IVF likely to resume! 3 ways to support IVF success
Are you IVF ready?
Ready to roll out of self isolation and into an IVF round?
This morning (18/4/20) the Australian Government announced it will sign off a plan regarding elective surgeries and IVF procedures by the end of the week.
There are so many things we can do to to complement an IVF procedure to maximise the chances of a successful outcome. If your IVF prep has become lax during the social isolation regulations, here are 3 ways to support your IVF immediately.
DO: Close up the liquor cabinet.
70% of Australians have been drinking more than usual since the Covid-19 lockdown restrictions were put in place, and a third are now drinking daily. If you fall into this category, it’s time to reel it in. Research shows an association between alcohol and IVF success, so I encourage women to avoid drinking at least one month prior to the procedure beginning, but it’s not too late - any modification is better than none at all. If you’re finding it challenging, take a look here for some inspiration.
DO: Get acupuncture
Here in Australia allied health professionals are essential workers, easing the burden on our mainstream medical system. As long as your acupuncturist is working with extensive infection control procedures, it’s a no brainer.
Studies show:
Acupuncture for IVF support
Acupuncture improves pregnancy rates in women undergoing embryo transfer (IVF-ET)
Acupuncture on the day of embryo transfer can significantly improve rates of pregnancy
Auricular acupuncture (ear acupuncture) has been shown to decrease levels of stress hormones in IVF patients, which is associated with successful embryo transfer
Acupuncture has been shown to improve the structure of the endometrial lining, resulting in significantly higher clinical pregnancy rate in women undergoing frozen embryo transfer.
The sun is the best source of vitamin D - but if you’re not getting enough, supplementation must be considered
DO: Supplement your vitamin D
Social isolation given you an indoor tan? Our best source of vitamin D is the sun; when UVB rays hit the skin a chemical reaction occurs, creating vitamin D. We get a little from food, but it’s just not enough - which is where supplementation comes in.
Ladies, vitamin D is an absolute for IVF. Adequate vitamin D is positively correlated with successful IVF outcomes, meaning that if your vitamin D is suffering, your IVF is less likely to be successful.
Men, there is also a positive correlation with vitamin D and sperm quality.
Talking about generalised dosing is tricky. I recommend a discussion with a natural health professional, and always opting for a quality ‘practitioner only’ or ‘clinic only’ supplement.
More info to follow…
I know what an epic investment IVF is in terms of physical impact, time, finances, and emotional toll. It is well worth making a few little tweaks, a few extra sacrifices, taking on or dropping a few things from your life to enhance your chances of success.
On Friday (24/4/20) I’ll be chatting on all things IVF preparation on Instagram Live.
Following an IVF preparation discussion, I’ll be joined by New York based Dr Paige Bourassa (DACM, L.Ac, RHN, CAS) to talk all things preconception care. You can find me at @jenna_thefertilitysuite and Dr Paige @theacuchick . Inst live time TBC.
Get your questions ready or reach out anytime.
Jenna xx
