What is IVF?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) that involves the retrieval of eggs from a woman’s ovaries and fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory dish. The resulting embryos are then transferred to the woman’s uterus for implantation and potential pregnancy. IVF is often used by couples who struggle with infertility, but it can also be used by same-sex couples and single individuals who want to have a child. Is IVF safe after covid? let’s discuss this further.
Can Covid affect IVF?
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on healthcare systems worldwide, including reproductive health services such as IVF. Many fertility clinics had to temporarily close or reduce their services during the height of the pandemic due to safety concerns and restrictions on non-essential medical procedures. However, as the situation improved, most clinics resumed their services with additional safety measures in place, such as mandatory COVID-19 testing and PPE usage.
It is important to note that COVID-19 may affect fertility, but there is limited evidence to support this. The virus does not appear to affect the ovaries or sperm directly, but it can affect the general health of the person, potentially leading to temporary infertility. Additionally, if a person contracts COVID-19 during their IVF treatment cycle, they may need to delay or cancel their treatment, depending on the severity of their illness.
Fertility Treatment during COVID-19:
Dr Mona Dahiya of Little Angel IVF, widely considered the Best IVF Clinic in India gives clarity about IVF treatment in Corona Period. During the complete lockdown, Dr Mona Dahiya completely stopped all fertility treatments as per the directive of the IMCR Guidelines to avoid elective surgery/treatments. However, during the pandemic, Dr Mona Dahiya has helped Thousands of Couples from India and Abroad seek IVF treatment clarity through online Fertility consultations. Since the process of unlock-down has started, most IVF Clinics in India have restarted fertility treatments. But it is very important that IVF Centers in India must take the utmost precautions as defined by the national and international guidelines of WHO and various fertility societies. Little Angel IVF adheres to the following 5 Point Checklist to ensure 100% Safety for Couples and IVF Staff.
- Firstly, all couples are counselled about the Risks and measures to be undertaken before the start of the IVF procedure through Online Consultation.
- Triage is done before Physical appointments with detailed history and enquiry made of any symptoms.
- During the Clinic Visit, Strict Social distancing/Physical Distancing along with Safety Protocols of Sanitization and Body hygiene measures are followed.
- Only one attendant per patient is allowed and appointments are scheduled strictly according to slot availability to avoid any overcrowding.
- All Couples have to undergo COVID-19 tests before the start of the IVF Treatment.
Is IVF Safe After Covid Recovery?
The safety of IVF treatment after COVID-19 recovery depends on several factors, including the severity of the illness, the presence of any lingering symptoms, and the timing of the treatment cycle.
If a person has recovered from COVID-19 and has no lingering symptoms or complications, they may be able to proceed with IVF treatment. However, the timing of the treatment cycle may need to be adjusted to ensure optimal outcomes. For example, if a person had COVID-19 during their previous IVF cycle, they may need to wait a few months before starting another cycle to allow their body to fully recover.
It is essential to discuss any potential concerns with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist before starting IVF treatment after COVID-19 recovery. Additionally, patients should continue to follow recommended safety measures to minimize the risk of COVID-19 infection during their treatment cycle.
IVF is a safe and effective fertility treatment option for individuals and couples struggling with infertility. While COVID-19 may have temporary impacts on fertility and IVF treatment, most fertility clinics have implemented additional safety measures to minimize the risk of infection and ensure safe treatment for patients. It is important to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist and to follow recommended safety measures during treatment.
How long should you wait for IVF after Covid recovery?
The timing of IVF treatment after COVID-19 recovery depends on several factors, including the severity of the illness, the presence of any lingering symptoms, and the type of treatment cycle. Generally, healthcare providers recommend waiting for at least one to three months after COVID-19 recovery before starting IVF treatment.
It is essential to discuss the timing of IVF treatment with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist before starting any treatment. Additionally, patients should continue to follow recommended safety measures to minimize the risk of COVID-19 infection during their treatment cycle.
