Immediately report symptoms like fever, heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, swelling (signs of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome – OHSS).
- Keep your team apprised of any changes (medication side-effects, missed dose, new symptoms).
- Use remote consultation options if available for minor queries (to reduce needless travel).
Don’ts (Risks, Things to Avoid) During IVF Treatment
While the “do’s” help support your cycle, the “don’ts” help you steer clear of potential pitfalls. Many fertility clinics emphasize these during stimulation.
1. Don’t Smoke or Use Tobacco in Any Form
- Smoking (and exposure to second-hand smoke) reduces ovarian reserve, egg quality, and increases miscarriage risks.
- For males, smoking adversely impacts sperm count, motility, and morphology.
- Ideally, both partners should quit at least 3 months before starting IVF and during the entire cycle.
2. Don’t Drink Alcohol or Use Recreational Drugs
- Alcohol can negatively affect egg and sperm quality, embryo development, and implantation.
- Recreational substances are contraindicated and may interfere with medications or fetal development.
- Avoid even “occasional” use during the entire IVF cycle and early pregnancy.
3. Don’t Undergo Intense or Strenuous Exercise
- High-impact workouts (running, heavy weight lifting, high-intensity interval training, CrossFit, etc.) may risk ovarian torsion or impair blood flow.
- Avoid jumping, deep bending, or movements that strain the abdomen, especially post-retrieval or post-transfer.
4. Don’t Ignore Side Effects or Symptoms
- Mild side effects (bloating, mild cramp) can be expected, but don’t ignore severe pain, sudden swelling of legs, shortness of breath, or rapid weight gain (signs of OHSS).
- Contact your doctor promptly if anything feels significantly off.
5. Don’t Take Herbal Supplements / Unverified Remedies Without Permission
- Many “fertility herbs” are untested in IVF settings; their safety and interactions are unknown.
- Avoid self-medicating with ayurvedic preparations, homeopathy, or over-the-counter potent herbs unless cleared by your fertility specialist.
6. Don’t Have Intercourse Immediately After Embryo Transfer (Unless Advised Otherwise)
- Many clinics ask to suspend intercourse for a short period (until pregnancy test) to avoid uterine contractions, infection risk, or disturbance to the embryos.
- Once pregnancy is confirmed and on the advice of your doctor, you may resume sexual activity.
7. Don’t Use Hot Baths / Hot Tubs / Saunas / Steam Rooms
- Elevated heat (e.g. hot water immersion, saunas) can adversely affect embryo implantation or early embryonic development.
- Prefer lukewarm (not hot) showers.
8. Don’t Travel Heavily During Critical Windows
- Avoid long journeys, especially involving altitude changes or remote areas, during stimulation or immediately after embryo transfer.
- Frequent trips back and forth to clinics for monitoring are important – so being far away can jeopardize care.
9. Don’t Overdo Caffeine or Stimulants
- Limit caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks) to a moderate level (commonly <200–300 mg/day, or as advised).
- Avoid excessive cola drinks, strong tea, or other stimulants that could negatively affect circulation or hormonal pathways.
10. Don’t Be Overly Obsessed / Panic Over Every Symptom
- Fertility treatment is a stressful journey. Obsessing over minor cramps, spotting, or sensations can increase anxiety.
- Instead, track, note, and report to your clinic if anything significantly bothers you – don’t self-diagnose or overreact.
Practical Tips During IVF Treatment
India presents unique lifestyle, climate, social, and cultural contexts that IVF patients should keep in mind:
- Heat & Humidity
Summer months and high humidity can lead to dehydration, heat stress, and swelling. Prioritize hydration, avoid exposure to extreme heat (sun, saunas), and avoid overexertion outdoors during peak hours. - Diet / Food Safety
- Use safe, fresh, and hygienic food: avoid undercooked or street foods that risk infections.
- Be cautious about unpasteurized dairy, raw eggs, raw sprouts, raw fish/shellfish.
- Favor home-cooked meals, washed vegetables, and clean water.
- Be wary of “fertility-enhancing” fad foods or “quick-fix” ayurvedic tonics without medical approval.
- Family / Social Pressure & Stress
Many couples in India face pressure, expectations, or social queries about infertility. It’s important to maintain emotional boundaries, seek supportive counselling, and educate family/friends slowly if desired. - Clinic Logistics & Travel
- Many Indian patients travel from different cities to specialized fertility centers (like Pramukh IVF). Plan accommodation close to the clinic during critical monitoring days.
- Ensure you have backup plans (transport, lodging) especially around egg retrieval or transfer days.
- Use telemedicine or home monitoring if offered for minor consultations to reduce travel strain.
