How to Prepare for IVF: Tests, Lifestyle, Diet and Emotional Readiness

Learn how to prepare for IVF with guidance on fertility tests, medicines, diet, lifestyle, emotional support and practical treatment planning.

The best way to prepare for IVF is to complete an individual fertility assessment, review medicines and health conditions, follow practical preconception-health guidance and organise the emotional, financial and scheduling demands of treatment.

Preparation does not require a perfect diet, expensive supplements or eliminating all stress. It also cannot guarantee pregnancy. Its purpose is to help the fertility team identify relevant risks, select an appropriate treatment plan and make the IVF process safer and more manageable.

Both partners should participate where applicable. This guide explains the tests that may be considered, evidence-based lifestyle steps, food and supplement considerations, emotional preparation and practical questions to discuss with an IVF specialist.

What does preparing for IVF involve?

Preparing for IVF means becoming medically, practically and emotionally ready for ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilisation, embryo development and possible embryo transfer.

A useful preparation plan has five parts.

The categories are connected. For example, a thyroid condition belongs to medical readiness, but medication timing and follow-up appointments also affect practical readiness.

How early should you start preparing for IVF?

Begin medical preparation as soon as IVF is being considered. Some actions, such as collecting records and reviewing medicines, can start immediately. Other decisions depend on test results and the treatment calendar.

There is no universal rule that everyone must complete a fixed three-month preparation programme. Sperm and egg development occur over time, but delaying treatment solely to follow an unverified lifestyle programme may be inappropriate—especially when age or ovarian reserve makes time clinically important.

A fertility specialist can help distinguish between:

• issues that should be addressed before treatment;
• changes that can occur alongside treatment;
• tests that are medically indicated;
• and optional actions that are unlikely to change the plan.

What tests are commonly considered before IVF?

Pre-IVF testing usually evaluates ovarian function, reproductive anatomy, sperm health, medical conditions and treatment safety. The exact tests should be selected from age, history, diagnosis and prior treatment—not applied as an identical package to every patient.

ASRM advises that infertility evaluation should consider ovulatory status, the female reproductive tract and semen evaluation of the male partner. It also states that routine use of several advanced tests is not recommended without a specific indication.

Medical and reproductive history

The consultation may cover:

• age;
• menstrual-cycle pattern;
• previous pregnancies and pregnancy losses;
• duration of infertility;
• previous fertility treatment;
• operations or pelvic infections;
• endometriosis or PCOS;
• cancer treatment;
• sexual and reproductive history;
• family history;
• chronic health conditions;
• allergies;
• medicines and supplements;
• smoking, alcohol and other exposures.

Bring previous test reports, ultrasound images, operative notes, prescriptions and embryology records where available.

Ovarian-reserve assessment

Ovarian-reserve tests help estimate how the ovaries may respond to stimulation. They do not guarantee the number or quality of embryos and should not be interpreted as a pass-or-fail fertility score.

Testing may include:

• anti-Müllerian hormone;
• antral follicle count;
• selected cycle-day hormone testing;
• and previous ovarian-response information.

ASRM states that ovarian-reserve testing should be used as an adjunct in infertility evaluation rather than as a general screening test for people who do not meet infertility criteria.

Pelvic ultrasound

A transvaginal or pelvic ultrasound may help assess:

• ovarian appearance;
• antral follicles;
• uterine shape;
• fibroids;
• ovarian cysts;
• endometrial features;
• and other pelvic findings.

The need for further uterine or tubal evaluation depends on history and treatment planning.

Uterine-cavity assessment

In selected cases, the clinician may recommend an ultrasound-based cavity assessment, hysteroscopy or another test to examine the inside of the uterus.

Not every patient requires every uterine test before every cycle. The reason for testing should be explained clearly.

Tubal assessment

IVF bypasses the fallopian tubes for fertilisation, but the condition of the tubes can still matter. For example, a fluid-filled damaged tube may affect treatment planning.

