What can i do to improve my chances of getting pregnant?
Patient: Dr. Malpani, I’m about to start my IVF cycle, and I want to do everything I can to improve my chances. Should I follow a special diet?
Dr Malpani: Great question—and a very common one. But the truth is, there’s no magical diet for IVF success. The same healthy, balanced diet your grandmother would have recommended is more than enough.
Patient: But shouldn’t I consult a nutritionist or fertility diet specialist?
Dr Malpani: Not unless you have a specific medical condition like diabetes or obesity. For most women, you don’t need to pay someone to tell you what you already know—eat fresh fruits and vegetables, avoid junk food, and stay hydrated.
Patient: What about exercise? Should I join a gym or start working out harder?
Dr Malpani: You don’t need intense workouts or expensive gym memberships. Just stay active. If you can walk briskly for 30 minutes without getting exhausted, you're doing just fine. Moderate activity is enough.
Patient: Is stress really a big factor in fertility? Should I see a psychologist?
Dr Malpani: Stress affects everyone differently, but you don’t need professional help unless your anxiety is overwhelming. A walk, a good laugh, a phone call with a friend—these simple things help more than expensive counseling sessions in most cases.
Patient: My clinic advised some pre-IVF wellness packages that include vitamin tests like B12, D3, and stress profiles. Are these helpful?
Dr Malpani: Honestly, most of these tests are unnecessary for routine IVF. Many clinics recommend that they inflate bills. Unless you have symptoms of a deficiency, don’t waste your money.
Patient: But if I improve all these things—diet, exercise, supplements—won’t it increase my IVF success rate?
Dr Malpani: If you’re already healthy and balanced, the law of diminishing returns kicks in. IVF success is largely determined by your age and your egg quality—not how many pills or smoothies you take.
Patient: So how do I know if my body is “ready” for IVF?
Dr Malpani: Use your common sense. If you’re not underweight or overweight, have regular periods, and can walk without panting—you’re likely in good shape. No need for special regimens unless something is clearly off.
Patient: My friend was told she had to do “preconception counseling” and lifestyle coaching before IVF. Is that really necessary?
Dr Malpani: It’s a fancy name for basic common sense. You don’t need a specialist to tell you not to smoke, not to drink excessively, and to get enough sleep. Trust yourself.
Patient: Are there any supplements that are actually useful before IVF?
Dr Malpani: Folic acid is a must, and in some cases, CoQ10 may help egg quality in older women. But beyond that, don’t fall for the supplement marketing trap. Most don’t improve outcomes.
Patient: So in short, what should I really be doing?
Dr Malpani: Just live like a healthy woman who’s trying to get pregnant naturally. Eat sensibly, stay active, sleep well, avoid toxins, and relax. That’s your best preconception plan—whether you're trying in the bedroom or the IVF lab.
Don’t overthink or overspend. You already have the wisdom inside you—just use it.