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In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a powerful tool for couples struggling with infertility. For many women, IVF offers a pathway to parenthood when traditional conception methods fail. However, for women with high body mass index (BMI), the journey to successful IVF can be more complex. Weight can significantly influence fertility, and women often wonder whether losing weight before starting IVF treatment is necessary for success.
In this blog, we’ll explore why weight loss is crucial for IVF, how it impacts fertility, and the best strategies for achieving a healthy weight that could improve your IVF chances.
Obesity can present several challenges during IVF. The most significant issue is that being overweight or obese can negatively impact both egg quality and egg quantity, both of which are essential for successful fertilisation and implantation.
When a woman has high BMI, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalances (such as higher levels of estrogen and testosterone), they can impair the natural functioning of the ovaries. This leads to poor egg quality and a decreased likelihood of achieving a successful pregnancy. Obesity is also linked to conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), which can make ovulation irregular, making IVF more difficult.
Furthermore, obesity can affect the uterine lining, which is crucial for embryo implantation. IVF success relies heavily on the ability of the embryo to implant in the uterus, and an unhealthy uterine environment can reduce the chances of successful implantation.
While IVF can still work for women with high BMI, weight loss before treatment has been shown to improve outcomes significantly. Even modest weight loss, around 5-10% of body weight, can lead to several benefits:
Studies suggest that even losing as little as 5-10% of body weight can significantly improve IVF outcomes. For example, if a woman weighs 200 pounds, losing just 10-20 pounds can have a positive impact on her fertility. Gradual weight loss, achieved through a healthy diet and moderate exercise, is key to achieving long-term results.
Losing weight before starting IVF is not just about appearance—it’s about optimising your body for the fertility process. By improving hormonal balance and ovarian function, weight loss can make your body more receptive to fertility treatments.
The best way to approach weight loss is through a balanced diet and regular exercise. Here’s how you can get started:
For women who may still struggle with conceiving after making lifestyle changes, alternatives like egg donation, surrogacy, or adoption can offer other pathways to parenthood. A fertility expert can help determine the best option based on individual circumstances.
Weight loss before IVF is not a guarantee for success, but it certainly improves the chances of a healthy pregnancy. Even modest weight loss can significantly increase the likelihood of success by improving hormonal balance, egg quality, and uterine conditions. If you’re considering IVF, speak with a fertility specialist to discuss how you can optimise your chances of success with a healthy weight.
If you or your partner are hesitant about where to go for your fertility treatment or IVF, visit Krishna Medical Centre. Dr Chandravati and her team of seasoned specialists are here to help you with personalised IVF treatment plans and expert guidance. She will help you maximise your chances of success. Book a consultation today!
