This is a common question that women planning to undergo IVF treatment ask. Given many myths surrounding IVF, it’s obvious to have concerns before the treatment. However, IVF is totally safe and causes no health problems in the long-term, given that you consult the best gynaecologist in Chandigarh or near you. 

Every woman is different and so is their biology. So, the treatment may respond differently to every woman planning to conceive a baby. Working with a qualified gynaecologist makes sure that you get the right treatment, which eliminates your chances of health issues.

In this blog, we’re going to answer – in consultation with an expert gynaecologist – the most common questions concerning health issues related to IVF. 

Can IVF Lead to Long-term Health Issues?

No. The chances of developing permanent health issues with IVF is minimal. The right diagnosis and the right healthcare guidance can immensely help in identifying probable risks as well. 

IVF is relatively a new technology that is evolving with every passing year. An impressive increase in the success rate has also been witnessed in this procedure in the past few years. However, there’s another aspect to this technology that every person undergoing IVF should know about.

IVF can increase the risk of multiple births when more than one embryo has transferred to the uterus. This multiple-fetus pregnancy increases the risk of premature births, early labour, and low-birth weight. However, these risks are present in many naturally complicated pregnancy cases as well. But all these IVF pregnancy risks can be effectively managed with the help of an experienced gynaecologist in Chandigarh.

Does IVF Impact the Immunity of the Patient?

Technically and scientifically, no facts or data support this statement. Women usually experience a suppressed immune system during pregnancy – normal or through any treatment. Nausea, lack of appetite, vomiting, and tiredness are common symptoms every expecting mother experiences during this time. This can further affect immunity for some time. 

However, some patients might experience higher immunity suppression than others. Are you also one of them? If yes, ensure you consult the best gynaecologist in Chandigarh. These highly trained medical professionals check all probable IVF health problems. They also take necessary measures to control these issues before things get out of hand. 

Can IVF Cause Ovarian Cancer?

No. IVF does not cause ovarian cancer. According to medical experts, one of the biggest reasons for having ovarian cancer is nulliparity or childlessness. It is a medical term used for a woman who has never given birth to a child. IVF has come as a boon for such women. Many women embrace motherhood with the help of this revolutionary reproductive technology.

So, IVF has played a vital role in decreasing the risk of ovarian cancer by allowing women to give birth to healthy babies. It is a reassuring and interesting finding which clarifies the real reasons behind ovarian cancer and the role of IVF in preventing it. Experts consider it one of the biggest IVF babies advantages.

Can IVF Impact the Life Expectancy?

Who is stronger: IVF babies vs normal babies? Does IVF affect the life expectancy of the baby? Premature babies, conceived naturally or through IVF, are usually at a higher risk of having a weak immune system. In newborns, underdeveloped lungs, heart, or liver can lead to health issues like jaundice and pneumonia. It is a common phenomenon that has little to do with IVF. All these complications can be effectively managed by neonatology.

It is a modern medical science stream that takes special care of newborns born with weak immune systems. On a wider aspect, an expecting mother can prevent future health issues for the baby by consulting an experienced gynaecologist in Mohali. A customized nutrition schedule can help strengthen the immunity of both the unborn and the mother, leading to a good life expectancy.

Does IVF Change Your Body?

Ideally, a standard IVF treatment is a five-step process:

1. Ovulation induction
2. Egg retrieval
3. Sperm retrieval
4. Fertilization
5. Embryo transfer

It marks the completion of one IVF cycle. 

At times, multiple IVF cycles are recommended for a successful conception. This recommendation can vary from doctor to doctor, clinic to clinic, or patient to patient as per their age and genetics.

Patients also need to take several hormone injections to support the conception process. The process can introduce some changes in the body, like bloating, weight gain, etc. These are normal after-effects so there is nothing to worry about.

