Covid-19 infected couples must take the following precautions before going for IVF

Were you planning to go for IVF treatment, but contracted Covid-19? If your answer is yes, we are sure you have these questions in mind.

IVF for infertility — In-vitro fertilization has emerged as a solution for infertility problems. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Dr Pavan Devendra Bendale Published: 31 Jan 2022, 14:30 pm IST

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Covid-19 cases are on the rise. If you are one of them who is infected with Covid-19 and you are planning to go for IVF treatment, then just take these factors into consideration.

If you have any misconceptions regarding Covid-19 and IVF, seek the help of your fertility consultant. We list out a few important tips that a Covid-19 infected couple will have to follow before going for IVF.

Try to follow these essential tips for a smooth IVF process.

Fertility can decline in males and females owing to various lifestyle factors like poor diet, stress, exposure to radiation, and certain health issues like endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and obesity. So, many couples opt for In vitro fertilization (IVF), a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) to achieve pregnancy.

Currently, the Covid-19 pandemic is creating havoc all over the world and many couples who wish to plan for IVF have been infected. Couples have to keep certain things in mind once they test negative for Covid-19 and resume planning their IVF process.

How soon after Covid-19 recovery should you resume the IVF process?

If the couple is infected with Covid-19, they should wait till the time they test negative, and are monitored thoroughly to be found suitable to go for IVF. Ideally, the couple should begin the treatment after 1-2 months of testing negative.

What are the tests to go through before starting the IVF process?

Before starting the treatment, the couple will have to get various tests done that will be recommended by the fertility consultant. You will be guided about taking prenatal vitamins, regarding nutrition and the blood investigations can be done at home. Semen sample collection can be done at home.

You will also be required to take an RTPCR test before the procedure. If you are Covid-19 positive, your cycle will be postponed again by 2 to 3 months.

The couple should opt for video consultation instead of stepping out of the house.

Is Covid-19 vaccine safe for couples taking IVF treatment?

Couples undergoing IVF treatment can take Covid-19 vaccination as it is found to be safe and effective against the disease. There is no evidence available regarding the vaccines leading to infertility or changes in menstruation. Also, do not delay or skip the vaccination just because of the side effects. The vaccine contains a dead virus, and doesn’t lead to Covid-19 infection. Moreover, the side effects are minimal like fever, pain and swelling at the injection site and bodyache.

covid-19 and IVF — The link between Covid-19 vaccines and IVF treatment Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Can Covid-19 affect pregnant women?

If you are pregnant, you can still contract the virus, and there is no data available regarding whether it can be passed to the baby.

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What are the precautions couples must take before or during IVF procedure if they test Covid-19 positive?

The couples undergoing IVF treatment, after testing Covid-19 positive, need to strictly follow the Covid-19 protocol of using face mask, hand sanitization and social distancing. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. The couple needs to exercise at home and follow a well-balanced diet to boost immunity.