For many couples, the in vitro fertilization (IVF) journey is associated with a tight schedule of fluids, continuous ultrasounds and the pressure to wait for results. But in reality, fertility does not only depend on the medical regimen. What happens outside the clinic, from how you exercise, eat to sleep, also directly affects the quality of eggs, sperm and embryos.
According to Dr. Shanujeet Kaur, Deputy Director of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, senior gynecologist at Cloudnine Hospital Group (India), IVF is most effective when treating health with a balanced lifestyle. The body needs comprehensive support, not being put in a state of prolonged stress, she emphasized.
Weight and BMI, the silent foundation of fertility
body mass index (BMI) has a clear influence on IVF outcomes. Dr. Kaur says that BMI is ideal for fertility in the range of 18.5 - 24.9. When this threshold is exceeded, especially from 30 years old and above, the risk of IVF failure increases in both men and women.
In women, being overweight can disrupt ovulation, reduce egg quality and make the body respond poorly to ovarian stimulants. The risk of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia is also higher. For men, obesity increases estrogen, reduces testosterone, affects sperm count and mobility, and increases oxidative stress - a factor that causes sperm DNA damage.
Maintaining a healthy BMI helps balance hormones and improve the rate of good quality embryos, says Dr. Kaur.
Exercise, nutrition and fragile limits
Exercise is necessary, but too much is counterproductive. High-intensity exercise or a strict diet can cause menstrual cycle disorders, reduce progesterone and prevent ovulation, especially when BMI is below 17.5. In men, prolonged heavy exercise can also reduce testosterone and sperm quality.
Instead of bodybuilding, experts recommend about 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming; combining 2-3 light weight training sessions and yoga, stretching to reduce stress.
Nutrition is also an important piece. According to Dr. Kaur, a diet rich in antioxidants helps protect sperm from damage. Vitamins C, E, zinc, selenium and Coenzyme Q10 from fruits, vegetables, nuts, fatty fish and whole grains are beneficial for both sexes. In contrast, processed foods, refined sugar and trans fats should be minimized.
Finally, mental health cannot be ignored. IVF is a stressful journey, and prolonged stress can disrupt hormonal balance. Psychological counseling, meditation, getting enough sleep and being accompanied by your partner are the silent but persistent "medicine".
IVF is not just a lab story. That is the problem of summarizing modern medicine and very everyday habits, where every daily choice can side the balance of hope.