Of course, your body will indeed undergo significant temporary changes during IVF pregnancy. And, it is a good sign of the fetus’  healthy development. These changes are more or less similar to a natural pregnancy. They can be easily managed under the guidance and treatment of an efficient gynaecologist.

Bottom Line

IVF n is often considered the “last stop” in infertility. Experts call it the first and one of the most successful options for couples who are battling infertility. It is also a ray of hope for people for whom traditional pregnancy and conception are not an option. Women with infertility diagnoses, same-sex couples, etc., are a few examples. 

This treatment is completely safe and does not lead to lifelong complications in women. Search the “best gynaecologist near me”, shortlist the right ones, and choose the most qualified and reputed one. Such a physician should make your journey to motherhood as smooth as possible while helping manage any complications or health risks.

Planning to embrace motherhood after 35? That’s lovely. Geriatric pregnancy is the term for planning pregnancy at 35 or later. Many healthy women who conceive after 35 and even in their 40s deliver perfectly healthy babies. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t think smart to ensure you and your infant stay as healthy as possible during pregnancy. Here’s a comprehensive doctor’s guide to getting pregnant after 35. 

Tips to Increase your Chances of Having a Healthy Pregnancy

Women planning pregnancy after 35 are indeed known as having advanced maternal age. But despite this misconception, you can still have enjoyable gestations and healthy infants. Although the chances of complications are high in planning a pregnancy in the second half of the 30s, you can take steps to multiply your odds of a healthy gestation. 

Eat Healthily

• It is a myth that if you are getting pregnant at 37 naturally, then you should consume food for two. The truth is that nutrition affects fertility in females, and doubling your nutrient intake will ensure the optimal development of the baby. 
• So, reduce the intake of fat, sugar, and salty foods. And increase consumption of a wide variety of vegetables and fruits. ,
• You can also rely on whole grains to fulfill your daily requirement for minerals and vitamins. Most importantly, you should focus on eating food rich in iron. For instance, tofu, meat, and a variety of dairy products. 
• Moreover, eating the right combination of legumes, vegetables, fruits, and plenty of water will keep you at bay from constipation. 
• Many women getting pregnant after 35 naturally wonder if they can take caffeine. We got you covered. Experts say that you can take caffeine in moderation (two cups to three cups) during your pregnancy. Excess consumption can increase the risk of low birth weight and miscarriage. 
• It is crucial to safeguard yourself from food poisoning during this time. Therefore, avoid raw eggs, cheese, fast food, and street-side food items as much as you can. Moreover, you should also ensure appropriate self-hygiene while cooking and storing food. 
• Prevent eating more than one serving of fish per fortnight. It has high mercury levels, which can pose harm to the foetus. 
• Consult the best gynaecologist in Mohali to get the right dosage of folic acid and iodine supplements. Also, discuss all other nutrition requirements with your doctor to ensure the best for you and your baby. 

Healthy Weight Gain

• There are several pregnancy after 35 success stories that inspire women to maintain a healthy weight gain during their gestation period. 
• You see, being obese or overweight can invite a wide range of health problems and complications. For instance, preterm birth, stillbirth, gestational diabetes, depression, high blood pressure, etc. It can pose a threat to both you and your baby. Ideally, a pregnant woman should gain weight from 11.5 kg to 16 kg during her entire pregnancy. 
• Similarly, being underweight during this time can also invite many health issues. It can lead to preterm birth, low birth weight, and weak immunity in the infant. 
• Your doctor will tell you what the ideal weight gain in pregnancy is. It will depend on how much you weigh at the beginning. Even if you had a normal weight before pregnancy, gaining too much weight quickly is bad for you and your baby.
• Stay close to your gynecologist and discuss the top physical activities that are safe for you and your child. Experts recommend spending 150 to 250 minutes in moderate to intense physical activity weekly. 
• Walking, swimming, gardening, jogging, and prenatal yoga are the top activities you can perform during this time. However, you should avoid any exercise that makes you dizzy, causes pain, or is done on your back. 
• Lastly, address all your weight concerns timely. Regular check-ups with the best gynaecologist in Chandigarh and collaboration with an experienced nutritionist can help immensely during this process.
• Please note that indulging in strict dieting at this time can have an adverse impact on your baby’s health.  

