Going through IVF can be overwhelming but if you know the common pitfalls in advance, you can take steps to avoid them and feel more in control. Here are the biggest mistakes people make in IVF and the tips to avoid them.
1. Not addressing pre-existing health issues
It is very important to address any underlying health issues before you jump onto IVF.
Having a thyroid imbalance, endometriosis, blocked fallopian tubes, fibroids, PCOS, anemia, hormonal imbalances, ovarian insufficiency, erectile dysfunction, diabetes or other health problems could be the reason for your infertility and if so, the same condition will also impact IVF outcomes.
2. Not working on your body before IVF
Only a healthy body can nurture another human life for nine months. So, it is best to get a thorough diagnosis, understand what might be causing your problems with conception, and have a holistic health approach to prepare your body for the rigors of IVF.
Even being excessively over-weight or under-weight can upset your hormonal balance and thwart your chances of a healthy pregnancy.
Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and 7-8 hours of sleep can positively impact your reproductive health.
Focusing on a healthy routine a few months before starting IVF can significantly enhance your body’s readiness and set you up for success.
3. Skipping recommended supplements
Do not underestimate the power of vitamins and supplements in the IVF process. Your doctor will prescribe supplements like folic acid, vitamin D, and coenzyme Q10 to improve your egg quality before IVF.
These supplements can not only aid egg quality, but also support embryo development, and improve the uterine lining, which are critical for IVF success.
Similarly, for men, there are supplements and practices to boost sperm count and quality.
Not taking the recommended supplements could mean missing out on crucial benefits that could boost your chances of IVF success.
4. Not discussing your birth control or IUDs with the doctor
There was a patient, who continued to take her birth control pills until the day of FET. When her doctor found out, it was too late, and they had to abandon the plan for that cycle.
If you’re using birth control or have an IUD, talk to your fertility specialist right in the beginning, so they can adjust the treatment accordingly. Some forms of birth control can interfere with your fertility treatments.
Clearing up any birth control details with your doctor helps ensure the IVF process runs smoothly, without any delays or complications. Never assume that birth control doesn’t matter—every detail is essential in this precise process.
5. Not following your IVF timeline
The IVF timelines exist for a reason—each step is designed to maximize the treatment’s efficacy. Not following the prescribed schedule, especially for medication or clinic visits, can disrupt the entire process.
Try and be disciplined about your IVF schedule for best chances of success. Set alarms, keep a journal, and have someone hold you accountable if necessary. Remember, your commitment to the schedule can directly impact your outcome.
6. Ignoring discomfort or side-effects
During IVF, you may experience mild discomfort, bloating, or mood swings, which are considered “normal” side effects of hormones that wane as the treatment is completed. However, if you’re in significant pain or have excessive discomfort, immediately reach out to your doctor.
Pain could be a sign of a larger issue like ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS. Do not hesitate to contact your clinic if something doesn’t feel right.
It is better to be cautious and ask an extra question than be waiting in pain.
7. Not informing your doctor about that bent needle
When you take those IVF injections and it’s not unusual for needles to bend or dull out. Using a bent needle can cause problems with medicine administration that you do not want.
Inform your clinic if you face any such issue—they’ll guide you on the proper technique and replace the needle, if necessary. Do not suffer in silence—clear communication is key to getting the most from your treatment and doctors do not mind these questions.
8. Missing the time for the trigger shot
Timing is critical in IVF, especially for the trigger shot, which prepares your body for egg retrieval. Delaying it even by an hour could impact the retrieval process, possibly affecting the number and quality of eggs collected.
Ask your doctor for the precise time and set reminders on your phone or ask your doctor’s office for a call-back to ensure you’re on time. This step can make a significant difference in your IVF journey, so don’t leave it to chance.
9. Eating before egg retrieval
Normally, you’re required to fast before egg retrieval to avoid complications during anesthesia. Sometimes people don’t realize the importance of this and eat beforehand, leading to canceled procedures.
Skipping food for a few hours is worth it for a smooth egg retrieval procedure. Double-check the operating day requirements with your clinic and plan accordingly. Follow the clinic’s instructions closely to ensure an optimal outcome.
10. Missing Progesterone before embryo transfer
Progesterone is responsible for preparing the uterine lining for embryo implantation. Missing your progesterone or not taking the right dosage before the embryo transfer can hinder this preparation and affect your embryo implantation.
Stick to your medication schedule and set alarms if necessary. A missed dose could be the difference between success and a failed cycle, so prioritize it as much as possible.
Conclusion
Small mistakes in IVF are fixable—it is important to keep the communication with your clinic open, so even if you miss a dosage or have any equipment issues, your doctor can adjust your cycle.
However, the more closely you follow the IVF timeline and instructions from your doctor, the easier it will be to succeed. Take it one step at a time, communicate openly with your doctor and nurses and keep clarifying your doubts through the process.
IVF can be a challenging journey, but knowing what to avoid can help make it a little smoother.
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Reviewd by: Dr. Meenakshi, PhD