By Dr. Elisa Pérez (Gynaecologist – Reg. No. 203311163).
Certain behaviors can positively influence the achievement of pregnancy. During a fertility treatment such as in vitro fertilisation – with your own eggs or with the help of a donor – patients go through a rollercoaster ride of emotions in the hope of achieving pregnancy in the least number of attempts.
It should be noted that the success of a fertility treatment and, therefore, the success of embryo implantation depend on many factors. During this process, there are many patients who wish to increase the success of the reproductive process and seek advice to improve their fertility both on the Internet and among their closest friends.
Not all advice follows scientific criteria, but it has been shown that certain behaviours can positively influence the achievement of pregnancy.
Infertility treatment has an impact on all aspects of a patient’s life. Women have to take hormone stimulation medication on a regular basis which is often accompanied by psychological stress. But as a rule, specialists advise that patients should continue to lead a normal life.
They also say that it is not necessary to enter a state of complete rest during this stage. There is nothing wrong with practising regular sports activities during the early stages of the process. This can even be beneficial: sporting activity stimulates the metabolism and contributes to better health.

Moderate exercise also helps regulate insulin secretion and improves hormonal levels. This has a certain impact on increasing fertility. Couples do not need to abstain from sexual intercourse either, as well-being improves physical condition and mood.
It is important to inform your personal assistant about any medical tests and treatments that are not directly related to your fertility treatment. This also applies to the use of medications, such as those taken for headaches or sleep disorders. This way, the medical specialists at your fertility clinic will be able to assess whether these medications are compatible with your assigned treatment plan.
It is recommended to stop nicotine completely, whether during a fertility treatment or not. In addition, numerous studies have concluded that regular smoking leads to reduced fertility for both men and women. Not to mention passive smokers are also affected by exposure to other people’s smoke and nicotine.
Last but not least, this unhealthy habit leads to a decrease in fertility treatment success rates as the egg maturation process is affected, thus increasing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities. For this reason, women should stop smoking at an early stage prior to treatment involving stimulation and egg retrieval.
Alcohol consumption should be reduced to small amounts and coffee consumption should be limited to one or two cups a day. Small amounts per day would not be a problem. However, according to studies by Danish scientists, consumption of more than five cups a day reduces the likelihood of successful treatment by up to 50%. Drinks with high levels of caffeine, such as energy drinks, should also be avoided.
There are many myths about the need for a balanced diet to increase the success of fertility treatment. Most foods can be consumed without problem and have no proven influence on the success of Assisted Reproduction treatments. It is true that specialists recommend maintaining a diet rich in vitamins and fibre, avoiding the abuse of dairy products, wheat and ultraprocessed products.

The day of the embryo transfer has arrived; it is without doubt a key moment in fertility treatment. And it is inevitable to be nervous about this day which is so important for the success of the treatment, a date which brings us a little closer to our desired baby.
The alternative to releasing tension before the transfer, can be a type of external service offered by some clinics such as Acupuncture or Reiki treatments. These therapies can help increase general well-being and relieve pain. This is also when the nurses will give you the prescriptions and all the information you need about the medication you should take until the twelfth week of pregnancy.
The embryo transfer has been carried out and now, with your embryo(s) inside you, you are now waiting for the results. This is an emotionally charged moment, as patients tell us it is a difficult period in which you observe every part of your body for evidence of pregnancy. Perhaps it’s a good time, during those ten long days of waiting, to continue reading, travelling or looking for something to entertain your mind.
It’s important to know that having no symptoms doesn’t mean you’re in danger of successful treatment. If you need support during this stage, you can consult your personal assistant or call the emergency phone number if you notice any warning signs. After the embryo transfer it is recommended that you take a series of minimum precautions so as not to endanger the embryo.
Most of the instructions before and during fertility treatment are easy to follow and do not represent any break with normal routine. In general, a healthy lifestyle is recommended, both for women undergoing hormone treatment and for their partners.
Trying to stay calm and entertain your mind during the process, this can help add a bit to this high mountain. And we won’t tire of saying this, if you need help or have any questions before, during or after your fertility treatment, don’t hesitate to contact us.