Immunisation

• Getting pregnant at 38 or later; what to expect regarding maternal immunisation? Rubella (German Measles) and chickenpox (Varicella) are the two major vaccinations that are a must to ensure the good health of the foetus. Both these diseases can lead to severe complications in the newborn. You can learn more about them through the best gynaecologist in Chandigarh. 
• Besides, obstetric care providers also prescribe tetanus toxoid, acellular pertussis (Tdap), and reduced diphtheria toxoid vaccine to all pregnant ladies in India. These vaccines should be taken in the 27^th to 36^th week of gestation. 

Alcohol and Drinking

• Is this your second pregnancy after 35? If so, ensure you keep alcohol and cigarettes at bay. Here’s why:
• Alcohol can pass through the placenta. It can enter the foetus’s bloodstream and increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and stillbirth. 
• Moreover, drinking heavily during pregnancy can also give rise to foetal alcohol spectrum disorders. It can lead to lifelong health issues in the child. 
• At times, women consume alcohol unknowingly before they know they are pregnant. Be rest assured, it will not have any effect on the baby. However, ensure you don’t touch alcohol for the rest of your gestation period. 
• As far as smoking is concerned – both active and passive smoke harms your and your child’s health. It increases the risk of stillbirth, premature delivery, and miscarriage. It can also result in low birthweight or sudden infant death syndrome. 
• Consult the top gynaecologist in Mohali to seek assistance and guidance in quitting smoking and drinking immediately. 

Takeaway

Remember getting pregnant in your late 30s is as normal as getting pregnant in your 20s. All you need to do is take good care of yourself to ensure a healthy and joyful pregnancy. The crux is that you must get in touch with the best healthcare provider, lead an active and healthy lifestyle, and keep a check on your symptoms. Any unusual symptom should be discussed with your gynaecologist at the earliest. Remember, the right step taken at the right time can save your and your child’s life.  

Over 80% of pregnant women experience morning sickness. You probably know how annoying it can get if you are also one of them. Feelings of vomiting or nausea can strike any time of the day. However, there are two pieces of good news for you! These symptoms won’t pose a threat to your baby. 

And this condition is usually short-lived, with symptoms declining by the second trimester. But that doesn’t mean you have to put up with it for three long months. Several simple tips can help you tame your morning sickness in minutes. Here are the top six tips right from the desk of the best gynaecologist in Mohali to relieve morning sickness during pregnancy. 

Tips to Control Morning Sickness During Pregnancy

Here are the top effective tips that help morning sickness in the first trimester:

Eat Often

Do you know that an empty stomach can make your nausea worse? One of the best ways to control it is by eating often. The trick is to eat small-sized meals every 2 to 3 hours. You can include snacks, fruits, nuts, and crunchy vegetables like carrots in your meal plans. Moreover, starchy, bland food items greatly soak up gastric acid. They also help in settling the stomach. You can satisfy your unhealthy food cravings with these healthy options. 

Besides, you should also prioritise protein intake in your diet. Doctors say that a protein-rich diet offers long-lasting relief from vomiting and nausea. Protein is also essential for your baby’s growth throughout pregnancy. Cottage cheese, poultry, lentils, fish, peanut butter, milk, and eggs are great protein sources. Meet your gynaecologist to learn about foods that fight nausea during pregnancy.

Go Sour

It is one of the best cures for morning sickness that lasts all day. Try consuming sour candies to fight your sour stomach. According to the top gynaecologist in Chandigarh, sour flavours help immensely in curbing nausea. Both orange and lemon-flavoured hard candies can help during this time. If you don’t have candies at home, suck on a slice of citrus fruit like lime, lemon, or orange. 