Also Read: What is IUI?
Precautions Before starting IVF treatment in the Covid period:
Before starting IVF treatment during the COVID-19 period, several precautions should be taken to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare providers. These precautions include:
- COVID-19 testing: All patients and healthcare providers involved in IVF treatment should undergo COVID-19 testing before starting treatment to minimize the risk of infection.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE): Healthcare providers should wear appropriate PPE, including masks, gloves, and gowns, during all procedures and interactions with patients.
- Social distancing: Patients should follow recommended social distancing guidelines and avoid close contact with others outside of their household.
- Hand hygiene: Patients and healthcare providers should practice frequent hand washing and/or use hand sanitiser to minimize the risk of infection.
Steps to be taken post Covid to help start IVF treatment:
After COVID-19 recovery, patients should take several steps to help start IVF treatment safely and effectively. These steps include:
- Follow-up with a healthcare provider: Patients should schedule a follow-up appointment with their healthcare provider or fertility specialist to discuss any potential concerns or adjustments to the treatment plan.
- Monitor symptoms: Patients should continue to monitor any lingering symptoms or complications from COVID-19 and report them to their healthcare provider.
- Consider delaying treatment: Depending on the severity of the illness and the timing of the treatment cycle, patients may need to delay IVF treatment for several months to allow their bodies to fully recover.
- Follow recommended safety measures: Patients should continue to follow recommended safety measures, such as wearing a mask, practising social distancing, and washing their hands frequently, to minimize the risk of COVID-19 infection during their treatment cycle.
IVF in this Corona Pandemic:
According to Dr Mona Dahiya, every IVF Doctor in India must undertake the above lifesaving modifications for IVF treatment during COVID-19. Little Angel IVF was among the first IVF Clinics in India to make the procedure of IVF
- 100% Patient friendly.
- 100% Safe.
The health and safety of Infertility patients is of utmost priority for Little Angel IVF. We have made Trust worthy Changes in the Clinic Set Up and the Functioning of the Staff to avoid, minimize and eliminate any risk of infection. Our COVID-19 Advisory, Strict Corona fertility measures and COVID IVF Protocols have helped countless infertile couples become proud parents. Our Advice to Infertility couples who are seeking IVF during the Pandemic is to check and confirm the following guidelines while visiting any IVF Clinic or IVF centre.
- Reduce the number of visits and Avoid exposure: Virtual online consultations are the best means to help you minimize travel and 0% contact, thereby having 0% risk of getting infected. This ensures you are “Treatment Ready” and fully aware of the IVF process regarding the tests and planning of the procedure.
- Online information and counselling: We provide online information via various videos and telephonic consultations to brief you about the Do’s and Don’ts and financial counselling. This helps in limiting physical visits and making infertility treatment 100% Safe during Covid-19.
- Laboratory measures, Social Distancing and PPE: It is imperative that the Strictest measures are taken in the IVF Laboratory during the handling and freezing of embryos. Ensuring social distancing in the OPD and the use of PPE KITS in the OT are absolute must to ensure the safety of IVF patients. These are Non-Negotiables at Little Angel IVF.
- Strict Screening measures: All couples must be screened for COVID 19
- Before Egg retrieval Sperm Retrieval and
- Before embryo transfer.
Also Read: What is the IVF Success Rate in India?
Conclusion:
Patients should wait for at least one to three months after COVID-19 recovery before starting IVF treatment and take several precautions before starting treatment to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare providers. Additionally, patients should take several steps post-COVID-19 recovery to help start IVF treatment safely and effectively. It is important to discuss any concerns or potential adjustments to the treatment plan with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist.
F.A.Q:
Q: Can you do IVF while sick?
A: It is not recommended to undergo IVF treatment while sick, as illness can affect the success of the treatment. Additionally, some medications used during IVF treatment may interact with certain medications used to treat illness. It is essential to discuss any potential illness with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist before starting IVF treatment.
Q: Can we do IVF after COVID vaccine?
