How to Exercise Safely During IVF: A Complete Guide for Aspiring Parents

The dream of parenthood can sometimes be challenging due to fertility issues among couples. No matter your overall health condition, it might come as a hurdle for you. One of the most promising options is that of IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization). The biggest question that arises from a couple taking on this journey is how to maintain a healthy lifestyle and take care of the body.

It is a myth that has been passed on that women going through IVF procedures must stop all forms of physical activity. However, we at Newlife Fertility Centre, Siliguri, do not believe that if done safely, women can benefit from light movement and exercise, which can bring forward better results. We will learn about the kind of exercise during IVF that you can work on most safely.

Why Exercise Matters During IVF

A gentle process, IVF does not mean you have to stop all sorts of movement. Light and regular exercise can be advantageous for the following reasons:

• Improve blood circulation (including to reproductive organs)
• Regulate hormones and insulin levels
• Reduce stress and improve mental clarity
• Support a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI), which boosts fertility
• Enhance overall mood during what can be a challenging emotional journey

It is important to keep in mind that not all exercises are developed considering your body going through egg retrieval, ovarian stimulation, or embryo transfer as an IVF process.

Exercise Within Your Comfort Zone

Exercises during IVF should feel good and not intense. Plan your exercises accordingly.

Consult with your doctor beforehand about the exercises that you plan to work on. If you were active throughout, you may continue, but if not, this is the time to be.

• Stick to low or moderate-intensity workouts.
• Avoid anything that feels like you're pushing your limits.

The Best Low-Impact Exercises During IVF

Gentle and light exercise during fertility treatments that do not strain the abdomen or pelvis is the safest option. The following exercises are recommended by fertility specialists:

Walking

This simple and effective workout is the easiest on the joints. Great for cardiovascular health, a daily walk of 20-30 minutes is great for releasing stress.

Prenatal Yoga

Without any harsh twists and pressure on the abdomen, these gentle yoga poses can induce flexibility and relaxation to the body. This also helps manage fertility issues.

Pilates (Modified)

Mat Pilates, specially designed for women going through IVF procedures, can increase core strength. Just remember to skip the heavy, strenuous movements for the abdominal region.

Stationary Cycling or Elliptical

Heart functions are enhanced with these movements without any jarring effects on the body. You should maintain a moderate speed so that the struggle is low.

Swimming or Water Aerobics

This can tone your muscles and improve blood circulation, which can be achieved without any stress on the body.

Tai Chi

This can improve your mind and body balance, with better breathing, so your mind achieves clarity. This can be a great way of managing stress during the treatments.

Exercises to Avoid During IVF

There is a risk of injury with certain heavy-strenuous exercises that can interfere with your fertility treatment journey. The reproductive organs, especially your ovaries, must be protected as they enlarge during stimulation.

Here's what to avoid:

High-Impact Exercises

• Running more than 15 miles per week
• HIIT workouts
• Jumping jacks, burpees, or plyometrics
• Intense dance cardio

The risk of ovarian torsion (a life-threatening condition where the ovary twists) rises with these movements, since they can reduce blood flow to the uterus.

Heavy Weightlifting

• Squats with barbells
• Deadlifts
• Overhead presses
• Abdominal crunches

Too much intra-abdominal pressure is a big risk during IVF.

Contact or Team Sports

• Football
• Basketball
• Martial arts

The proper knowledge about how to stay fit during IVF treatment is necessary, as even minor collisions can be harmful to a body undergoing IVF.

When to Pause Exercise Completely

There are two key stages during IVF when you must refrain from any exercise:

During Egg Retrieval Week

The ovaries significantly grow in size after it has been injected with hormones to produce multiple eggs. Exercising at this stage can be dangerous as they are especially vulnerable to trauma. The risk of ovarian torsion heightens, so it is advised to rest during this time.

Two Weeks After Embryo Transfer

The working of the uterine lining is crucial, as it is responsible for embryo development. Excessive workout can interfere with it. As considered to be a critical implantation window, it is advised that the patient should devote their time to rest, relaxation, and minimal movement.

Weekly Exercise Duration Guidelines

Fertility experts recommend:

• No more than 4 hours of low-impact activity per week
• Workouts should be around 30 minutes each, with adequate rest days
• Avoid working out 7 days a week — your body needs recovery

Bloating, fatigue, or any sort of discomfort can be signs to rest. Always listen to your body.

Understanding Ovarian Torsion

A life-altering condition, ovarian torsion can be one of the major health risks of over-exercising during IVF treatments. This is a disorder where the ovary twists along the ligaments supporting it, which cuts off the blood supply. Not always exercise, but intense movements too can cause torsion, especially during twisting and bouncing. This is a medical emergency that can require immediate surgery.

To protect yourself:

The process of IVF requires both physical and mental health. With a lot of love and patience, one has to go through the procedures, which mindfully require activity of both the body and the mind. With its fair share of dos and don'ts, the journey demands preparation of the individual so the mood is boosted, and energy is maintained.

The process does not demand much, and it is important to remember that you don't have to choose between IVF and physical fitness. Smart selection of gentle yet effective exercises, which are in tune with the needs of your body, can be highly efficient. If you are deciding on embarking on this journey, be sure to consult with your infertility specialist in parts of North Bengal, such as Coochbehar and Alipurduar, so that your requirements are realised and met properly.