Doctors consider them the best fruits for morning sickness. They can effectively help with digestion and ease your morning sickness significantly. Besides, you can also go for drinks and other beverages to keep yourself hydrated and keep acid reflux under control. A lemon water drink, clear soda, or a fruit fusion is enough to settle your nausea. 

Stay Vertical

How to reduce nausea while pregnant? Morning sickness symptoms can make you lie down for some time. But doctors recommend the opposite. You should avoid lying down during this time. Instead, you should try to stay vertical as much as you can. It will help the acid to settle down faster. Lying down can raise the level of acid and gastric juices in the stomach for a longer time. 

This condition can impact digestion and add to the nauseous feeling. Similarly, you should avoid brushing your teeth or gargling for at least 30 minutes after eating. Brushing right after eating can trigger gag reflex and that is the last thing you want when you are suffering from morning sickness. 

Avoid Triggers

Scientific research suggests vomiting and nausea during pregnancy occur due to Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG). The placenta produces this hormone once a fertilised egg attaches to the uterine lining. The fluctuation in the level of HCG can trigger symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Therefore, it is crucial to identify your triggers and avoid them as much as possible. 

For instance, some women feel nauseous by strong odours, or specific food items. Try to stay away from such things until your morning sickness subsides. Moreover, several therapeutic aromas can help relieve your morning sickness significantly. Lemon, orange, peppermint, chamomile, ginger, etc., are some of the best aromas to smell during this time. 

Take Care of your Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal vitamins are crucial for your and your baby’s health. Therefore, ensure you don’t skip them at any cost. However, at times expecting mothers feel unsettled after taking these tablets. In this case, gynaecologists recommend trying gummy or chewable vitamins. Their juice will seamlessly settle in your digestive system, making you feel at ease. 

If you don’t get relief, ask your doctor to prescribe alternate iron and vitamin tablets. Most importantly, rinse your mouth with cold water every time you vomit. It will eliminate all the acid components from your mouth and teeth. Failing to do it can damage your teeth’ enamel. 

Other Remedies

Morning sickness is usually active during the first half of the day. So, if you feel that your tablets are adding to your woes, consider taking them during bedtime. However, ensure you discuss it with your doctor first. Apart from this, try wearing a motion sickness band. It is an advanced wristband that puts pressure on essential acupressure points that helps control nausea and vomiting. 

Lastly, take care of yourself. Indulge in creative activities that can help divert your mind from nausea. Poor sleep quality can also trigger nausea in women. A good 8 to 10 hours of sleep will help keep acid reflux at bay. Plenty of fresh air, walking, and regular exercising can also immensely help. Besides, try searching – what can I take for nausea while pregnant? You can also discuss all your concerns with your doctor. Here are some tips for finding the best gynecologist in Chandigarh. 

When to See the Doctor?

Sure, gestation comes with its share of discomforts, you must never ignore unusual symptoms. Here are some troubling symptoms that need immediate medical attention from your doctor. 

• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Difficulty urinating
• Weight loss
• Vomiting blood

Summing Up

Pregnancy brings a unique mix of emotions and health issues like morning sickness. The good part is that these issues go away with time. And all you are left with are their sweet and sour memories. So, make the most of this time by adopting wise eating habits, doing mild physical activities, and staying happy. Remember, stress also gives rise to the acid levels in the body. So, ensure you stay busy all day and try to remain as calm as you can. 

It is natural for a woman’s menstrual cycle to change after delivery. Some can experience more painful or heavier first period after pregnancy, while others may find them easier. It is also true that your menstrual cycle will be irregular for some time. However, the good news is that they usually get normal over time. 

Although there is no tried and tested way to predict your periods after cesarean delivery, some useful tips and guidance from the best gynaecologist can help you prepare better. Learn more about effectively managing your first postpartum period in this blog post. 

