The coronavirus has affected every community in the world. Those with infertility may feel like even more of a casualty of the virus, since many have had their treatment cycles indefinitely postponed. Social distancing and quarantine might seem unfair and boring, but it is the best way to protect ourselves, our family and our community. But there are things you can do to help prepare yourself for fertility treatment – and pregnancy – so you’ll be ready to begin treatment as soon as the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) says it is safe to do so.

Exercise

Your body needs exercise now more than ever; not only for your physical health, but also for your mental and emotional well-being. You don’t need a complicated or formal work-out routine. Even a quick 5 minute walk can do so much for you. In fact, getting outside in the fresh air is so important. Just remember to stay six feet away from anyone you may meet outside.

Meditate/Yoga

The pandemic has even the chillest person stressed. Aside from the physical benefits of yoga, one of the best benefits is how it helps a person manage stress. There are so many different kinds of yoga practices, so it’s possible for anyone to start, whether you’re a couch potato or a professional athlete. Meditation can be as simple as taking a few minutes to think about what you’re grateful for each day. Practicing gratitude when life is challenging, as things are right now, can give you perspective and remind you that there are still good things in life.

While stress doesn’t cause infertility, infertility definitely causes stress. Finding ways to cope with stress can help far beyond this quarantine period.

Eat Well

We’re all probably eating quite a bit more than usual. So when we’re told to eat well, it’s more about the quality than quantity. At GENESIS, we recommend a Mediterranean diet, which includes all the vitamins, minerals and nutrients recommended for optimal fertility. With many people social distancing and staying home, this can be a wonderful time to get in touch with your inner chef. Home cooked meals are more nutritious, since you know exactly what you’ve put into it. Also cooking together is a great way to connect with your partner.

Get Plenty of Rest

Studies show getting quality sleep on a regular basis helps keep your mind and body healthy.
Did you know that your brain processes your emotions while you sleep? Your mind needs this time in order to recognize and react the right way. When you cut your sleep short, you tend to have more negative emotional reactions and fewer positive ones. Sleep helps you hit the reset button on a bad day and improves your outlook on life.

Most adults need 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. But it’s not just the quantity of hours, it’s important to get good quality sleep so you feel rested when you wake up.

Stay Hydrated

There’s a myth going around that sipping water every fifteen minutes will help flush a virus from your body before it can make you sick. While that is not true, staying hydrated and drinking water is a very important part of staying healthy.

Did you know that your body weight is approximately 60 percent water? Your body uses water in all its cells, organs, and tissues to help regulate its temperature and maintain other bodily functions. Because your body loses water through breathing, sweating, and digestion, it’s important to re-hydrate often.

Moving forward

At GENESIS, the safety and health of our patients and staff are very important to us. We know you may be disappointed if you had a treatment cycle postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. We’ll keep you informed as ASRM’s recommendations are reviewed and updated.

In the meantime, consider scheduling a telehealth consultation and begin to prepare for your next treatment cycle. Seek insurance authorization for your treatment if possible. If you prepare now, when the COVID-19 crisis is over you can be ready to move forward confidently.

Updated May 11, 2020

We are pleased to announce that GENESIS will resume most fertility treatments starting May 18th!
Your health and safety is of the utmost importance to us. Please review the new COVID-19 Patient Policy before your appointment.

Original post March 27, 2020
Updated March 18, 2021