ARGC

Preparing for Fertility Treatment: A Guide for Women

Preparing your body for IVF before treatment can help optimise your fertility and improve your chances of success. Making positive lifestyle changes in advance allows time for your body to adjust.

Womens Guide

Visit Your Doctor

Checking in with your doctor is an important first step. They can assess your overall health, identify any potential issues, and recommend changes that may improve your fertility.

Doctor Image

Review your vitamin D levels

Low levels may be linked to reduced fertility.

Ensure your cervical screening is up to date

If your most recent screening led to a treatment recommendation, it should be completed before starting fertility treatment.

Consider taking a prenatal vitamin

One that includes folic acid to support early pregnancy development.

Check if you are immune to rubella

If you're not immune to rubella, it's recommended to get vaccinated at least one month before trying to conceive.

Important Considerations & Precautions

Check iconAvoid using retinol-based skin products. They may pose risks during pregnancy.

Check iconAvoid herbal supplements. They may interfere with fertility medications.

Check iconCertain prescribed medications may interfere with fertility treatment. Your doctor can advise on alternatives if needed.

Check iconAvoid travel to Zika-affected areas. The virus can pose serious risks to pregnancy.

Important Considerations

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Your overall health plays a key role in fertility and IVF success.

Nutrient rich Diet

Eat a nutrient-rich diet

A Mediterranean-style diet, rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, is linked to improved fertility and pregnancy outcomes

Maintain healthy Weight

Maintain a healthy weight

A balanced body composition supports hormone regulation and treatment success. Avoid sudden weight loss or crash dieting before IVF. Speak to a doctor if you have had weight loss surgery or are taking weight management medications such as GLP-1 agonists (e.g. Ozempic).

Stay Hydrated

Prioritise sleep

Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep to support hormone regulation.

Avoid Smoking

Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs

These can negatively impact egg quality, implantation, and pregnancy health.

Manage Stress and Emotional Well-Being

Fertility treatment can be a stressful experience, and managing your emotional well-being is just as important as physical health.

Support networks

Talk to your partner, family, or a friend about your concerns.

Consider fertility counselling

A specialist can provide guidance and emotional support during the process.

Practice relaxation techniques

Activities like acupuncture, meditation, or light exercise can help manage stress.

Plan treatment timing thoughtfully

Where possible, try to minimise additional stresses to help accommodate your IVF treatment schedule.

We’re here to support you at every stage of your journey.