ASRM identifies hysterosalpingography or sonohysterography as recommended methods for evaluating tubal patency when that information is relevant.

Infectious-disease screening

Clinics may request infectious-disease tests before handling eggs, sperm or embryos. Requirements vary with clinical policy, local regulations and the planned treatment.

Ask:

• which tests are required;
• whether both partners need them;
• how long results remain valid;
• and whether testing must be repeated before another cycle.

Genetic history and selected testing

A clinician may review:

• known genetic conditions;
• birth defects in the family;
• repeated pregnancy loss;
• previous affected pregnancies;
• and known carrier status.

Genetic counselling or carrier screening may be appropriate in selected situations. It is not a guarantee of a healthy embryo or pregnancy.

General health tests

Additional assessment may be needed for conditions such as:

• thyroid disease;
• diabetes;
• hypertension;
• anaemia;
• kidney or liver disease;
• heart disease;
• epilepsy;
• psychiatric illness;
• or autoimmune conditions.

Preconception guidance recommends reviewing chronic medical conditions because conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disease and psychiatric illness may affect pregnancy care.

Mid-article CTA: Pre-IVF testing should answer a clinical question rather than simply create a longer checklist. A comprehensive fertility assessment can help determine which investigations are relevant to both partners and which tests are unnecessary.

Does the male partner need to prepare for IVF?

Yes. IVF preparation should include the male partner or sperm provider when applicable. Fertilisation and embryo development involve both egg-related and sperm-related factors.

Semen analysis

A semen analysis may assess:

• sperm concentration;
• movement;
• shape;
• semen volume;
• and other laboratory characteristics.

Results can vary, so a repeat sample may sometimes be appropriate. Severe abnormalities may lead to further assessment rather than an automatic assumption that ICSI solves every issue.

Medical history

The clinician may ask about:

• previous testicular injury or surgery;
• undescended testes;
• infections;
• fever or major recent illness;
• sexual function;
• hormone or testosterone use;
• medications;
• smoking and alcohol;
• heat or chemical exposures;
• and family history.

Testosterone and some performance-enhancing hormones can suppress sperm production. These should be disclosed to the clinician rather than stopped or changed without medical advice.

Sample-collection planning

Before the treatment cycle, clarify:

• how the sample should be collected;
• whether an abstinence period is recommended;
• where collection takes place;
• what happens if collection is difficult;
• whether freezing a backup sample is appropriate;
• and whether surgical retrieval is being considered.

New Life IVF lists semen analysis and semen freezing among its core fertility services.

Which medicines and supplements should be reviewed before IVF?

Review every prescription medicine, over-the-counter product, vitamin, herb and fertility supplement with the treating clinician. Do not stop an essential medicine or begin a high-dose supplement based only on online advice.

The CDC recommends discussing current medical conditions, prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, supplements, vitamins and vaccinations before pregnancy.

Bring a complete medication list

Include:

• medicine name;
• dose;
• frequency;
• reason for taking it;
• prescribing clinician;
• vitamins;
• protein powders;
• herbal products;
• traditional remedies;
• skin or hair medicines;
• injections;
• and medicines taken only occasionally.

A product described as “natural” may still have side effects, interactions or uncertain pregnancy safety.

Do not self-adjust IVF medicines

Fertility medicines are timed around ultrasound and hormone monitoring. Taking an injection late, doubling a missed dose or changing the dose can affect the cycle.

Ask the clinic:

• how to store each medicine;
• what time to take it;
• how to use the injection device;
• what to do after a missed dose;
• which side effects are expected;
• and whom to contact after hours.

Vaccination review

Some vaccinations may be reviewed before pregnancy or fertility treatment. Timing can matter for certain vaccines, so decisions should be individualised.

Do not assume that every vaccine must be repeated or that fertility treatment should be delayed without speaking to the clinical team.

What should you eat before IVF?

A balanced eating pattern is more appropriate than a restrictive “IVF diet.” Emphasise varied minimally processed foods, adequate protein, vegetables, fruit, whole grains and appropriate sources of healthy fats.