A: Yes, it is generally safe to undergo IVF treatment after receiving the COVID vaccine. However, patients should discuss the timing of IVF treatment with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist, as some clinics may recommend waiting a few weeks after vaccination before starting treatment. Additionally, patients should continue to follow recommended safety measures, such as wearing a mask and practicing social distancing, during their treatment cycle.
Q: Does being sick affect IVF transfer?
A: Yes, being sick can affect the success of IVF transfer. Illness can impact the overall health of the person and potentially lead to temporary infertility. Additionally, some medications used to treat illness may interact with medications used during IVF treatment. It is important to discuss any potential illness with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist before undergoing IVF transfer.
Q: When is IVF not recommended?
A: IVF may not be recommended in certain situations, such as:
- When the woman is over the age of 40 and has a low ovarian reserve
- When there are severe male factor infertility issues
- When there are certain medical conditions that may make pregnancy risky for the woman or the fetus
- When the couple has had multiple failed IVF attempts
Q: What to avoid during IVF treatment?
A: During IVF treatment, patients should avoid:
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Exposure to environmental toxins
- Stressful situations or activities
- Certain medications or supplements that may interact with IVF medications
- Sexual intercourse, as instructed by the healthcare provider.
Q: Is COVID vaccine safe for conceiving?
A: Yes, the COVID vaccine is generally considered safe for conceiving individuals. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine both recommend that COVID vaccines be offered to individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive. However, patients should discuss any concerns or potential risks with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist before receiving the vaccine.
Q: How long after having Covid can you have injection?
A: The timing of vaccination after COVID-19 infection depends on several factors, including the severity of the illness and the type of vaccine. Generally, healthcare providers recommend waiting at least 10-14 days after COVID-19 recovery before receiving a vaccine. It is important to discuss the timing of vaccination with a healthcare provider before receiving the vaccine.
Q: Is vaccine safe for conceive?
A: Yes, the COVID-19 vaccine is generally considered safe for individuals who are trying to conceive or who are pregnant. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine both recommend that COVID-19 vaccines be offered to individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive. However, patients should discuss any concerns or potential risks with a healthcare provider before receiving the vaccine.
Q: What happens if you get fever during IVF?
A: Fever during IVF treatment can be a sign of infection, which can affect the success of the treatment. In some cases, fever may require postponing or canceling the IVF cycle. It is essential to discuss any fever or potential illness with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist during IVF treatment.
Q: Who should not have IVF?
A: IVF may not be recommended for individuals who have:
- Certain medical conditions that may make pregnancy risky for the woman or the fetus
- Severe male factor infertility issues
- A history of multiple failed IVF treatment attempts
- A low ovarian reserve or advanced age (over 40 years old)
- A history of certain genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities
Q: Can you do an IVF transfer with a cold?
A: It is not recommended to undergo an IVF transfer while sick with a cold, as illness can affect the success of the treatment. Additionally, some medications used to treat cold symptoms may interact with IVF medications. It is essential to discuss any potential illness with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist before undergoing IVF transfer.
Q: Can infection cause IVF to fail?
A: Yes, infection can affect the success of IVF treatment by impacting the overall health of the person and potentially leading to temporary infertility. Additionally, some infections may require postponing or canceling the IVF cycle. It is important to discuss any potential infection or illness with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist before starting IVF treatment.
Q: Can I take cough medicine during IVF?
A: It is important to discuss any medications, including cough medicine, with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist during IVF treatment. Some medications may interact with IVF medications or affect the success of the treatment. It is essential to follow all instructions and recommendations provided by the healthcare provider or fertility specialist during IVF treatment.
Q: Does fever affect implantation in IVF?
A: Fever during IVF treatment can be a sign of infection, which can affect the success of the treatment. In some cases, fever may lead to a decrease in implantation rates or pregnancy loss. It is essential to discuss any fever or potential illness with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist during IVF treatment.
