Exercise during IVF?
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I did yoga up until transfer day while on stims just yoga and walking as I had a high risk of ohss
My last cycle is the only time I actually went to the gym, just did some light cardio and weights. I'm currently 37+3 ... It's the only cycle that has got me this far. Not saying the exercise had anything to do with it but you just never know. I didn't continue for long throughout the pregnancy because I was shattered. Xx
I think whatever will be a stress relief for you. Dont be going for PRs ... Just maintenance for the time being. Like 50% with more reps for a gentle burn, like you'd get doing stairs... HR reasonable, dont go pounding away. Focus on stretching and mobility and gentle endurance strength training. Gentle core and back bodyweight endurance. Bands. Baby needs the energy and your uterus, so let your blood flow be more focused on that full body circulation. Your quads can wait! Lol During the two week wait really take it easy though. Yoga poses, slow squats and lunges, zen. Breaking an exercise routine or stopping completely isn't advised. Be you and be HEALTHY and balance and eat appropriately. Hikes are great. Fresh air... Drink lots of water :)
I’ve tried to keep exercising as much as possible. However there is a risk of ovarian torsion (twist) if your ovaries are enlarged so I stopped gym etc around the time of stim when the ovaries got larger. Also taken it easy after transfers. Light impact in general is ok but I missed my usual activities quite a bit
I did find that whilst I was 'growing my follicles', I didn't have any energy to be doing my usual exercise. It's like my body was concentrating on that task only. I took the time to rest and just chill. I was so uncomfortable and bloated I didn't feel like I wanted to exercise apart from light dog walks. I think when exercise is such a big part of your routine, it's hard to take a break, but it's all for a good cause 😊
Thank you so much for sharing your experiences and advice! I really appreciate it ❤️
I think the guidance is no "strenuous" exercise, which is different per person. I like hiking so throughout the whole treatment, I've been doing a minimum of 5 miles a day, but just after transfer I made sure I only did flat walks and nothing to exert myself. So I think you can do some, but lower it significantly. I'd also avoid any weights that use core muscles as you will be second guessing every twinge and cramp anyway!