No single food has been shown to guarantee implantation or live birth. Diet should support general health, nutrient adequacy and management of relevant medical conditions.

A practical plate approach

Where medically appropriate, build regular meals around:

• vegetables or fruit;
• whole grains or other high-fibre carbohydrates;
• protein such as pulses, beans, lentils, eggs, dairy, fish, poultry or other suitable foods;
• and unsaturated fats from nuts, seeds or plant oils.

For a Nepal-based diet, balanced options may include:

• dal with rice or whole grains and vegetables;
• roti with beans, paneer, eggs or lean protein;
• seasonal fruit;
• yoghurt or another suitable dairy source;
• nuts and seeds in reasonable portions;
• well-cooked fish, meat or eggs where consumed.

Food choices should accommodate diabetes, thyroid conditions, allergies, kidney disease, anaemia, vegetarian diets and other individual needs.

Should you take folic acid before IVF?

People who may become pregnant are generally advised to obtain folic acid before conception, but the correct dose should be confirmed with the clinician.

The CDC recommends 400 micrograms of folic acid daily at least one month before and during pregnancy for most people who may become pregnant. Some patients require a different dose because of medical history, medicines or previous pregnancy history.

Do not assume that more is always better. High-dose supplementation should follow professional advice.

What about vitamin D, iron or other nutrients?

Supplementation should respond to an identified need, dietary pattern or clinical recommendation.

A clinician may consider:

• vitamin D;
• iron;
• vitamin B12;
• iodine;
• or other nutrients.

The evidence and need differ among patients. A long supplement list is not proof of better preparation.

Should you follow a Mediterranean diet?

Some observational studies have explored Mediterranean-style eating and fertility-treatment outcomes, but this does not establish a guaranteed IVF diet.

The useful elements are practical: vegetables, fruit, legumes, whole grains, nuts, fish and unsaturated fats. Patients do not need imported or expensive products to follow a balanced pattern.

Food safety

Because pregnancy may occur, the clinic may advise following general preconception food-safety practices.

These can include:

• eating properly cooked eggs, meat and fish;
• using pasteurised dairy products;
• washing produce;
• avoiding unsafe or contaminated food;
• and following advice about fish with high mercury levels.

Local food availability and individual medical needs should guide the final plan.

Should you stop smoking and alcohol before IVF?

Smoking should be stopped, and alcohol is best avoided while trying to become pregnant and during pregnancy. Both partners should discuss nicotine, alcohol and drug use honestly with the fertility team.

The CDC notes that smoking can contribute to fertility problems in women and men and recommends quitting before pregnancy.

The CDC’s pregnancy-planning guidance also advises stopping alcohol, smoking and certain drugs because these exposures can harm pregnancy and fetal development.

Patients who find it difficult to stop should seek confidential professional support rather than hide use from the clinic.

What about vaping and smokeless tobacco?

Do not assume that vaping, nicotine pouches or smokeless tobacco are safe alternatives in the preconception period. Tell the clinician about all nicotine exposure.

Should the male partner stop smoking?

Yes. Smoking can affect male reproductive health as well as general health. Preparation should involve both partners rather than focusing entirely on the person undergoing egg retrieval.

How much caffeine is acceptable before IVF?

Moderate caffeine intake may be acceptable for many patients, but the fertility clinic should provide guidance based on individual circumstances and total daily intake.

Remember that caffeine can come from:

• coffee;
• tea;
• energy drinks;
• cola;
• chocolate;
• and some medicines.

Avoid treating one type of tea or coffee as automatically harmless. Energy drinks may contain high or poorly recognised caffeine levels and other stimulants.

Can you exercise while preparing for IVF?

Regular moderate physical activity can support general health, sleep and emotional well-being. The type and intensity may need to change during ovarian stimulation because the ovaries enlarge and discomfort or twisting risk may increase.

Before stimulation, appropriate activity may include:

• walking;
• gentle cycling;
• strength exercise;
• stretching;
• yoga adapted to the individual;
• or other familiar exercise.

