For countless couples around the globe, starting a family is a cherished dream. Yet, when natural conception doesn’t happen even after persistent efforts, many look toward In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) as a beacon of hope. 

Making the decision to pursue IVF can be as daunting as it is exciting. While IVF holds promise, it doesn’t guarantee a 100% success rate. So, how do couples increase their chances of success?

The Foundation of IVF Success

The success of an IVF cycle doesn’t just hinge on the quality of the eggs and sperm or the grade of the embryo. The receptivity of the uterus plays a pivotal role as well. However, several additional factors can significantly influence the outcome.

1. Timely Medication:

• Adherence Post-Transfer: After the embryo transfer, it’s essential to follow the medication schedule religiously.
• The Power of Progesterone: IVF Doctors in Pune usually prescribe progesterone post-transfer, highlighting its pivotal role in supporting early pregnancy stages.
• Importance of Consistency: Taking the correct dose at the right time matters. Even minor changes in progesterone levels can potentially impact the success of implantation.

2. A Balanced Diet:

• Understanding Digestive Challenges: Progesterone might lead to bloating, constipation, and changes in appetite.
• Smart Dietary Choices: Focus on consuming leafy greens and staying hydrated.
• Items to Limit: It’s wise to reduce the intake of aerated drinks, bakery products, dark chocolates, coffee, and tea.

3. Activity after Embryo Transfer:

• Critical Recovery Period: The time immediately following the transfer is sensitive and can impact the success of IVF.
• Bed Rest – A Common Misconception: It’s a widespread myth that extended bed rest post-transfer can enhance the chances of success. On the contrary, it might work against implantation.
• Balancing Act: It’s okay to resume normal activities. However, heavy lifting, high-intensity workouts, or anything that strains the abdomen should be avoided during this delicate phase.

4. Avoiding Infections:

• Health is Wealth: Keeping a check on your health, particularly after an IVF procedure, cannot be emphasized enough.
• Steering Clear from Illness: Catching a cold or flu can complicate things. If someone around you is ill, it’s prudent to maintain distance.
• Safety First: Regular handwashing, ensuring personal hygiene, and avoiding crowded or unclean places can be simple yet effective ways to ward off potential infections.

5. A Positive Mindset:

• Emotional Landscape in IVF: The mental and emotional states play a role, often underestimated, in the success of IVF.
• Tackling IVF Stress: Given the success rate of IVF, it’s understandable for couples to feel anxious. But managing stress is crucial for ensuring the body’s readiness for implantation.
• Harnessing Positive Energy: A hopeful mindset can work wonders. Whether it’s joining a support group, seeking therapy, or indulging in calming activities like meditation, choose whatever helps keep your spirits up and stress levels down.

Now let’s take a look at some IVF-success related myths that are quite prevalent.

Also, Read- Can IVF Cause Early Menopause?

Myths About IVF Success

Myth 1: Age doesn’t matter:

Truth: While many believe that IVF can bypass any age-related fertility issues, age remains a crucial factor. The younger the woman, the better the quality and quantity of her eggs, which significantly impacts IVF success rates.

Myth 2: IVF always works on the first try:

Truth: IVF doesn’t guarantee success on the first attempt. Some couples might need multiple cycles before achieving a successful pregnancy.

Myth 3: Having twins or triplets is guaranteed with IVF:

Truth: While IVF increases the chances of a multiple pregnancy (because more than one embryo might be implanted), it’s not a certainty. Moreover, single embryo transfers are becoming more common due to the risks associated with multiple pregnancies.

Myth 4: IVF means you’ll have a C-section:

Truth: The method of conception doesn’t determine the method of delivery. Whether or not a woman has a C-section will depend on her health, the baby’s health, and other individual circumstances.

Myth 5: IVF leads to oversized babies:

Truth: IVF doesn’t necessarily mean your baby will be larger than average. Factors like maternal diabetes or prolonged pregnancies are more influential in baby size.

Myth 6: Supplements and special diets can guarantee IVF success:

Truth: While a balanced diet and certain supplements can aid fertility, they don’t ensure IVF success. It’s essential to be wary of unverified claims and to consult with your fertility specialist before making any significant changes.

Conclusion

Navigating the IVF journey is a profound experience, filled with hope, anxiety, and countless questions. Enhancing the success rate isn’t solely in the hands of medical professionals. 

By being informed, proactive, and positive, couples can indeed increase their chances of turning their dream of parenthood into reality. Remember, every step taken with care and hope brings you closer to your cherished goal.

If you’re ready to take that next step, consult Dr. Supriya Puranik, the best IVF specialist in Pune, and let her expertise guide you toward achieving your dreams of parenthood.

• 

• About Author

  Dr. Supriya Puranik

  Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist

Dr. Supriya Puranik, a renowned gynaecologist and infertility expert, leads the IVF & Gynaecology department at Sahyadri Hospitals Momstory in Shivaji Nagar, Pune. She is committed to helping couples overcome infertility challenges.