> IVF is a medical procedure in which an egg is fertilized with sperm, giving you an embryo.
> The embryo is either frozen or transferred to your uterus.
> IVF can take time, be physically demanding and expensive. Around 2 weeks of regular shots can heighten your emotions and make your body feel completely out of whack.
> The 30 days leading up to your IVF cycle are very important for ensuring your body is healthy, strong, and fully prepared for this fairly intense medical process.
IVF cycles
Preparation begins 2 to 4 weeks before you start your IVF cycle. Your doctor might recommend medications to get your menstrual cycle regular.
Stage 1 - day 1 of IVF is the first day of your period closest to the scheduled IVF treatment.
Stage 2 can take anywhere from 3 to 12 days. You’ll begin fertility drugs that stimulate your ovaries to release more eggs than normal.
Stage 3 - you’ll have an injection of the pregnancy hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which helps your ovaries release some eggs. Exactly 36 hours after the injection, your doctor will harvest the eggs.
Stage 4 - the fresh eggs will be fertilized within hours and you’ll begin taking a hormone called progesteronewhich prepares your womb for a healthy pregnancy.
Stage 5 - < 1 week after eggs ARE harvested, a healthy embryo is put back into your womb.
Stage 6 - after 9 - 12 days, you’ll have a scan to see if the embryo has successfully implanted into the uterine lining. You’ll also have a blood test to check your pregnancy hormone levels.
Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs).
EDCs interfere with hormones, reproductive health and prenatal development.
Chemicals to avoid and where they’re found:
1/ Formaldehyde (nail polish)
2/ Parabens, triclosan, and benzophenone (cosmetics, moisturizers, soap)
3/ BPA and other phenols (food-packaging materials)
4/ Brominated flame retardants (furniture, clothing, electronics, yoga mats)
5/ Perfluorinated compounds (stain-resistant materials, non-stick cooking tools)
6/ Dioxins (meat, dairy, art clay)
7/ Phthalates (plastic, medication coatings, cosmetics with fragrance)
Recommended Diet
> Anti-inflammatory, Mediterranean diet is instrumental in IVF success.
> Minimize the intake of processed foods, fast foods, and sugar.
> Healthy fats, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and clean proteins such as fish, legumes, and low-fat poultry are all part of an anti-inflammatory diet.
Foods You Need to Avoid During IVF Treatment
Full-fat milk; Fish with high mercury levels; Processed meats; Alcohol; Carbonated drinks with high sugar levels; Soy; Cigarettes; Raw meat or fish.
Best Foods For IVF Success
> Healthy fats and foods containing zinc to support progesterone: avocado, nuts & seeds, and extra virgin olive oil.
> Lean proteins and omega-3: fish and chicken.
> Legumes: beans, chickpeas and lentils.
> Veggies for oestrogen balance and fibre: Cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage.
> Green leafy vegetables, bananas, and dates.
What vitamins to take during IVF?
Your naturopathic practitioner may suggest:
1/ CoQ10
2/ DHEA.
3/ Vitamin D
(adapted from: www.healthline.com ; www.mayoclinic.org)
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