Written by Emma Johnson. Reviewed by Dr. Lucy Bennett.
Emma Johnson has dedicated over a decade to maternity care, serving as a Lead Midwife in various clinics. With personal experience from going through multiple IVF cycles, she focuses on guiding individuals through their unique journeys to parenthood. When she’s not working, Emma enjoys spending time with her three children.
Having been through IVF several times, I feel like I’ve gained valuable insights along the way. There were times I treated my body with utmost care, and other moments I did whatever it took to get through the process. What I’ve learned is that achieving a balance is essential—doing the best you can and not being hard on yourself for what you can’t control.
The Importance of Pre-Conception Care
From my perspective as a midwife, pre-conception care is crucial. Start with the basics: drink plenty of water, eat a balanced diet that includes your five-a-day, and focus on getting enough protein and carbs. Adequate sleep is also essential, along with the right supplements. The NHS recommends taking 400mg of Folic Acid for at least three months before trying to conceive, as it’s vital for fetal development and can help prevent conditions like spina bifida. If you’re unsure about the appropriate dosage, consult your GP or midwife.
Finding Control Through Supplements
Taking high-quality supplements gave me a sense of control during a time when I felt otherwise powerless. After trying various supplements, I found comfort in knowing that the OVUM Time to Conceive® formula provided everything needed for healthy egg development. It’s important to remember that follicles take about three months to mature, so how you treat your body during this time can significantly affect your chances of conception.
Nourishing Your Body and Mind
To support my body, I aimed to eat healthily without feeling deprived. I often reminded myself that I was nourishing my body and imagined those nutrients helping my ovaries produce the healthiest eggs possible. While this might sound a bit whimsical, the mental aspect of trying to conceive is just as important as the physical one.
I believe in balance. Therefore, alongside my healthy eating, I allowed myself small indulgences, like enjoying a piece of chocolate after each IVF injection. These little rewards kept me motivated during what can be a grueling process. Anyone who has experienced IVF knows that celebrating small victories is crucial.
Exercise and Mental Well-Being
When it comes to exercise, it’s best to consult your Doctor, but gentle activities are generally fine. For me, walking my dog and getting outside for fresh air was a welcome distraction. My dog provided companionship during a time when I could have easily isolated myself.
Additionally, IVF can be a mental challenge, so I utilized mindfulness and meditation techniques to manage racing thoughts. I learned to focus only on what I could control, such as ensuring my body had everything it needed to produce the best eggs.
Building a Supportive Community
A significant support for me was finding a community of individuals who understood my journey. Sharing updates about follicle scans with those who could relate was invaluable. Even today, some of my closest friendships were forged within the IVF community, a bond few can truly understand.
Additional Resources
If you’re looking for more guidance on the journey to parenthood, check out this excellent resource on family building options. You can also read about understanding brown discharge during pregnancy in one of our blog posts. For those considering at-home insemination, the at-home cervical insemination syringe kit is a fantastic option.
Summary
In summary, taking care of yourself during IVF involves a combination of physical and mental well-being. Prioritize hydration, nutrition, and sleep while also allowing for balance and small treats. Exercise gently, seek community support, and focus on what you can control. With a holistic approach, you can navigate this challenging journey with resilience and hope.