Representational Image— DC File

A glass of green juice at sunrise, a week without sugar, a collection of fertility supplements, a detox and perhaps a few days of fasting before the first IVF appointment. For hopeful parents, preparing for pregnancy is increasingly turning into a never-ending “detox” and “booster” programme in cleaning up the body before science steps in.

Amid the growing wellness craze around detox drinks and fertility cleanses, pre-IVF detox programmes promising to balance hormones, improve egg quality and boost conception chances are increasingly finding their way into the fertility conversation. But the question is: do these detox drinks and methods really help?

The Toxin Trap

“No clinical evidence or randomised trial shows that fertility detox programmes improve implantation, embryo quality or IVF success.” says Dr. Jwal Banker, a Consultant at Banker IVF. He explains that while supervised weight loss may benefit women with significant obesity or insulin resistance, this constitutes structured weight management rather than a detox.

Dr Jwal dismisses claims that wellness products can cleanse the uterus, detoxify the ovaries or prepare the body for conception as lacking scientific basis. He explains that the liver and kidneys naturally eliminate waste from the body, while the uterine lining renews itself during each menstrual cycle. The ovaries, he adds, do not require cleansing or detoxification.

According to him, genuine threats to fertility, such as smoking, alcohol consumption and exposure to certain chemicals found in plastics, are best addressed by reducing or avoiding these exposures rather than relying on cleansing products.


No Quick Fix

It is important to note that while diet plays an important role in supporting reproductive health, making short-term dietary changes immediately before IVF is unlikely to significantly alter outcomes.

Dr. Reeta Agarwal, Senior Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgeon & Fertility Specialist from Renova Hospitals, Hyderabad says, “While a balanced diet supports overall health, prolonged fasting, juice-only diets and severe calorie restrictions can leave the body short of essential nutrients, including protein, iron and folate.”

Dr Reeta explains that while certain supplements have a role in preconception care, taking more is not necessarily better. Folic acid, for instance, is recommended before conception to reduce the risk of neural tube defects, while other supplements may be beneficial when a nutritional deficiency or specific medical need has been identified. However, evidence that commercially marketed antioxidant combinations and fertility supplements consistently improve IVF outcomes remains limited.

She cautions that herbal preparations too, warrant scrutiny, as some ingredients may interact with fertility medications, while others have not been adequately studied for safety around conception and early pregnancy.

The Clock is Ticking!


Fertility is time-sensitive, so the most important step is to get tested early and not delay treatment. Dr Jwal recommends that women consider tests such as anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and pelvic sonography, while men undergo a semen analysis as part of the initial evaluation.

He also stresses the importance of managing existing health conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes and thyroid disorders, before proceeding with treatment. Alongside medical assessment, he advises couples to stay physically active, follow a protein-rich diet with fewer refined carbohydrates, maintain regular sleep patterns and begin folic acid supplementation as recommended by their healthcare provider.

Conception & Consistency

Preparing for conception is a gradual process, not a quick fix. Experts believe that adopting healthier habits around three months or more, before planned treatment can help couples establish a consistent routine. However, the benefits depend on their individual health and circumstances.

Dr Reeta adds, “A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, pulses and adequate protein along with regular moderate physical activity and sufficient sleep can support overall general health.”

She cautions strongly against alcohol, smoking, recreational drugs while preparing for pregnancy.

Doctors clarify that there is no “magic cleansing drink” for IVF success. Detox juices, restrictive diets and unverified supplements cannot guarantee better eggs, healthier sperm or successful implantation. However, social media is rife with health influencers giving unscientific and vague advice. Dr Reeta says, “When fertility is time-sensitive, chasing detox promises can cost couples something far more valuable than money: time.”

Beyond the Detox Hype

Ultimately, IVF preparation requires evidence, not quick fixes. Sustainable lifestyle changes, appropriate supplementation and timely medical care offer a more reliable path than detox programmes promising results they cannot guarantee!

A Reality Check


• Couples preparing for IVF should focus on what genuinely supports their health, instead of chasing detox trends.


• Couples should focus on a balanced, protein-rich diet, adequate sleep, regular moderate exercise and avoiding smoking and alcohol.

No clinical evidence or randomised trial shows that fertility detox programmes improve implantation, embryo quality or IVF success.”


— Dr. Jwal Banker, Consultant, Banker IVF

When fertility is time-sensitive, chasing detox promises can cost couples something far more valuable than money: time.”


— Dr. Reeta Agarwal, Sr. Consultant Obstetrician & Gy naecologist


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