In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) has gained prominence among couples facing difficulties starting their families. IVF is one of the most effective techniques for couples or individuals who want to conceive; however, every coin has two sides. While IVF can be helpful for couples to realise the life-changing dream of having a baby, it comes with baggage that takes a toll on women’s overall health. Unfortunately, fatigue is a common side effect of IVF treatment.

Thankfully, it will pass, and there are some ways to handle it. Scroll down to learn how to deal with IVF exhaustion like a pro. 

Firstly, let’s find out what causes fatigue during IVF:

Feeling exhausted while undergoing IVF is most likely due to the change in hormones levels. Women have to take a variety of fertility drugs to raise certain hormone levels in order to prepare their body for conception. These medications will aid in the regulation of your menstrual cycle by promoting ovulation, which will aid in the development and release of retrievable eggs. Furthermore, the retrieved eggs are fertilised with sperms in the lab. Eggs successfully fertilised are subsequently placed in a woman’s womb to grow and develop.

The progesterone hormone is a major contributor to fatigue. Progesterone levels always increase naturally throughout pregnancy since a woman’s body needs this hormone to create and maintain a strong embryo lining. Pregnant women may become exhausted when this occurs. Unfortunately, because fertility therapy involves increasing a woman’s progesterone levels in preparation for pregnancy, women undergoing IVF frequently have to endure some of this tiredness prior to pregnancy as well.

Understanding the possible side effects of IVF treatment

There are bound to be adverse effects from therapy because the IVF procedure uses fertility medicines to change a woman’s hormones and assist control her cycle. These side effects are typical and go away on their own within a few days when the hormone levels stabilise. Nevertheless, women may experience changes in their mood, headaches, bloating, nausea, breast sensitivity, or discomfort.

Although hormonal changes are the most evident cause of fatigue after IVF, stress may also be a contributing factor.

How can you overcome IVF Fatigue 

Yes, the fatigue is annoying, but many women undergoing IVF are able to carry on with their normal routine for the majority of the time. However, it’s crucial to engage in self-care, adjust as necessary, and seek assistance as needed. Take care of yourself; you deserve it! Meanwhile, you can also follow the tips to deal with fatigue caused by IVF:

• Start sleeping early: It’s irritating, but do you really need to watch that additional Netflix episode? Go to bed a little early. If you can, try going to bed an hour sooner; your body will appreciate it.

• Get some quality sleep: Attempt to practise good sleep hygiene by avoiding screen time just before bed or leaving screens on while you’re trying to fall asleep. These screens emit a blue night that makes it difficult to fall asleep. Keep in mind that quality of sleep is equally as important as quantity when it comes to health.

• Take nap as needed: If you can, try taking a quick nap in the afternoon. There’s a good possibility it will provide you with the motivation you need to finish the rest of the workday.

• Stay hydrated: Drink lots and plenty of water to stay hydrated and stave off fatigue.

• Eat a healthier diet: A sugar and starch overload might cause an energy slump. The goal is to eat a lot of fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and proteins.

• Get additional support: If you strive to be a superwoman out of habit, do you really need to organise your sister-in-law’s birthday party or do the dishes every night? Is it too much for you to handle? If so, you might wish to establish a list of your obligations, errands, and responsibilities and discuss how to divide the work with your partner or other family members.

• Some light excercise won’t harm: It may seem counter-intuitive when discussing weariness, but maintaining a moderate level of activity can assist in preventing exhaustion. For instance, you might take a lesson in yoga for fertility or have a leisurely stroll.

• Pamper yourself, more: Fortunately, there are a tonne of fantastic resources accessible to assist you with relaxing. Take a massage or spend the day at the spa with some buddies. Both your body and mind will appreciate it.

• Try acupuncture/meditation: Some women have found acupuncture to be effective. And even just five or ten minutes a day of meditation could make you feel a little bit calmer and more invigorated.

• Think about the end result: It may occasionally seem long, but this feeling won’t endure forever. Keep your eyes on the goal. It can be beneficial to maintain a “eyes on the prize” attitude and remind yourself that this will pass when it feels like you’re trekking through treacle.

The IVF process might cause weariness, which can be bothersome but keep in mind that it will pass. Many patients are able to function in a largely normal manner during the rest of the day. As you go through the IVF process, take your time, be kind to yourself, and be patient.

Be sure to talk to your fertility specialist if the fatigue and other side effects have a detrimental influence on your regular routine. In order to manage these side effects without affecting the course of treatment, they may provide insight into your situation.