Do I need to stop breastfeeding to do IVF?

Understanding the Relationship Between Breastfeeding and IVF
The question of whether one needs to stop breastfeeding to undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a nuanced topic that intertwines medical advice with personal circumstances. While the general consensus among fertility specialists is that breastfeeding does not necessarily preclude the possibility of IVF, there are important considerations to keep in mind.
Breastfeeding and Fertility
Breastfeeding can influence fertility, particularly in the early months postpartum. For some women, this can act as a natural contraceptive, delaying the return of ovulation and menstruation. However, it is entirely possible to conceive while nursing, as many women have successfully become pregnant during this period.
IVF Protocols and Breastfeeding
When it comes to IVF, the recommendations can vary. Some fertility specialists suggest that breastfeeding may not need to be completely halted. For instance, Dr. Jessica Bauer notes that breastfeeding once or twice a day is typically acceptable and should not have a significant negative impact on the IVF process. This perspective is particularly relevant for mothers who are nursing infants, as the emotional and physical bond established through breastfeeding can be crucial during this time.
However, there are caveats. Some studies indicate that breastfeeding might affect the success rates of IVF by potentially impacting embryo implantation. This has led some practitioners to advise women to reconsider their breastfeeding practices when preparing for fertility treatments.
Medication Considerations
Another critical aspect to consider is the medications involved in IVF. Fertility drugs can sometimes be excreted into breast milk, which raises concerns about the safety of continuing to breastfeed while undergoing treatment. As a precaution, some experts recommend that women stop breastfeeding for one to two months before starting fertility medications to minimize any risks to the nursing infant.
Conclusion
In summary, while it is not strictly necessary to stop breastfeeding to pursue IVF, individual circumstances and medical advice should guide the decision. Women considering IVF while breastfeeding should consult with their healthcare providers to weigh the benefits and risks specific to their situation. This personalized approach ensures that both the mother’s and the baby’s health are prioritized during the journey toward expanding the family.

Can breastfeeding affect fertility?

While it’s true that breastfeeding can delay the return of your fertility postpartum, it’s not impossible to get pregnant. The time it takes for a woman’s period to return after giving birth can vary widely. Once you start menstruating, it is usually a sign that your fertility has returned or will return soon.

Does stopping breastfeeding increase fertility?

The answer is ‘possibly’. If your periods have returned and you are ovulating, your fertility levels may be high enough to get pregnant and weaning will not usually help any further.

Does breastfeeding affect egg quality?

Exclusive breastfeeding delays the return of ovulation after childbirth and may slow egg loss. The researchers speculate that this may in turn affect AMH levels and delay menopause.

What is the nursing responsibility in IVF?

Navigating in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment can be daunting. IVF nurses act as a fertility patient’s guide throughout their entire journey, providing critical education, emotional support, and clinical care to help patients achieve their ultimate goal: having a baby.

How soon after having a baby can you do IVF?

If you had a vaginal delivery, we would like you to wait at least nine months prior to doing another embryo transfer cycle. If you delivered via C-section, we want you to wait at least one year.

How soon after breastfeeding can I do IVF?

Most fertility doctors agree that it is best for the health of both mother and child to wait for at least 12 months, to have finished breastfeeding. You should have had at least two menstrual cycles before trying for another child. This would normally apply to either natural conception or assisted fertility treatment.

Do I have to stop breastfeeding to do IVF?

For some mums, their period returns as early as a few weeks after giving birth and for others it can take years. Therefore, there isn’t a general rule about whether a mum may need to stop breastfeeding before beginning IVF treatment.

How does IVF affect breastfeeding?

At four months, just 40 per cent of IVF mothers were still breastfeeding. That’s 10 per cent less than ‘natural’ mums. Delayed lactation, low oxytocin levels, lack of support are all to blame.

Can you take fertility medicine while breastfeeding?

This is a complicated and under-researched area. Some drugs used in fertility treatment are safe to use while breastfeeding; others are not harmful to your baby but can affect your milk supply; and still others could be dangerous.

Do IVF moms deliver early?

More IVF babies arrive in the 38th week of gestation. Many times, it comes down to the fact that these babies are so precious and as you are monitored through your pregnancy you and your doctor determine the safety pod an early delivery.