Covid-19 and IVF Process

The Covid-19 threat has not yet been eliminated. However, vaccinations have reduced the impact of this deadly disease. Many couples postponed their family planning plans because of the outbreak of this infectious disease.

But as this disease has been controlled with vaccinations and health checkups, couples are considering parenthood. And if you are also one of those planning to get IVF treatment but were infected and confused about post covid-19 and IVF treatment and how long you should wait for your IVF journey after Covid 19 recovery, then this blog is for you. Keep reading!

When to go for IVF Treatment Post covid-19 Recovery?

There is no evidence present till now that covid-19 affects fertility. However, you can delay your IVF treatment cycle if you have tested positive for covid-19 because conceiving soon after recovering from covid-19 can seriously impact your health and baby.

According to the previous cases of Covid-19 in last three years, Coronavirus infection affects the respiratory system and also the various parts of the body. However, In some cases, its symptoms can be seen for years after the initial infection. So, depending on the health status and the severity of the covid disease, IVF treatment is delayed.

You first need to consult a fertility specialist before planning a pregnancy. Your doctor will perform the initial assessment of both partners and then only can recommend the appropriate time for the treatment.

Waiting for IVF treatment after the covid-19 recovery

If one suffers from mild respiratory symptoms and recovers quickly can proceed with treatment after 4 to 8 weeks of being infected by covid-19. However, suppose one has a moderate to severe infection which needs hospitalization. In that case, one should visit your fertility specialist before getting to any conclusion or should wait for 6 to 8 weeks after the infection.

People who are poorly affected and need ICU should wait longer before starting the IVF treatment and consult a doctor to know the risks associated with IVF treatment. And in case you contracted the disease recently, you should perform the necessary tests and have a thorough evaluation before proceeding with IVF.

Consulting the doctor without delay after recovering from covid-19 is very important because these fertility treatments are time-sensitive. Increasing age can impact the result of IVF. You can also opt for online consultation for your initial counselling if you don’t want to visit the hospital or a clinic.

What should one do if one gets positive for covid-19 while in IVF treatment?

If one gets positive for covid-19 during the IVF treatment, the first thing one needs to do is self-isolate. Depending on your treatment stage, this can cause a pause in your IVF treatment.

For example- Suppose you get infected with coronavirus before egg collection. You may need to stop the treatment till you get to recover. As Per guidelines, people should wait for 28 days after recovering from covid-19.

However, there is no evidence of transmission of this disease during the pregnancy from mother to baby. After the recovery from the covid-19, it is advised to take a COVID-19 vaccine. This vaccination is safe as it can protect you from severe illness due to COVID-19 and help build antibodies that might save your baby.

Precautions should take in Covid-19 before starting the IVF treatment

Following are the precautions one should take during covid-19 before starting the IVF treatment: –

Vaccine

Getting vaccination before starting the IVF treatment is an essential step every couple must undertake. There is a misconception that it affects one’s fertility. But the fact is that it does not affect the person’s ability to conceive or the growth of offspring.

Lifestyle

Following a healthy lifestyle is essential for IVF treatment and improves the overall quality of life. Perform regular exercise and yoga, and take proper sleep as it benefits mental and physical health. One should have a diet full of nutrition, protein, vitamins, and carbohydrates. And avoid drinking and smoking. To stay fit and healthy, perform physical activities.

Follow covid-19 protocols

Follow covid-19 protocols such as wearing masks, keeping social distancing, using hand sanitizers or washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoiding crowded places, cover the mouth and nose with an elbow or a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Throw away the used tissue and immediately wash your hands, etc. Always remember that if you are infected, it is not that you do not get infected again.

Reduce stress

Try to reduce your stress. For many couples, IVF can be stressful, and now with the pandemic, it can bound to rise. So it is essential to have good family support, join a support group, or connect with parents who are also undergoing fertility treatment.

Conclusion

Don’t get disheartened if you get infected with the covid-19 before or during the IVF treatment. Several couples have undergone IVF treatment post their covid recovery and become happy parents. Follow all necessary guidelines and consult your doctor. They will guide you and help with the proper treatment plan.