IVF treatment is one of the most advanced assisted reproductive techniques to increase the chances of couples having a child. However, this process includes many factors that need to be considered both physically and emotionally. Medication use, painkiller preference, sports status, diet and length of stay after embryo transfer are among the important issues that affect the success of the treatment.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the medications used during the IVF treatment process, which painkillers are safe, the effects of sports, prohibited foods, and the length of stay after the transfer.
1. Use of Medication in IVF Treatment
The medications used during IVF treatment are prescribed to stimulate the ovaries, support the fertilization process and increase the chance of the uterus accepting the embryo.
Main Drugs Used in the IVF Process:
- Ovarian Stimulating Drugs (Gonadotropins): Used to cause the ovaries to produce more than one egg. It is administered as an injection.
- GnRH Analogs or Antagonists: These are drugs used to control ovulation.
- HCG Injection (Cracking Needle): Ensures that the eggs mature and become ready for collection.
- Supportive Medications Containing Progesterone: Used to ensure that the uterus holds the embryo better after embryo transfer. It can be in the form of a gel, pill or injection.
These are strong drugs that must be used under the supervision of a doctor. It is very important that patients do not change their doses on their own, or use less or more medication. It is also very important that the recommended medications are applied at the specified times.
2. What Painkillers Can Be Used During IVF Treatment?
During the IVF treatment, some women may experience headaches, groin pain, or mild discomfort due to ovarian stimulation. However, not all painkillers are safe during the IVF process.
Safe Painkillers:
- Painkillers containing paracetamol (Parol, Minoset, etc.): Generally the safest option and can be used with doctor’s approval.
Painkillers to Avoid:
- NSAID group painkillers (Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Voltaren etc.): May affect the ovulation process and the ability of the uterine lining to hold the embryo. Therefore, they are generally not recommended.
You should definitely consult your doctor before using painkillers.
3. Can I Exercise During IVF Treatment?
Light exercise is generally harmless during IVF treatment and can even be helpful for stress management. However, excessive physical activity should be avoided.
Suitable Sports During the IVF Process:
- Light-paced walks
- Yoga and breathing exercises (Must be low intensity)
- Light stretching exercises
Sports to Avoid:
- Heavy exercise (running, weightlifting, high-intensity sports)
- High-heart rate exercises (HIIT, spinning, zumba, etc.)
- Movements that overwork the abdominal muscles
Excessive physical activity during the ovarian stimulation process can cause serious complications such as ovarian torsion (rotation of the ovary around itself) due to the growth of the ovaries. Therefore, heavy sports should be avoided during the in vitro fertilization process.
4. Foods Prohibited During IVF Treatment
Nutrition is one of the important factors affecting the success of in vitro fertilization treatment. While proper nutrition can improve embryo quality, poor eating habits can reduce success rates.
Foods to Avoid:
- Sugar and processed foods: Can cause fluctuations in blood sugar.
- Trans fats (fast food, chips, margarine, etc.): May negatively affect ovarian reserve.
- Excessive caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks): Consuming more than 1-2 cups of coffee per day is not recommended.
- Alcohol and cigarettes: May reduce embryo quality and the uterus’s ability to hold the embryo.
- Excessive salty foods: May affect the ovaries by causing the body to retain water.
- Raw or undercooked meat, fish and seafood: May pose a risk of food poisoning and infection.
Fresh vegetables and fruits, healthy protein sources and foods containing omega-3 should be consumed throughout IVF treatment.
5. Is It Necessary to Lie Down After IVF Treatment?
One of the most curious issues in in vitro fertilization treatment is the hospital stay after embryo transfer. Although it was once thought that staying in bed for a long time after transfer increased the chance of pregnancy, research shows that staying in bed for a long time does not increase success.
Length of Stay After IVF Transfer:
- After embryo transfer, resting for 20-25 minutes is sufficient.
- Afterwards, light daily activities can be done.
- Prolonged bed rest can have negative effects by slowing down blood circulation.
However, heavy physical activities should be avoided and movements that may strain the uterus (standing up suddenly, lifting heavy objects, intense sports) should be avoided.
Conclusion
Correct use of medications during the in vitro fertilization treatment process, choosing safe painkillers, paying attention to sports and nutrition, and acting correctly after embryo transfer can directly affect the success of the treatment.
If you would like to learn more about IVF treatment or create a personalized treatment plan for you, consulting a specialist is the best step.