Expert addresses misconceptions about IVF

New Delhi: One of the most common myths among couples undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment is the fear of embryo falling off the track after being implanted in the uterus, if women do not take bed rest.

It is mandate to address the couples with prior counseling sessions as some of the beliefs that people have related to the procedure of IVF are a misconception.

One needs to draw back from such advises coming from sources that themselves are unaware and follow what their doctors prescribe. In fact, resuming daily activities soon after ET also helps in improving the blood flow to the uterus and overall body which helps in relaxation and reduces stress and anxiety.

"The couples need to be educated that the human body is made with great accuracy and sense; the embryo transferred in the uterus after IVF embryo transfer (ET) procedure cannot come out. It should be mandate for a woman undergoing treatment to know that she should keep herself healthy and happy during the complete course and avoid stress as much as possible as these are the only causes known to create no implantation during the procedure. A woman can easily walk out of the clinic immediately after having embryo transfer in her uterus without facing any difficulties," said Dr. Arvind Vaid, IVF expert, Indira IVF Hospital, New Delhi.

Analysis was done on 450 patients seeking IVF treatment during Mar 2017 to Dec 2017. Wherein the majority of patients (approx 76%) who resumed regular activities after ET had successful conception and delivery in comparison to those who took rest (physical inactivity) and the remaining 25% had either problems in the uterus (endometrial lining) or earlier history of recurrent miscarrriages or hormonal imbalance.

The process of treatment takes over two weeks to confirm pregnancy, which itself is a dreadful phase for any couple. And in such condition, if a woman is forced constantly on bed rest, it will only result in depression, which will only worsen the outcome. The focus of the treatment process and condition should be kept apparent with the patient.

"An embryo is microscopic with almost no mass and to move or displace any matter scientifically, force would be required as per Force X mass = Displacement. Subsequently, without mass, infinite amount of force would be required to move or dislodge and embryo. Moreover, the endometrium lining is very uneven that will not allow the embryo to let loose. Hence, daily routine activities can be performed with avoidance to only lifting of heavy objects or vigorous exercise," said Dr Parth Joshi, IVF expert from Allahabad.

Walking also helps in reducing stress after the ET procedure which indeed plays a vital role in inconsistent birth rates. Encouraging the patients to resume their daily routine activities soon after the ET helps them to cope with the treatment anxiety. This also helps in increasing skills to maintain relaxation for obtaining optimal birth results.