HOW TO PREPARE FOR A SUCCESSFUL IVF CYCLE

28 November 20243′ read

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is one of the most effective assisted reproduction methods for couples who are having difficulty conceiving. The IVF process requires proper preparation to maximise the chances of success. In this article, we look step by step at how to prepare properly for a successful IVF cycle.

Eating Habits and a Healthy Lifestyle

Eating well and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key factors in the success of an IVF cycle. - Balanced diet: Eat foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, such as fruit, vegetables, wholegrain foods, nuts and healthy fats. Vitamin D, folic acid and omega-3 fatty acids are particularly beneficial. - Avoiding toxic substances: Limit alcohol and caffeine and avoid smoking. These substances can reduce the chances of success. - Physical activity: Moderate exercise, such as walking, can improve blood circulation and reduce stress.

Regular Medical Tests

Proper medical monitoring is crucial for a successful IVF cycle. - Hormone testing: Make sure that your hormone levels, such as FSH, LH, oestradiol and progesterone, are within normal limits. Your doctor may order tests to assess your ovarian function. - Semen analysis: Your partner may need a semen analysis to assess sperm quality. Healthy sperm production is crucial for the success of IVF. - Ultrasound: Regular ultrasound scans will help monitor the development of the follicles during the cycle.

Supporting Your Mental Health

Preparing for an IVF cycle can be emotionally demanding. Looking after your mental health is vital. - Managing stress: Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga to manage your stress. - Psychological support: Consider seeking support from a specialist psychologist or fertility counsellor. Support groups and forums can also offer valuable guidance and understanding.

Discuss Your Expectations with Your Doctor

Good communication with your reproductive medicine specialist is crucial. - Reviewing your history: Discuss your medical history and any previous experience of assisted reproduction with your doctor. This will help create a tailored strategy for the upcoming cycle. - Choice of treatment: A Reproductive Medicine Specialist can recommend the most suitable techniques for your case.

Using Dietary Supplements

Certain supplements can support fertility and improve the success of an IVF cycle. - Folic acid: Often recommended before and during IVF treatment to improve egg quality and reduce the risk of genetic abnormalities. - Vitamin D: Often recommended to improve the chances of IVF success.

Plan Your Time

An IVF cycle requires several clinic visits for tests and monitoring. Plan your schedule accordingly to avoid pressure and stress. - Organise your commitments: You may need to reduce your workload or schedule time off so that you are available for the necessary medical appointments. - Support from those around you: Let the people close to you know about your preparation so that you have their support during the IVF cycle. Conclusion Proper preparation for an IVF cycle is crucial to the success of treatment. By eating healthily, looking after your physical and mental health and working closely with your doctor, you can increase your chances of success. With good preparation and support, the chances of a successful IVF cycle are greater than ever.

TAGSfertility centrefertility treatmentinfertility journeyIVFIVF supportIVF Greecereproductive medicine centrereproductive medicine centreIVF center

ABOUT THE DOCTOR

Dr. Alexandros Traianos

Gynecologist · Specialist in Reproductive Medicine and Fetal Medicine

He supports scientific excellence in clinical practice and recognizes the possibilities offered by modern reproductive methods to couples who wish to have a child of their own.

His profile

The content of this article is for information only and does not replace a medical examination and advice.

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Frequently Asked Questions most frequently.

Infertility is defined as the failure to achieve conception after one year (or 6 months in the case of a woman over the age of 35) of normal, regular sexual intercourse. In other words, when a year has passed without the woman becoming pregnant, the couple should consult their treating physician, so that the cause preventing pregnancy can be identified and subsequently addressed. However, we should all be aware and not forget that age is the most critical factor for female fertility, and that an individualized approach to each couple is the "golden key" that solves the problem.

Of course not. In approximately one third of cases, infertility is due to the woman (female factor), while in another third of cases it is due to the man (male factor). In the remaining third, it is due to both partners (both the man and the woman) or even to unknown factors.

• alcohol • narcotic substances • environmental toxins, including pesticides and lead • smoking • health problems • medications • radiotherapy and chemotherapy • age

In general, specialists agree that the fact that a couple has already had a child may be considered evidence that, at least initially, there is no infertility problem. It is like a small test that has been carried out and shows that they “succeeded” at least once. On the other hand, however, we should be aware that circumstances may have changed in the meantime and that a problem may have developed (e.g., the man may have had an inflammation affecting the quality of his sperm, or something may have occurred that affects female fertility: an inflammation, gynecological surgery, an abortion, etc.). In any case, therefore, if a reasonable period of time (one year) passes and a couple is unable to achieve a pregnancy, then, with the help of their doctor, they should investigate whether a problem causing infertility has arisen.

Success rates vary at each IVF center. Very important factors also include the woman’s age, her hormone levels, and, of course, her husband’s sperm. In general, rates are around 45% or slightly higher for women up to 35 years of age.

The number of treatment cycles a woman may undergo is not fixed. It is certain that in our country there are highly qualified obstetrician-gynecologists and well-organized infertility treatment centers that provide excellent medical services in this field. Provided that the appropriate indications are present (e.g., ovaries that respond to stimulation treatment, a good-quality endometrium, etc.), the success rate—particularly with the use of newer techniques and biotechnological medicines, which demonstrate increased bioactivity compared with conventional urine-derived medicines—reaches a cumulative rate of approximately 65%–70% after 4 treatment cycles.

Egg retrieval takes 10–15 minutes, is not painful, is performed under sedation, and after the procedure is completed you can return to your activities.

The association between IVF medications and the risk of developing cancer is the greatest concern for women participating in these programs. However, numerous literature references gathered from reliable scientific studies and published in reputable medical journals worldwide are reassuring and do not confirm this concern.

At Dr. Traianos' Reproductive Medicine Center, we offer egg and sperm cryopreservation services for individuals who have a personal or medical reason and require this service. We use the most advanced vitrification technique for the freezing of sperm and eggs.

The first step is a discussion.

Frequently Asked Questions most frequently.

When is a couple considered infertile?

Is infertility only a female problem?

What increases the risk of male infertility?

I already have one child, but I am now having difficulty becoming pregnant again. Could a problem have arisen with me or with my partner?

What is the success rate of in vitro fertilization?

How many times can a woman undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF)?

Is egg retrieval painful?

Can IVF medications cause cancer?

Can I freeze my eggs or my sperm?