FET lifestyle advice

[JLo81]

Hi, I am due to start my first medicated FET cycle in about a week. I wanted some advice about the dos and don’ts. I have been told no vigorous exercise, core work exercises or twisting but wondered if anyone had any wise words about what else I should or shouldn’t be doing other than eating healthily and taking supplements. I do yoga and run (slowly!!) regularly and wonder when I should ease off. Thank you in advance.

[Mahriya]

Hey. You sound to be on the right path. Not sure where you are on caffeine and alcohol but I’d say to cut them out if you can. I did ask a question about alternative herbal teas and a lot of ladies replied to my post if you wanted to have a look. I was told to only do gentle walking during the treatment to allow the blood flow to go to uterus rather than muscles. Best of luck xxx

[JLo81 in reply to Mahriya]

Thank you. Yes, have cut out alcohol and caffeine. When you were told gentle exercise during treatment at what point did you do that from? Day 1 of your cycle?

[Mahriya in reply to JLo81]

I wasn’t given like an exact date or anything but I wasn’t a runner so my activity was mainly fast walks. They said during treatment is best not to do anything excessive so I started gentle walks instead. I guess as long as you start doing gentle exercises during the treatment it will be fine. I was also told not to diet or try to lose weight as it can cause hormonal changes. They just said stick to healthy diet and gentle exercise during the treatment.

[MrsOrangejuice]

I wasn't told to do anything differently. Beyond supplements and diet (and even on the latter I pretty much only added in more good fats), I didn't change anything. The only thing I read was not to lift heavy things or strain your abdomen after transfer as it has been linked to potential ectopic pregnancies. Even after the BFP I was told beyond the basics just continue with what I was used to and not to take up anything new e.g., if you run, it's fine to carry on if you're happy to but if not already in IronMan training, don't start now! I think a lot of the other things you hear are to do with wanting to have some sense of control and that you're doing something that may help, but maybe speak to your nurses in case they have a view on the definite no's x

[Twiglet2]

For a FET the best advise I can give is to carry on as normal and what makes you relaxed and happy (embryos are already made!) . Once transfer is done take it easy in the 2WW with the exercise and no alcohol but apart from that your lifestyle sounds healthy already 🤗 the only transfer that worked for me was when I stopped trying all the ‘must dos’ and ‘tips’ and carried on with my life, ate what I want, walked the dog, went on holiday etc etc before and during 2WW. I did do the McDonald’s fries, pineapple and Brazil nuts on transfer day but that was more superstition and a wee laugh between my partner and I than anything serious. Wishing you lots of luck 🤞🏽xxx

[CAS2]

Personally, I wouldn’t do anything different. Sounds like you have a petty healthy lifestyle already. Only time IVF and FET worked for me was when I chilled out about stuff and even had a cheeky glass of wine or 2. I think we put a lot of unnecessary pressure on ourselves to make everything perfect. Good luck with it all x