The journey to parenthood can take many paths, and for those undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) or egg freezing, the process comes with its own set of questions and considerations. One of the most common questions that doctors receive from women going through IVF or egg freezing cycles is whether it’s safe to exercise during treatment. After all, physical fitness is a key component of a healthy lifestyle, and many wonder how or if they should adjust their routines during this critical time.
In this post, we’ll explore expert advice, guidelines, and the reasons behind recommendations about exercise during IVF and egg freezing cycles. We’ll also discuss how you can safely stay active without compromising your body’s ability to respond to treatment or impacting your overall fertility goals. Know more about fresh egg donor process.
Understanding IVF and Egg Freezing: A Quick Overview
Before diving into exercise recommendations, it’s important to understand the processes of IVF and egg freezing. Both treatments involve stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, a crucial step in retrieving eggs for fertilization (IVF) or freezing them for future use.
The ovarian stimulation process typically involves hormone injections, which encourage the ovaries to grow multiple follicles (each containing a potential egg). As the follicles enlarge, so do the ovaries, making them more sensitive and potentially more prone to complications if not treated with care.
This period of ovarian stimulation usually lasts between 10 and 14 days, after which an egg retrieval procedure is performed. Whether you’re doing IVF or egg freezing, your body undergoes significant changes, which can influence what types of physical activity are safe.
 Is It Safe to Exercise During IVF or Egg Freezing?
When it comes to exercise during an IVF or egg freezing cycle, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Your ability to exercise will largely depend on how your body is responding to the treatment and any personal medical considerations. However, there are some general guidelines that apply to most women undergoing these procedures.
Here’s what doctors generally recommend:
 1. Exercise Moderation Is Key
While exercise can be beneficial, moderation is essential during your cycle. The goal is to maintain light activity without putting too much strain on your body. High-impact or strenuous exercise can increase the risk of ovarian torsion, a rare but serious complication in which an enlarged ovary twists on its supporting ligaments. This condition can cause severe pain and may require emergency medical intervention.
The hormonal treatments involved in IVF or egg freezing can cause your ovaries to become larger than usual, making them more susceptible to torsion. For this reason, doctors often advise avoiding high-impact exercises, such as running, intense weightlifting, or vigorous sports like basketball or soccer. Instead, low-impact exercises, such as walking or swimming, are often encouraged.
 2. Listen to Your Body
Your body will be going through a lot of changes during your IVF or egg freezing cycle, and it’s important to listen to it. Fatigue, bloating, or discomfort in the abdominal area are common side effects of the hormonal injections used to stimulate the ovaries. If you’re feeling particularly tired or uncomfortable, it’s best to take a break from exercise or switch to gentler activities like stretching, yoga, or simply resting.
Even if you’re used to working out regularly, this isn’t the time to push yourself to meet your usual fitness goals. Stay mindful of how your body feels each day and adjust accordingly. Some days you may feel more energetic, while others you might feel sluggish. Allow yourself the flexibility to adapt your routine as needed.
 3. Focus on Gentle, Low-Impact Activities
Gentle, low-impact activities are generally considered safe and beneficial during an IVF or egg freezing cycle. These include:
- Walking: A brisk walk can help maintain cardiovascular health without overexerting your body.
- Yoga: Specifically, restorative or prenatal yoga, which focuses on breathing and gentle stretching, can be soothing and promote relaxation. Avoid poses that involve twisting or intense stretching of the abdomen.
- Swimming: A light swim can be a refreshing way to get some movement without putting pressure on your joints or abdomen.
- Stationary Cycling: If you enjoy cycling, a stationary bike set at a low resistance level can be a good way to keep your legs moving without the jarring motion of outdoor biking.
These activities help improve circulation, manage stress, and keep you feeling active, all without putting undue pressure on your ovaries.
 4. Consult Your Fertility Specialist
Every woman’s body reacts differently to fertility treatments, so it’s important to get personalized advice from your fertility specialist. Before beginning or continuing any exercise routine during your IVF or egg freezing cycle, ask your doctor for specific recommendations based on your treatment progress.
Some women may be at higher risk for complications due to their ovarian response, age, or overall health. Your doctor will be able to assess your situation and provide tailored advice on whether or not it’s safe to continue exercising and which activities are best for you.
Why Exercise Can Be Beneficial During IVF and Egg Freezing
Although you’ll need to modify your exercise routine, staying active during IVF or egg freezing cycles offers several benefits:
- Stress Relief: Going through IVF or egg freezing can be emotionally challenging. Light physical activity helps release endorphins, the body’s natural stress relievers, which can boost your mood and reduce anxiety.
- Circulation and Blood Flow: Exercise encourages healthy circulation, which helps deliver nutrients to your ovaries and other reproductive organs.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is important for fertility, and moderate exercise can help prevent excessive weight gain during a cycle.
- Energy Levels: While it may seem counterintuitive, light exercise can actually help combat fatigue by boosting your energy levels and keeping your body moving.
What Exercises Should Be Avoided During IVF or Egg Freezing?
Just as there are activities that can benefit your body during your fertility treatment, there are also some that should be avoided. The following exercises are generally not recommended during IVF or egg freezing cycles:
- High-Impact Aerobics: Jumping, running, or any activity that involves a lot of bouncing can increase the risk of ovarian torsion.
- Heavy Weightlifting: Lifting heavy weights, especially those that engage your core, can put strain on your ovaries and abdomen, which should be avoided during treatment.
- Intense Sports: Competitive or contact sports, such as soccer, basketball, or tennis, are usually discouraged due to the risk of sudden movements and physical collisions.
- Core-Intensive Workouts: Exercises that place pressure on your abdominal muscles, such as crunches, planks, or Pilates, should be minimized, as they can strain the ovaries during stimulation.
 The Bottom Line: Prioritize Safety and Comfort
Ultimately, the decision to exercise during your IVF or egg freezing cycle depends on how your body feels and the advice of your healthcare provider. While staying active has its benefits, it’s important to avoid any activities that may put unnecessary stress on your body or increase the risk of complications like ovarian torsion.
If you’re unsure about what’s safe for you, never hesitate to ask your doctor for guidance. Remember, this period is temporary, and prioritizing your health and fertility should always come first.
In the meantime, gentle movements, mindfulness, and self-care can help you navigate your treatment cycle while staying as healthy and comfortable as possible.
By listening to your body and seeking professional advice, you can stay active in a way that supports your IVF or egg freezing journey.