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Impact of fasting on IVF success rates
If you are fasting for medical, religious or health reasons while undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment, it’s natural to worry about how it might affect your chances of success. Although fasting may not significantly impact the success rate, it is important to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated during non-fasting hours, as it can help support your reproductive health and overall outcome of the procedure.
How does fasting impact your fertility health?
Fasting can affect both male and female fertility, affecting the quality of sperm and eggs. For example, reducing your meal intake may decrease the nutrition levels that are essential for your body. Consuming the right nutrients is crucial for maintaining hormonal balance, which can influence the quality of sperm and eggs.
Additionally, a lack of fluids can lead to dehydration, which may decrease sperm count and alter the function of reproductive organs in both men and women. This can therefore interfere with the IVF process. Changes in diet can also cause fatigue and disrupt sleep patterns, ultimately impacting fertility health and overall wellbeing.
However, with meal planning and guidance from healthcare professionals, it is still possible to undergo IVF treatment while fasting, without negatively impacting the outcome.
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Advice for fasting while undergoing IVF treatment
If you are fasting while undergoing IVF treatment, here are a few tips to help ensure the best possible outcome:
Consume a healthy diet - If you are limited to eating at specific times of the day, such as during Ramadan, when individuals typically have two meals, it’s important to incorporate nutrient-rich foods into your diet. Certain nutrients such as folic acid, iron, vitamin C and D, are essential for fertility health. So, integrate foods such as oats, nuts, vegetables, fruits, spinach and fish, into your meals to ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs.
Drink plenty of water – Staying hydrated is key. Ensure you drink enough water and limit your intake of caffeine and sugary drinks, as these can increase insulin levels and can potentially affect ovulation in women and sperm quality in men.
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Prioritise your health – Remember you know your body best. So, if you have any concerns about your health while fasting, seek advice from your fertility clinic or doctor.
Consider religious exemptions – Fasting is an important practice for Muslims during Ramadan, however, exemptions are allowed for medical needs.
Postponing IVF treatment during Ramadan is also an option, but this will depend on personal preferences and the optimal time for treatment. So, it important to seek medical advice before making your decision.
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