Achieving Higher IVF Success Rates
Choosing the in vitro fertilization (IVF) journey is no simple task. A series of fertility drugs, consultations, and medical procedures all come together to help with pregnancy. The goal is to increase IVF success rates as much as possible. The fertility team can perform each step to perfection, but the individual or couple must take the appropriate action, too. Positive lifestyle changes can help, but some habits can compromise success rates. An IVF patient should seek to be physically and mentally ready for the process. The best way to optimize the journey is to avoid these 4 habits before and during IVF.
1. Say no to tobacco
Doctors recommend ditching all tobacco products in the months leading up to IVF. Studies show that smoking and the use of other tobacco products can harm IVF outcomes. In many cases, excess smoking could be the underlying reason for poor reproductive health. Excess tobacco use not only causes severe oxidative stress but can impact hormone production and damage DNA in men and women. Taking several months before considering IVF to give up smoking can increase the success of IVF.
2. Becoming an online doctor and ignoring the pros
The internet and social media have opened the floodgates of information. There are multiple blogs, articles, and studies with a wealth of information about fertility treatments. Furthermore, online forums and groups can provide stories and anecdotes that do not apply to the individual. Consistently searching online, rather than trusting the fertility clinic, can lead to self-diagnosis. Some individuals become more stressed and concerned, while others may try strategies that conflict with fertility medicine. Trust the process and the advice of the fertility doctor, as each IVF patient is different and needs individual support.
3. Decreasing exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals
The environment is filled with toxins, chemicals, and irritants that can directly impact hormonal health. Known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC), exposure to these chemicals builds up over several years, mimicking certain hormones or blocking others. Common examples include bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are present in everyday items. Habits like drinking from plastic bottles, using harsh chemical cleaners, and eating processed foods are typical examples. Ask the fertility team about limiting exposure to support reproductive health.
4. Extreme dieting or exercise
Diet and exercise play a crucial role in fertility treatment. The nutrients from a healthy diet and weight management can improve IVF success rates. At the same time, overtraining or extreme diets can have the opposite effect. While moderate exercise is good, overtraining can place severe oxidative stress on the body and increase cortisol levels. Overtraining also causes irregular periods, impacts ovulation, and may disrupt IVF. Extreme dieting limits access to the micronutrients found in whole foods or may disrupt natural hormone production. Aim for a balanced, whole-food diet before and during treatment.
For the best results, seek optimization
Many internal and external factors influence the IVF journey. The goal is to create the optimal environment for fertility medication, collecting sperm and egg samples, and implanting embryos. Avoid habits that increase stress, disrupt hormones, or compromise treatment. Seek balance and support from close friends and loved ones. Trust the process and leverage the wealth of experience from the fertility clinic for optimal results.