When to Expect?

So, when do you get your first period after birth? It is seen that non-lactating mothers who’re formula-feeding tend to get their periods within six to eight weeks after delivery. And when do you get periods after birth while breastfeeding? Mothers who’re exclusively breastfeeding their babies usually experience delayed periods. That’s because of prolactin. 

It is a hormone that is released while breastfeeding. This hormone controls ovulation. So, no ovulation, no periods. However, it is not a hard and fast rule. You may get periods while breastfeeding, especially after introducing solid foods, bottles, etc. 

What will your first Postpartum Period be Like?

Brace yourself, mothers – the first period after C-section is generally heavier because of the extra bloodshed from the uterine lining. Again, the experience varies from person to person. Some of you can experience painful cramps, while others may find it easier. 

Besides, your second period after pregnancy may also show up early or even late. So, your periods can take some time to get back to their normal cycle. Therefore, having adequate period protection items handy will always help. 

Managing Premenstrual Symptoms

Just like normal periods, your body will start giving some premenstrual indications a week in advance. Staying healthy and active during this time can help immensely. Here are some premenstrual  tips for you:

• Drink lots of water, juices, and other healthy beverages
• Eat a balanced, healthy diet, including lots of green leafy vegetables
• Avoid smoking and alcohol during this time
• Eat small meals every 3 hours to maintain your blood sugar levels
• Avoid coffee, tea, and soft drinks as much as you can
• Limit refined sugar and switch to natural or minimally processed sugar

Managing your First Postpartum Periods

Many women experience severe periods after delivery. It is due to a chemical called prostaglandins. It triggers contractions in the uterus and helps remove period blood. To manage these cramps, you can:

• Use a gel-based or water-based heat pad. 
• Do some easy and safe postpartum exercises to prepare your body for periods. 
• Avoid smoking or drinking during this time.
• Consult the best gynaecologist in Chandigarh to seek pain relief medications.
• Some relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and music therapy
• Consume ample water throughout the day

When should you see the Doctor?

Although the first period after pregnancy is expected to be heavier and more painful, there are some abnormal symptoms that need medical attention. Consult the best gynaecologist in Mohali if you experience any of the following:

Big blood clots – Small-sized blood clots are normal in the first postpartum periods. But if you see the size of the clots is larger than a quarter, you should get in touch with your doctor. It can be a sign of polyps, fibroids, thyroid, or severe infection. Your doctor may prescribe some blood tests and other screenings to find the cause of these clot discharges. 

Extremely heavy flow, spotting, and pain – Experiencing extremely heavy flow (soaking more than one pad per hour) or severely paining periods can indicate adenomyosis. This condition arises due to the thickening of the uterine wall. Although it is not a dangerous health condition, your doctor should know about it. Severe cases also need anti-inflammatory medications, hormonal therapy or even a minor surgical procedure. 

Prolonged periods – Any period lasting over seven days comes in the category of prolonged periods. Losing too much blood during this time can lead to anemia. It can make you feel irritable, dizzy, and tired. So, consult the best gynaecologist in Mohali for a blood test. She can also prescribe you Vitamin C and iron supplements if required. 

A sudden fever – Consult your gynaecologist at the earliest if you get a sudden fever, severe headache, or difficulty breathing during your first postpartum period. Any fever that crosses 100 F should be brought to the attention of the doctor. 

No Periods – No period after pregnancy; when to worry? Talk to your doctor if you don’t receive your first period after three months of delivery or stop breastfeeding. It is usually normal most of the time. But two rare health conditions can cause periods to disappear for this long. They are:

Sheehan’s Syndrome – Also known as a pituitary haemorrhage, this is a condition where the pituitary gland gets damaged during delivery. It disrupts your menstrual cycle. The top gynaecologists in Mohali usually prescribe hormone therapy to correct this syndrome. 

