Gym life and IVF

[Anoncasper]

Hi ladies, I’m just about to start my second IVF round and wondered if any of you who work out everyday have found that this has had a positive or a negative impact on your IVF? I take preworkout before my workout and I’m wondering if I should stop taking it now before my treatment starts next week. I just don’t know if it takes a while for it to get out of my system etc. I will obviously stop my workouts when treatment starts and just go for a walk etc but has anyone else done the same?

I want to give myself the best chance possible xxx

[Llizzie]

Hi, I asked my clinic whether I had to stop exercise and they said no, but just to do what I was comfortable with. I did my peloton classes (strength and cycling) until I felt too uncomfortable during stims. I was careful about twisting and I kept the intensity moderate and generally lifted light weights (there is generally an understanding that you should avoid high intensity). Honestly it kept me sane until I was overstimulated and got very bloated and couldn’t do anymore, I was fortunate to get pregnant and couldn’t workout due to complications. My son is 9 weeks and I’m about to get back on my bike - it’s been a while! Wishing you all the best with your round. x

[Anoncasper in reply to Llizzie]

Thank you Lizzie. I’ll definitely continue to exercise but just refrain from HIIT. That’s my go to tbh. Did you still do sit ups etc? That’s amazing that you had a successful IVF and you now have your beautiful baby. Congrats xxx

[hoping2021]

I love the gym and working out. So will keep my eyes on this post to see what advice you get. Exercise keeps me sane…. But I have read studies suggesting too much can negatively impact ivf outcomes. I wish there was more research in this area.

[Anoncasper in reply to hoping2021]

Yeah I have read this too so was worried I would cause the IVF to fail xx

[Countrychic]

I continued doing moderate exercise during my second round. I completely avoided exercise the first time. I found it did wonders for my mental health and now have a 16 month old little boy (first transfer didn’t work, he was result of FET). I didn’t micro manage what I ate, walked loads, ran, went to the gym (spin and body balance classes), went swimming and felt much better for it. I think so long as you are used to doing a certain level of exercise, it is okay. I would probably avoid too much high intensity stuff or weights but other than that, I think you do whatever makes you feel good 😊 xxx

[Anoncasper in reply to Countrychic]

I avoided exercise my first time round too and it had a big impact on my mental health. I felt really down and massively focused on the IVF. That’s lovely news that you now have your little bundle of joy!

I think this time round I’ll continue my exercises and see how I get on x Thank you xx

[hoping2021 in reply to Countrychic]

What sort of exercise did you do during stimulation period? X

[Countrychic]

Good luck with it, it is such a draining process. I am a big advocate of trying to relax and trying to avoid being too obsessive. Easier said than done but I absolutely let the build up and first round completely consume me and it was just awful. Wishing you all the luck in the world xxx

[Anoncasper in reply to Countrychic]

I did exactly the same. It’s hard not to though when you need to do daily injections etc. thank you so much! I wish you all the best too! Fingers crossed xxx