During stimulation, follow the clinic’s instructions. High-impact movement, intense twisting, heavy lifting or unfamiliar strenuous exercise may be restricted.

Exercise advice must be adjusted for:

• ovarian response;
• pain;
• previous injuries;
• heart or lung conditions;
• pregnancy status;
• and the clinician’s recommendations.

Does body weight affect IVF preparation?

Body weight can influence medication planning, anaesthesia, pregnancy risk and treatment discussions, but patients should not be shamed or placed on unsafe crash diets.

The CDC notes that both higher and lower body weight can be associated with health risks before pregnancy.

Any weight-related plan should be:

• clinically appropriate;
• gradual;
• nutritionally adequate;
• sensitive to eating-disorder risk;
• and balanced against the consequences of delaying treatment.

A number on a scale should not replace a complete evaluation of health, age and fertility.

How important is sleep before IVF?

Adequate, regular sleep can support general health and the ability to manage appointments, medications and emotional demands. However, occasional poor sleep does not determine whether IVF succeeds.

Useful steps may include:

• maintaining a consistent sleep schedule;
• reducing late-night screen use;
• planning injection times around the routine;
• addressing loud snoring or possible sleep apnoea;
• and discussing persistent insomnia with a clinician.

Do not start sleep medicines or herbal sleep products without reviewing them with the treatment team.

How do you prepare emotionally for IVF?

Emotional preparation means setting realistic expectations, creating support and deciding how you will handle uncertainty. It does not mean remaining positive all the time.

IVF may involve hope, fear, disappointment, physical discomfort, financial pressure and difficult decisions. These reactions are understandable.

Understand the limits of control

Patients can:

• attend appointments;
• take medicines as directed;
• ask questions;
• seek support;
• and make informed decisions.

They cannot control:

• how every follicle responds;
• how many eggs are mature;
• whether each egg fertilises;
• how every embryo develops;
• whether implantation occurs;
• or every pregnancy outcome.

An unsuccessful cycle should not be attributed to negative thinking, a stressful week or imperfect emotional control.

Discuss expectations with your partner or support person

Before treatment, discuss:

• who will attend appointments;
• who will manage medication reminders;
• how much information to share with relatives;
• how to respond to intrusive questions;
• how decisions will be made;
• how each person prefers to receive support;
• and what happens if treatment does not proceed as expected.

Partners may cope differently. One may want to talk, while another prefers practical tasks or quiet time.

Decide who needs to know

There is no correct amount of disclosure.

Some patients tell:

• close family;
• one trusted friend;
• an employer;
• or nobody outside the treatment team.

Choose people who can respect privacy and avoid giving unrequested advice.

Consider professional support

Counselling may be useful when:

• anxiety is affecting sleep or daily functioning;
• treatment triggers grief or previous trauma;
• partners are struggling to communicate;
• family pressure is intense;
• previous losses remain difficult;
• or decisions about donor treatment, embryos or stopping treatment feel overwhelming.

Preconception guidance recommends seeking help when anxiety, sadness or stress persist and interfere with daily life.

Create a coping menu

Choose several realistic strategies rather than relying on one.

Examples include:

• a short daily walk;
• breathing exercises;
• journalling;
• speaking with a counsellor;
• limiting fertility-related social media;
• scheduling non-treatment activities;
• using a shared calendar;
• or joining an appropriately moderated support group.

These steps support coping. They are not treatments for infertility and should not be promoted as ways to force a successful outcome.

How should you prepare practically for an IVF cycle?

IVF can involve time-sensitive appointments and changing schedules. Practical preparation reduces confusion when the clinical plan changes.

Organise medical records

Create one folder containing:

• identification and contact information;
• test results;
• ultrasound and imaging reports;
• semen reports;
• previous prescriptions;
• operation reports;
• prior IVF records;
• allergy information;
• and a current medication list.

Digital copies can help when travelling from outside Kathmandu.