Asherman’s Syndrome – Women undergoing D & C (dilation and curettage) procedures sometimes develop uterine scar tissues. This syndrome can lead to fertility issues. Timely consultation with an experienced gynaecologist can help control this condition. 

Understanding Lochia

At times, women confuse periods with a post-delivery vaginal discharge process, called Lochia. It is a thick discharge containing mucus, blood, and uterine tissues. It has a musty, stale odour similar to period discharge that can last for several weeks. The flow is quite heavy initially and subsides later on until it goes away. Lochia is a natural part of the postpartum healing process. It is a safe process that does not lead to any worrisome complications. The actual menstrual cycle will start after this process. 

Takeaway

The return of your period after delivering a baby can feel like a shock to your system. So, be prepared to embrace the natural changes in your cycles. Listen to your body, check on abnormal symptoms, find the best gynaecologist in Chandigarh and stay in touch with her throughout the process. These simple things can make this transition way smoother and easier for you. 

Besides age, sperm quality, ovarian stimulation protocol, and embryo transfer, your eating style also plays a vital role in making your IVF successful. Surprised? Well, don’t be! Although you cannot control what happens inside the body, you can influence the process and results by eating right during your IVF process. 

So, whether you are undergoing your IVF treatment or will start with it soon, keeping a check on your food intake is crucial. Below, in consultation with the top gynaecologist in Chandigarh, we cover the Indian diet plan for IVF success. It will support your body best during the IVF cycle and pregnancy.

Food Items to Avoid during IVF Treatment

Certain food items can interfere with IVF and sperm production, leading to improper morphology and low motility. To prevent this condition, note the top food items you should avoid while undergoing an IVF treatment.

Fish

Some fishes, like swordfish and tuna, have high mercury content. Experts recommend both men and women avoid consuming such fish. But what hazard does mercury have on the fertilisation process? The mercury content stored in the body can adversely impact sperm production. However, you can eat fish like salmon and shellfish. They are rich in zinc, and their essential fatty acids are also healthy for fertility.

Full Fat Milk

Studies have shown that full-fat milk and other dairy products can significantly reduce sperm production in the body. This food item also plays a vital role in impacting sperm motility. The main hazard of consuming full-fat milk is the chemicals and pesticides used to generate fat in it. However, it doesn’t mean you should not drink milk during your IVF process. You can consume low-fat milk and dairy products to fulfil your daily calcium requirements.

Processed Meats

Hotdogs, bacon, sausages, salami, etc., should be completely avoided when undergoing an IVF treatment. Do you know why? Because processed meat tends to contain higher hormonal residue than unprocessed meat. 

It can adversely affect sperm production, leaving you with low-quality and low-motility sperm. Why don’t you contact the top gynaecologist in Mohali to know how to make IVF successful the first time? 

Carbonated Drinks and Alcohol

Please note that carbonated drinks and alcohol should be avoided by both partners when undergoing an IVF treatment. These drinks can spike abnormal and low-quality sperm production. The aspartame content in diet drinks also affects sperm count. In women, drinking more than one drink daily can increase the chances of failed fertilisation.

Caffeine

Caffeine increases heart rate and blood pressure. It also narrows the blood vessels, increasing the chances of pregnancy complications. Therefore, doctors recommend significantly reducing caffeine consumption when undergoing an IVF treatment. Consider consulting an expert to learn about the ideal diet to increase your chances of conceiving during IVF. 

Soy

Men supporting their partners in IVF treatment should avoid consuming soy-based food. You see, soy has phytoestrogens. It can bind estrogenic receptors throughout the body. In certain ways, it can be harmful to male fertility. Therefore, men who already have lower sperm count should prevent eating soy till their doctor recommends it.

Raw Eggs

Eggs contain proteins, carotenoids, vitamins, minerals, and iron. However, eggs in raw form also have the Salmonella virus. This virus can lead to food poisoning in some cases. Therefore, doctors recommend avoiding consuming raw eggs during the IVF process. You should cook it well if you want to consume it. Moreover, meet your doctor to know the nutrients you need before getting pregnant.

