High blood sugar may mess up your IVF results: Diet tips to safeguard your fertility despite diabetes

Diabetes could be the hidden challenge affecting your IVF outcomes. According to Dr Nandini Devi, a gynaecologist and infertility specialist at Indira IVF in Chennai, high blood sugar can significantly interfere with hormonal balance, egg and sperm quality, and blood vessel health. “For diabetic women, elevated blood sugar levels can disrupt ovulation, while men may experience reduced sperm motility and integrity,” she explains.

Managing diabetes is crucial for successful IVF. Poorly controlled blood sugar levels increase the risk of complications such as miscarriage, congenital abnormalities, and hypertension during pregnancy. Dr. Devi emphasizes the importance of managing blood glucose levels before and during IVF to improve success rates and minimize complications.

Impact of diabetes on fertility:

Egg Quality and Quantity: Diabetes can adversely affect ovarian function, resulting in a decrease in the quality and quantity of viable eggs, posing a challenge for successful retrieval during IVF.
Embryo Quality: High blood sugar levels can compromise embryo quality, making implantation and development less likely.
Miscarriage and Preterm Birth Risks: Diabetic women face a higher risk of miscarriage and preterm birth due to complications associated with blood sugar management.
Male Fertility Issues: Diabetes negatively impacts sperm quality and motility, potentially hindering fertilization outcomes during IVF.

Dr Devi advises that diabetic patients who conceive through IVF should coordinate care with fertility specialists and endocrinologists throughout their pregnancy. This collaborative approach is vital for managing risks, including gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and large birth weight.

Dietary and lifestyle recommendations:

To enhance blood sugar control and improve fertility outcomes for diabetic patients undergoing IVF, Dr. Devi recommends a low-glycemic, balanced diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, and vegetables. Regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and stress management techniques such as yoga or meditation are also essential, as stress can worsen blood sugar fluctuations. Avoiding processed foods, sugary beverages, and alcohol can further enhance outcomes.