Introduction
IVF is more than a medical procedure—it’s a physical, emotional, and psychological journey. Preparing well can help you feel more in control, reduce anxiety, and improve your experience.
This guide shares practical, evidence-based ways to prepare emotionally and physically for IVF. Whether you’re about to start your first cycle or planning ahead, these strategies will help you lay strong foundations.
💡 Note: This blog is general educational information only and does not constitute personalised medical advice. Please consult with a fertility specialist to discuss your individual situation.
Physical Preparation for IVF
- Nutrition and Supplements
A balanced diet supports hormone production, egg quality, and overall wellbeing. – Prioritise whole foods, healthy fats, lean proteins, and leafy greens – Limit alcohol, caffeine, processed sugar, and trans fats – Ensure adequate folic acid, iron, and vitamin D
💡 Tip: A fertility multivitamin can help bridge any nutritional gaps
- Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being underweight or overweight can affect ovulation, response to medication, and IVF outcomes.
– Aim for a BMI between 18.5–24.9 (individualised assessment may vary)
– Small, sustainable changes to exercise and diet make the biggest impact
- Movement and Exercise
Moderate exercise improves blood flow, reduces stress, and supports insulin sensitivity. –
Gentle options: walking, yoga, swimming, Pilates – Avoid high-intensity or high-impact workouts during stimulation and post-transfer
- Sleep and Circadian Rhythm
Poor sleep can disrupt hormonal regulation.
– Aim for 7–8 hours per night
– Maintain a consistent bedtime
– Avoid screens before bed and prioritise winding down
- Reduce Toxins
Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke, BPA-containing plastics, pesticides, and unnecessary medications or supplements.
– Stop smoking well in advance of starting IVF
– Minimise alcohol intake (or stop altogether)
– Be cautious with herbal remedies —some may have interactions with fertility medications
Emotional and Mental Health Preparation
- Understand the Emotional Landscape
It’s normal to feel hope, worry, excitement, and even fear. IVF often involves emotional highs and lows.
– Acknowledge these feelings without judgment
– Keep open communication with your partner, friends, or support team
- Counselling and Support Services
All patients undergoing IVF will need meet with a fertility counsellor before treatment. This is not just a requirement—it’s an important opportunity for emotional preparation.
– Help with understanding the medical, psychological, ethical, and legal aspects of IVF treatment.
– Talk through expectations, fears, and past experiences
– Develop coping strategies tailored to your needs
– Explore relationship or communication dynamics if you have a partner
- Managing Expectations
Even with excellent care, IVF may not succeed the first time.
– Understand success rates vary by age and individual factors
– Prepare emotionally for all possible outcomes
– Have a follow-up plan or next step in mind (e.g. next frozen embryo transfer cycle (FET), counselling, review appointment)
- Build Your Support Network
Let trusted people know what you’re going through.
– Consider who can offer emotional or practical support (e.g. transport, meals, company at appointments)
– Set boundaries around who you tell and how much you share
- Mindfulness, Meditation and Stress Reduction
Mindfulness practices have been shown to reduce stress in IVF patients.
– Try apps like Headspace or Insight Timer
– Journaling, breathwork, gentle yoga, or acupuncture may help you feel grounded
💡 Tip: Emotional support is care, not weakness. Investing in your mental health helps you move through treatment with more clarity and less overwhelm.
Planning Ahead Logistically
- Schedule Wisely
Stimulation cycles involve early-morning appointments, scans, and procedures.
– Talk to your workplace about flexible scheduling
– Block out time on your calendar in advance
- Organise Your Medication
Your fertility nurse will explain your medications clearly, but it helps to:
– Create a checklist or use a daily planner
– Keep your medications in one organised location (cool storage if required)
– Set phone reminders for injection times
💡 Tip: It is helpful to utilize your MyGenea App that will give you reminders for taking your medication, confirming the dosage and name of the medication and extra notes and instructions during your cycle.
- Arrange Time Off and Transport
You may need time off for egg collection and recovery.
– Plan for someone to accompany you to and from the hospital
– Consider 1–2 days off work for the egg collection
- Budget and Paperwork
Understand what’s covered by Medicare or your private health insurance. – Review quotes, rebate structures, and item numbers – Complete consent forms in advance.
💡 Tip: Reach out to your Genea Care Coordinator with any for your cost related queries.
IVF Planning Timeline – At a Glance
|
Task |
Timing |
| Lifestyle improvements (diet, exercise, sleep) | 3-6 months before starting |
| Fertility assessment and counselling | 1–2 months before starting |
| Adjust work and life plans | 1 month before starting |
| Arrange time off for egg collection & recovery | Week of egg collection |
Final Thoughts
IVF is a big decision, and it deserves the same attention and care you’d give to preparing for any major life event. By supporting both your body and your emotional wellbeing, you can approach your treatment with more confidence.
No matter where you are in your fertility journey, know that you are not alone. My team and I work closely with Genea to ensure your experience is as personalised, transparent, and empowering as possible.
📍Dr Alice Huang – Fertility Specialist Melbourne
Book your consultation today to receive a personalised IVF preparation and treatment plan.
Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not replace medical advice. Please consult with your treating specialist before making healthcare decisions.