Understand the treatment calendar

Ask which dates are:

• fixed;
• estimated;
• dependent on menstruation;
• dependent on ultrasound or hormone results;
• and likely to change.

Egg retrieval cannot always be scheduled far in advance because timing depends on ovarian response.

Plan work and caregiving

You may need time for:

• baseline testing;
• monitoring visits;
• egg retrieval;
• recovery;
• sperm collection;
• embryo transfer;
• and follow-up.

Ask the clinic what documentation it can provide for work or travel needs.

Plan transport

Sedation or anaesthesia may be used for egg retrieval. Clarify:

• whether someone must accompany you;
• whether driving is restricted;
• how long observation usually lasts;
• and whom to contact after discharge.

Request a written cost explanation

Ask which expenses are included for:

• consultation;
• tests;
• medicines;
• monitoring;
• egg retrieval;
• anaesthesia;
• IVF or ICSI;
• embryo culture;
• embryo freezing;
• storage;
• embryo transfer;
• and optional add-ons.

Also ask what happens financially if:

• stimulation is stopped;
• no eggs are retrieved;
• no eggs fertilise;
• no embryo is transferred;
• or treatment is postponed.

Prepare for travel to Kathmandu

Patients travelling from elsewhere in Nepal should ask:

• how many visits are likely;
• whether initial reports can be reviewed remotely;
• when they must be physically present;
• how long to remain near the clinic;
• how medicines will be stored during travel;
• and what happens if travel is disrupted.

New Life IVF’s contact information identifies its location as New Baneshwor, Kathmandu.

What should you ask before starting IVF injections?

Before the first dose, make sure you understand:

1. The purpose of every medicine
2. The correct dose
3. The injection time
4. How to prepare and administer it
5. How to store it
6. What to do after a missed dose
7. Which side effects are expected
8. Which symptoms require urgent contact
9. The next monitoring date
10. The after-hours contact method

Demonstration, written instructions or a clinic-approved video may help. Do not rely on an unrelated social-media video when devices or doses differ.

Which symptoms require prompt contact with the IVF clinic?

Contact the fertility team promptly for severe, unexpected or rapidly worsening symptoms during stimulation or after egg retrieval.

Symptoms that may require assessment include:

• severe or increasing abdominal pain;
• rapidly worsening abdominal swelling;
• persistent vomiting;
• difficulty breathing;
• fainting or severe weakness;
• heavy bleeding;
• inability to keep fluids down;
• reduced urination;
• chest pain;
• one-sided severe pain;
• fever;
• or symptoms specifically identified by the clinic.

These signs can have different causes and should not be self-diagnosed online. For severe breathing difficulty, collapse, heavy bleeding or other emergency symptoms, seek urgent medical care.

Common IVF-preparation mistakes

Starting many supplements at once

A long supplement routine can create interactions, side effects and unnecessary cost. Start only what the clinical team recommends.

Following extreme fertility diets

Detoxes, prolonged fasting, severe carbohydrate restriction and eliminating multiple food groups can reduce nutritional adequacy. A balanced pattern is usually more appropriate.

Stopping essential medicines without advice

Untreated medical conditions can also create risks. Medicine changes should involve the prescribing clinician and fertility team.

Testing everything available

More tests do not always mean better care. Tests should address a clinical question and have a reasonable chance of affecting management.

Focusing only on the female partner

Male evaluation is part of a complete fertility assessment when relevant. ASRM recommends parallel evaluation of the male partner where applicable.

Believing stress causes IVF failure

Emotional distress deserves support, but patients should not be blamed for outcomes they cannot control.

Comparing medication doses

Stimulation doses vary according to age, ovarian reserve, response and protocol. Another patient’s dose is not a benchmark.

Treating IVF preparation as a guarantee

Good preparation may improve safety, clarity and treatment adherence. It does not guarantee fertilisation, implantation, pregnancy or live birth.

