Choosing to freeze your eggs is a significant step in taking control of your reproductive future. Regardless of your reasons – focusing on your career, awaiting the right partner, or wanting to delay parenthood – egg freezing can offer you a comforting sense of control. In Singapore, this option was previously restricted to medical necessity. However, since 2023, it’s been made available as an elective procedure open to women aged 21 to 37.
Nevertheless, preparing your body for this procedure involves more than just scheduling an appointment at a fertility clinic. This article will guide you through essential steps to make sure that your body is ready for the process should you choose to do it.
Weight Control and Exercise
Maintaining a healthy body weight is crucial when preparing for egg freezing as being underweight or overweight can disrupt hormone levels and ovulation cycles. Shed those extra pounds and build muscles by incorporating enjoyable, sustainable exercises into your daily routine. Don’t forget to keep your body in peak condition with low-impact pursuits like brisk walking, yoga, or swimming. Regular physical activity improves overall health and boosts fertility by regulating hormone levels and improving blood flow to reproductive organs.
However, once you have started the egg freezing process, you may need to modify your workout routine and avoid high-impact sports and intensive exercises that involve excessive pelvic movements. When in doubt, you should always check with your gynae on what is suitable and what is not.
Fertility Diet and Vitamin Supplements
A balanced diet plays a vital role in preparing your body for egg freezing. To strengthen your reproductive health, be sure to consume a fertility-friendly diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish are also excellent choices.
Additionally, consider taking supplements to ensure that you are getting all the necessary nutrients. Vitamins and minerals such as folic acid, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids are especially important for reproductive health. Remember to always consult with a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement regimen to ensure that it will not adversely affect your health.
Make Lifestyle Changes
Understanding and taking care of your mental wellness is a key component in maintaining hormonal balance and overall health. Elevated stress can have an influence on your fertility preservation, making it necessary to adopt strategies that foster tranquillity and optimism. Some helpful tips to promote relaxation include practising mindfulness, meditating and performing deep-breathing exercises.
Moreover, it’s crucial to prioritise getting adequate sleep and carving out moments for relaxation daily, as these are essential for rejuvenation. Building a supportive network and maintaining a hopeful outlook also contributes to an optimal environment for fertility preservation. Remember, taking care of your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health during this journey.
Avoid Harmful Substances
Minimising your intake of alcohol and quitting smoking are necessary steps when preparing for egg freezing to prevent these substances from negatively affecting your fertility and the quality of your eggs. Alcohol consumption should be limited, if not entirely avoided, during the preparation period. Smoking, on the other hand, can significantly reduce egg quality and speed up the loss of eggs. Getting rid of these habits can greatly improve your chances of successful egg freezing and future fertility.
Preparing for this procedure involves a holistic approach to your health and well-being. By following the steps mentioned above, you will be better equipped to assess your readiness to start this process and make informed decisions about your future. If you’re considering egg freezing, seek guidance from a fertility clinic and consult with a gynaecologist.
At SMG Women’s Health, our team of fertility specialists is dedicated to providing personalised care and advice to support you on your egg freezing journey. Our fertility doctors have extensive experience and training in assisted reproductive techniques and are committed to helping you achieve your goal of conceiving in the future.
Connect with us today for a personalised consultation, and let us help you start shaping your future.