With over two decades of experience as an IVF specialist, I (Dr Prajnanika Gurung) have had the privilege of assisting countless individuals and couples on their journey to parenthood.
Without a doubt, the most frequently asked question I encounter from my patients is, “What are my personal chances of success with IVF?”
At PHS Fertility Clinic, recognized as one of the best IVF clinics in Kolkata, we have achieved remarkable success rates. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that each person’s IVF journey is unique and can be influenced by various factors. Please read our article about what are the top 6 questions to ask your IVF doctor to have a better understanding and clarity about the IVF process.
In this pursuit of enhancing your IVF success, it is essential to consider key aspects beyond the clinic’s reputation. Factors like maintaining a balanced diet, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and understanding the intricacies of the process can significantly impact your chances.
Therefore, I invite you to explore 9 vital ways to improve your odds of success in your IVF journey as we delve into practical guidance and insights that can make a world of difference in your quest for parenthood.
Let’s get started.
This is the most vague statement to make. We all know that a balanced diet helps in every situation; however, how do you contextualize it to your IVF process?
Let’s break this down.
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To find out more about maintaining a balanced diet. Read our article.
Complete abstinence from smoking several months before the commencement of one’s IVF process and moderation in one’s drinking habits is strongly recommended.
Smoking:
Drinking
The emotional turbulence of the IVF journey can frequently disrupt sleep patterns. Nonetheless, prioritising getting sufficient sleep is paramount, as it significantly maximises your chances of success.
The importance of consuming pharmaceutical supplements during the IVF process is a complex and nuanced topic. While some supplements may offer potential benefits, it’s crucial to approach them cautiously and under the guidance of a healthcare professional experienced in IVF. Below are the potential benefits of certain supplements during one’s IVF process. You need to consult your IVF specialist before taking any supplements.
Folic Acid: Taking 400 mcg of folic acid daily can prevent birth defects during embryo development. This becomes crucial for women with a history of pregnancy complications or specific genetic conditions.
Vitamin D: Sufficient vitamin D levels are associated with enhanced egg quality and improved pregnancy rates in certain studies. However, ongoing research is needed, and excessive doses can be harmful.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): This antioxidant can potentially enhance egg quality and mitochondrial function, benefiting both egg and sperm health. Nevertheless, the evidence is limited and requires further research.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These fats are anti-inflammatory and could improve endometrial receptivity. However, additional research is necessary to establish their effectiveness.
The conventional recommendation of complete abstinence before sperm collection for IVF has evolved. Specialists now debate the ideal duration of abstinence, as research indicates that a window of 2-7 days can potentially enhance sperm quality. However, determining the optimal abstinence period may vary among individuals due to specific factors. Let’s break this down.
Studies suggest longer Abstinence (up to 7 days) can increase sperm count and volume, possibly by allowing sufficient time for spermatogenesis, the sperm production process.
However, shorter abstinence (2-4 days) is linked to enhanced sperm motility (movement), morphology (shape) and sperm function, which can positively impact fertilization rates and contribute to embryo development.
Reduced DNA Fragmentation: A shorter abstinence interval is associated with decreased sperm DNA damage, potentially improving embryo quality and implantation chances.
Reduced Semen Volume: Abstinence exceeding 7 days may decrease semen volume. While it may not necessarily harm sperm quality, it could pose challenges for successful sperm collection.
Elevated Sperm Senescence: Prolonged abstinence (over 7 days) may heighten the risk of sperm senescence, where sperm undergo age-related functional decline. This could lower fertilization potential.
Effective research and active questioning are crucial for enhancing the success rate of IVF. People don’t have to do it, but in my experience, patients who are informed and ask questions tend to help themselves achieve a better success rate.
For instance, Patients should thoroughly investigate their fertility clinic’s reputation, success rates, and treatment options. Patients can actively participate in treatment decisions by asking informed questions about the most suitable protocols or potential lifestyle changes.
Understanding the intricacies of IVF, including medication choices and potential side effects, empowers patients to make informed choices aligned with their needs. Open and transparent communication with IVF specialists ensures personalized care and fosters a collaborative approach, optimizing the chances of a successful IVF journey tailored to individual circumstances.
Several chemical substances have been linked to decreased IVF success rates. While research is ongoing and individual sensitivities may vary, minimising exposure to the following during your IVF journey is generally advisable.
1. Bisphenol A (BPA): Found in plastics, food packaging, and receipts, it can disrupt hormones, affecting egg quality and embryo development.
2. Phthalates: In personal care products and vinyl flooring, these disrupt hormone function, potentially impacting fertility.
3. Pesticides and Herbicides: Exposure harms sperm quality and egg health; choose organic food and minimize contact.
4. Air Pollution: Particulate matter and volatile organic compounds can harm sperm quality. Avoid high-traffic areas and use air purifiers.
Other Substances:
Excessive Caffeine: High intake linked to lower IVF success rates; limit or avoid.
Heavy Metals: Lead and mercury can harm sperm and egg quality; be cautious of food and environmental sources.
Recognizing the profound connection between the mind and body, it’s increasingly evident that nurturing positive mental health is pivotal in enhancing IVF success rates.
Chronic Stress: Elevates cortisol levels, hindering egg quality, embryo development, and implantation. It disrupts ovarian function and uterine blood flow, impeding IVF success.
Emotional Strain: Infertility and IVF can induce anxiety, depression, and reduced emotional well-being, affecting sleep, diet, and self-care. This, in turn, affects the body’s ability to cope with IVF demands.
Read our article to learn more about the correlation between stress and IVF.
Everyone’s IVF journey is unique. This statement stands true for both you and your IVF specialists. The right doctor has the necessary experience and expertise to diagnose each patient differently and appropriately guide you while prioritising your situation, concerns and issues. A thorough background check on your doctor and their success rate should also be prioritized when choosing the right IVF specialist.
PHS Fertility Clinic in Kolkata offers compelling reasons to be your top choice for your IVF journey. We are dedicated to providing Personalized Care and respecting your values and needs.
Our team is known for its Support and compassion, ensuring a nurturing environment throughout the emotionally charged process. We adhere to Global Standards in fertility care, emphasizing Quality and excellence.
With consistently High Success Rates and a state-of-the-art laboratory, we offer expert fertility care. Our Specialist Andrology Services also address male reproductive and sexual health. Count on our Committed Expertise to help you overcome infertility challenges. Book a consultation at PHS Fertility today for a caring, quality-driven IVF experience.