Complete IVF preparation checklist

Medical

• Complete the recommended fertility evaluation.
• Ensure both partners are assessed where relevant.
• Bring prior fertility and pregnancy records.
• Disclose all medical conditions.
• Review prescriptions, supplements and herbs.
• Discuss vaccinations.
• Ask which tests are essential and why.
• Clarify any need for genetic counselling.
• Confirm allergies and previous anaesthesia problems.

Treatment

• Understand the proposed IVF protocol.
• Learn how to use and store medicines.
• Save the clinic’s emergency and after-hours number.
• Understand monitoring requirements.
• Ask what may cause the cycle to change or stop.
• Review consent documents.
• Discuss fertilisation method and embryo-storage plans.

Lifestyle and nutrition

• Stop smoking and disclose nicotine exposure.
• Avoid alcohol while trying to conceive.
• Discuss caffeine intake.
• Follow balanced, adequate nutrition.
• Confirm the appropriate folic-acid dose.
• Avoid unverified high-dose supplements.
• Continue suitable physical activity.
• Follow stimulation-specific exercise advice.
• Aim for regular sleep.

Emotional

• Discuss expectations with your partner.
• Choose trusted support people.
• Set boundaries around questions and advice.
• Plan coping strategies.
• Seek counselling when distress is persistent or disruptive.
• Avoid blaming yourself for biological outcomes.

Practical

• Organise reports in one folder.
• Request a written cost breakdown.
• Plan leave from work.
• Arrange transport for egg retrieval.
• Prepare for changing appointment times.
• Plan travel and accommodation if coming from outside Kathmandu.
• Confirm payment, storage and cancellation policies.
• Keep medicines and clinic instructions accessible.

Key takeaways

• IVF preparation should be individualised.
• Both partners may need evaluation.
• Medicines and supplements should be reviewed before treatment.
• Folic acid is commonly recommended before pregnancy, but the dose may vary.
• A balanced diet is safer than an extreme “fertility diet.”
• Stop smoking and avoid alcohol.
• Emotional distress does not mean a patient caused an unsuccessful cycle.
• Practical planning can make time-sensitive treatment easier to manage.
• Preparation supports safe, informed care but cannot guarantee pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I start preparing for IVF?

Start as soon as IVF is being considered. Medical records, medication review and fertility evaluation can begin immediately. Lifestyle changes may also start early, but do not delay time-sensitive treatment for an unverified preparation programme without discussing the consequences with a fertility specialist.

What tests are required before IVF?

Testing commonly covers ovarian function, reproductive anatomy, semen health, medical history and treatment safety. Possible tests include AMH, ultrasound, semen analysis and selected infectious-disease or genetic tests. The exact list depends on age, diagnosis, history and clinic requirements.

Does the male partner need tests before IVF?

Yes, where partner sperm will be used. Semen analysis and medical history can identify factors affecting fertilisation or treatment selection. Severe or unexpected abnormalities may require further evaluation instead of assuming that ICSI is the only necessary response.

Can I start IVF without testing my fallopian tubes?

Sometimes, because IVF bypasses the tubes for fertilisation. However, tubal condition can still influence treatment planning in certain cases. A fertility specialist should decide whether tubal imaging is necessary based on history, ultrasound findings and previous investigations.

Is AMH the most important IVF test?

No. AMH helps estimate ovarian reserve and possible response to stimulation, but it does not directly measure embryo quality or guarantee pregnancy. Age, ultrasound findings, sperm health, uterine factors and previous treatment history also matter.

What should I eat before IVF?

Follow a varied, balanced eating pattern with vegetables, fruit, whole grains, pulses or other protein sources and appropriate healthy fats. No food guarantees implantation. Dietary changes should also accommodate diabetes, thyroid disease, anaemia, allergies and other medical needs.

Should I take folic acid before IVF?

Folic acid is generally recommended before conception. The CDC recommends 400 micrograms daily for most people who may become pregnant, beginning at least one month before pregnancy. Some patients require a different dose, so confirm the amount with the treating clinician.

Which supplements improve IVF success?