Cigarettes

Smoking is hazardous for sperm health. It can drastically reduce sperm count and give rise to abnormal sperm shape. Moreover, as per the latest research, smoking can also lead to DNA fragmentation in sperm. Smoking can also significantly reduce women’s fertility, making conceiving challenging. 

It also impacts the hormone production process in the body. According to the top gynaecologist in Mohali, prolonged exposure to tobacco and smoking can damage the reproductive system. Therefore, it is high time for couples undergoing IVF procedures to quit smoking as soon as possible.

Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners found in drinks and beverages can reduce female fertility. Moreover, Saccharin-based sweeteners can also reduce the chances of IVF success. Therefore, you should avoid its consumption as much as possible. 

However, cutting off sugar completely from your diet is also not recommended. Therefore, experienced gynaecologists in Mohali advise natural sweetening syrups or sucralose-based sweeteners during the IVF process.

Refined Sugar

Refined sugar triggers high blood sugar levels in a woman’s body. As a result, it affects egg quality and reduces the chances of conception. Moreover, its excess consumption for a long time can impact the entire IVF fertility process. However, you can satisfy your unhealthy food cravings with these healthy options.

Seafood

We all know that seafood is an excellent source of protein. But consuming half-cooked or raw seafood can lead to severe infection. Also, the mercury content can hamper the fetus development process, leading to severe congenital disabilities. So ensure you remember this IVF success tips diet while choosing the right food items.

Cheese

Women trying to conceive through IVF should avoid mould-ripened cheese like camembert, brie, etc. Consuming them increases the risk of developing listeria infection. Consult the best gynaecologist to learn more about the side-effect of cheese on your conception process. Here’s how you can find the best gynaecologist in Chandigarh.

Fast and Fried Food

Last but not least, fried and fast-food items like momos, French fries, pizzas, burgers, hotdogs, etc., should be completely avoided during IVF. Most of these items are made in low-quality, pre-heated refined oil. It can be hazardous to the mother’s health and the conception process.

Bottom Line

So, these are the top food items to avoid during your IVF treatment. Consider consulting the best gynaecologist in Chandigarh to know the best foods to help implantation for IVF. You can also ask your doctor to refer an experienced nutritionist to help you learn more about the ideal IVF diet plan. Remember, mindful eating habits can help immensely make your IVF attempt successful.

Can I still get pregnant if I’m stressed? Are you worried that your anxiety may cause hurdles in conceiving? If so, you are not alone. Getting pregnant with anxiety is usually associated with worrisome outcomes in mothers and infants. However, the truth is that controlled stress and anxiety has nothing to do with this process. 

The guidance and treatment of the top gynaecologist can help immensely during the entire process. Medical experts explain the relationship between anxiety and fertility and some useful tips in this post.

What Science has to Say Here?

Does stress cause infertility in females? Many women fear that anxiety and stress can impact their chances of getting pregnant or their infants’ health. It has been one of the most intense debate topics for over a decade. Here’s what Science has to say about it. You see, stress triggers the production of cortisol in a woman’s body. And elevated cortisol levels can trigger anxiety. It means that stress leads to anxiety. 

Thankfully, there is no scientific evidence to prove that controlled anxiety or stress causes challenges in getting pregnant. Moreover, these things also do not cause difficulties during the IVF process. But it doesn’t mean stress doesn’t affect getting pregnant. Prolonged anxiety and stress problems can interfere with natural and artificial pregnancy processes. It can also extend the time of conception in some cases. Why don’t you consult a reputed gynaecologist to learn more about it? Here’s how to find the best gynaecologist in Chandigarh. 

Symptoms of Anxiety 

Here are the top symptoms that every woman with anxiety planning a pregnancy should know about. 

