What can’t I do while going through IVF?

IVF is a big deal, but there are some things you can’t do while you’re undergoing IVF treatment. What are they?

It’s highly recommended that when going through IVF, you refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol. Smoking and alcohol intake have been shown to negatively affect the quality of a woman’s eggs.

It’s also recommended that you check with your fertility specialist if you’re on any medication or taking any herbal or Chinese medicine as there is a risk the medication or supplements can interfere with the fertility drugs and jeopardise your IVF cycle.

As always, you’ll want to talk to your fertility expert to find out if anything you’re taking will be affected by your IVF plan.

Consultation with a fertility specialist

Changes to NSW Government Fertility Rebate

The NSW Government will be making changes to their Fertility Treatment Rebate program. We want to ensure you have taken advantage of

Fertility First team holding Surrogacy and Donor Award 2024

Fertility ‘clinic of the year’ award

Fertility First, located in Hurstville, has been awarded ‘Clinic of the Year’ at the Australian Surrogacy and Donor Awards. Since its establishment

Pre-pregnancy preparation checklist: Ensuring a healthy start to your journey towards conception

Preparing for pregnancy allows you and your partner to optimise your health and improve fertility, minimise potential risks, and increase the likelihood

FAQs about improving natural fertility

Will stress affect my ability to get pregnant?

Yes, chronic stress can impact fertility by disrupting hormonal balance and ovulation patterns. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices may help optimise your chances of conception. Consider speaking with a counsellor if stress feels overwhelming.

How does my partner's health affect our fertility?

Sperm health accounts for about 40% of conception challenges. Your partner can improve sperm health by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding excessive heat exposure (hot tubs, saunas, tight clothing), limiting alcohol, quitting smoking, managing stress, and taking a multivitamin with antioxidants. Sperm takes about 3 months to develop, so lifestyle changes need time to show results.

When during my cycle am I most fertile?

Your fertile window typically spans 5-6 days, ending on ovulation day. For a regular 28-day cycle, this usually falls between days 10-15, with peak fertility 1-2 days before ovulation. Track your cycle using ovulation predictor kits, basal body temperature, or cervical mucus changes to identify your unique pattern. Having intercourse every 1-2 days during this window optimises your chances.

What can’t I do while going through IVF?