- Financial Planning
IVF is a significant financial commitment in India. Before starting:- Discuss package costs, hidden charges, medication costs, lab add-ons, and cancellation policies with your clinic.
- Understand EMIs, financing options, subsidy programs, or insurance (if available).
- Keep contingency funds for extra cycles or unexpected interventions.
- Cultural Beliefs & Alternative Treatments
Many patients may be drawn to traditional medicine (Ayurveda, Siddha, herbal remedies). Always discuss these openly with your doctor – some may interact or contraindicate IVF protocols. Integrative approaches might be possible, but only under physician guidance.
When to Contact Your Doctor
While mild discomfort is expected, certain signs require prompt medical attention:
- Sudden, severe abdominal pain
- Excessive vaginal bleeding (soaking > 1 pad per hour)
- Rapid abdominal swelling, weight gain (>2 kg in 24 hours)
- Breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting
- High fever (>100.4°F / 38°C) not relieved by medication
- Severe nausea, vomiting, persistent diarrhea
- Oliguria (very low urine output) or swelling in extremities
These may indicate complications such as Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), infection, or bleeding. Do not delay – contact your fertility clinic or nearest hospital.
Sample Timeline with Do’s / Don’ts During IVF Treatment
Here’s a simplified example to help patients visualize when certain precautions matter most (to be customized per your protocol).
Time / Phase | Key Do’s | Key Don’ts |
Baseline / Pre-IVF | Optimize health, quit smoking, balanced diet, baseline lab tests | No heavy dieting, no unapproved supplements |
Stimulation (Day 1 to trigger) | Strict drug adherence, gentle movement, good rest | No intense workouts, no alcohol, no self-medicating herbal tonics |
Trigger → Retrieval Day | Adequate hydration, rest before procedure | Avoid heavy meals just before, limit movement beforehand |
Post-Retrieval to Transfer | Gentle walking, avoid straining, follow instructions | No heavy lifting, no baths or hot tubs, no intense activity |
After Embryo Transfer (2-week wait) | Continue support meds, rest as needed, healthy diet | Avoid intercourse (if advised), avoid stress overload or overactivity |
Early Pregnancy Phase | Continue monitoring, safe movement, calm routine | No risky or strenuous actions until doctor permits |
How Pramukh IVF Center Supports You
- Personalized treatment plans designed per your health profile
- Frequent monitoring, ultrasound & lab support onsite
- Clear counsels & guidance on lifestyle, diet, mental health
- Teleconsultations for certain follow-ups (if travel is tough)
- Emergency contact and support during IVF cycle
- Transparent cost breakdowns and counselling
- Emotional support, patient counselling, and fertility education
Summary & Final Thoughts
The journey through IVF is often emotionally and physically demanding. But observant care, informed decisions, and close collaboration with your fertility clinic can make the path smoother. In summary:
- Do adhere carefully to medication schedules, adopt a healthy diet, moderate exercise, stress management, and rest.
- Don’t indulge in smoking, alcohol, unverified supplements, strenuous activity, or extreme self-experimentation.
- Ask your doctor every question – no concern is too small.
- Monitor your body, and never hesitate to reach out in emergencies.
- Recognize that success is not guaranteed in one cycle – be mentally prepared and patient.
- Lean on your support system and stay hopeful.
We hope this guide helps couples at Pramukh IVF Center feel more empowered and confident during their treatment.
FAQ
1. What should be avoided during IVF treatment?
Avoid smoking, alcohol, caffeine in excess, junk food, and heavy physical activities. It’s also best to stay away from unnecessary medications, stress, and late-night routines. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, especially regarding rest and diet after embryo transfer.
2. What are the most important things to do during IVF treatment?
Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, follow your prescribed medication schedule, and attend all appointments on time. Getting enough sleep, managing stress, and maintaining a calm mindset are equally important throughout the process.
3. Can I exercise during IVF treatment?
Yes, but only mild to moderate activities such as walking or light stretching are recommended. Avoid high-intensity workouts, running, heavy lifting, or yoga poses that strain the abdomen, especially after embryo transfer. Always consult your fertility expert before starting or continuing any exercise routine.
4. Is travel allowed during IVF treatment?
Short-distance travel is usually fine, but long journeys are best avoided during the egg retrieval and embryo transfer phases. Movement and temperature changes can affect comfort and recovery. Plan your schedule so you can rest adequately during these stages.
5. Can I have caffeine during IVF treatment?
Limit caffeine to one cup of tea or coffee per day. Excessive caffeine may interfere with hormone balance and reduce embryo implantation chances. Herbal teas, coconut water, and fresh juices are good alternatives to stay refreshed.