Exercise During IVF: Proven Dos and Don’ts
Is it true that in vitro fertilization causes weight gain? Many people believe that IVF and its associated medications can cause weight gain. If this is a concern for you, keep reading to find out the safest way to lose weight during your IVF cycle.
Can you work out during an IVF cycle?
Exercising before an IVF cycle may improve clinical pregnancy rates, according to research. If you're concerned that too much physical activity will harm your chances of getting pregnant, you're not alone.
Experts say it's a good idea to reduce the intensity of your workouts, but don't stop exercising entirely. Maintaining a healthy body weight has been linked to successful fertilization. So feel free to keep doing low-impact exercises as prescribed by your doctor. But keep in mind that it's less about how frequently you work out and more about the exercises you do.
IVF medications are intended to enlarge and stimulate your ovaries so that you can produce more mature, healthy eggs. High-impact exercise strains your body and may stymie this process. Get plenty of sleep every night for the best results, and ask your doctor about the best sleeping positions for pregnant women.
Risks associated with exercising during IVF
Before beginning a new exercise regimen, it's always a good idea to think about potential risks and consult with a medical professional.
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and intense cardio routines should be avoided during an IVF cycle. In general, you should avoid activities that could harm your uterus or abdomen or interfere with egg production.
When to start exercising after an embryo transfer
Exercising prior to IVF treatment increases the chances of conception. Once it starts, change your workout routine to create the best conditions for pregnancy to occur. Any additional questions or concerns should be directed to your IVF doctor or OB-GYN.
Unsure whether it's safe to exercise during the two-week waiting period? It shouldn't be a problem, but keep the following in mind:
While running a marathon is not a good idea, you also do not need to confine yourself to bed rest 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In fact, research shows that women who stay in bed immediately after an embryo transfer have a 40% decrease in clinical pregnancy rates.
According to statistics, infertile women have lower abdominal temperatures than fertile women, most likely due to decreased blood flow in the uterus.
This is due to the fact that bed rest reduces blood flow to your pelvis. According to statistics, infertile women have lower abdominal temperatures than fertile women, most likely due to decreased blood flow in the uterus. Miscarriages have even been linked to this phenomenon in part.
Regular movement and activities, such as walking, standing, and exercising, on the other hand, cause muscle contractions and increase blood flow. Increased blood flow equals improved oxygen circulation throughout the body, promoting healthy cell and tissue growth. As a result, the success of your implantation is dependent on your ability to remain active.
Best exercises during IVF
So, which exercises help to prevent IVF weight gain? Swimming and walking are at the top of the list of low-impact activities.
Swimming is relaxing and easy on your joints, in addition to burning calories and toning your muscles. A 60-minute swim session, believe it or not, produces the same results as a 30-minute run.
Walking is another excellent option for exercising during IVF. Keep in mind to move at a normal, steady pace. Even if it doesn't feel like much of a workout, especially if you're used to high-intensity workouts, you should never overdo it. You can walk for a longer period of time, but not for a faster period of time.
Light yoga is also an excellent form of exercise during IVF. Remember to combine your new fitness routine with healthy eating habits to maintain your energy levels and prepare your body for implantation.
Finally, light yoga is an excellent form of exercise during IVF. This rejuvenating activity keeps you fit and toned without overworking your body. Avoid positions that put pressure on your abdomen, as well as strenuous workouts like power yoga or ashtanga. Request that your yoga instructor assists you in modifying poses so that you can participate as much as possible.
Remember to combine your new fitness routine with healthy eating habits to maintain your energy levels and prepare your body for implantation.
Activities to avoid
During your IVF treatment, avoid weight lifting with kettlebells and other heavy equipment. If you decide to continue weight lifting, use very light weights.
Although there is no conclusive evidence that weight lifting harms the IVF process, it is better to be safe than sorry. Once your baby is born, you can always pick up right where you left off!
The relationship between IVF and weight gain
Do your clothes feel a little tighter than usual? In addition to bloating caused by hormone treatments used to improve your chances of conception, you may notice noticeable weight gain during IVF.
It is important to note that bloating and weight gain is not the same thing. Bloating is a temporary condition caused by water retention and other factors.
Everyone's IVF journey is a little different. While some people gain weight quickly, they also lose it quickly. Others find it to be a much more gradual process. The amount of weight gained also varies. People who have had IVF report gaining 3 to 15 pounds before the embryo transfer.
It is important to note that bloating and weight gain is not the same thing. Bloating is a temporary condition caused by water retention and other factors. Weight gain, on the other hand, lasts longer and may be more difficult to reverse. You can mitigate these effects by exercising, eating well, and drinking plenty of water during your IVF cycle.