Optimizing Hormone Levels Before IVF
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an innovative medical technique to help people with infertility challenges get pregnant. The process is also helpful for individuals or same-sex couples eager to start or grow a family. IVF involves creating healthy embryos in a fertility lab using sperm and egg samples. A healthy embryo is then transferred into the woman’s uterus in hopes of pregnancy. To prepare for IVF, the woman should have healthy follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. FSH and LH levels increase the chances of extracting healthy eggs and having a successful, healthy pregnancy. The goal for any hopeful couple is to achieve adequate levels before fertility treatment.
Why FSH and LH matter
Follicle-stimulating hormone is an essential hormone in the female reproductive system responsible for helping to create, stimulate, and grow follicles in the ovaries. Follicles are the tiny sacs that house the eggs released during ovulation. FSH also controls the menstrual cycle in women and the production of sperm in men. FSH that is too high or too low can limit the success of IVF, especially in retrieving mature eggs. Luteinizing hormone works with FSH to trigger the release of the eggs during ovulation. LH plays a role in releasing eggs into the fallopian tubes during natural pregnancy and helps with the timing of egg retrieval during IVF. The right balance of both hormones is necessary for a successful IVF cycle. These 4 methods can help to increase or balance FSH and LH naturally.
1. The right diet
A healthy diet is an effective way to improve fertility. The right foods act as medicine, allowing the body to achieve a healthy balance of hormones. Reducing inflammation should be the first step. Less inflammation helps lower stress on organs or systems that produce FSH and LH. Avoiding highly processed foods and refined sugars and carbohydrates can help. Stick to a diet focused on whole foods during the IVF period. Dark, leafy green vegetables also help with FSH and LH production
2. Watch your stress levels
There are numerous negative repercussions of high levels of stress. When the cortisol hormone, created by stress, constantly circulates in the body, increased inflammation and damage to critical organs can occur. There is also limited function and production of FSH and LH. Reducing stress is vital to improving hormone production, especially during the IVF cycle. Consider low-impact exercise, yoga, and meditation to keep stress levels minimal. Supplements like ashwagandha can also help lower stress levels, indirectly improving hormone production. Talk therapy, including close community support during IVF, is another valuable option. Try 1-2 options, be consistent, and results will follow.
3. The power of acupuncture
For hundreds of years, acupuncture has been a cornerstone of Eastern medicine. The procedure has been known to help with ovulation while improving the success rates of IVF. Acupuncturists penetrate the skin with long, tiny needles in specific locations. This traditional Chinese medicine is known to enhance energy flow and alleviate pain. Acupuncture is beneficial for treating abnormally high FSH levels, which can lead to infertility. Studies show consistent sessions may significantly reduce FSH to healthy levels while reducing stress and inflammation.
4. Get sufficient sleep
A good night’s sleep does more than lead to a refreshed, energetic morning. There is also some significant value to reproductive health, with healthy sleep patterns known to improve FSH and LH levels. Sufficient sleep reduces stress and cortisol levels. Good quality sleep also impacts hormone level production. Women and men who sleep longer have higher FSH and LH levels than those with short, disturbed sleep patterns. Consider tips for better sleep from a doctor or sleep specialist and focus on proper rest during IVF treatment.
Prepped and ready to go
The road to IVF can be lengthy as there are many critical steps involved. A vital part is successfully extracting healthy eggs to create viable embryos. Men also need healthy sperm for a successful cycle. Normal FSH and LH levels ensure the couple is ready for IVF. Through diet, stress reduction, restorative sleep, and acupuncture, hormones are balanced, and a baby is possible.
