4 IVF-Safe Exercise Habits to Start in the New Year
Posted on January 23rd, 2025
Exercise is highly beneficial for individuals undergoing fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF). Staying active not only helps balance hormones and improve circulation among other physical benefits, but it also serves as a stress reliever. However, it’s important to recognize which exercises are safe and which are not recommended during fertility care. Let’s break down some tips for staying active and healthy while undergoing IVF this year.
1. Keep It Low Impact
Increased physical activity and decreased sedentary behavior may improve fertility outcomes, as long as the workouts are appropriate. Try low-impact exercises for 30 minutes a day. Strenuous workouts aren’t recommended because they increase the risk of ovarian torsions and other injuries. Safe, low-impact workouts include:
- Swimming
- Yoga
- Walking
- Prenatal Pilates
2. Incorporate Self-Care
Self-care is essential during IVF. Engaging in activities like stretching can provide suitable, low-impact movement options. Stretching also helps relieve stress and keeps you grounded in the present moment. Staying hydrated, eating a well-balanced diet, taking prenatal vitamins, and getting adequate sleep, combined with low-impact exercises, can further reduce stress and promote both physical and emotional well-being.
3. Avoid Exercising During Certain Treatment Processes
It's important to avoid exercise during specific stages of the IVF process, especially during the week of egg retrieval. At this time, your ovaries are significantly enlarged, which increases the risk of ovarian torsion. Additionally, your doctor may recommend that you rest during the two-week wait after embryo transfer.
4. Consult with a Fertility Specialist
It's essential to keep open lines of communication with your fertility specialist during each step of the IVF process. While low-impact exercises are generally encouraged during IVF, your fertility specialist will be able to make appropriate recommendations based on your specific situation.
Learn More about IVF and Exercise
Low-impact exercises are beneficial for patients undergoing IVF. At Aspire HFI, our expert team can review your exercise options with you and make recommendations, such as Prelude’s incredible 6-week yoga program. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment at our Houston, Willowbrook, Cypress, Katy, Sugar Land, Pearland, The Woodlands, Memorial City, Beaumont, Kingwood, or Clear Lake locations.
