Preparing for IVF is not just about medical tests—it’s about getting your body and mind ready for the journey ahead. At Nucleus IVF in Pune, Dr. Pritam Prakash Sulakhe, an experienced fertility specialist, emphasizes that small lifestyle changes before IVF can significantly improve treatment outcomes and emotional well-being.
This guide explains how nutrition, weight, stress management, supplements, and partner support play a crucial role before starting IVF.
IVF success is influenced by multiple medical and lifestyle factors, and results can vary from person to person. Let’s break down what truly affects IVF outcomes and what couples in India should realistically expect.
Why Preparation Before IVF Matters
IVF places physical and emotional demands on both partners. Preparing in advance helps:
- Improve egg and sperm quality
- Increase chances of implantation
- Reduce treatment stress and anxiety
- Support smoother recovery during the cycle
Ideally, preparation should begin at least 2–3 months before IVF, as this is the time needed for egg and sperm development.
1. Nutrition: Fueling Fertility the Right Way
A balanced, fertility-friendly diet supports hormone balance and reproductive health.
Recommended foods:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins (eggs, pulses, fish, paneer)
- Healthy fats (nuts, seeds, olive oil)
- Iron- and folate-rich foods
Foods to limit or avoid:
- Junk and processed foods
- Excess sugar
- High caffeine intake
- Alcohol and smoking
In Pune’s fast-paced lifestyle, regular home-cooked meals and hydration are especially important.
2. Weight Management: Finding the Healthy Balance
Both underweight and overweight individuals may experience lower IVF success rates.
- High BMI can affect hormone response and egg quality
- Low BMI may interfere with ovulation and implantation
Dr. Pritam Prakash Sulakhe recommends gentle weight optimization through:
- Balanced nutrition
- Light exercise such as walking or yoga
- Avoiding crash diets before IVF
Even a 5–10% weight improvement can positively impact results.
3. Stress Management: Preparing the Mind
IVF can be emotionally challenging. High stress levels may affect sleep, hormones, and overall well-being.
Helpful stress-management practices include:
- Meditation or deep breathing
- Prenatal yoga
- Journaling or counseling
- Limiting social pressure and comparisons
Many patients in Pune benefit from mindfulness practices and fertility counseling offered alongside medical care.
4. Supplements: Take Only What’s Needed
Certain supplements may support fertility—but only when prescribed.
Commonly recommended supplements include:
- Folic acid
- Vitamin D
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Antioxidants (if required)
Avoid self-medication or online supplement trends. At Nucleus IVF, supplements are prescribed based on blood reports and individual needs.
5. Partner Support: IVF Is a Team Effort
IVF success depends on both partners, not just the woman.
Male partners should:
- Improve diet and sleep
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and heat exposure
- Manage work stress
- Take prescribed supplements
Emotional support, shared appointments, and open communication strengthen the journey and reduce anxiety for both partners.
Daily Habits That Help Before IVF
- Sleep 7–8 hours daily
- Stay physically active without overexertion
- before bed
- Reduce screen time Follow medication and appointment schedules
- Trust your medical team
Consistency matters more than perfection.
Dr. Pritam Prakash Sulakhe
