Is it necessary to change diet and habits? Are special medications necessary? Find out how to prepare for IVF
Singer Ludmilla and her wife, dancer Brunna Gonçalves, are preparing to undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF) to get pregnant.
“We made one that took almost two months to complete. It’s a long process, but we are very excited,” said dancer Brunna, in an interview with a television station.
But the series of tests is just one of the steps needed to prepare for IVF and increase the procedure’s chances of success, as she says Rodrigo Rosaspecialist in Human Reproduction and clinical director of the Mater Prime clinic, in Sao Paulo.
Tests before treatment
Even before a doctor recommends IVF, a series of tests must be performed.
“This comprehensive investigation includes a series of clinical protocols such as immunological, metabolic and hormonal profiles, vaginal secretion tests and evaluation of vaginal flora, for example. Other complementary tests may be requested by the specialist, such as to identify STDs (Sexually Transmitted Infections),” explains the doctor.
Recommendation
The specialist explains that human reproduction treatments are an excellent strategy for homosexual couples who want to start a family.
“In the case of female homosexual couples, the process of assisted reproduction is simpler than that of male couples, since all that is needed is sperm donation, which, like egg donation, is carried out anonymously through material banks . With sperm, in addition to in vitro fertilization (IVF), the couple can also opt for intrauterine insemination (IU),” explains the specialist.
Drug
If IVF is indeed the most recommended option, some hormonal medications are needed.
“Hormonal medications serve to stimulate the growth and recruitment of existing follicles in that menstrual cycle in the ovary. As a result, more follicles grow and more eggs are collected during aspiration. The control of this stimulation is carried out through ultrasound and also through blood tests, which help to identify the right time to collect the eggs”, explains Rodrigo Rosa.
Duration of in vitro fertilization
The first phase is ovarian stimulation, egg collection and sperm collection, with the union of the two gametes in the laboratory and the development of these embryos.
“This phase lasts 13 to 14 days and the embryos develop for three to five days in the laboratory. Embryo transfer can be carried out in the same menstrual cycle, which only happens in 10% of cases, or in the following menstrual cycle. In these cases, the embryos are frozen, the woman menstruates again, and the embryo transfer is carried out 17-20 days after menstruation. The overall treatment would last 45 to 50 days,” says the doctor.
He points out that same-sex couples who opt for IVF can still carry out a shared pregnancy, a process in which one woman provides the egg while the other is responsible for gestating the baby.
What changes in the routine
In general, a woman will not need major changes in her routine during IVF treatment, however, experts recommend not engaging in high-impact activities, such as running or weight training, which can cause l enlargement of the ovaries and damage the treatment.
“During this period, women are also advised not to engage in excesses, such as consuming alcohol, tobacco or drugs, without informing a doctor specializing in human reproduction. Overwork and anxiety can also be harmful at this time, and it is important to avoid them,” Rodrigo emphasizes.
Changes in diet
As for nutrition, in general, the treatment does not require major restrictions, but it is recommended to follow a healthy diet and avoid ultra-processed foods, according to the doctor.
“The indication is to consume between 60 and 70 g of protein per day; This nutrient is found in lean meats, fish, broad beans, eggs and lentils. Eating calcium-rich foods can also help; they are found in foods such as yogurt, almonds, cheese and vegetables such as kale or spinach. Also important is folate, vitamin B9 present in dark green foods; eat vegetables, fruit, broad beans, peas, lentils, nuts and cereals. Supplementation with the active form of this substance, which is methylfolate, may be suggested. Additionally, women should drink an adequate amount of water every day to stay hydrated and nourished,” she says.
Side effects
Medications taken during treatment may cause some mild side effects such as bloating and fluid retention, which disappear soon after menstruation and egg collection.
“More intense events such as headaches, abdominal discomfort and changes in appetite or mood are associated with cases of exaggerated follicle stimulation and it is important to notify your doctor if they occur. Serious side effects such as thrombosis, bleeding and infections are rare, but can occur and require continuous monitoring by the responsible doctor,” says the doctor.
Chance of success
Rodrigo Rosa explains that success varies depending on the age of the woman and the number of eggs collected, which in turn depends on the ovarian reserve (which is the reserve of oocytes) and the ovarian response to the stimulus.
“The success rate can vary from 60% in women up to age 35 to 10% around age 43. The treatment can be repeated if the first attempt is not successful,” concludes the specialist.
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Source: Terra
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
