Exercise is a great way to prepare for your fertility journey. For women who are overweight, developing a healthy and active lifestyle can improve their chances of conceiving. Exercise can also help women struggling with infertility reduce stress. But what about exercise during an IVF cycle? Is it safe? Are there certain types to avoid? The fertility experts of UNC Fertility are here to discuss what exercises women should avoid and what to do instead.
Avoid Strenuous Exercises
If you’re a fan of high-impact exercises, we have some bad news for you. The fertility experts of UNC Fertility advise patients against participating in strenuous and high-impact activities during their IVF cycle. During ovarian stimulation, women face an increased risk of ovarian torsion. Any rigorous exercise can increase your chances of developing this complication. Additionally, rigorous exercise can decrease an embryo’s likelihood of implanting, so it’s best for women to avoid any strenuous exercise until after the two week wait.
Enjoy Low Impact Activities
If you’re a woman who wants to stay active, you can still engage in low impact activities while undergoing IVF. Some options include:
- Walking
- Gentle stretching
- Prenatal yoga
- Light hand weights
- Slow swimming
Keeping up a light level of activity allows you to still get all of the physical and mental benefits of exercise while minimizing risk. While these activities are generally considered safe throughout treatment.
Practice Self Care
Many women undergoing IVF naturally feel less inclined to exercise, especially as they near their retrieval date. If this is the case, take the time to slow down and practice self-care. Take up a meditation practice, delve into a hobby, or take part in other stress busting activities. Don’t feel pressured to exercise just because it’s your normal routine – take this time to focus on you.
Want to learn more about IVF treatment or about activities you should avoid during a cycle? Contact the fertility experts at UNC Fertility at 919-908-0000.