Is Exercising Safe During Fertility Treatments? Here’s the Expert Opinion.
Bringing a new life into the world is a monumental decision. For individuals undergoing fertility treatments, the journey can be particularly overwhelming and daunting. Consequently, it’s natural to have questions and concerns about what activities are safe to engage in during this time. Exercise, for example, is known for its health benefits, but is it advisable during fertility treatments? To address this question, we consulted an expert. However, before delving into their insights, let’s first explore some of the most common types of fertility treatments.
Common Types of Fertility Treatments
According to a concerning report from the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 17.5% of the global adult population faces infertility, defined as the failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of consistent, unprotected sexual intercourse.
The causes of infertility can be diverse and individualized, underscoring the importance of consulting with a fertility specialist to identify the underlying factors and devise an appropriate treatment strategy. Dr. Kalyani Shrimali, Fertility Consultant at Nova IVF Fertility, Indore, shared insights with the Healthonlyforyou team, outlining some common fertility treatments, which include:
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI, or Intrauterine Insemination, is a straightforward procedure involving the direct insertion of sperm into the uterus during the woman’s ovulation window. This process facilitates the proximity of healthy sperm to the egg, enhancing the chances of successful fertilization.
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
IVF, or In Vitro Fertilization, involves stimulating the ovaries with medications or hormone injections to produce multiple eggs. These eggs are then retrieved and fertilized with sperm outside the body, leading to the formation of embryos. Finally, the embryos are transferred into the uterus for implantation and potential pregnancy.
ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
ICSI is a procedure designed to tackle issues related to male infertility, like low sperm count or poor sperm quality. It entails the direct injection of carefully chosen sperm into the egg, thereby increasing the likelihood of conception without relying on the sperm’s independent penetration of the egg.
Donating eggs and sperm
If one of the partners faces infertility issues related to either eggs or sperm, they may consider receiving donated eggs or sperm to aid in conception. This process typically involves in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Injectable hormones
During this fertility treatment, medications and hormonal therapies are administered to stimulate ovulation or improve reproductive processes. While these interventions can lead to side effects like mood swings or bloating, severe pain is not a common occurrence.
Surgical intervention for a blocked fallopian tube
According to Dr. Shrimale, when one or both fallopian tubes become blocked or narrowed due to scarring, it can impede the movement of eggs and sperm. This condition is particularly common among individuals with endometriosis or pelvic infections.
In such instances, doctors may attempt to alleviate the blockage by surgically removing the scar tissue. This procedure can improve the chances of fertility, as noted by the doctor.
Is Exercising Safe During Fertility Treatments?
Dr. Shrimale suggests that engaging in moderate exercise with low impact is generally safe and can even be beneficial for those undergoing fertility treatments. She specifically recommends activities like yoga and walking, which can help alleviate stress, enhance overall health, and foster a positive mindset throughout the fertility journey.
However, she cautions that high-impact activities may require adjustments during certain phases of fertility treatments. It’s advisable to consult healthcare providers before commencing any exercise regimen.
Further Recommendations to Adhere to
Below are supplementary self-care guidelines to observe during fertility treatment:
1. Embrace a balanced, nourishing diet, incorporating whole foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins.
2. Steer clear of smoking, alcohol consumption, and exposure to hazardous substances.
3. Diligently follow the recommendations given by fertility experts and healthcare providers.
4. Effectively cope with stress and seek assistance from loved ones, support groups, or therapy services.
5. Enhance your understanding of fertility procedures, potential adverse effects, and alternative pathways.
Conclusion
It’s crucial to highlight that incorporating exercise into your routine can be beneficial for supporting your pregnancy. However, it’s essential to be cautious and avoid engaging in high-impact workouts that may pose a risk of injury. If you’re undergoing fertility treatments, consult with your doctor to establish a suitable exercise regimen. Nevertheless, prioritize adequate rest, stay hydrated, and maintain a diet rich in nutrients. Above all, mitigate stress through relaxation practices such as yoga and meditation.