Making Reproductive Technology Work For You

Couples experiencing infertility often try advanced reproductive treatment (ART) within a year of sustained infertility. While in vitro fertilization (IVF) is the most common fertility treatment, assisted fertility includes all types of treatment where eggs or embryos are influenced in a clinical setting. Numerous factors related to the patient influence the overall success of IVF, such as age, type of diagnosis, number of embryos, type of procedure, and previous history of births and miscarriages. To increase the odds of conception, many patients pursue IVF procedures such as ovarian reserve testing and elective single-embryo transfer. During treatment, key lifestyle changes, including prioritizing health literacy, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding high amounts of substances, raise the chances of pregnancy.

Educate yourself

Advanced reproductive technology is utilized to manage infertility. The treatment incorporates fertility medicines focusing on at least 2 eggs and sperm. Reproductive technology works by independently fertilizing eggs taken from the ovaries with the selected sperm. The viable embryos are then returned to the parent or surrogate’s body. IVF is the most well-known and successful type of ART. However, the success of the procedure largely depends on the individual patient. Other common methods include using surrogates, donor eggs, donor sperm, or previously frozen embryos.

1 - Lose weight

While pregnancy is never guaranteed, key experts suggest making simple yet effective lifestyle changes to boost fertility. Keep vigorous exercise under 5 hours per week and minimize exposure to toxins in cleaning supplies while maintaining a healthy weight. While pregnancy is never guaranteed, maintaining a healthy weight boosts overall fertility. Whether overweight or under, body weight impacts the ability to get pregnant. A body mass index (BMI) or under 18.5 is considered underweight, while a BMI of 25-29 is considered overweight. Achieving a healthy body weight helps regulate menstrual cycles, making conception easier.

2 - Limit substances

Fertility can be impacted by various factors, including food and environmental factors. Common culprits include excessive amounts of caffeine and being unaware of potential exposure to toxins in cleaning supplies. Keeping caffeine consumption under 200mg per day can negate the impact the chemical can have on viable egg health. By sticking to 1-2 small cups of coffee daily, patients raise the likelihood of conception while limiting any potential risks.

3 - Switch to the Mediterranean diet

The outcome of IVF is impacted by a variety of factors including, ovarian reserve, sperm quality, endometrial receptivity, and mental stress. However, dietary status is an important factor in female and reproductive health. A recent study shows a diet with a high intake of cereals, legumes, fruits and nuts, vegetables, fish, and olive oil produces more embryos available in the IVF cycle. Common in Mediterranean countries, a low intake of dairy products, meat and poultry, saturated lipids, and a moderate intake of alcohol can boost the number of viable eggs.

Set your body up for success

As people age, the number and quality of viable eggs decrease, making strategic planning vital. Through IVF technology, patients experiencing fertility problems can successfully conceive. Small lifestyle changes such as limiting caffeine, maintaining a healthy weight, and minimizing exposure to toxins can majorly impact the success of IVF. With a healthy, dedicated patient, healthcare experts can tailor treatment to the individual patient while raising the likelihood of conception.