No universal supplement combination guarantees IVF success. Iron, vitamin D, vitamin B12 or other nutrients may be recommended when clinically appropriate. Avoid starting high-dose antioxidants, herbs or fertility supplements without reviewing evidence, dose and interactions with the clinician.

Can I drink coffee before IVF?

Moderate caffeine may be acceptable for many patients, but individual guidance is best. Count caffeine from coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks, chocolate and medicines. Energy drinks are generally a poor choice because caffeine and stimulant content may be high.

Should I stop drinking alcohol before IVF?

Avoiding alcohol is the safest approach when trying to become pregnant and during pregnancy. Discuss current intake honestly with the clinic, particularly if stopping is difficult, so appropriate confidential support can be arranged.

Should both partners stop smoking?

Yes. Smoking can affect fertility and general health in both partners. Disclose cigarettes, vaping, smokeless tobacco and other nicotine products. Professional cessation support is safer and more effective than hiding use or switching to another nicotine product without advice.

Can I exercise before IVF?

Moderate familiar exercise may continue before stimulation unless a clinician advises otherwise. During stimulation, the ovaries can enlarge, so high-impact exercise, heavy lifting and intense twisting may be restricted. Follow the clinic’s individual instructions.

Should I lose weight before IVF?

Not everyone should delay IVF for weight loss. Weight can affect health, anaesthesia and pregnancy risk, but age and fertility urgency also matter. Any change should be gradual, nutritionally adequate and guided by a clinician—not based on a crash diet.

Does stress reduce IVF success?

Stress is not a simple explanation for IVF failure, and patients should not be blamed for feeling anxious. Emotional support can improve coping, communication and quality of life. Seek help when distress persists, disrupts daily functioning or affects relationships.

Can I work during an IVF cycle?

Many patients continue working, but monitoring appointments can change with short notice. Egg retrieval usually requires time away and may involve sedation. Discuss your likely schedule with the clinic and plan flexibility where possible.

Can I travel during IVF treatment?

Travel may be possible during some stages, but stimulation monitoring, trigger timing and egg retrieval can require you to remain near the clinic. Ask which dates are flexible and when physical attendance in Kathmandu is essential.

What should I take to my first IVF appointment?

Bring identification, previous test results, semen reports, ultrasound and surgery records, pregnancy history, prior IVF records and a complete medicine-and-supplement list. Write down your questions so that cost, timing and treatment alternatives are discussed.

Should I stop my regular medicines before IVF?

Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice. Some medicines may need adjustment, but uncontrolled medical conditions can also create risks. Ask the fertility specialist to coordinate with the original prescribing clinician where necessary.

Can herbal remedies be used before IVF?

Herbal does not automatically mean safe. Products may affect hormones, bleeding, anaesthesia or fertility medicines, and ingredient quality may vary. Disclose every traditional or herbal product to the clinic before treatment.

How much sleep do I need before IVF?

There is no special number of hours that guarantees success. Aim for a regular schedule and enough sleep to function well. Persistent insomnia, loud snoring or severe daytime sleepiness should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

What happens if I miss an IVF injection?

Contact the clinic as soon as possible and follow its instructions. Do not double the next dose or change the schedule independently. The appropriate response depends on the medicine, dose and stage of treatment.

Is bed rest required after embryo transfer?

Routine strict bed rest is not generally considered necessary, although clinic-specific instructions and individual medical circumstances may differ. Normal gentle activity is often allowed. Avoid applying restrictions from another patient’s cycle to your own.

What should I ask about IVF costs?

Request a written breakdown covering tests, medicines, monitoring, egg retrieval, anaesthesia, fertilisation, embryo culture, freezing, storage and transfer. Ask which add-ons cost extra and what happens financially if treatment is cancelled or no transfer occurs.

When should I contact the clinic urgently?

Contact the clinic for severe pain, rapidly increasing swelling, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding, fainting, significantly reduced urination, fever or another symptom identified in your treatment instructions. Seek emergency care for severe or life-threatening symptoms.