How long after breastfeeding can I do IVF?

Understanding the Timing for IVF After Breastfeeding
When considering in vitro fertilization (IVF) after breastfeeding, many factors come into play, particularly regarding the health of both the mother and the child. The general consensus among fertility specialists is that it is advisable to wait at least 12 months after giving birth before embarking on another IVF cycle. This recommendation is rooted in both physical recovery and hormonal balance.
Hormonal Considerations
Breastfeeding significantly influences a woman’s hormonal landscape. The hormone prolactin, which is elevated during breastfeeding, suppresses ovulation and can delay the return of menstrual cycles. Most breastfeeding mothers may not resume their periods until they have weaned their child, which can take anywhere from several months to over a year, depending on the frequency and duration of breastfeeding. This hormonal suppression means that even if a mother is eager to conceive again, her body may not be ready for another pregnancy until her cycles have normalized.
Recommended Waiting Period
Fertility experts typically recommend that women wait for at least two menstrual cycles after stopping breastfeeding before attempting IVF. This waiting period allows the body to recover from the previous pregnancy and breastfeeding experience, ensuring that the mother is in optimal health for another round of fertility treatment. The rationale behind this advice is not only to ensure physical readiness but also to provide emotional and psychological space for the mother to adjust to her current parenting responsibilities.
Individual Factors
While the 12-month guideline is a general recommendation, individual circumstances can vary widely. Factors such as the mother’s overall health, age, and specific fertility issues may influence the timing of IVF. For instance, some women may find that their fertility returns more quickly, while others may need additional time to regain their hormonal balance and physical health.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are considering IVF after breastfeeding, it is generally advisable to wait at least 12 months post-birth and ensure that you have had at least two menstrual cycles. This approach not only supports your physical health but also prepares you emotionally for the challenges of another pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider to tailor the timing to your specific situation, ensuring the best possible outcome for both you and your future child.

How long after having a baby can you do IVF again?

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 long do you have to abstain before IVF?

Abstinence from intercourse is required for two to four days prior to egg retrieval. Typically, ejaculation should occur the same evening hCG is given, to assure the best quality sperm for the procedure. If significant male infertility is present, abstinence may be slightly prolonged.

How long does it take for fertility to return after breastfeeding?

Every woman is unique and your fertility will return in its own time. Some mothers get periods very early on while breastfeeding. Others may only get their periods back after the first year of breastfeeding.

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.

Can you take Gonal F while breastfeeding?

You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will take GONAL-F or breastfeed. You should not do both.

How long does it take for hormones to return after breastfeeding?

The return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels can vary greatly, but generally hormones will normalize within three to six months. If you are breastfeeding, as you wean from it, your prolactin and oxytocin levels will drop—potentially leaving you feeling sad, anxious or irritable.

Do I need to stop breastfeeding before IVF?

Weaning before undergoing IVF is a personal decision and depends on your individual situation. You will need to decide whether you prefer to continue breastfeeding or to wean, or to delay starting IVF until both you and your child are ready to wean.

How long should you wait to try IVF again?

Although the treatment plan can vary from patient to patient, the standard space between in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles is usually one full menstrual cycle. For most people, this means a 4-week break, but for women with irregular cycles, the wait may be slightly longer.

How long after breastfeeding can you 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.

Can you do IVF while breastfeeding?

Despite my opinion that IVF and nursing do not mix, nursing during IVF is probably not dangerous. If you decide to undergo a cycle and continue to nurse, you will probably just have a lower chance for success and maybe a slightly higher chance for miscarriage.