• Frequent spells of nervousness and anxiety
• Excessive worrying about things, especially how you are going to get pregnant
• Constant worrying about your unborn’ s health
• Finding it almost impossible or difficult to relax your mind
• Feeling hard to stay still 
• Sexual dysfunction
• A constant feeling of restlessness
• Often feeling agitated and irritable 
• Getting afraid often or assuming something bad is going to happen
• Difficulty sleeping
• Sudden dizziness or lightheadedness
• Excess, sudden sweating
• A tingling or numb feeling in lips, toes, limbs, or fingers
• Unexplained trembling, pain, or tension in lips, toes, limbs, or fingers
• Feeling overwhelmed after seeing pregnant women
• Low self-esteem
• Relationship problems
• Getting anxiety or panic attacks

Tips to Manage Anxiety While Planning Pregnancy

Your gynaecologist and psychiatrist are the best people to guide and assist you in planning a pregnancy with mental health condition. Meanwhile, here are some useful tips that can help you manage your anxiety while planning pregnancy. 

Talk about it 

The best way to manage your anxiety is by talking about it. Reach out to your friends and or family members to express your feelings. Sometimes, simply sharing your thoughts helps you de-stress and motivate you to continue. Besides, you can also ask your doctor to refer to a reliable, trained therapist. Some therapists specialise in helping women experiencing anxiety while planning pregnancy. 

Find a Release

Engage in powerful activities that can help in lowering your stress and anxiety. It is a great way to combat all types of mental issues. Physical activities encourage your body to release endorphins, a natural painkiller for the brain. It significantly helps in managing anxiety. Yoga, running, jogging, and walking are the most popular physical activities to consider here. Ideally, you choose any activity that keeps your body moving. A regular 20 to 30 minutes regime can do wonders for your mental health. 

Distract your Mind

The moment you experience any anxiety-related symptoms, distract your mind. Meditation, massage, deep breathing, and acupuncture are the top activities that can help you immensely here. Breathing exercises effectively boost the brain’s oxygen level. It stimulates and relaxes the nervous system. Experts recommend 10 to 15 minutes of deep breathing daily for the best results. You can also consider reading books related to how to not stress about getting pregnant.

Speak to your Partner

Besides pouring your heart in front of your friends and family, consider expressing your prenatal stress to your partner. After all, he will be your ultimate companion on this journey. Discuss your concerns about the future and your acceptance of expanding the family. Take some quality time and figure things out. It is a great way to control your thoughts and anxiety. 

Learn about Anxiety

Consult your healthcare provider and try to understand more about anxiety and its intensity in your case. You should also try to understand its role in pre and post-pregnancy scenarios. Know the top symptoms to watch for. Also, understand the red flags for rushing to your doctor. Keep your loved ones involved in this process. They can help you manage your anxiety better. 

Follow your Treatment Plan 

There are medications for stress, anxiety and depression which are safe for couples who are trying to conceive. Or for women who are pregnant and there are others who may not be safe. You need to consult a specialist for the same.

Ensure you take all your medicines as directed by your doctor if you plan to get pregnant. Skipping any dose can trigger your anxiety. Moreover, regular check-ups are also equally crucial to keep your stress and anxiety under control. Consult your therapist immediately if you experience discomfort after taking any new medicine.

Bottom Line

So, it was all about how to plan a pregnancy when you have mental health problems. For many women, handling anxiety is an overwhelming process. Therefore, they should consider seeing professionals for the right guidance and treatment procedure. These therapists have the expertise in putting the patient at ease and initiating a one-on-one interaction. 

Besides, support groups can also immensely help in controlling this issue. Please understand that taking therapy for stress and anxiety is normal, especially if it is interfering with your fertility.

You should take hold of your thoughts, find ways to distract your mind and love yourself. It is how you calm anxiety while planning pregnancy. Last but most important, consult the best gynaecologist in India to get the best pre and post-pregnancy care and treatment.