When we’re trying to conceive, we take steps to prepare our body, to make conception more likely, but also to prepare ourselves for the physical and emotional strain of carrying and giving birth to a baby. This is no different when you are preparing to go through the IVF process. In many ways, the preparations that you should make are the same as you would for a natural conception. You want to increase the chances and create a great environment for a growing baby while looking after yourself, boosting your own health and well-being, and preparing to welcome a new life. Here’s a look at some of the things that you can do to prepare your body for IVF.
Improve Your Diet
Believe it or not, what you eat can have a big effect on your fertility. A diet packed with nutritious leafy greens, protein, eggs, nuts, beans, and wholegrains can be beneficial. A healthy diet will also help you to maintain a healthy weight, which makes it easier to both conceive and carry a baby.
Reduce Alcohol and Caffeine
Drinking too much alcohol can cut the chances of conception by up to 50%. Too much caffeine can also have a negative effect. You’ll want to cut these when you get pregnant anyway, so do it now to boost your fertility and prepare your body.
Get Some Exercise
Improving your fitness levels with regular exercises reduces blood pressure, boosts heart rate and circulation, reduces the risks of a whole host of health conditions, and helps you to reach and maintain a healthy weight. All of which can boost fertility and help your body to prepare for the physical impact of pregnancy. Exercising for 30 minutes three or four days a week can have a huge impact on your health and wellbeing. If you are new to exercise, swimming is a gentle full-body workout with a range of health benefits.
Manage Your Stress
The process itself is confusing, overwhelming, and a little scary. Your hormones are all over the place, you are exhausted, and it’s normal to feel stressed out and anxious. One of the best things that you can do to manage your stress is to learn more about what you should expect. If you use a great fertility clinic Oklahoma like MCRM Fertility, there’s always someone on hand to answer any questions, talk you through the process, and give you any information that you need.
Other ways to manage stress include mediation, yoga, deep breathing, gentle exercise, talking to friends, and spending time doing things that you enjoy.
Improve Your Sleep
IVF, pregnancy, and then childbirth are absolutely exhausting. One of the best things that you can do for yourself while preparing for the process is to look at your sleep pattern and start making some improvements. Getting into good habits, with routines and good sleep hygiene can give you the best possible head start.
IVF can be stressful, and both physically and mentally exhausting. But, it can also be exciting. Preparing your body means that whatever happens, you know that you have done your best, for yourself and your family, and that you are ready to take the next steps.