IVF treatment or the In Vitro Fertilization is one of the most effective Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) to help a woman conceive. This technique involves the fertilization of the egg and sperm outside the body, in a Petridish and then implanting it in a woman's uterus.
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But an IVF treatment has much more to itself. The physical and emotional impact of this procedure on both the partners is quite deep.
Though the chances of conception during the first cycle of this treatment depend on the reproductive health and some psychological factors, there are a few tips you can use to improve your chances of conception.
Take a look at our set of tips to improve your chances of conception from this treatment.
1. Look for the right doctor
Though the fertility clinic will tell you it is routine for them to get this treatment done, try and get the doctor who is knowledgeable and empathetic to you. Experience and being well in touch with latest technology and science matters. Always ask questions and try to get an answer. The right doctor will explain you everything well and ensure they know your entire medical history well.
2. Avoid stress
You know that stress is linked to low fertility in both male and female. This is because all fertility hormones are produced from your brain. Stress doesn't cause infertility, but it can add to the problem. Therefore, this is the time when you need to ensure that you are stress-free. Some yoga, breathing exercises and alternative medicine may keep your mind at peace.
3. Do not compare notes or take feedback with every person you meet
Multiple cooks spoil the broth! Once you have chosen your best doctor, trust them and take your questions and queries to them. What was right for others may not be applied to your situation.
4. Eat right, eat well & exercise
So, this is when you need to ensure a good, healthy and balanced diet for yourself. Some basic and healthy changes in your diet can improve your chances of conception. Your diet should consist of six small meals, every meal a combination of complex carbs, proteins, fruits, and vegetables.
Make sure you do light exercise daily.
5. Drink lots of fluids, avoid alcohol and caffeine
Usually, people recommend the consumption of lots of water to keep oneself hydrated and to flush out all the toxins in the body. But there is more to it here. Drinking lots of water during an IVF treatment flush out all the possible side-effects of it. Also, avoid alcohol and caffeine as much as you can as it increases the chance of miscarriage.
6. IVF can be a smooth ride or a roller coaster
Ensure you have support. It could come from your counsellor, doctor, friends and definitely from your spouse. Talk about what bothers you but make sure you approach your treatment with positivity.
7. Time and tide wait for no one!
Well neither does fertility! It's very important to realize that female fertility is finite. Lower egg numbers also can translate to lower egg quality. Each month that you get regular menses, you are losing eggs. If IVF is the treatment advised to you, it's best to approach this earlier than later.
According to the Indian Society of Assisted Reproduction, 30 million of the Indian couples are affected by infertility. Out of which only 3 million are actively seeking treatment.
This is what is the context of the campaign. We talk about the scale of this quiet, yet widespread, issue that couples in India are battling with i.e. infertility.