Infertility is a growing issue that affects an increasing number of couples worldwide. For people struggling to conceive, the field of reproductive medicine offers a range of treatment options, one of which is In-vitro fertilization (IVF). IVF is a well-known assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedure that is used to help couples conceive. In addition, several other methods like Intrauterine insemination (IUI), Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and Surrogacy are also available based on the individuals’ treatment needs.
In this article, we will be discussing the importance of healthy living and eating habits during fertility treatment as well as the treatment procedures mentioned above.
Lifestyle & Eating Habits:
Certain behaviors and lifestyle choices can affect fertility outcomes along with the overall health. Therefore, it’s essential to make some lifestyle changes for better fertility results. There are several things that can be incorporated into a healthy lifestyle such as maintaining a healthy BMI, reducing stress, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and regular exercise. Doctors suggest that couples should follow a regime of keeping track of their menstrual cycle and keeping their body weight within the normal range.
Food & Vegetables:
Certain foods are known to have a positive impact on fertility such as berries, leafy greens, omega-3 rich fish, eggs, and nuts. Incorporating these in the daily diet can help improve sperm and egg quality during treatment. In addition, there should be a balance between the intake of carbohydrates, fats, and protein in the diet.
Treatment Procedures:
IVF: In vitro fertilization is an ART technique that involves a series of procedures where mature eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized by sperm outside of the body in a laboratory. After fertilization, the embryo is transferred back in the uterus.
IUI: Intrauterine insemination is an assisted reproductive technology where the sperm is introduced into the uterus during ovulation time, resulting in the fertilization of egg in the natural way.
ICSI: Intracytoplasmic sperm injection is a procedure where a single sperm is directly injected into the egg for fertilization outside of the body, followed by transplanting the embryo into the uterus.
Surrogacy: Surrogacy is another ART method wherein a woman carries a baby for someone else, who may be unable to conceive or carry a baby to term. This requires legal agreements and contracts between the intended parents and the surrogate.
In conclusion, fertility treatment can be an emotionally and physically challenging process. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is paramount during this time. Incorporating a healthy diet, reducing stress, and following a regular exercise routine can enhance fertility during treatment. Additionally, there are several procedures such as IVF, IUI, ICSI, and Surrogacy available to help couples struggling with infertility with positive outcomes. As always, it’s crucial to consult with a doctor who specializes in reproductive medicine to determine the best course of action based on individual needs and circumstances.