There are various myths surrounding infertility that exist in the society. As far as advise is concerned, any layman thinks himself capable of giving others the piece of advise that comes from his/ her personal or social experience. But only a couple undergoing IVF understands how important each small detail becomes when you can’t afford to take any chances. With so much advancement in medical science, these myths have been replaced by facts.
Myth #1 – Complete bed rest is needed after embryo transfer (ET)
No complete “bed rest” after embryo transfer is required:
The fact is that once the embryos have been placed into the uterus, they are safe and cannot “fall out “. According to scientific reports only 15 to 20 minutes of rest is needed after embryo transfer. Conclusion: Immediate (after 15 minutes) ambulation following the ET procedure has no adverse effect on the chances of conception.
Myth #2: Stress does not lower IVF success rates.
Although there no direct way of measuring the level of stress. Stress is usually very subjective. Few studies have still found an association between stress and less success rates. A more thorough study on the effect of stress on IVF success is still needed. Higher levels of stress as measured by salivary alpha-amylase are associated with a slightly longer time-to-pregnancy (TTP) and is a risk factor for infertility. Stress management modalities, such as yoga, meditation and mindfulness, may be considered helpful in reducing stress.
Myth #3: Diet and IVF success:
There is not enough evidence that any particular diet pattern will increase chances of IVF success but a few studies advocate probable positive effects of healthy diet, if followed on a regular basis.
Maintaining BMI (Body mass index) within normal range (19 to 25 kg/m2) is also important. A lower body mass index under 19, or a higher index above 25 is associated with lower pregnancy rates.
NOTE: Mediterranean diet also known as Med Diet is considered good for fertility. It can be achieved by increasing the intake of vegetables, fruits, pulses, nuts, beans, cereals, grains, fish, and unsaturated fats such as olive oil. It also demands a low intake of meat and dairy foods.
Fulfilling Vitamin D also positively affects female fertility and IVF outcome.
Myth #4: Acupuncture may help you get pregnant.
The theory behind this concept is that during IVF is that it increases blood flow, which may help with embryo implantation. Studies are split: Few studies show no difference in results and few show a significant benefit.
Use of acupuncture needs further research before advising it universally to all the patients undergoing IVF-ET.
Myth #5 intercourse and IVF success:
Although the studies are controversial, in our opinion, it is always better to advise couples to maintain abstinence post ET.
Intercourse may lead to pelvic jerks. The prostaglandins present in seminal fluid can induce uterine contractions. It may also lead to infections.
Myth# 6 Spotting after embryo transfer:
A little spotting after embryo transfer can happen as there is handling of cervix (mouth of uterus). Sometimes, 7 to 8 days after ET, implantation bleeding may happen , which in fact is a favourable sign. Sometimes bleeding may happen because of inadequate luteal phase support. You must, therefore, always inform your doctor in such cases.
How to interpret post embryo transfer bleeding: Immediate blood samples to be sent for hormone testing that is estradiol and progesterone. USG and clinical examination are done to rule out local causes.
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