If you decide to undergo IVF treatment, here are some tips to keep in mind

What should a couple expect during the IVF process?

IVF is the only treatment for infertility due to obstructed fallopian tubes or intense male factor infertility. In other circumstances, a woman’s age and years of infertility evolve as the deciding factor. In Indian women, ovarian aging happens before then in Caucasian women; therefore, they should get proactive about their treatment once they feel thirsty.

 

What should you expect during the process of IVF?

Preliminary blood tests consider general health and prevent ovarian reserve (number of eggs in the ovary). For the male partner, a sample of semen is stored as a backup in case of incapacity to provide a sample on the day of egg retrieval. Hormonal injections begin on the 2nd day of the period and are given for around nine days. These injections encourage the ovaries to create eggs, which are then retrieved under short anesthesia (15-20 minutes) using transvaginal ultrasound advice – no cuts or stitches needed! The eggs are fertilized with sperm; the resulting embryo is injected into the uterus instantly or frozen for later use. The injections are not painful though a daily injection may not be appealing. Ultrasound monitors egg growth, and a blood test is done before the final egg maturation injection (HCG). Around 4-5 short visits to the clinic would be required – plan your time accordingly. Embryo transfer is a simple, painless process done under ultrasound advice without anesthesia. After embryo transfer, progesterone is given to maintain the pregnancy. You can opt for vaginal or oral progesterone if you don’t like injections. Progesterone supplementation may be improved if your progesterone levels are low. A pregnancy test would be informed after 14 days. These 14 days are the most emotionally challenging as you agonize over the result. Sharing your fears with a counselor or a close friend/family helps relieve stress and anxiety.

 

A few do’s and don’ts:

Bedrest is not needed; routine activity enhances blood circulation and encourages implantation. Keeping your mind and body active is the key to reducing stress and enhancing outcomes. Heavy exercise is not recommended.

Travel is not contraindicated; however, plan it a couple of days after the method if you feel normal. People respond differently to physical stress. Some deal with it more efficiently than others – so listen to your body!

An often-asked question concerns the ‘right’ diet or one that encourages success and excellent weight. Unfortunately, a difference in diet a week or two before the procedure will be similar in your body. Assuming healthy eating habits and regular exercise should be integrated into your lifestyle. Get your vitamins from natural products like nuts and fresh fruit. Vitamin D deficiency- typical in India- impacts fertility, so check it.

Avoid drinking and smoking for at least three, preferably 6 months before planning the concept. Reduce your intake of coffee as it may affect your chances of success.

Men must remember that smoking, body-building supplements, alcohol, and medicines impact sperm count. Interestingly, it has been kept that the possibilities of miscarriage are higher if the man drinks at least two or more caffeinated beverages per day. Exercise should be in moderation. Biking should be avoided. Taking antioxidants may decrease oxidative anxiety in sperm.

Most significantly, choose IVF Centre in Punjab and doctor carefully, as your success depends on the Gynaecologist who is an expert and knowledgeable in Laparoscopy Surgery in Ludhiana and the quality of the embryology laboratory.